Event Information
Register your interest now for 2026!
Course Outline:
Start: Main Street, Hopkinton
The race begins in the small town of Hopkinton, with a downhill start on main street. Excitement fills the air as runners set off on this historic course.
Key Course Highlights:
Hopkinton to Ashland (0-6km)
The course starts with a downhill trend, taking runners through quiet, wooded neighborhoods. This section feels fast, but pacing is critical to save energy for later challenges.
Framingham (Kilometer 5-7)
The course flattens out as runners pass through the town of Framingham, where enthusiastic spectators line the streets to offer early encouragement.
Natick (Kilometer 7-19)
A picturesque section through Natick features rolling hills and growing crowd support, building excitement as runners approach the halfway mark.
Wellesley and the “Scream Tunnel” (Kilometer 19-26)
One of the most famous parts of the course, the Wellesley College Scream Tunnel, is filled with deafening cheers from college students. This energy boost propels runners into the second half of the race.
Newton and the Newton Hills (Kilometer 26-34)
The Newton Hills are the course’s defining challenge. A series of four rolling hills culminates in Heartbreak Hill at 32kms, a steep climb that tests runners’ endurance and mental toughness.
Brookline and Boston College (Kilometer 34-39)
After conquering Heartbreak Hill, the course descends into Brookline. Spectators near Boston College provide loud, spirited support to keep runners motivated.
Beacon Street (Kilometer 39-40)
A long, flat stretch on Beacon Street leads runners closer to the heart of Boston. The roar of the crowd grows as the finish line nears.
Finish: Boylston Street, Boston (40 – 42.2)
The final stretch takes runners onto Hereford Street, the a famous right turn onto Boylston Street, where the iconic finish line awaits amid roaring crowds and a festive atmosphere.
What do I need to travel to Boston?
You will need a current New Zealand Passport to travel overseas, with a validity of six months or more after the date upon which you are scheduled to arrive back in New Zealand. All NZ passport holders must apply online for an ESTA Visa, at least 72 hours prior to departure for your trip to the USA. If you have a passport from another country, or have a previous criminal conviction, a visa may be required. A re-entry visa will be required by travellers leaving New Zealand holding a foreign passport
Do I need travel insurance?
It is compulsory that each person has travel insurance before travelling for the B.A.A Boston Marathon. Although it isn’t compulsory that it’s purchased via Allianz Global Assistance (our preferred provider), we do highly recommend it, as unlike other companies, they provide cover for the actual marathon event. We recommend you take out insurance as soon as you book, as it will ensure you are covered in case you injure yourself prior to the event and can no longer travel.
Do I need to qualify to obtain a race entry?
No. With the entries that are included in your Marathon Tours package you don't need to have qualified for Boston.
How do I book?
Simply click on the yellow registration link displayed at the top of the page or phone the team on 0800 RUNNING. As this event is extremely popular don't delay. Should the upcoming event already be sold out talk to us about joining our contact list for the following year.
Travelling during COVID related restrictions
It is the individuals personal responsibility to be aware of and comply with each countries own COVID policies and restrictions. Failure to comply may result in being denied entry to a country and any and all costs associated with this consequence is the responsibility of the individual. Marathon Tours accepts no liability for any losses or costs incurred due to a person failing to make themselves aware of the requirements to travel.
