The AJC Peachtree Road Race is not just about those on the 6.2-mile course.
Those who will be rooting along the course keep those participants fueled with energy through the uphill climb to the finish are an integral. Want to join the thousands of spectators for the race on Fourth of July?
All you need to know is where to be, so with some help from the of the Atlanta Track Club, we’ve gathered some recommendations for where to watch the race:
1) Intersection of Paces Ferry, Peachtree and Roswell roads: This spot, early in the second mile, is a crowd-heavy location. Less than a mile later, race day events are held at The Cathedral of St. Philip, 2744 Peachtree Road, and passing runners are often sprinkled with holy water.
2) Peachtree Battle shopping center: Shop, eat and watch. Nearby Piedmont Hospital and the Shepherd Center are also popular viewing spots. Patients are often outside, cheering on runners as they head up Cardiac Hill.
Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC
Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC
3) Peachtree neighborhoods: This stretch of the race mostly attracts residential onlookers, and some from the restaurants along the path between Interstate 85 and Colony Square.
4) Woodruff Arts Center and Colony Square: This area around the fifth mile is popular for watching while giving quick access to museums and MARTA.
5) Peachtree and 10th streets: This corner is some of the favorite (and crowded) viewing because runners are steps away from the end. Head into Piedmont Park, too, for shade, food and a chance to meet up with friend and family who just finished their 6.2 mile race through town. (Alphabetically arranged balloons in the park's family meeting area near near the Park Tavern will help people find each other post-race.)
MARTA Stations:
Starting line: For spectators, use the Buckhead Station, so that you do not get caught in the starting line traffic. Runners should use the Lenox station.
Arts Center: For access to Peachtree near Colony Square and the Woodruff Arts Center.
Midtown: For access to 10th Street and Piedmont Park. Some walking is involved, but you will have plenty of company.
For maps and more detailed location, visit the MARTA web site.
