Guide To The New York City Marathon

Thousands from all over the world have converged on New York City once again for the ING New York City Marathon on Sunday, Nov. 2. The tradition typically includes upwards of 40,000 participants, as the race is one of the largest and most famous of its kind. For runners and spectators alike, Marathon Sunday is a big day for New Yorkers. Like any large event in the Big Apple, it means crowded streets, traffic jams and backed-up subways. We have all the information you need, whether you're looking for bridge and road closures, plan to visit to cheer on a friend or family member or want to plan the ultimate Sunday Funday.

Tracking Runners And Tips For Spectators

(Photo by Jared Wickerham/Getty Images)

The marathon goes through all five boroughs, starting on Staten Island and ending in Manhattan's Central Park. Planning on driving into the city to catch the action? Don't. Take the subway.

Spotting one runner among 40,000 marathon participants isn't easy – but technology can help. The Official ING New York City Marathon Mobile Spectator App allows spectators to track up to 10 runners at once. There are also Web-based ways to track participants. Click here for more information.

Remember to dress for the day's weather. The forecast for Sunday's race looks promising – partly cloudy and crisp with a high of 50 degrees. For the latest weather updates, check back with CBSNewYork's Weather Center.

If you do get chilly, spectators can stop by the Dunkin' Donuts — the marathon's official coffee sponsor — at 66th Street and First Avenue in Manhattan where you can snag free fleece hats and cheer signs. You could also win a $25 Dunkin' Donuts mGift just by using the hashtag #NYCRunsonDD. Word on the street is that Mr. Met will also be making an appearance at around noon.

Bridge and Road Closures

For a list of bridge and road closures due to the Marathon, click here.

Where To Watch

When your feet grow tired and your throat starts aching from standing and cheering on runners all day, you can check out one of these locations, located along the race route, to refuel.

Pies 'n' Thighs
166 S. 4th St.
South Williamsburg, Brooklyn 11211
(347) 529-6090
piesnthighs.com

East End Bar and Grill
1664 First Avenue (at 87th Street)
New York, NY 10028
(212) 348-3783
eastendbar.com

Bar Coastal
1495 1st Avenue (at 78th Street)
New York, NY 10075-1355
(212) 288-6635
barcoastal.com

East End Tavern
1589 First Avenue (at 83rd Street)
New York, NY 10028
(212) 249-5960
eastendtavernnyc.com

Mott Haven Bar
1 Bruckner Blvd.
Mott Haven, the Bronx 10454
(718) 665-2001
motthavenbar.com