I’ve walked 71 half marathons. These are some of my favorites, and most I’ve entered more than once. Whether I add to that number or not, these are the races that meant the most to me.

Air Force Marathon (Full & Half) — Dayton, OH

This September marathon holds a special place in my heart — I’ve walked the half eight times and the full marathon twice. The half and full start always feature a fly over by the featured aircraft and sky divers with American flags. The finish line is awesome — you walk under the wings of antique aircraft. Then receive your medal from high-ranking military officers. Typically the after-race food is great with La Rosa’s pizza.

News and Sentinel Half Marathon — Parkersburg, WV

This small-town race has so many things going for it, especially for walkers. First it has a walking division with course monitors. Second, the race is affordable — the registration fee includes a pasta dinner the night before the race, free massages after the race, and pizza following the race. My favorite part is the finish — the streets are lined with people (waiting for the parade) and as the announcer shouts “Here is Cindi Leeman from Columbus, Ohio” the crowd cheers! It’s the closest I will ever be to feeling like an Olympic athlete. I’ve done this August race six times, so from experience I can say be prepared for hills and heat.

Flying Pig Marathon (Half) — Cincinnati, OH

I’ve done the Flying Pig three times and kept coming back for the fans — the best along any course I’ve ever walked! The Spring race has a lot of fun with the pig theme, even calling volunteers Grunts. The course crosses over the Ohio River into Kentucky and back. The after-race party is pretty large and even features Goetta and Skyline chili. In addition, it is pretty hilly. But Cincinnati does it right and you’ll love the hills.

Country Music Marathon (Half) — Nashville, TN

This race is a love letter to Nashville. The course winds past many of the city’s highlights with country music playing throughout and plenty of fans cheering every step of the way. I did this race in 2007, before it was part of the Rock n Roll series. I loved it back then, but I’m not sure how it might have changed.

Appleton Fox Cities Half Marathon — Appleton, WI

This charming small-town September race is a hidden gem for walkers — it has a dedicated walking division and a beautiful course, especially the stretch along Lake Michigan. If you’re looking for a scenic race that doesn’t feel overwhelming, this one is worth the trip to Wisconsin.

Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon & Half — Columbus, OH

As a Columbus race, this one holds a special place for me. The course is fast and flat with very few hills — perfect for a strong finish. But what makes this October race truly special is its heart. The course passes Nationwide Children’s Hospital, and each mile features a children’s hero. Mile 11, the Angel Mile, is a tribute to the bravery of the children who didn’t survive. Bring your tissues. I’ve done this fall race 11 times and can honestly say it is one of Columbus’s finest.

OhioHealth Capital City Half & Quarter Marathon — Columbus, OH

I’ve walked this spring race six times and the after party is the reason I keep coming back. The race starts and ends at Columbus Commons and is a flat and fast course — perfect for walkers looking for a strong finish time. But let’s be honest — the real reason to do this race is the after party. Free pizza, champagne, beer, and more with a live band. It is hands down the best post-race party I’ve ever experienced. You’ll want to finish just so you can celebrate!

Indy Mini Marathon — Indianapolis, IN

When this May race was smaller, I loved it! The fans along the course are great! But it’s the lap around the Motor Speedway that makes this race special. Be sure to kiss the bricks. Now that it has grown, even with corrals, the start can be frustrating. I’ve done this race three times — the last time in 2010 — and it was getting too large then.

BMW Dallas Marathon (Half) — Dallas, TX

This early December race is a great way to end your race season. The course winds past many of Dallas’s highlights including the famous Texas School Book Depository. What sets this race apart is the people — I’ve never met a friendlier group of fellow racers. If Southern hospitality is a thing, Dallas has it in spades.

Detroit Free Press Marathon (Half) — Detroit, MI

This fall race is one of the most unique half marathons you’ll ever walk. The course crosses a bridge into Windsor, Canada and returns through an underwater tunnel back to Detroit — making it an international race! The course hits the prettiest parts of the city and the underwater mile in the tunnel is an experience you won’t forget. Not many races can say you walk through two countries and under a river!

Now it’s your turn — what’s your favorite half marathon? Drop it in the comments below! 👇

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