Running a marathon is an exhilarating experience, but it also demands a lot from your body. Whether you’re running the race yourself or there to support a friend or family member, it’s essential to prioritize moments of rest and recovery over the weekend. Balancing activity with downtime can enhance the overall marathon experience, allowing you to rejuvenate and avoid burnout. Whether you’re in a major city for the marathon, such as the New York City, Boston, Chicago, and London marathons, or exploring a smaller town, here are some ideas to help you relax.

Have Fun Getting Off Your Feet During a Marathon Weekend in these Cities

Boston Marathon

The Boston Marathon is steeped in history and offers a unique experience in one of America’s most storied cities. To relax your feet and enjoy the area, consider these options:

• Relax at Boston Common – Boston Common is the oldest public park in the United States and a great place to unwind. Find a bench or a patch of grass to sit on and enjoy the scenery, especially after the excitement of the marathon. It is also surrounded by some of the best seafood restaurants on the East Coast. Savoring fresh New England seafood in a relaxed setting is a great way to refuel and relax after the race.
• New England Aquarium Whale Watch Cruise – Hit the water for the adventure of a lifetime. Set sail with us on the New England Aquarium Whale Watch Cruise. Our destination: Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a rich feeding ground for whales, dolphins, sea birds, and other marine creatures. Stellwagen is home to many species of large whales, including humpbacks, finbacks, and minkes. New England Aquarium naturalists will share knowledge, answer your questions, and explain the fascinating behaviors of these truly magnificent mammals.

Chicago Marathon

The Chicago Marathon is renowned for its fast and flat course, but the city is a vibrant and diverse place with plenty to offer during race weekend. After soaking up the marathon excitement, consider these activities to give your legs a well-deserved break:

• Explore Chicago’s Famous Food Scene – Chicago is famous for many things, but it’s hard to top its incredible foods after a big race. From Michelin-starred restaurants to iconic deep-dish pizza joints, Chicago is home to a variety of incredible restaurants, and the city is famous for several great dishes, including Chicago Italian Beef, deep-dish pizza, and its world-renowned hot dogs.
• Chicago Seadog River & Lake Architectural Tour – One of Chi-town’s most exciting experiences is the Chicago Seadog Tour! From the water, you’ll soak in unobstructed views of Chicago’s world-famous architecture! Start the tour at Navy Pier and sail through the Chicago Harbor Locks to the River’s iconic skyscrapers. Enjoy amusing and informative narration for a fascinating tour through the city’s architectural history as you pass the Civic Opera House, the Merchandise Mart, and the Willis Tower. Then, buckle up for a thrilling finale on Lake Michigan to top off this exhilarating experience!

New York Marathon

The New York Marathon is a premier event on the city’s calendar, and there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy around the race. Here are some ideas to help you relax and enjoy the Big Apple:

• Catch a Broadway Show – If you’re looking to completely zone out and rest your legs, take the opportunity to enjoy a live show. New York City’s theater scene is world-renowned. Whether it’s a Broadway musical, an off-Broadway play, or a comedy show, you can sit back and be entertained while staying off your feet.
• New York Bateaux Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise – What better way to relax during a marathon weekend than to indulge in a leisurely brunch? Whether it’s a pre-race carbo-load or a post-race celebration, brunch is an ideal way to gather with friends and refuel while staying off your feet. Come aboard our European-style, glass-enclosed Bateaux for the New York Premier Plus Brunch Cruise and be treated to a delectable à la carte menu and jaw-dropping, panoramic views of New York City’s skyline. You’ll see iconic landmarks up close, such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the One World Trade Center.

London Marathon

The London Marathon combines the thrill of running with the charm of one of the world’s most iconic cities. Here are some ways to relax and enjoy London during the marathon weekend:

• Afternoon Tea at Hyde Park – Hyde Park is a large, picturesque park ideal for unwinding. You can rent a pedal boat on the Serpentine or relax on a park bench and watch the world go by. Pair the visit with a British tradition: afternoon tea! Head to The Ritz or Claridge’s to enjoy tea, finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries in a luxurious setting, giving your feet a well-deserved rest.
• London Dinner Cruise on the Thames – Get off your feet and get on the water on the London Dinner Cruise on the Thames. Indulge in a sumptuous four-course meal of traditional British flavours, meticulously crafted by our skilled chefs to tantalize your taste buds. As you savour each dish, enjoy uninterrupted views of London’s most famous landmarks, including the Tower Bridge, the Shard, and the Houses of Parliament.

Other Things to Do to Recharge After a Marathon

Book a Relaxing Massage or Spa Day

One of the best ways to recover from pre-race jitters or soothe your muscles after a marathon is to indulge in a massage or spa treatment. Most cities that host marathons have high-end spas, wellness centers, and even specialized sports massage therapists who cater to athletes. Book a deep tissue or sports massage to relieve tension in your legs and back, or try a hot stone or Swedish massage for full-body relaxation.

Chill at a Coffee Shop or Café

Sometimes, the best way to relax is to slow down and enjoy a quiet moment. Find a cozy coffee shop or independent bookstore where you can settle in with a cup of coffee or tea and take a breather. It’s a simple and easy way to clear your mind, recharge your batteries, or get lost in a book or music for some final inspiration.

Attend a Yoga or Meditation Class

While rest and recovery are essential, you don’t have to be entirely sedentary. Gentle activities like yoga or meditation can help ease pre-race nerves or promote a post-race active recovery. Many cities offer specialized yoga classes for runners, focusing on stretches that target tired muscles and promote flexibility. Meditation classes, or even sound baths, can be an incredibly soothing way to recharge mentally and physically during the weekend. These activities allow you to nurture your body and mind.

Watch the Sunset from a Rooftop Bar

For a relaxing and scenic way to cap off an eventful weekend, find a rooftop bar to watch the sunset while sipping a delicious cocktail. Whether toasting to a successful race or enjoying the company of friends, rooftop bars offer a sophisticated and relaxing environment.

Rest, Recover, and Recharge with City Cruises

Marathon weekends are filled with energy and excitement, but balancing the activity with ample relaxation is important. From scenic boat tours and massages to brunch and rooftop cocktails, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the weekend while giving your body a chance to recover. None is better than City Cruises, combining dining, sightseeing, and thrills while you either gear up for the big race or refuel from a huge accomplishment. Whether you’re a runner or a supporter, give your legs the rest they deserve while taking in the best each city has to offer.