The Austin Marathon and Half Marathon transcend being mere races; they symbolize a community festivity, uniting the city in a display of endurance, speed, and shared support. As a spectator, you’re not just a bystander but a vital source of energy and encouragement for the participants. The entire 26.2-mile course is open for you to find your perfect spot to cheer—from carefully chosen vantage points to the convenience of just stepping out of your front door to the nearest location.
Every cheer, every clap, and every encouraging word you offer can profoundly impact the runners’ spirits. Here, we outline some prime locations to support your friends and family as they undertake this formidable challenge and offer additional suggestions to enhance your experience as part of this vibrant community event.
Any Mile – Head out your Front Door
One of the best things about covering 26.2 miles is that you might not have to head that far to find a place to cheer. Review the course map to find the closest location to your home.
Early Miles – South Congress Avenue
The journey begins on South Congress Avenue, where runners face a steady climb during the first three miles. It’s an excellent spot to cheer them on as they tackle the initial challenge. The street is lined with numerous spots where you can stand and offer your support.
Gaining Momentum – South First Street
Post the ascent on South Congress, the runners hit South First Street, where a downhill stretch allows them to pick up the pace. Your cheers here will boost their morale as they gather momentum.
Strategic Spot – Austin City Hall
Austin City Hall is a pivotal point where runners make a significant turn onto Cesar Chavez Street. Your presence here can offer them the encouragement they need to stay strong.
Scenic Views – Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge
Position yourself on the north side of Lady Bird Lake at the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge extension. It’s a beautiful spot offering an overhead view of the participants, adding a picturesque backdrop to your support.
West Austin Charm – Oyster Landing/Enfield Road Area
This area in West Austin, near the challenging mile 12, is perfect for a more relaxed cheering atmosphere. Grab a coffee from Mozart’s before offering your support. The ease of parking and less crowd makes it an ideal spot for an intimate encouragement session.
Mid-Race Motivation – Hyde Park Area (Miles 14-17)
For those running the Full Marathon, Hyde Park between miles 14 and 17 is a great spot. It’s easily accessible, offers nearby amenities, and your cheers here can lift the spirits of runners as they approach the tougher second half of the race.
Crucial Support – East Side (Miles 19-24)
This stretch is known for being particularly challenging, with fewer spectators. Your presence here can provide the runners with a much-needed boost during these tough miles.
Cheerful Finish
As the runners approach mile 20 near Tillery Street, your cheers and encouragement will be more valuable than ever. It’s a great spot to enjoy some breakfast tacos while supporting the marathon participants.
BPN will be packing the final mile as runners crest the 11th Street hill. Wonder Woman has been spotted in years past pushing runners as they crest their way to finish in front of the state capitol. Costumes, Loud Cheering, Pom Poms, and Keeping it Weird encouraged.
Cheering Stations
These fun groups and community partners invite you to join in with the group!
Congress & Live Oak St – Team Friendship – 5K turnaround point and on the early miles for the full and hald.
Half/Full Split (15th & San Antonio)– Team Friendship – cheer runners as they split distances and the marathoners go out for another 13.1 miles
Mile 16.5 Butt Napkins – Join this fun cheer station on the back half. Great opportunity to group up and have some fun.
Central Machine Works – East Side Beer Runners will be out there cheering. Given their name, we think that there might be something else involved as well.
Final Mile – BPN is packing the final mile encouraging runners to GO ONE MORE! This will be a high-energy zone packed with cheering crowds
Spectating Tips
- Plan Ahead: Know the route and pick strategic spots for viewing. If you are going to stay for all the runners bring chairs and snacks, people will be running by for several hours.
- Finish Line – The finish line is split in two sides. The half is on the west side and the full on the east. You can only cross at 7th Street and south so plan according.
- Be Encouraging: Prepare motivational signs or shouts to boost runners’ morale.
- Respect the Runners: Give them space and avoid obstructing their path.
- Be Mindful of Logistics: Understand parking and transportation options for easy access. Don’t try and hit too many spots
- Cheer Loud, Have Fun, Share with us on social @AustinMarathon!
Parking Tips for Race Morning
Downtown Austin provides plenty of parking options within walking distance of the start and finish lines. Options include free and paid parking garages, surface lots, and free on-street parking, especially convenient on Sundays when most metered spots are free. For a smoother experience:
- Use Waze to navigate
- If you’re parking east of Congress, use I-35 to reach Ceasar Chavez.
- For parking on the west side, MoPac to 5th & 6th Streets is your best bet.
- Remember, crossing Congress Ave by car on race day is not an option, so plan your route accordingly.
- Arrive to your spot early
Being a part of the Austin Marathon as a spectator is about more than just watching — it’s about being part of a community that comes together to celebrate strength, perseverance, and unity. So pick your spot, prepare your loudest cheers, and be ready to be an integral part of this exhilarating event. Don’t forget to check the course maps for a detailed view and plan your day to offer the best support to the runners. Happy cheering!
