The Most Fun Half Marathons

By Megan Harrington

Some runners choose a race based on their chance at a PR, while others are just looking to have a good time. Whatever your reason for running 13.1 miles, these races promise sweet swag, awesome views and plenty of fun.

Maui Half Marathon

October 14, 2018 in Maui, Hawaii 1 of 12

What could be better than a day in paradise? How about a race in paradise! The scenic Maui marathon is the longest consecutively held running event in Hawaii and its long history makes it a very well run race. Admire breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and then refuel on the beach with some fish tacos.

Find:

Your Next Race

Hershey Half Marathon

October 21, 2018 in Hershey, Pennsylvania 2 of 12

During this sweet race, runners start and finish at Hershey Park Stadium after meandering through Hershey Park, down Chocolate Avenue and past the Milton S. Hershey historic mansion. Take in the sights and then refuel with some Hershey's chocolate milk (or a candy bar—no judgment here).

Find:

Your Next Race

Rock 'n' Roll Los Angeles

October 28, 2018 in Los Angeles, California 3 of 12

Known as the world's largest Halloween half marathon, dress up in your best costume and join thousands of other runners in the eighth annual edition of this southern California race. Hit the streets of downtown LA and run past famous sites in the City of Angels, such as the Staples Center, Koreatown and Memorial Coliseum, home of the 1984 Olympic Games opening ceremony.

Use code "ROCK10" for 10% off Rock 'n' Roll Los Angeles.

Find:

Your Next Race

Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon

November 4, 2018 in Orlando, Florida 4 of 12

For runners who want to seize the day, Disney's Wine and Dine Half Marathon is the perfect choice. This race for wine- and food-lovers begins at ESPN's Wide World of Sports Complex, winds through the Animal Kingdom and finishes at Epcot. With a new 5:30 am start time, you can catch a mid-race sunrise and then spend the whole day exploring the parks or relaxing poolside.

But be sure to save some energy for the evening post-race party. All race participants gain exclusive after-hours access to Epcot's Food & Wine Festival, where you can eat your heart out, mingle with Mickey and get your groove on to DJ sets.

You can even run the 10K on Saturday and the Half Marathon on Sunday, and a special Two Course Challenge medal will be yours.

Find:

Your Next Race

Rock 'n' Roll Las Vegas

November 11, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada 5 of 12

When you're talking about the most fun half marathons, you can't leave out Rock 'n' Roll Las Vegas. While Sin City is fun in and of itself, add in some running and you've got a match made in heaven. Speaking of perfect combos… Have a wedding on the horizon or just want to renew your vows? What if we told you that you could do it while on the race course? But even if holy matrimony isn't in your future, enjoy the sights and sounds of the Las Vegas strip at night and receive one of the coolest finisher medals in road racing (spinning, glow-in-the-dark dice!).

Find:

Your Next Race

Star Wars Rival Run Half Marathon

April 7, 2019 in Orlando, Florida 6 of 12

"Do or do not. There is no try!" When it comes to racing, you might want to follow the advice of Yoda, the ultimate Jedi Master.

This course runs through Disney World and features boredom-blasting entertainment on the course. Want to make a family vacation out of it? The weekend also features a 10K, 5Kand kids' races.

Find:

Your Next Race

Surf City Half Marathon

February 1, 2019 in Huntington Beach, California 7 of 12

Fast and flat, the Surf City half marathon treats runners to views of California's wide, sandy beaches. The scenery and live bands will keep you entertained and once you're finished, grab your surfboard-themed medal and celebrate at the beach beer tent.

Find:

Your Next Race

Wine Country Runs Half Marathon

March 31, 2019 in Paso Robles, California 8 of 12

This picturesque course winds through the vineyards of San Luis Obispo County, whetting your whistle for a post-race glass of vino. The local wineries come out in full force to cheer on runners (and offer their own form of hydration).

And best of all? The first place male & female half marathon runners win their weight in wine. How's that for carbo-loading incentive?

Find:

Your Next Race

Great Wall Half Marathon

May 18, 2019 in Beijing, China 9 of 12

Photo/Albatross Adventure.

If travel to a foreign country, thousands of stone steps and jaw-dropping views are your idea of a good time, the Great Wall Half Marathon might be your most fun race yet. This challenging half marathon isn't for beginners, but the views and bragging rights make the burn more than worth it.

Find:

Your Next Race

Covered Bridges Half Marathon

June 2, 2019 in Pomfret, Vermont 10 of 12

As New England enters the spring thaw, it's a perfect time to run a half marathon. The weather is ideal for a fast run time, but the scenery is what really makes this race fun. As you make your way through the Vermont countryside and over covered bridges, you'll feel like you're in a postcard.

After you finish the race, be sure to dig into a stack of pancakes with plenty of Vermont maple syrup. And if you're over 21, grab a brew from Harpoon Brewery's post-race beer tent.

Find:

Your Next Race

Diva's Half Marathon Series

Various Dates and Locations 11 of 12

Photo Credit/Katty Pereza

If you're looking for a girls' weekend getaway, this race series might be just the ticket. The series features multiple locations, with many located near popular beaches (post-race pina colada, anyone?). Throughout the race, runners are treated like the divas they are with pink tutus, a boa & tiara station on the course, champagne at the finish and a two-day Health & Fitness Boutique. See ya later boring expos.

Find:

Your Next Race

12 of 12

Back to Beginning

Next Gallery

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Running a Half Marathon

About the Author

Megan Harrington |

Megan is a runner and writer living in Upstate New York. Megan ran cross-country and track throughout high school and college and now enjoys longer races like the marathon. When she's not reviewing the latest fitness gear or writing copy for brands, Megan enjoys being active with her husband and two small children. For more on what Megan is up to, you can follow her on Instagram.

EVENTS

Running

Outdoor

Triathlon

Cycling

Sports

CALCULATORS

Calculators

RUNNING

Running Events

Running Articles

TRIATHLON

Triathlon Events

Cycling Events

Triathlon Articles

Cycling Articles

FITNESS

Fitness Events

Fitness Articles

SPORTS

Sports Events

Outdoor Events

Sports Articles

NUTRITION

Nutrition Articles

Health & Injury Articles

Kids & Family

KIDS

Events

Go Premium

ACTIVE WORKS®

The Most Fun Half Marathons

Maui Half Marathon

Find:

Megan Harrington |

Share this article

Everywhere

Get ACTIVE on the Go

1

Age

2

Gender

3

Interests

Activities near you will have this indicator

Within 2 Miles

Activities near you will have this indicator

Within 2 Miles

Mobile Apps

Follow ACTIVE

Activities near you will have
this indicator