10 Reasons Why The Canberra Times Marathon Festival is One Of Australia’s Most Iconic Running Events

1. You Run Through the Heart of the Nation

The Canberra Marathon Festival takes runners through the Parliamentary Triangle, surrounded by some of Australia's most significant landmarks.

You’ll find yourself running through the heart of Australia’s capital, with every street passing the places that help shape our nation.

Make the most of it: After race day, take a guided tour of Parliament House then enjoy a decadent high tea in Queen’s Terrace overlooking the forecourt. It's a uniquely Canberra experience and a great way to slow down after the excitement of the event.

Photo Credit: Visit Canberra

2. Lake Burley Griffin Delivers Water Views at Every Turn

The lake is one of the defining features of the course, providing kilometre after kilometre of scenic waterfront running.

From sunrise reflections to striking views of mountain ranges, it's the backdrop many runners remember most.

Take it one step further: Hire a GoBoat or Love Boat and captain your own picnic cruise around the lake. It's one of the best ways to see Canberra from a completely different perspective and a memorable post-race reward.

3. Every Landmark Tells a Story

As you move around the course, you'll pass some of Australia's best-known cultural attractions.

What other marathon lets you run past world-class galleries, museums and national institutions?

Circle back after the race and explore the National Gallery of Australia, National Portrait Gallery, the National Museum of Australia and the Australian War Memorial. You’ll be surprised by how easy it is to spend an extra couple of days exploring Canberra's attractions.

Photo Credit: Visit Canberra

4. Autumn Turns the Course Into a Postcard

The capital’s marathon season coincides with one of its most spectacular times of year: autumn.

Canberra explodes in Autumnal colours as golden poplars, red oaks and amber leaves line roads, parks and lakeside pathways.

Experience the colours properly: Book a guided tour with Canberra Guided Tours to explore the city's famous seasonal landscapes at a slower pace.

5. A Marathon Without the Big-City Hassle

One of the things runners love most about Canberra is how easy race weekend feels.

Accommodation, attractions, restaurants and the start line are all within easy reach, meaning less time navigating busy streets and more time focusing on the run.

Base yourself in the city centre and you'll be just minutes from national attractions, great dining and of course Lake Burley Griffin.

Photo Credit: Visit Canberra

6. The Course Showcases Canberra's Best Architecture

From grand national institutions to striking contemporary buildings, the Canberra Marathon course offers a uniquely Canberra mix of design and architecture. There's beauty in the details as much as the scenery.

Dig deeper: Book into The Architecture of Parliament House Tour and discover the stories behind the city’s most iconic buildings and urban design.

7. The Running Community Turns Out In Force

There's something special about race day in Canberra.

From volunteers and spectators to fellow runners lining up across multiple distances, the Canberra Marathon Festival brings together a welcoming community that creates an unforgettable race-day experience.

Make sure you chat to a local Canberran for their insider tips on where to go for your post-run recovery feed.

8. Canberra Is Built for Active Travellers

Before taking on 42.2km, get out there and see Canberra.

Swap running shoes for wheels: Hire a bike and cruise around Lake Burley Griffin, stopping for coffee, brunch and sightseeing along the way. It’s a great way to see more of the city, and even familiarise yourself with the course, before race day.

9. The Food and Drink Scene Is Worth the Trip Alone

One of the biggest surprises for many marathon visitors is just how good Canberra's dining scene is.

Whether you're celebrating a PB or simply rewarding yourself for months of training, there are plenty of ways to indulge. Canberra’s wine region (home to 140 vineyards and more than 50 wineries) is within a 35 minute drive of the city, making it the perfect post-race prize.

Treat yourself:

Book a door-to-door private winery tour with Van Du Vin

Brewery tasting paddle at Capital Brewing or Bentspoke Brewing

Degustation menu overlooking the city at Lunetta to celebrate race