Crossing the Finish Line; man; Mickey Mouse; Minnie Mouse
  • On Jan 2, 2026
    Jack from FL Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Our son is running the Disney Marathon on Sunday January 11, 2026. Do we have to purchase tickets to watch the runners come in at the finish line? Where is the finish line? Thank you very much. Jack

    Hi Jack!

    Thanks for racing over to planDisney with a great question!  I've had the opportunity to participate in several runDisney races, but haven't yet tackled the Walt Disney World Marathon.  One thing is for sure - no matter what distance or race weekend I’ve attended, they’ve all been full of unforgettable fun.  I’m sending my best wishes to your son as he runs 26.2 magical miles!

    Last year, I had several of my planDisney friends cheering me on at the finish line of the Springtime Surprise 10-Miler, and it meant the world to me to have their support.  You’ll be happy to know that you don’t need a theme park ticket to join your son at the finish line of the Walt Disney World Marathon this year, as the race ends in the EPCOT parking lot.  Inside the Digital Expo & Event Guide from runDisney, you'll find additional spectator information that will help prepare you for the day, including more viewing locations along the course, runner tracking, and parking/transportation options.  

    If you want to continue the celebration with your son after the finish line, you’ll find some of my favorite restaurants nearby at Disney Springs.  Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ is home to an all-time favorite dish of mine - Thigh High Chicken Biscuits. These are on the appetizer menu, but they are enough for a full meal if you ask me!  We have also enjoyed several great meals at Paradiso 37, Taste of the Americas.  Definitely save room for the churros!  If you’re planning to visit these or any other restaurants around Walt Disney World, I’d suggest checking for advanced reservations ahead of your visit.  You can also check Mobile Dine Walk-up Availability in your My Disney Experience mobile app if you’re making last-minute plans that day.  

    Jack, I hope this information has been helpful and that you enjoy a perfect view of your son finishing his marathon next weekend.  If you have any other questions, please feel free to visit us again here at planDisney!

    Happy New Year!
    Kristi
thumbnail image for Kristi

Meet the Panelist: Kristi, Maryland

Hi! I'm Kristi and I've been making magical memories at the Walt Disney World Resort since my first visit in 1989. While I cherished my childhood visits, my favorite memories have come sharing all of the excitement and wonder of a Disney Parks vacation with my husband and three boys. Whether you're planning a runDisney racecation, a trip with little ones, a land and sea adventure, or anything in between, I'm ready to help you make some bibbidi-bobbidi-beautiful plans for your next Disney Parks vacation! Learn More About Kristi

Related Video

  • thumbnail image for Beginner’s Guide to runDisney | planDisney Podcast – Season 3 Episode 3

Didn't find what you were looking for? Click the Ask a Question button to open the Ask a Question dialogue box. If you are not logged in a dialogue box will appear to signin in order to ask a question.

To submit your question, please log in now if you have not already done so.

Ask a QuestionOpens the Ask a Question dialog box.
x

Update Browser

For a better experience browsing this website, please download an updated version of Internet Explorer.


Or you can continue browsing without updating.