The New York City Marathon is back at full capacity this year, with 50,000 runners participating in the iconic 26.2-mile race this Sunday.
One of the best places to catch all the action? Miles 22 and 23 in Harlem, a section of the route that has a less-crowded, almost small-town feel.
This 42-block stretch—Fifth Avenue from E 138th Street to E 96th Street, with a short detour around Marcus Garvey Park—is where you'll find tons of great music, inspirational messages and lively cheering.
For those planning on going, here are a few notable spots to watch and eat and along the route, starting at around noon. And if you want to glimpse the elite runners, get there early—around 10:30am.
From north to south:
Watch: Final entrance into Manhattan Madison Avenue Bridge exit ramp, E 138th Street and Fifth Avenue
This is the spot where runners re-enter Manhattan from the Bronx for the last stretch of the race—and really need your encouragement. Look for DJs, fun signs and plenty of other cheering on.
Eat: Shake Shack 1 W 125th St and Fifth Ave
The huge windows here look directly onto Fifth Avenue, making it the perfect spot to grab a quick burger while watching the race outside.
Watch: Harlem Run Cheer Station Fifth Avenue and 124th Street
Join local running collective Harlem Run from noon onwards as they cheer on marathoners approaching the bend around brownstone-lined Marcus Garvey Park.
Eat: Maxwell's Central Park 1325 Fifth Avenue and 111th Street
Is watching all of that running making you really thirsty? Nab one of the picnic benches outside of Maxwell's, a casual American spot right on Fifth Avenue, and order the bottomless brunch. Choose from 90 minutes of all-you-can-drink mimosas, bellinis, bloody marys or beer for $25.
Eat: Teranga, 1280 Fifth Ave between E 109th and E 110th Sts
Grab a coffee, pastry or grain-based bowl at this colorful West African spot located on mile 23 of the race. Get there early (they open at 10am) for a prime spot by the windows overlooking Fifth Avenue.
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