The Los Angeles Marathon is a charity marathon that raises millions of dollars every year. This year, the 38th marathon will be held on Sunday, March 19, 2023. The starting line is at Dodger Stadium, and the finish line is at Century City, and runners will go through Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and more as they complete the course.
In this unofficial Los Angeles Marathon guide, I share information and tips about the race, including some fun things you can do while in the City of Angels.
Information in this Los Angeles Marathon guide comes from information curated from the official Los Angeles marathon website, as well as information curated from participant experience. Keep in mind that participant information is subject to change, You can get the most up-to-date information at https://www.lamarathon.com/
- Los Angeles Marathon Guide: How to Get to the Starting Line
- Where is the best place to park for the Los Angeles marathon on race morning?
- How to get to the starting line
- The Los Angeles Marathon Guide to the Best hotels
- Los Angeles Marathon Guide to Hotels Closest to the Finish Line
- Fairmont Century Plaza
- InterContinental Los Angeles Century City
- Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills
- The Shay – Destination by Hyatt
- The Culver Hotel
- The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills
- Los Angeles Marathon Guide to Hotels Closest to the Finish Line
- The Sheraton Grand Los Angeles
- Ace Hotel
- The Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites LA
- OMNI Hotel Los Angeles at California Plaza
- The Los Angeles Marathon Guide to Hotel Alternatives
- The best Instagram spots in Los Angeles
- The best historical sights in Los Angeles
Los Angeles Marathon Guide: How to Get to the Starting Line
Address and Hours
Dodger Stadium
Lot G, 1000 Vin Scully Ave., Los Angeles
Please note: Race day pickup is only available with pre-purchased Start Line Hospitality Lounge packages. Otherwise, you must pick up your race packet at the Health & Fitness Expo during the following scheduled hours:
Friday, March 17: 10 am – 7 pm
Saturday, March 18: 9 am – 5 pm
Where is the best place to park for the Los Angeles marathon on race morning?
Parking will be extremely limited and I highly recommend pre-paying for parking near the Century City finish line. Parking at the starting line is more complicated because shuttles will take you from the finish line to the starting line before the race but not after.
You can reserve your spot at one of the following three parking lots:
2030 Century Park West., Los Angeles, CA 90067
1999 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, CA 90067
10250 Constellation Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90067
How to get to the starting line
Cars cannot park overnight at Dodger Stadium, and the Stadium Way exit from CA-110 North and Southbound will be closed. Use the 2000 Academy Rd to get to the Golden State Gate via I-5 and then to Dodger Stadium.
I recommend parking near a shuttle pickup point to get to the starting line. To reserve your shuttle spot, create an account on active.com and select “additional merchandise” under the LA marathon section. There, you will be able to choose a shuttle time between 3:00 am to 5:30 am.
There are three shuttle pickup locations:
- At the finish line in Century City on Avenue of the Stars, south of Olympic Boulevard
- At Union Station from Patsaouras Transit Plaza Bay 9
- At Downtown LA Hotels (see official recommendations here and ours below)
Here is the 2023 Los Angeles Marathon guide race map:
Los Angeles Marathon guide: Address & Hours
Race Start Times on Sunday 20th, 2023
Start times are subject to change but are currently listed as the following:
Los Angeles Marathon presented by ASICS at Dodger Stadium
3:00 am: Dodger Stadium Parking & Security Checkpoints Open
4:00 am: Gear Check Opens
4:45 am: Start Line Hospitality Open
5:00 am: Seeded Corrals Open
6:30 am: START: Wheelchair / AWD
6:45 am START: Elite Women
6:55 am: START: Elite Men and Full Field
8:15 am: START: Charity Challenge 13.1
9:00 am – 3:00 pm: Finish Festival at Century Park
The Los Angeles Marathon guide’s 8 Additional Tips:
- Don’t try anything new, like foods and gels, before and during the race. This means bringing your own preferred brands.
- Don’t wear a new pair of shoes, or make sure to have about 30 days between getting a new pair and the day of the race.
- Use the bathroom before the race and try to skip the first Port-A-Potty in the first half of the marathon.
- Eat meals you are used to the night before the marathon, and avoid sugary foods and drinks and saturated fats.
- Stay hydrated! Note that personal hydration system products are prohibited in the Los Angeles marathon but standard manufactured “fuel belts” with bottles one liter or smaller are allowed. There will also be plenty of water stations available.
