ING New York City Marathon

Description
If you're not running the marathon this year, your brood can still get in on all the fun (and if you are racing, good luck!). Your first spectator opportunity is at Mile 2 at 92nd St and the Gowanus Expressway in Brooklyn (expect racers passing through between 8:30 and 11am); other good spots to park it in Brooklyn are at Mile 8, where the Brooklyn Academy of Music will be playing (racers pass between 8:50am and 12:15pm) as well as Mile 10, in Williamsburg. The next borough is Queens: Mile 14 (pacers pass between 9:10am and 2pm) at Vernon Blvd and Jackson Ave; this marks the halfway point of the marathon. Manhattan is up next; hang out along First Ave for Miles 16 through 19 (expect racers between 9:20am and 3pm). There will be plenty of spots around there to grab a bite to eat or take a potty break. Mile 20 (between 9:30am and 3:30pm) is crucial for runners. Also known as “the wall”, racers generally lose energy and need extra support at this point. If your tots are still going strong, Miles 22 through 25 (9:40am to 4:40pm) cap off the spectator opportunities. Mile 22 at Marcus Garvey Park offers up more music, Mile 23 on Fifth Ave boasts lead runners strutting their stuff, and Mile 25 at Central Park South marks the homestretch. Other tips before you head out: Stop at a bodega or Dunkin' before you pick a spot, and fill up a couple bags with sweets, orange slices, water, power bars, anything really; racers appreciate the extra fuel, especially when little kids are doling it out. You can also sign up online before the race to get updates (every 5K!) via text about runners you're following. Head online to plan your location and to see a full lineup of the day's festivities. All ages.