Where to Stay for Marine Corps Marathon: A Guide to Accommodations
The Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) is one of the most popular and prestigious running events in the world, attracting over 30,000 runners from all over the globe. As the event is held in Arlington, Virginia, finding the right accommodation is crucial to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for participants. In this article, we will provide an overview of the best places to stay for the Marine Corps Marathon, including popular hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals.
Where to Stay:
Before we dive into specific recommendations, it’s essential to understand the proximity and accessibility of accommodations to the MCM starting line, finish line, and event venues. Here are the key locations to consider:
- Start Line: The MCM start line is located at the US Marine Corps Memorial (also known as the Iwo Jima Memorial) in Arlington, Virginia.
- Finish Line: The finish line is located at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia.
- Event Venues: The MCM offers various events and activities at the Pentagon, the Pentagon City Mall, and other nearby locations.
Popular Hotels:
Here are some top-rated hotels within walking distance or a short drive from the MCM start and finish lines:
| Hotel | Distance from Start Line | Distance from Finish Line | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyatt Regency Crystal City | 0.5 miles (8-minute walk) | 1.5 miles (20-minute drive) | $250-$500 per night |
| The Westin Crystal City | 0.5 miles (8-minute walk) | 1.5 miles (20-minute drive) | $200-$400 per night |
| Residence Inn Arlington Pentagon City | 0.5 miles (8-minute walk) | 1 mile (15-minute drive) | $150-$300 per night |
| Courtyard by Marriott Arlington Crystal City | 0.5 miles (8-minute walk) | 1.5 miles (20-minute drive) | $180-$350 per night |
| Hilton Garden Inn Arlington/Crystal City | 0.7 miles (12-minute walk) | 1.5 miles (20-minute drive) | $170-$320 per night |
Hostels and Budget-Friendly Options:
- Hostelling International Washington DC (8 miles from start line, 10 miles from finish line): $30-$50 per night
- Arlington Community Federal Credit Union Hostel (2 miles from start line, 2.5 miles from finish line): $30-$50 per night
- Airbnb Options: Starting from $100 per night for a shared room to $300 per night for a private apartment
Vacation Rentals:
For a more home-away-from-home experience, consider renting a vacation property:
- Condos and Apartments: Starting from $150 per night for a 1-bedroom condo to $500 per night for a 3-bedroom penthouse
- Whole-House Rentals: Starting from $200 per night for a 2-bedroom house to $800 per night for a 5-bedroom mansion
Tips for Booking Accommodations:
- Book Early: Reserve your accommodations well in advance, as options tend to fill up quickly.
- Check Dates: Make sure to select the correct dates for your stay, as some accommodations may have limited availability or special events during the MCM weekend.
- Read Reviews: Research each accommodation’s reviews and ratings to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
- Consider Parking: If driving, factor in parking fees and availability when choosing an accommodation.
Additional Information:
- Pentagon City Mall Parking: The mall offers paid parking, but be prepared for limited spots and a possible wait.
- Public Transportation: The DC Metro and Arlington Transit systems provide convenient and affordable public transportation options.
- Shuttle Services: Many hotels and accommodations offer shuttle services to and from the MCM start and finish lines.
In conclusion, finding the right accommodation for the Marine Corps Marathon can make all the difference in your overall experience. With this guide, you should be able to find the perfect place to stay within walking distance or a short drive from the start and finish lines. Remember to book early, check dates, and read reviews to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Happy running!
