Welcome back to our annual “26 Tips for 26.2 Miles” blog series. For the 26 days leading up to race day, athletes and spectators can get daily tips to make the most of OUR race. Stay tuned for tips on parking and food, cool viewing spots and race rules, and answers to all your pressing race day questions. We are here to help you make the most of your 2022 Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon & ½ Marathon experience! Let’s go!
There are more than 15,000 parking spaces in the Arena District close to the combined Start & Finish Line. Alleviate some stress on Race Day by purchasing your parking pass in advance online here. Make plans PRIOR to race day to get downtown and into your parking spot well before the race starts at 7:30 a.m. How early? The Corrals open at 6 a.m., so plan accordingly:
Think of how long it takes to get into downtown Columbus. Got that number? Now double it! With thousands of people making their way to the Start Line at the same time, you’ll need extra time to get where you want to be.
We recommend carpooling. It cuts down on traffic and parking problems for all and will save you money!
Check out CoGo Bike Sharing (there are several bike stations within walking distance of the start/finish), taxis or Uber and Lyft for an alternative to driving downtown.
Make sure you know about any road closings/construction that may get in your way of being in your corral early. Check out Paving the Way's Website for the latest road construction information, including weekend work.
If you review the above items thoroughly and make your plan a few days ahead of time, you should enjoy an easy, unhurried, unstressed start to your big day. Again, the start line corrals open at 6 am.
NOTE STREET CLOSURES AT THE START/FINISH WHEN PLANNING HOW TO ACCESS PARKING.
Long St. will be closed between High St. to the East and Hocking St. to the West.
Spring St. will be closed from West St. to the East, and Hocking St. to the West.
Neil Ave. will be closed from Nationwide Blvd. on the North to the combined Start/Finish Line to the South.
Have additional questions about parking and transportation? Let us know in the comments below, or share with us on Facebook and Instagram, and we’ll be sure to get them answered!