What makes Akron great? How about over a hundred thousand spectators along the marathon course? Spectators are a vital part of the marathons exciting race atmosphere. Here, you can learn more about being a spectacular spectator at the 2010 Road Runner Akron Marathon. Whether you’re here in support of one particular runner, or present to cheer on the masses, this page has everything you need to know to enjoy race day to its fullest!
This page includes suggested spectator hot spots, race day reminders and tips for a successful and enjoyable experience!
Where to Watch the Race
Spectators can see their runner in as many as 9 different accessible locations on the course. Whether you plan on staying in one location the entire day, or following your runner to multiple spots, we’ll help guide you in the right direction.
Follow the plan below to optimize viewing potential and catch your runner in action! Be sure to pick up a course map at the Health & Fitness Expo as well as the “Solutions” tents on race day.
Walking Spectator Route (Remain Downtown)
Location #1 The Start Line: Kick off the day by watching the opening ceremonies at the Road Runner Akron Marathon Start Line located at 177 S. Broadway Street, downtown Akron. Access the start line from various parking areas located on our downtown map.
Location #2: After the start, take a leisurely stroll one block west to High Street. Here you’ll be able to see runners at mile 3. Now that you’ve seen your runners at mile 3, take some time to enjoy downtown Akron. Grab some coffee or bagel and enjoy the race atmosphere as you head to location three of the walking spectator route.
Location #3: From High Street, head east back to the start line, past the Inventors Hall of Fame and onto University Drive. Along University Drive and up through The University of Akron’s campus (Buchtel Commons), you’ll see runners at mile 10. They will have a completed the southern loop of the course and will once more return through the start line area.
Location #4: Next, you’ll want to head back up to Broadway and walk two blocks west to S. Main Street where the Finish Line is located. The finish line is located inside Canal Park Stadium where you can relax with a great view of our incredible finish line. You’ll have access to live music on the main stage, delicious stadium concessions, and live coverage of the entire race course on the fields’ overhead screen. (Link for downtown parking)
Course Spectator Stations
*Located on the outer loops of the course and utilized for the entire race day
*Not recommended for traveling to and from throughout the race.
Location #1: Firestone Park at mile 7. Bring some lawn chairs and a blanket because FirestonePark is a lovely place to spend the morning cheering on our runners! Parking is available at the Firestone Park RecreationCenter.
Location #2: Akron Peninsula Road and N. Portage Path at mile 15.1. Here you’ll find plenty of parking at the area retail stores and a great glimpse of the runners as they exit the towpath and head south on N. Portage Road.
Location #3: W. Market St. and Revere Rd. Here, at mile 19.2 you’ll be able to see runners make their way along W. Market St past Fairlawn Country Club. Parking is available at Howard Hanna Real Estate located at 2603 West Market Street Akron, OH 44313
Location #4: Firestone High School. Located at the 21 mile mark, this particular location provides spectators with a great view of the running field as they move down Fairfax to Castle, then on to Garmen Rd towards the famous Heart Rate Hill close to mile 22.
Location #5: Portage Country Club at mile 23 offers a cozy neighborhood feel to watch the race and cheer on the runners.
Location #6: At mile 24 you’ll enjoy watching the event with many local amenities. Highland Square offers you a perfect spectator spot with plenty of parking and places to eat while you cheer on runners and enjoy local entertainment.
Location #7: THE FINISH LINE! This spectator spot has it all.
- Finish Line and official clock
- Entertainment on the main stage
- Live race coverage presented on the stadium screen
- Concessions