The Boston Marathon, one of the world's most iconic races, offers multiple ways to catch the action live or in person, especially with the 2026 edition approaching this spring.

TV Broadcast Options

WCVB NewsCenter 5 provides primary local coverage in Boston, starting early in the morning and running through the finish.

Partner stations like WMUR News 9 ABC (New Hampshire), WMTW Channel 8 ABC (Maine), and WPTZ NBC5 (New York/Vermont) simulcast for Northeast viewers.

National audiences can tune into ESPN2 for broader U.S. broadcasts, as seen in recent years.

Streaming Platforms

Free local streams are available via the WCVB Very Local app on smart devices, plus WCVB.com and their app for real-time updates.

FloTrack (via FloSports app) delivers live coverage on Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, and mobile—ideal for on-the-go or international fans.

Paid options include ESPN+ ($11.99/month, no free trial) for affordable access, or services like DirecTV Stream and Fubo for ESPN2.

In-Person Viewing Spots

The 26.2-mile course from Hopkinton to Boylston Street in Boston packs crowds, but prime spots include Ashland State Park (miles 2-5), Waverly Street in Framingham (mile 6), and Wellesley College's scream tunnel (mile 12-13).

Heartbreak Hill in Newton/Chestnut Hill (miles 20-21) buzzes with Boston College fans; Cleveland Circle and Coolidge Corner add urban energy later.

Finish line on Boylston Street is electric but crowded—arrive early with snacks and layers for New England weather.

Tracking and Extras

Download the official B.A.A. app for live runner tracking, splits, and results.

Social media hashtags and the Boston Athletic Association site offer behind- the-scenes stories, enhancing remote viewing like a virtual watch party.

TL;DR: Stream free on Very Local/WCVB app or watch FloTrack/ESPN2; spectate at Heartbreak Hill for peak drama.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.