Seattle, known as the Emerald City, is a top destination for runners. From the Seattle Marathon to fun runs, there’s a race for everyone.
Here are the top running races that highlight the best of this vibrant and diverse city:
Seattle Marathon
Date: 30 November 2025
The Seattle Marathon is held annually in November or December, starting and ending at the Seattle Center near the iconic Space Needle. Known for its excellent organization and scenic course, this race is a must-run for those looking to experience Seattle while taking on a challenging route.
Lake Washington Half Marathon
Date: 18 – 19 October 2025
The Lake Washington Half Marathon is a scenic loop course that starts and finishes at Juanita Beach Park in Kirkland. Runners enjoy a picturesque route along Lake Washington, passing through charming neighborhoods. This race is the perfect way to close out your running season.
Emerald City 5K
Date: 16 August 2025
The Emerald City 5K is a fun and festive running race organized by Run2BeFit, known for creating unique and memorable events. Runners can join in costume or come as they are—whether a good witch or a bad witch, it’s all about having fun!
Not everyone enjoys the thrill of a running race. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, Go! Running Tours offers fun and engaging running tours. One standout experience is the Seattle Be Water My Friend Tour, a 15K run inspired by Bruce Lee.
The first half takes you through iconic landmarks and sites, immersing you in the city’s history. The second half is an uninterrupted, flat course along the waterfront—offering stunning views to round off your run.
SEE ALL RUNNING TOURS IN SEATTLE
