Lace up for an unforgettable journey through Akron, Ohio, at the FirstEnergy Akron Marathon, Half Marathon, & Team Relay on September 26, 2026. This esteemed event, a highlight of the Akron Marathon Race Series, offers a vibrant foot-tour through the heart of the city, renowned for its excellent organization and passionate community support. Runners will tackle a USATF-certified, Boston Marathon qualifying course, navigating rolling hills and diverse terrain, from bustling urban streets to the tranquil crushed limestone of the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Typical race day conditions in late September offer pleasant running weather, with highs around 74F and lows around 53F, accompanied by a low 12% chance of precipitation.

The course begins downtown on High Street next to the Akron Art Museum, immediately presenting a rewarding challenge with an initial uphill climb before a swift downhill. Runners will experience iconic sights, including sweeping views from the All-America Bridge, likened to the start of the New York City Marathon, and pass through historic landmarks like the University of Akron, Firestone Park, and the Stan Hywet Estate. The scenic 4-mile stretch along the Towpath Trail provides a unique and softer running surface, a welcome respite before the course's celebrated "Rally from the Valley" around mile 18 in Sand Run Parkway, a challenging ascent often compared to the Newton Hills.

With a total elevation gain of approximately 1000 feet, the Akron Marathon is known for its balanced, engaging profile, with many runners praising the abundant aid stations and enthusiastic crowds that line the route. Seventeen fluid stations offer water and lemon-lime sports drink, while energy gels are provided at multiple points along the course, ensuring runners are well-supported. The exhilarating "Blue Line" finish near the Akron Civic Theatre leads directly into the lively Finisher Festival at Lock 3, featuring food trucks, live music, and a celebratory atmosphere that consistently earns high marks from participants.