Ride Amtrak to Virginia's Premier Marathons and Half Marathons: A Runner's Train Guide
This post is written in partnership with Amtrak Virginia and Virginia Department of Rail & Public Transportation.
Virginia is a runner's paradise, boasting a packed calendar of road races throughout the Commonwealth. From ocean breezes to mountain vistas, there's a race for every enthusiast.
Skip the highways and opt for the rails. Amtrak serves nine passenger routes and 23 stations, delivering you straight to Virginia's top race destinations. Dodge traffic jams, unwind in wide reclining seats with ample legroom, stretch freely, and stroll the train cars to stay limber. Refuel at the café car with sandwiches, salads, snacks, and beverages.
Explore Virginia's marathons and half-marathons by city, all rail-accessible. Take the train, claim your medal, and relax.
Alexandria
Steps from Washington, D.C., across the Potomac, Alexandria blends colonial history and scenic waterfronts. The Amtrak station (ALX) sits in the city center.
- Alexandria Running Festival Half Marathon & 5K – May
- Potomac River Run Marathon – May
- Potomac River Run Marathon & Half Marathon – September
- DCRRC Gar Williams Half Marathon – December
Ashland
Trains roll through charming Ashland's Center Street. Shops, eateries, galleries, and historic homes are moments from the sheltered platform (ASD).
- Patrick Henry Half Marathon – August
Charlottesville
In the Blue Ridge foothills, Charlottesville fuses culture, nature, and arts. Walk from Amtrak station (CVS) to UVA campus and downtown.
- Charlottesville Marathon, Half Marathon, 8K & Kids Mile – April
- Charlottesville Fall Classic Half Marathon & 10K – October
Richmond
Richmond draws visitors with history, arts, dining, outdoors, and sports. Choose Main Street Station (RVM) or Staples Mill Road (RVR).
- Pocahontas Trail Marathon & Half Marathon – March
- Richmond Marathon, Half Marathon & 8K – November
Petersburg
Blending modern charm and Revolutionary/Civil War history, Petersburg features a Mid-Century Modern Amtrak station (PTB).
- Petersburg Half Marathon & 5K – April
Quantico
On the Potomac amid Marine Corps Base Quantico, use the platform (QAN) by the 1950s depot.
- Freedom Fighters Half Marathon, 10K & 5K – July
Newport News
This coastal hub offers history, museums, maritime fun, beaches, and parks. Amtrak (NPN) overlooks the James River.
- One City Marathon & 8K – March
- The Neighborhood Harvest Crawlin’ Crab Half Marathon, 5K & 1K – October
- Noland Trail Marathon – October
Norfolk
A seaport haven for fishing, boating, and surfing, Norfolk's new station (NFK) nears the waterfront.
- Norfolk Harbor Half Marathon – November
Williamsburg
The "Colonial Capital" brims with history, culture, and recreation. Walk from station (WBG) to Colonial Williamsburg.
- Colonial Half Marathon & 5K – February
Roanoke
In the Blue Ridge heart, Roanoke shines with scenery, outdoors, and culture. Platform (RNK) is downtown.
- Blue Ridge Marathon, Half Marathon & 10K – April
- Conquer the Cove Marathon & 25K – June
- LewisGale Salem Half Marathon, 8K & Kids Race – October
- Star City Half Marathon & 10K – November
Fredericksburg
Battlefields, museums, water fun, and family activities abound. Platform (FBG) is one block from the Rappahannock.
- Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon & Semper 5ive Run – May
- Fredericksburg Blue & Gray Half Marathon – December
Lynchburg
The "City of Seven Hills" hosts concerts, plays, lectures, and art. Kemper Street station (LYH) connects to buses.
- Lynchburg Half Marathon & 5K – August
Ready to Run?
Visit Virginia.Amtrak.com to book. Save up to 25% booking 14+ days ahead, plus everyday discounts. Ride, run, relax!
On race day, use the Amtrak app for Lyft rides. New users get $5 off first four rides with promo AMTRAKLYFT (check current offers).
