XACT x Philly Marathon Google map
Our Google map accompanies this guide to help you get the most out of your Philly Marathon Weekend. Once you access it, you can directly save it to your phone to help you with your wayfinding throughout the weekend.
XACT’s PICKS
Special Marathon Week Kickoff with HOKA – Sunday, November 17
Location: Philadelphia Runner, 1711 Walnut Street
Time: 9:00 AM – Showtime for a 5K Run or 1.5 Mile Walk
Start the festivities early! Join runners, walkers, and athletes using racing wheelchairs at the third “Philly United” Marathon Week Kickoff, powered by HOKA and Philadelphia Runner. Try out HOKA shoes, enjoy refreshments, and stick around for an after-party at Tradesman’s Barbecue at 11:00 AM!
Shake-Out Run & Social – Friday, November 22 at 6:30 PM
Location: Meet at Dilworth Park / City Hall
Hosted By: MVM Training Club x XACT
Not local and can’t make the early kickoff? Come to our very own 5K shake-out run, led by MVM Training Club.
Meetup at 6:00 PM, with the run starting at 6:30 PM. All paces are welcome!
A big shout-out to MVM, a vibrant running club launched last September. Now with over 150 members, MVM’s Sunday meetups offer an inclusive space for runners to improve their pace or simply get moving. Their motto? “1% better each day.” We love what they're doing and we can’t wait to be there.
Good vibes during the run - Refreshments served after.
Please Click here to sign up - it helps us plan groups :)
Local Recommendations for Race Weekend
Pre-Race Activities and Attractions
You’re in town early, you have extra time, but your race is ENOUGH running for you and you don't need more “shake out” runs in your life - we get that. What to do with that extra time? Consider exploring some of Philadelphia's iconic attractions if you’re coming from out of town like us at XACT!
- Reading Terminal Market: A historic indoor market offering a variety of local and international cuisines.
- Liberty Bell and Independence Hall: Dive into American history by visiting these landmarks.
- Philadelphia Museum of Art: Famous for the "Rocky Steps," it's a must-see for both art lovers and movie buffs.
Dining Options
Fuel up at these local favorites:
- Victory Beer Hall: Located near the start line, it's a great spot for some pre-race chatter and post-race celebrations.
- Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks: Experience the classic Philly cheesesteak rivalry by trying both iconic spots.
- Sabrina's Café: Known for hearty breakfasts and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a pre-race meal.
Fuel Up at the Philadelphia Marathon Expo – Friday, Nov 22 & Saturday, Nov 23
Location: Pennsylvania Convention Center
Expo Hours:
- Friday: 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Alright, you’ve enjoyed the sights, but now it’s time to focus on why you’re here! Start strong by visiting us at the Health & Fitness Expo, your first stop to pick up race essentials, including your bib, t-shirt, and bag.
The expo is free to attend, and we’ll be there in partnership with Charm City Run with samples of XACT products, expert nutrition advice, and discounted Marathon packs for complete race-day coverage.
Remember, our fruit bars will be available on the course, but having a personalized fueling plan can make all the difference on race day—stop by our booth to create one tailored just for you.
Quick Fueling Tips:
- Stay Hydrated: Sweating causes electrolyte loss, especially in hot and humid weather. Aim to replace lost electrolytes based on the day’s conditions—we’ll help you adjust accordingly.
- Wash Down Your Fuel: A mouthful of water helps your bars and gels go down smoothly. Aim for 500-1000 ml of fluid per hour, adjusted for temperature and sweat rate.
- Mix Up Your Flavors: Keep things interesting by mixing flavors of energy chews. XACT ENERGY comes in four flavors: strawberry, apricot, orange, and blackcurrant.
- Use Caffeine for a Boost: Caffeine can stimulate your central nervous system and reduce perceived effort. XACT ENERGY Blackcurrant has 50 mg of caffeine to pick you up when you need it most.
LOCAL SHOPS FOR GROUP RUNS AND LAST MINUTE PURCHASES
If you’re a fan of our products from the expo, you can find them at local stores like Bryn Mawr Running Company (with three locations) and The Running Place. Both stores are fantastic community hubs, each offering weekly group runs we’d highly recommend if you’re local!
Bryn Mawr Running Company hosts a variety of morning and evening runs, depending on the location, with options for runners of all levels.
For a more relaxed pace, The Running Place offers weekly runs or walks every Monday at 6:45 pm, departing right from the store in Newton Square.
Getting to the Expo
- Expo Location: Pennsylvania Convention Center, 1101 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA. Public transportation is our recommended way to travel throughout marathon weekend unless you have a bike or can walk/run to the expo or races. If you plan on driving to the expo, street parking is limited but there are several parking garages nearby.
On-Course Fuel Stations – Stay Energized with XACT!
The race itself kicks off at the iconic Philadelphia Museum of Art, where you begin your journey along the scenic Benjamin Franklin Parkway. We will have fully stocked fueling stations along the course to keep you energized and feeling strong. Our stations will feature our natural, real-fruit energy bars that are gentle on the stomach.
Where will we be on Course?
- AACR Philadelphia Marathon Fuel Stations: Past mile 11, Before mile 18, Past mile 22
- Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon Fuel Station: Before mile 8
On-Course Cheer Stations – Bring the Energy!
Half Marathon Cheer Station – Saturday, November 23
Location: Mile 12, Lincoln Monument (half-mile from the finish line)
Hosted By: XACT x MVM Training Club x Run With Intent x Philly Track Jawn
We're turning the final half-mile into a party you don’t want to miss! Come be part of the energy, excitement, and non-stop encouragement as we cheer on every runner to their fastest, funnest finish. High-fives, music, and good vibes will be in full supply, alongside our friends from MVM Training Club, Run With Intent, and Philly Track Jawn. Let’s make this the most unforgettable stretch of the race—together!
Full Marathon Cheer Station – Sunday, November 24
Location: Mile 26, Lincoln Monument (same as Saturday)
Our cheer squad will be back at Mile 26 of the big dance to celebrate and cheer on marathoners through their final push to the finish line. Sounds by DJ Cousin Mike.
Hosted by MVM Training Club x Run With Intent x Philly Track Jawn
Marathon After Party - Sunday 24th 2 pm onwards
Location: U BAHN, 1320 Chestnut St, Philly (1 block from city hall)
Hosted By: XACT x MVM x Run With Intent x Philly Track Jawn
Sunday Celebrating starts at 2pm and the first 50 reservations get a drink on us.
XACT x MVM x Run With Intent x Phily Track Jawn are stoked to welcome you the run community to connect and celebrate Philly Marathon Weekend. All are welcome - bring your medal if you have one!
Special offers on beverages and meals available on the menu.
Where: UBAHN 1320 Chestnut St
