From Heartbreak Hill to the Finish Line: Facts About The Boston Marathon
One of the biggest events (if not the biggest event) in Boston is the Boston Marathon. It takes place every spring and welcomes people worldwide to climb Heartbreak Hill and cheer on the marathon runners. Visit Boston on Patriots’ Day, the third Monday in April, and stay with Thatch. We have properties on Newbury Street and Beacon Hill along Charles Street, close to the marathon course and many more historic and fun Boston attractions. Before the race starts, educate yourself with a few facts about Heartbreak Hill and the history of the Boston Marathon.
Facts About The Boston Marathon
Before you arrive, it pays to know a thing or two about one of the world’s most popular and famous street marathons. Here are some facts about the Boston Marathon.
– The first marathon was in 1897.
– As of 2025, the marathon is 127 years old.
– The race begins in Hopkinton, Massachusetts.
– The average finishing time is between three-and-a-half to four hours.
– The total distance of the marathon is 26 miles or 385 yards or 42.195 km.
– It’s the world’s oldest annual marathon.
– Heartbreak Hill is an infamous stretch of the race, which is located at mile 20 and is 263 feet above sea level.
– You can expect to be one of 500,000 spectators at the event.
– Women were excluded from the race until 1972.
– It takes roughly 8,000 volunteers to help run the event smoothly.
– Before the 1987 race started, a rope preventing the runners from crossing the start line early was left in place, which caused one star to trip over it. Today, the rope is replaced by volunteers who line up and part just before the race officially begins.
– The first-place winner gets $150,000. They can also add $25,000 to their winnings if they set the course record.
– The Boston Marathon is one of the six World Marathon Majors, along with Tokyo, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York.
Best Vacation Rentals Near The Marathon Route
Thatch offers our guests apartments, hotels, and even hostel hybrid (Quarters) options. A popular and ideal runner’s choice is staying in the Newbury Street properties. These are closest to the marathon route.
Another option is to rent a unit in the heart of historic Beacon Hill along Charles Street. These rental units are close to the Boston Marathon’s finish line and are great for spectators who want to celebrate when their partner, friend, or family member crosses the finish line.
Experience the Boston Marathon and The City
The Boston Marathon is one of the world’s best race weekend and race day experiences–maybe with the exception of running up Heartbreak Hill. Make sure you experience it in the best way possible by booking directly with Thatch. Check out what is available on our website, or call us at 857-263-3073 to hear more about our current options. If you or a friend are looking for summer housing for an internship or job rotation, look into our Co-Living options.