- Save the sightseeing for after the race. You will want to start the marathon well-rested.
- Have your family install the B.A.A. Racing App and review the race map to plan meetups at specific points.
- Visualize the whole course after studying it. Sit comfortably and go through the entire map in your head, including tough spots and areas where you can get a break. The best times to do this are right before bed and after waking up.
Los Angeles Marathon Guide: Where to Stay
If you are coming to the race from out of town, there are hundreds of places to stay in and around the Los Angeles area. Many provide early morning go-bag breakfasts or open early so you can grab a pre-race breakfast. Just be sure to call ahead and ask.
The Los Angeles Marathon Guide to the Best hotels
PRO TIP: Find a hotel close to the finish line if possible. Walking far after running over 26 miles is not fun when you are sore and tired. Shuttles will take you from the finish line to the starting line before the race but not after. You will get free shuttle transportation with hotels partnering with the Los Angeles marathon. Most of the hotel and dining options in this Los Angeles Marathon guide are located in Century City.
Los Angeles Marathon Guide to Hotels Closest to the Finish Line
Fairmont Century Plaza
Photo Credit: Fairmont Century Plaza
The Fairmont Century Plaza is home to the French restaurant Lumiere, a brasserie serving delicious dishes with a luxurious feel and attentive staff. The hotel is modern, the employees are friendly, and the spa, pool, and gym are clean and inviting.
2025 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, CA 90067 • (310) 424-3030
InterContinental Los Angeles Century City
Photo Credit: IHG Hotel
The InterContinental Los Angeles Century City is a safe and comfortable hotel with beautiful views. Great staff and restaurant. You might see a movie or commercial shot on-site!
2151 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, CA 90067•(310) 284-6500
Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills
Photo Credit: Sofitel
The Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills boasts salsa nights, live music, and some of the best drinks in the area. There are plenty of food options in the area as well.
The Shay – Destination by Hyatt
Photo Credit: Hyatt
The Shay – Destination by Hyatt is a dog-friendly hotel with a beautiful rooftop terrace where you can enjoy a wide variety of food and drinks. The spacious tubs and soft robes are a nice touch enjoyed by many.
8801 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232 • (424) 361-6700
The Culver Hotel
Photo Credit: The Culver Hotel
The Culver Hotel is a historic hotel that goes beyond providing hotel rooms, adding in live music, bar with pianist, a delicious restaurant, and complimentary champagne.
The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills
Photo Credit: Fairmont Century Plaza
With a rooftop pool and a great view from most rooms, the London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills is a luxurious hotel many guests rave about. The fitness center and complimentary breakfast buffet are often mentioned as a highlight.
1020 N San Vicente Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069 • (844) 489-9660
Los Angeles Marathon Guide to Hotels Closest to the Finish Line
While staying near the finish line makes sense, there are many reasons why you might want to stay near the starting line instead. The following hotels are recommended by the official LA Marathon website, and are likely to get booked fast. We recommended locking in your room as soon as possible.
The Sheraton Grand Los Angeles
Photo Credit: Sheraton Grand Los Angeles
Located only 2 miles from the starting line, The Sheraton Grand Los Angeles is clean, with a very friendly staff, valet parking, and a convenient location across from the metro rail.
711 S Hope Street Los Angeles, CA 90017 • (213) 488-3500
Ace Hotel
Photo Credit: Ace Hotel
Less than 2 miles from the start line, the Ace Hotel is a vintage, minimalist hotel with 24-hour security. Check out the rooftop bar for a fun atmosphere and a great view.
929 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015 • (213) 623-3233
The Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites LA
Photo Credit: Westin Bonaventure
If you are looking for a hotel less than 2 miles from the start line, the Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites is it. This clean hotel is in an iconic building, but it is a bit outdated and can be crowded. The LA Prime restaurant is known for its gorgeous view and fresh seafood.
404 S. Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071 • (213) 624-1000
OMNI Hotel Los Angeles at California Plaza
Photo Credit: OMNI Los Angeles
One of the best-rated hotels 2 miles from the start line of the LA Marathon, the OMNI Hotel Los Angeles has a helpful and friendly staff, good food, a bar, and complimentary car service.
