A Spectator’s Guide to Grandma’s Marathon

A marathon runner high-fives a child watching on the side of the road

Wondering where the best spots are to cheer on runners during Grandma’s Marathon? No sweat! We’ve mapped out the best locations along the route in Duluth to show your support – and have some fun while you’re at it.

LOCATION 1: McQuade Harbor (5105 Congdon Blvd, Duluth)

Half marathon – Mile 1

First Runners Expected: 6:05 a.m.
Last Runners Expected: 6:30 a.m.

Full marathon – Mile 13

First Wheelers Expected: 8:20 a.m.
First Runners Expected: 8:50 a.m.
Last Runners Expected: 11:45 a.m.

Tips & Tricks:

  • Best for early risers.
  • Easy to get to and lots of parking.
  • Snack situation: Pack your own!
  • What to watch for:
    • A Lake Superior sunrise

LOCATION 2: Lakeside Neighborhood (Along London Road)

Half marathon – Mile 6-8

First Runners Expected: 6:30 a.m.
Last Runners Expected: 7:45 a.m.

Full marathon – Mile 19

First Wheelers Expected: 8:40 a.m.
First Runners Expected: 9:20 a.m.
Last Runners Expected: 1:15 p.m.

Tips & Tricks:

  • This is where the party begins! There’s fun along this entire stretch of London Road.
  • Park above London Road and Superior Street for a nice walk down to the racecourse.
  • Snack situation: Stop at Amity Coffee for a pastry and some caffeine (4429 E Superior Street).
  • What to watch for:
    • Free bacon!
    • Lots of yard parties
    • Bands and performances
    • More than 200 trolls along the “Troll Mile
    • Plenty of cute dogs!

LOCATION 3: Downtown Duluth (Along Superior Street)

A Spectator’s Guide to Grandma’s Marathon

Half marathon – Mile 10-12

First Runners Expected: 6:50 a.m.
Last Runners Expected: 8:45 a.m.

Full marathon – Mile 24-25

First Wheelers Expected: 8:50 a.m.
First Runners Expected: 9:40 a.m.
Last Runners Expected: 2:15 p.m.

Tips & Tricks

LOCATION 4: Canal Park

Half marathon – Mile 12- Finish

First Runners Expected: 7:00 a.m.
Last Runners Expected: 9:15 a.m.

Full marathon – Mile 25- Finish

First Wheelers Expected: 9:00 a.m.
First Runners Expected: 9:50 a.m.
Last Runners Expected: 3:00 p.m.

Tips & Tricks:

A Spectator’s Guide to Grandma’s Marathon

BONUS LOCATION! By Train via the North Shore Scenic Railroad

  • Departs The St. Louis County Depot at 5:45 a.m. and returns to Duluth at 9 a.m.
  • The train arrives to the starting line in time to find your favorite runner and watch the start of the race.
  • The train parallels the course and keeps pace with the lead runners for the first few miles, before heading back to Duluth in time for the first marathoners to cross the finish line in Canal Park.
  • Ticket includes train ride, breakfast, snacks, Bloody Mary/mimosa bar and Grandma’s souvenir pack.
  • Buy tickets at duluthtrains.com

Visit Grandma’s Marathon website for more information and other resources. Good luck, runners, and happy viewing, spectators!

Posted on June 6, 2023