Popular half marathons across the United States give runners an ideal mix of distance, excitement, and rewarding race-day energy.
Covering 13.1 miles, half marathons offer a manageable challenge for beginners while still pushing experienced runners toward new goals.
Strong organization, scenic courses, enthusiastic crowds, and memorable race experiences make certain events stand out year after year.
Let’s take a look at the most popular half marathons in the United States.
1. United Airlines NYC Half (New York, NY)
Held on the third Sunday of March, United Airlines NYC Half draws around 25,000 runners each year and remains one of the most recognizable half marathons in the country.
Registration usually falls between $130 and $145, offering participants access to an unforgettable city race experience.
Course layout begins in Brooklyn, continues through Times Square during one of the very rare closures for a running event, and ends inside Central Park.
Key race details give runners a clear picture of what to expect:
- Date: Third Sunday of March
- Participants: About 25,000
- Cost: $130 to $145
Slight inclines appear throughout the route, yet pacing feels manageable for many beginners.
Strong spectator support fills the streets, creating an energetic atmosphere across all five boroughs included in the race.
Cutoff time remains set at 3 hours, equal to a 13:45 per mile pace.
2. Kauai Half Marathon (Koloa, HI)
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Held between late August and early September, Kauai Half Marathon attracts approximately 1,500 runners and delivers one of the most memorable island race experiences in the United States.
Entry fee averages near $155. Smaller field size creates a welcoming atmosphere, while the setting offers ocean views and volcanic backdrops that make every mile visually striking.
Race weekend often becomes a full travel experience, especially for runners who enjoy combining competition with relaxation or are interested in adventure holidays that combine wellness and active pursuits.
The event spirit feels strongly connected to the local community, with residents showing enthusiasm and encouragement along the route.
Important participation details shape the overall structure:
- Date: Late August to early September
- Participants: About 1,500
- Cost: Around $155
Community support plays a major role throughout the race, with cheering locals helping runners stay motivated in warm tropical conditions.
Destination runners often plan extended stays to enjoy the island after race day. Cutoff time is set at 4 hours, allowing runners a generous finishing window.
3. Gasparilla Distance Classic Half Marathon (Tampa, FL)
Scheduled on the fourth Sunday of February, Gasparilla Distance Classic welcomes nearly 30,000 runners and offers one of the largest half-marathon fields in Florida.
Entry fees average about $155. Race course follows Bayshore Boulevard, giving runners a flat, waterfront route that often attracts personal record seekers.
Important event numbers help define the race experience:
- Date: Fourth Sunday of February
- Participants: Around 30,000
- Cost: About $155
Pirate-themed festivities shape the weekend into more than a single race morning.
Family-friendly events and a relaxed crowd atmosphere make the race especially appealing for first-time half-marathoners. Cutoff time is 3.5 hours, giving participants a comfortable window to finish.
4. Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon (Las Vegas, NV)
Taking place during the last weekend of February, Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas hosts roughly 25,000 participants and turns race night into a full entertainment experience.
Registration costs around $150, placing it among the more popular destination races in the country.
Start location sits near Planet Hollywood, leading runners through the bright lights of the Strip with a nighttime finish.
Race structure includes several standout details:
- Date: Last weekend of February
- Participants: Around 25,000
- Cost: About $150
Flat roads make pacing easier, while DJs and live energy keep runners motivated across all 13.1 miles.
Many beginners choose the event because of its lively setting and manageable course profile. Cutoff time is set at 4 hours.
5. Napa to Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon (California)
Set on the third Sunday of July, Napa to Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon creates a more intimate race-day setting compared with major city events.
Around 2,000 runners take part each year, giving the course a calmer feel while still delivering strong race organization.
Registration costs approximately $135, making it a popular choice for runners looking for a destination-style weekend paired with a well-run event.
Course design carries participants through rolling hills and vineyard views, beginning in Napa Valley and ending in Sonoma town.
Terrain includes gradual climbs and descents, offering a moderate challenge that feels rewarding without becoming overwhelming for experienced runners.
Several key race facts help runners prepare ahead of time:
- Date: Third Sunday of July
- Participants: Around 2,000
- Cost: About $135
Post-race celebrations include a wine festival that adds an extra layer of excitement to the finish. Many runners stay after completing the race to enjoy local food, music, and wine-tasting as part of the event weekend.
Cutoff time remains 3.5 hours, providing enough time for runners aiming to finish comfortably while still maintaining steady pacing.
6. Monterey Bay Half Marathon (Monterey, CA)
Hosted in November, Monterey Bay Half Marathon draws more than 7,000 runners each year and continues to hold a strong reputation among West Coast races.
Course route follows Pacific Grove and Ocean View Boulevard, giving runners constant ocean scenery along much of the 13.1-mile distance.
Cool breezes and mild autumn temperatures often create ideal running conditions, especially for athletes hoping to stay comfortable while maintaining strong pacing.
Race atmosphere combines natural coastal surroundings with professional organization, making the event attractive for both first-time participants and returning runners. Many runners speak highly of the smooth logistics, well-staffed aid stations, clear course markings, and helpful volunteers who keep the race running efficiently.
Race expectations become clearer through several important event details:
- Date: November
- Participants: 7,000+
- Cost: About $129
Cool weather often makes pacing easier compared with warmer races held earlier in the year.
Consistent coastal air and seasonal temperatures help runners settle into a steady rhythm during longer stretches of the route.
Cutoff time remains set at 3.5 hours, giving most participants plenty of time to complete the race with confidence and comfort.
7. Philadelphia Half Marathon (Philadelphia, PA)
Taking place in November, Philadelphia Half Marathon welcomes over 12,000 runners and delivers one of the strongest large-city race settings in the United States.
Streets throughout Philadelphia guide runners past major city sights such as the Liberty Bell and Museum Row, adding historic character and cultural depth to the course.
Cool fall weather also supports strong performance conditions for runners aiming for goal times.
Race-day energy stays high due to packed spectator sections, lively neighborhoods, and strong city-wide support.
Organization remains a major reason runners return each year, with smooth packet pickup, clear communication, well-managed start corrals, and enthusiastic volunteers lining the route.
Several core race details help define the scale of the event:
- Date: November
- Participants: 12,000+
- Cost: $130 – $170
Large runner turnout creates an exciting, competitive atmosphere, especially through the busiest sections of the course.
Spectators often bring constant noise and encouragement, helping athletes stay motivated through the later miles.
Cutoff time remains 3 hours, giving participants a clear pacing target and ensuring the race maintains a structured but reachable finishing standard.
Summary
Eight events listed above show why half marathons remain one of the most popular race distances in the United States.
Scenic routes, festive atmospheres, and excellent race-day experiences continue to draw thousands of runners each year.
Personal records, first finishes, and lasting memories all become possible through races that offer both challenge and celebration.