251 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90012 • (213) 617-3300
The Los Angeles Marathon Guide to Hotel Alternatives
Hotels near the finish line are often expensive, albeit luxurious. These hotel alternatives are more affordable options, especially if you’re traveling on your own. While not within walking distance of Century City, like the pricier hotels, you can still get your money’s worth even if you have to get a cab.
AirB
Photo credit: Pexels.com
AirBnb, the online marketplace for vacation rentals and short-term stays, is an excellent option during the Los Angeles Marathon, especially if you start looking for places early.
You can look for a place near the starting line at Dodger Stadium. An even better option might be near the finish line near Century City.
Hostels and Bed & Breakfasts
Photo credit: Pexels.com
Hostels are a great low-cost option, and Los Angeles has many different ones to choose from, depending on your needs.
For a variety of choices, the following link can help you find some beyond the ones listed below:
The Rumi
Photo credit: The Rumi
The Rumi is a clean and homey hostel in a safe location. There is a time limit for the showers, but you might still run out of hot water if you’re one of the last people to use them. The kitchen has a fridge, toaster, coffee machine, and more. The staff is kind and helpful.
Banana Bungalow West Hollywood Hotel & Hostel
Photo credit:
The Banana Bungalow West Hollywood Hotel & Hostel is a party-style hostel with very clean rooms right by the Walk of Fame. It can get pretty hot and stuffy in the summer, but this shouldn’t be an issue during the marathon.
603 N Fairfax Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90036 • (323) 655-2002
Los Angeles Marathon Guide: Where to eat before and after
Here is a list of some of the best places to eat around the Century City area. Due to the number of people attending the Los Angeles Marathon from out of town and the fact that some of these places are popular with locals, I highly recommend researching where you want to eat in advance and making the appropriate reservations.
You might not have time to watch the staff make hand-crafted dumplings and wontons as you’ll be too busy eating! Guests rave about the pork dumplings, spicy wontons, garlic green beans, fried noodles, and house desserts. You will need a reservation to be guaranteed a table. Open on Sunday until 9 PM.
10250 Santa Monica Boulevard #2400 Level 2, Los Angeles, CA 90067 • (424) 382-1118
The place to be for fast service and customizable ramen! Try the black ramen with squid ink, the chicken karaage, and fried chicken. This is one of the few places where you can just drop in and still expect to get a table in a reasonable amount of time. Open on Sunday until 9 PM.
10250 Santa Monica Blvd Ste. #2850, Los Angeles, CA 90067
Don’t feel overwhelmed by all the choices because you’re unlikely to be disappointed. Don’t miss the candied bacon, umami fries, bison burger, and broccoli ham mac and cheese. Open on Sunday until 11 PM.
3525 W Carson St, Torrance, CA 90503 • (310) 921-6080
Century City Mall Dining Terrace
With a variety of counter-served eateries like Ramen Nagi, Massis Kabob, Tender Greens, and Panda Express, there is something for everyone which can be a good option if you have a big group with different dietary requirements. Open on Sunday until 8 PM.
10250 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90067 • (310) 277-3898
This highly rated counter-serve American cafe and bakery serve mouthwatering dishes like avocado toast with poached egg, the “Fernando Sandwich”, a perfectly saucy chicken sandwich on ciabatta, grilled peaches, and burrata salad, and a wide assortment of pastries. It is closed on Sunday, but it is an excellent place to visit if you’re spending the weekend in LA.
1751 Ensley Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90024 • (310) 552-108
Mrs. Winston’s – L.A.’s Best Salad & Juice Ba
Look no further for quick and healthy meals. You can even make your own sandwich at the sandwich bar. There are many salad options, including added protein choices like salmon and chicken—a great place for runners with food allergies. Closed Saturday and Sunday – for a weekend option, see Pure Pressed Juice below.
Pure Pressed Juice & Vitamins serves some of the best smoothies in the Los Angeles area, which says a lot. Try the Greena Colada smoothie, the Athlete, the Cleanse Juice, and the Reishi Cappucino. Open Saturday and Sunday until 6 PM.
10844 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064 • (424) 293-8776
Los Angeles Marathon Guide: Where to celebrate
After you finish your race, it is time to celebrate with family and friends in the many pubs and bistros in the Los Angeles area. Here’s a selection of some of the best-rated options near the finish line by Century City.
