How to Spectate The Boston Marathon

Short answer: UberX will be your best friend.

First, the Boston Marathon is an AMAZING experience, but I found it tricky to figure out how to spectate the Boston Marathon effectively.

First, copy this spreadsheet from google sheets. This tells you where your runner is going to be at any given time and the best way to watch them.

Next, get the MBTA mTicket app. This will let you buy your Commuter Train tickets on your phone.

Stop 1, Ashland or Framingham:
Take the Ashland/Westchester commuter train line. It leaves from Back Bay or South Station but if you aren’t staying downtown you can avoid the crowds by picking up the train in Newtonville or Newton. Take the train to Ashland or Framingham. Watch your runner from any of the many places right outside the train stop.

Stop 2, Welsley:
As soon as your runner passes, call an UberX (remember, UberX is cheaper than the subway now). Have them pick you up on the North side of the route a block or so away so they can reach you.

Have them drop you off at Welsley Hills, Welsley College, or Welsley Square, all of which parallel the race. Your choice will depend on how fast your runner is. You may even have time to grab a quick bite along the route.

Stop 3, Newton:
Again, as soon as your runner passes call your Uber X and have them pick you up on the NORTH side of the route. UberX to Mile 18–20, somewhere on Comm Ave in Newton. Have them drop you off on the SOUTH side of Comm Ave (the runners go through an underpass so you won’t cross them).

Stop 4, the finish:
Again, as soon as your runner passes, call an UberX and have them take you to the finish line. This will likely be the toughest “connection” to make so if you have a fast runner you may consider skipping stop 3. This is where it gets crazy. Be prepared to wait in a line to get your bag checked, even if you brought a clear bag. Then your best bet is to find a spot and slowly work your way forward as people leave when their runners pass.