With the Boston Marathon right around the corner, it’s time for participants to start gearing up for the big day. If you’re coming to the Boston area in support of someone or are participating in the race yourself and prolonging your stay, you’ll likely be in search of some additional activities to fill your time. Below, we’ve shared a handful of Boston Marathon weekend activities to enjoy while in town for the Boston Marathon!
1. Step into the shoes of a participant at the Boston Marathon Expo
Open to participants, as well as the general public, the 129th Boston Marathon Expo will take place at the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center from Friday, April 18 to Sunday, April 20. The expo will cover various topics, including Boston Marathon history, the gender gap in women’s running, tips for mastering Monday’s race and other enlightening conversations. Take a look at the schedule here, and consider popping in to learn about a subject that catches your eye.
2. Experience classical music by candlelight in a stunning local venue
If you’re in town this weekend, check out a captivating Candlelight concert featuring talented musicians amidst hundreds of luminous candles. Enjoy one of these dazzling concerts before or after Marathon weekend.
3. Grab your jersey and head to a Red Sox game
If you’re a Sox fan in town for Marathon Weekend, you’re in luck! The Red Sox will be playing home games every night from April 18 to 24, including a 4-game series facing the White Sox before taking on the Mariners! Be sure to snag tickets and map out your route, especially if you plan on going to the game on Marathon Monday.
4. Fuel up in Fenway Park
For the spectators out there who are planning to watch closer to the finish line, you’ll likely want to grab a bite to eat at some point. Sure, running a marathon is way harder, but standing around can be tiring too! Luckily, we’ve got you covered with our ten favorite food spots in Fenway Park for those spectating around mile 25! With several fast casual options, you can easily get something to go and reassume your spectating stance.
If you’ll be watching from the finish line, make sure to check out some of our favorite spots in Back Bay, plus Marathon Monday food specials!
5. Set out on an iconic Swan Boat
As you may have heard, the Swan Boats are back in action at the Public Garden! Rest your legs and take a short cruise out into the water as you soak up the picturesque scenes around you. Boston’s Swan Boats first came on the scene in 1877, making them 20 years older than the first Boston Marathon!
6. Dive into the world of water at the New England Aquarium
The infamous New England Aquarium is home to numerous incredible aquatic species, including California sea lions, green sea turtles, cownose rays and many more. If you find yourself with some downtime amidst exercising, dining and, of course, resting, consider visiting one of the aquarium’s spectacular exhibits such as the four-story Caribbean reef or Science of Sharks.
7. Planet Fitness Natick Cheer Zone: Free Giveaways, music & food to celebrate marathoners
- When: Saturday, April 19, 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
- Where: Planet Fitness Natick Parking Lot, 215 W Central St, Natick, MA
- What: Join the festive cheer zone featuring giveaways like t-shirts, water bottles, koozies, and drawstring bags. Enjoy live music from Beasley Media Group and delicious food from Cinco Chiles Taqueria. Open to all, this event is a perfect way to support Boston Marathon runners in a fun, welcoming atmosphere.
8. Four Seasons One Dalton Spa Offers Specialized Massages for Marathon Muscle Recovery
Throughout Marathon Weekend (April 18–21) visit the Four Season One Dalton Spa for a treatment ideal for runners and athletes. The Four Seasons One Dalton Spa collaborates with GROUND WELLBEING to offer the Muscle Recovery Sensorial Journey massage (50, 80, or 110 minutes) to relieve muscle tension and improve circulation. Their Sleep Ritual combines aromatherapy, breathing exercises, and massage to promote deep, restful sleep—perfect for pre- or post-race recovery.
9. OOFOS x Rev’d Fitness: Shake-Out Run, recovery panel & fan foam customization
What:
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Shake-Out Run: Friday, April 18, 11 a.m. (starting at Rev’d Studio, Copley Place)
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Recovery Panel: Friday, April 18, 12:30 p.m. (The Westin Copley Place)
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Fan Foam Customization at the Foam Lounge: Thursday, April 17 – Saturday, April 19 (The Westin Copley Place) to cheer in style
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Free Medal Engraving: Monday, April 21 (The Westin Copley Place)
10. The Beehive & Cosmica’s 12th Annual Marathon Benefit Supports Trauma Innovation
- When: Monday, April 21, 3:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
- Where: The Beehive, 541 Tremont St & Cosmica, 40 Berkeley St, Boston, MA
- What: Celebrate Marathon Monday with an evening of food and community spirit as 100% of proceeds support the Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Center for Trauma Innovation. Enjoy cuisine from Chefs Ryan Skeen and Yuval Ochoa with 100% of the proceeds donated towards the organization’s mission to fuel cutting-edge research and clinical programs in trauma healing and emergency preparedness.
11. Brick Street Bagels x runna pop-up
- What: Boston’s beloved bagel makes a Back Bay debut! Pre-order and walk-in bagels from 9 AM until sold out.
- Where: 337 Newbury Street
- When: April 18-20
This article is written by Claire Cahill and Ameera Hammouda