Grandma’s Marathon 2026

Grandma’s Marathon is the 10th largest marathon in the USA. What started in 1977 as a single race has grown to a full weekend of running events hosted by the organization. The 5K, Half Marathon, and Full Marathon sell out every year.

5 km (3.1 miles) – Ideal for beginners, families, or shakeout runners, this short and scenic race delivers a fun and festive start to the weekend.

Half Marathon (13.1 miles) – A stunning lakeside course featuring gentle downhill stretches, cool breezes, and a memorable finish in Duluth.

Marathon (26.2 miles) – The point-to-point course runs along the scenic Route 61 along the North Shore of Lake Superior from Two Harbors to Duluth. The marathon course loses less than 100 feet of elevation. Iconic landmarks along the course include Lemon Drop Hill (mile 22), the Troll Mile (mile 22), Historic Fitger’s Brewing Company (mile 24), and SS William A. Irvin (mile 25.5). The race finishes in Canal Park near Grandma’s Restaurant and the highly visible Aerial Lift Bridge.

Getting to the Grandma’s Marathon

Shuttle
Guests can fly into Minneapolis/St. Paul to rent a car or schedule shuttle arrangements. Guests can also fly directly into Duluth and contact the hotel for airport transfer. Contact us for recommended shuttle companies we have used in the past.
Car
Minneapolis/St. Paul airport is 2:30 hour drive (159 miles) northeast to Duluth. Duluth airport is 12 minutes (6 miles) from the hotel.
Parking is Free for all hotel guests.

With Sports Tours, you never run alone. We’ll meet you at your hotel, escort you to the race expo and get you to the start line with ease. Meet your fellow runners and celebrate together post-race.

Welcome to race weekend! Arrive, settle in, and enjoy the sights and sounds of Duluth as the city comes alive with marathon energy. Take in the stunning views of Lake Superior, explore the historic Canal Park district, and soak up the festive atmosphere along the waterfront. Whether you’re picking up your race packet, grabbing a bite at a local eatery, or simply stretching your legs with a lakeside stroll, arrival day sets the tone for an unforgettable race weekend.

Join us for a refreshing 5K guided shakeout run along the scenic shores of Lake Superior to get your legs moving. Then, take a 10 minute walk to the Expo to pick up your race bib after our pre-race briefing and explore the race weekend atmosphere. The expo is located in the convention center attached to your hotel via the Sky-Walk bridge. The official Grandma’s 5K is held mid-day today.

In the evening, gather with fellow runners for the pre-race dinner — the perfect chance to carb-load and connect before race day.

It’s race day! The half and full marathon begin Saturday morning, with all race-day transportation departing directly from the expo for a smooth, stress-free start. Our reps will help escort runners based on their race start times.

Feel the excitement as you run the scenic North Shore course, surrounded by cheers and camaraderie. After you cross the finish line, celebrate your achievement with us at the post-race party — the perfect way to celebrate an unforgettable day.

Feel free to check out of your hotel or extend your stay to explore Duluth. We wish you safe travels and hope the memories from this incredible weekend stay with you until your next race adventure!