The Twin Cities Marathon starts in Minneapolis and finishes at the State Capitol in St. Paul. Spectators should pick the lakes early or Summit Avenue late rather than chasing the whole course.
Best places to stand
Official and local guides highlight Douglas Avenue (early miles, often with sousaphone), the Chain of Lakes / Bde Maka Ska parkway, Minnehaha Parkway, Lake Nokomis (halfway, light rail access), the river parkways for a double look, and Summit Avenue for the final hills and energy into the Capitol.
- Early: Chain of Lakes or Bde Maka Ska for scenic views.
- Halfway: Lake Nokomis (Blue Line light rail).
- Late: Summit Avenue (Cretin to Capitol) — the place to be.
- Finish: Capitol grounds. Agree on a meetup outside the chute.
Getting there
Light rail and rideshare work better than driving the closed parkways. Parking on the St. Paul side of the river lets you see runners twice on the parkways. Check the official TCM spectator page for current maps.
Where to meet
Pick a landmark near the Capitol finish outside the secure zone. Cell service is heavy near the line. A text after the runner is through the chute is the reliable plan.