Located in Nordstrom, Bar Verde closes at 9 PM on Saturday and 8 AM on Sunday. If you’re feeling hungry after the race, you can get a full delicious meal and a wide selection of drinks there. Try the Wild Shrimp Tagliatelle, Wild Salmon Nicoise Salad, or Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos.
189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036 • (323) 900-1610
Located at the top of the Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills, The Rooftop features incredible panoramic sunsets and expertly made drinks. Guests rave about the Cobb salad, Wagyu Beef Tenderloin with Salsa Verde, and Crispy Salmon Sushi.
9850 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 • (310) 860-6798
The Stalking Horse Brewery & Freehouse
At the Stalking Horse, you will find house-made beer on tap, as well as a menu of British classics where the beer makes its way as well. Try the Crazy Clucker Fries with beer cheese, and ale-battered Icelandic cod or RRRRawdy Burger made with Wagyu beef, beer cheese, and bacon. Open until 10 PM on the weekend.
10543 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064 • (424) 832-7511
The Six is a popular spot in LA for Italian pizzas, Buffalo Cauliflower, Banana Pudding Pie, sweet potato fries, and bottomless mimosas. Closes at 8:30 PM on Sunday. An excellent place to stock up on calories after a long race!
10668 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064 • (310) 837-6662
The Cozy Inn is a dive bar of the best kind with billiard and shuffleboard. The crowd is fun, and the wait staff extremely attentive and friendly. It is conveniently open until 2 AM on weekends. No website or menu, but the Cozy Inn is a safe bet for an after-marathon celebration.
11155 Washington Pl, Culver City, CA 90232 • (310) 838-3826
Los Angeles Marathon Guide: Where to wander and relax
Los Angeles is an iconic town known as the entertainment capital of the world, with many options for TV and movie industry-centered attractions as well as a vibrant nightlife. The following includes a variety of choices to suit every runner.
The best Instagram spots in Los Angeles
Located on Mount Lee in the Santa Monica Mountains, the Hollywood sign will be 100 years old when the 2023 marathon rolls around. It has appeared in countless movies, TV series, and more and has become a symbol of glamour and ambition.
Spanning 18 blocks through Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, the Walk of Fame is where you will find the famous brass stars embedded right in the sidewalks. This is also a great area to check out the shops and restaurants.
Hollywood Boulevard, Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028 • (323) 469-8311
The Urban Light sculpture is located at the entrance of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. It is made of over 200 street lights that were used on the streets of LA. This may not sound like much, but the display is absolutely breathtaking once the sun goes down!
5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036 • (323) 857-6000
Known as the birthplace of the fitness boom in the US, Muscle Beach is where many famous athletes exercised. Today, you can still find platforms for rock climbing, weightlifting, gymnastics, and more. There is a $25 fee to use the equipment.
Los Angeles County, California, U.S
The best historical sights in Los Angeles
The home stadium of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Dodger Stadium, is also by the starting line of the LA marathon. More than just a stadium, it is a beautiful spot full of plants, souvenir shops, dining options, and more.
1000 Vin Scully Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012 • (866) 363-4377
Union Station is an iconic Los Angeles landmark and the main railway station in Los Angeles. You will find countless spots to take photos, and you might be able to attend one of the many events there. The Happenings section is regularly updated with the rotating selection of concerts, exhibits, and more.
A landmark since the very early 1900s, Angels Flight Railway is the world’s shortest railway. It will take you on a ride between Hill Street and Grand Avenue on Bunker Hill for only $1 each way. It was featured in the 2011 movie The Muppets, La La Land with Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone, and more.
351 S Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90013 • (213) 626-1901
The Venice Canal Historic District
The design of these artificial canals was inspired by Italian architecture to recreate the city of Venice in Italy. The district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the sidewalks and bridges make the area a great place to explore on foot. You will find Venice Beach at the end of the canal.
The Watts Towers are a collection of seventeen significant sculptures considered ” a paramount work of folk art of the 20th century in the United States” by the International Conference of Museum Curators. Note that they are closed on the weekend, but you can still see them outside the fence.
Simon Rodia State Historic Park • (213) 847-4646
This living history museum covers Southern California-specific events starting from Civil War to the early 20th Century. The guided tour is worth it! Don’t miss the fully duplicated 19th-century pharmacy, edible garden, and Victorian houses.
