Erin Lanahan 
The Jersey City Marathon 2026 and Half Marathon are just days away from taking over the streets of Jersey City for the 2026 race. Runners from across the tri-state area and beyond will compete on April 19th, 2026, following a scenic course through some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods. Starting in Newport, the route takes athletes through Paulus Hook, past Liberty State Park, down to Greenville and Bergen-Lafayette, and through Communipaw before finishing back in Newport. For those who decided not to lace up in their fastest sneakers this year, here are some great spots to cheer the thousands of runners on to the finish line for the 2026 Jersey City Marathon and Half Marathon.
The Race Course
Before spectators decide where to cheer on runners, they should know where the race goes throughout Jersey City. Both the half-marathon and full marathon start on Washington Boulevard and end on Newport Parkway in Newport. The half-marathon runners will run the loop once, and full marathon runners will have to run a second loop to complete the race.
Road closures for vehicular traffic will begin at 6 AM on Sunday, April 19th, and residents should plan accordingly. All roads are anticipated to reopen at 3 PM. Some of the roads closing include sections of Grove Street, Marin Boulevard, Christopher Columbus Drive, Grand Street, Jersey Avenue, and more. Parking restrictions will begin at midnight on Saturday, April 18th. Alternate parking locations include City Hall, Jersey City Medical Center, and Newport South Garage. Full details about road closures throughout Jersey City can be found online here.
Read More: Public Water Fountains + Bathrooms for Runners in Hoboken + Jersey City
Where to Watch in Jersey City
Two loops mean double the chances of seeing some awesome runners in Jersey City on Sunday morning. The organizers say the best place to watch runners will be the start and finish line. For those looking to venture out further into the race course, there are a few places to check out. Besides just general standing room on the street, here are a few additional go-to spots to set up shop and watch runners pass by.
- Bayview Cemetery | Garfield Avenue + Cator Avenue
- Bayside Park | 99 Bayside Park Drive
- Berry Lane Park | 1000 Garfield Avenue
- Cafe Dolma | 270 Grand Street
- Life Pancake Company | 426 Jersey Avenue
- Liberty National Golf Course Entrance | 100 Caven Point Road
- Liberty State Park Entrance | 1 Audrey Zapp Drive
- Maggie’s Farm Espresso | 88 Morgan Street
- Marina Park | 500-502 Washington Boulevard
- Newport Green Park | 700 Washington Boulevard
- Paulus Hook Park | 226 Washington Street
- Outside of St. Peter’s Field | 201 Marin Boulevard
Refueling During + After The Race + Cool Deals for Runners
Once loved ones cross the finish line, it’s time for recovery. Then immediately after, it’s time to celebrate. As mentioned, right on the race course is Cafe Dolma, a restaurant with a great patio and a large breakfast menu at 270 Grand Street. Consider picking up a coffee and hanging out on the patio while watching the race go by on Grand Street. Runners can also enjoy a post-race smoothie (or a bloody mary) at the one and only LIFE Pancake Company at 426 Jersey Avenue.
See More: A Guide to Running Clubs in Essex County
Runners can expect hydration stations every 2 to 3 miles along the course, with water available at every stop and lemon-lime Gatorade at alternating stations. GU energy gels will be handed out around mile 18 in flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry-banana, and finishers will be greeted with water and electrolytes at the finish line. Alfalfa’s Jersey City location is celebrating marathon weekend with a special perk for runners. From April 19th through April 20th, anyone who completed the race can receive 20% off in-store purchases by showing their medal, bib, or a photo from race day.
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