The 46th Bank of America Chicago Marathon 2024 is upon us. On October 13, this Sunday, the Windy City will play host to one of the biggest marathon races in the world, and the excitement is high. But this year, things will be different. With a heaving heart, the participants will honor Kenya’s Kelvin Kiptum, who died earlier this year in a horrible car crash. The long-distance legend bagged the world record in the marathon last year at this very event. But that won’t be the only person whose memory will watch over the Chicago race.

Brendan O’Brien will be running the event to honor his late father who succumbed to suicide. Being among 50,000 participants, O’Brien hopes to spread the message on mental health to ensure others aren’t left in their fight alone. But the show must go on. While there will be plenty of reasons to watch the exciting race, here’s what you need to know to soak in the atmosphere properly.

Learn about the weather conditions expected at the 2024 Chicago Marathon

While Florida gets hammered by Hurricane Milton, Chicago is offering all the right things for those who are looking for something to escape the winds. The 2024 Chicago Marathon will have the perfect weather conditions and is likely to offer cooler temperatures, just the thing that marathoners like to hear before a race. The NBC 5 Storm Team reports that Saturday could see overcast skies and rain showers, but all of that is likely to get cleared away by race day. Experts predict the mid-50s to low to mid-60s temperatures throughout the day, and a partly or mostly sunny day will greet the racers at the starting line.

While Chicago revels in the sun the Sunshine State experiences tumultuous times. The hurricane made landfall near Tampa and has been raging across Florida since. With that in mind, organizers of the 2024 Chicago Marathon have taken some considerate steps. The authorities have announced that any competitor from Florida who is registered in the race has the option to defer their participation to 2025.

The move is being lauded by runners who are hailing the Chicago Marathon for its display of a “class act.” However, on the other hand, if they do manage to arrive at the race, they can breathe a sigh of relief. Outside Magazine claims the ideal race day temperatures should be between 46 and 60, and considering how the predictions are also showing similar numbers, we can hope for a true nail-biter. Now that we’ve got this part covered, let’s take a look at all the places in the city where you can get yourself something to fill your stomach.

Where can you eat and drink at the Chicago Marathon 2024?

Chicago boasts one of the most vibrant culinary cultures in the world. Both the runners and the fans will find something to their liking in the city to state their tastebuds. From the Green Street Smoked Meats to Purple Pig, there’s something for everyone. But we’ll give you a few more names, just in case.

Pendry: The hotel is gearing up to give competitors the royal treatment they deserve. Complimentary snacks and beverages before the race are sure to bring a smile to the faces of the runners who are looking for a good way to keep their energy levels up for the big occasion. After the race, if you bring your medal back to the hotel for a beer and a Wagyu burger, all for $10.

Mag Mile: The W XYZ Bar at Aloft Chicago Mag Mile, which is located close to the starting line of the race, runners can also avail of a complimentary beer after finishing the race. The same location also houses Michael Jordan’s Steakhouse, which will have a special marathon menu for the weekend. Along with the usual complimentary beer, you can also bite into delectable dishes like Wagyu Meatball ($49), Wagyu Burger ($35), and more.

There are many more. If you crave yourself a good pasta, Eataly in River North is your destination. Or is it Indian food that tickles your fancy? You got Swadesi Cafe in West Loop. Want more options? Here’s a comprehensible list by Chicago Food Magazine to help you make your pick.

Find out about the streets closed during the 2024 Chicago Marathon

The race is also celebrated by the residents of the entire city of Chicago. To ensure its success, the people come together and don’t seem to mind a little hassle for themselves either. With that in mind, many streets of the Windy City are expected to remain closed for the Chicago Marathon 2024.

Some streets are even likely to stay closed even before October 13. Sections of Balbo Drive, Jackson Drive, and Columbus Drive will be closed off in phases, beginning as early as October 9 and being fully off-limits for transit by October 11. Roosevelt Road will be the last one to join the list on the day before the race.

On race day, State Street, LaSalle Street, Fullerton Street, Wells Street, Wacker Drive, Cannon Drive, Sheridan Road, Adam Street, Damen Avenue, Jackson Boulevard, Halsted Street, Cermak Road, Wentworth Avenue, the south section of Michigan Avenue will also be closed over different time periods. While almost all of these roads above are expected to be closed off by 7.00 and on Sunday, they will reopen as the race progresses.