As much as we love our 13.1-mile races, sometimes you just want to sign up for a shorter race. Maybe you’re a beginner runner, maybe you’re injured, or maybe you just want to go out and have a nice fun time running 6.2 miles.
The 10K race is a manageable challenge for most, a great stepping stone for someone going from a 5K to their first half marathon or a light distance to run while training for something bigger, especially if you’re on a running vacation.
Generally, 10Ks require less preparation, less recovery, and generally are a more relaxed running experience. Running is supposed to be fun and, often, the shorter distance and less serious nature of a 10K bring out a fun and excited crowd. (And, just to be clear, completing a 10K race is still a seriously impressive accomplishment.)
We’ve run a lot of races at Half Marathon Guide, from beautiful half marathons to fun runs. These are our favorite 10Ks around the U.S. that are worth adding to your 2024/25 racing calendar.
CAP10K
- Where: Austin, TX
- When: April 6, 2025
In its 48th year (creeping up on that silver anniversary), the Cap10K once again makes the top of our lost of the best 10Ks to run this year. This race truly feels like it’s managed to retain its roots, even after nearly five decades. Runners begin on the South Congress Avenue bridge staring directly at the Texas Capitol Building and the course navigates through Austin’s hilly downtown streets. The race concludes with a final stretch over the bridge into Vic Mathias Auditorium Shores in with panoramic views of the Austin downtown, Ladybird Lake, and a thriving finisher party.
The course has its ups and downs (expect some hills) but the juice is worth the squeeze. If 6.2 miles is your perfect distance, our recommendation is to simply run this race for the experience and enjoyment. With bands at every mile on the course, a surprising amount of cheering onlookers, and dozens of local Austin finish line vendors like Tito’s Vodka and Kerbey Lane, it’s the best race from every angle.
And if you’re still hungry after burning all the calories you ran off, you’ll be steps away from Terry Black’s Barbecue, which, next to Franklin’s, is Austin’s most popular barbecue joint.
TMC Saguaro National Park Labor Day 8 Mile
- Where: Tuscon, AZ
- When: September 1, 2025
Running a race in a national park is an experience every runner and nature lover should have — it’s not often you get to run through a protected landscape and be that immersed in nature, all while also adding a finish line feather to your hat.
The 8-mile course through Saguaro National Park in Arizona is absolutely gorgeous as you wind your way on paved roads through hills of saguaro. 2025 will be the 54th annual race, which always takes place on Labor Day Weekend.
The course is pretty hilly and Tucson can still be pretty hot in early September, so it’s important to stay hydrated and bring those great electrolytes. But the race starts early (6:25 a.m.) to help you beat the heat.
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner Midnight Sun Run
- Where: Fairbanks, AK
- When: June 21, 2025
If you want a real unique experience, sign up for Alaska’s Midnight Sun Run. This 10K race starts at 10 p.m. but you won’t be needing your headlamps — this is no normal night race. The Midnight Sun Run is always organized on the Saturday closest to the summer solstice, when light lingers the longest in our most northern state. Despite it being just two hours before midnight, the light outside feels as if it’s late afternoon to those of us in the lower 48.
The 10K course takes you through neighborhoods where locals sit outside, delay their bedtime, and cheer you on. Oh, and there’s a coveted costume contest among the race prizes.
In its 42nd year, the 10K now attracts over 3,500 participants closest — a lot for Alaska, but small enough that the race still feels intimate and cozy.
Monument Avenue 10K
- Where: Richmond, VA
- When: April 12, 2025
The Richmond Marathon may be America’s friendliest race, but the Monument Avenue 10K lets you bask in the same high-energy, supportive community — with less miles to get through. Somehow, this race seems to get better and better each year, which is why it attracts so many repeat runners.
This race somehow feels like a local race despite being very well organized and bringing 20,000+ runners together to enjoy the best of Richmond. You’ll run primarily on Park Avenue and Monument Avenue, showcasing Richmond’s most gorgeous streets lined with stunning homes and six bronze sculptures. Oh, and did we mention it’s also beautifully flat?
The course is always bustling with excitement, with live bands nearly every kilometer, porch parties, and high-energy crowds everywhere you look. Fun, flat, and well-supported, the Monument Avenue 10K rightfully earns high marks.
Bay Bridge 10K
- Where: Annapolis, MD
- When: November 10, 2025
It’s not every day that you can cross the Chesapeake Bay Bridge on foot, but the Bay Bridge 10K offers a unique opportunity to explore this landmark from a new perspective. Because of its interesting course, this beloved Maryland tradition has become one of the largest mid-distance running events in the US with about 20,000 runners each year.
During the race, runners take off from Northrop Grumman’s aerospace and defense campus towards the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. After this half-mile stretch, runners begin ascending the bridge, climbing nearly 200 feet in the first two miles. With spectacular panoramic views of the bay from this point, the gradual climb is definitely worth the effort.
After reaching its maximum elevation at the 2-mile mark, it’s smooth sailing for the rest of the course. Runners enjoy coasting down the bridge for two miles before reaching its end. The fun doesn’t end there, though. With a couple of miles remaining, runners complete the final stretch on the eastern shore before crossing the finish line. There, they’ll enjoy the after-party full of food, drinks, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
Peachtree Road Race 10K
- Where: Atlanta, GA
- When: July 4, 2025
No list of 10Ks is complete without mentioning Atlanta’s Peachtree Road Race. With 60,000 participants each year, it’s the biggest 10K in the world! Taking place annually on Independence Day for over 50 years. This race is more than just a run- it’s a Fourth of July tradition.
On race day, runners decked out in red, white, and blue take the streets of Atlanta by storm. Starting from the upscale district of Buckhead, runners make their way to Midtown and finish the 6.2 miles in Piedmont Park.
All along the way, the streets are packed with runners and enthusiastic crowds. With hills throughout the course and Atlanta’s summer heat, this race does come with a few challenges. However, the event’s electric energy and sheer size make it a race you should experience at least once in your life.
There’s a lottery to enter this race, or runners can join the Atlanta Track Club for guaranteed entry.
Bay to Breakers 12K
- Where: San Francisco, CA
- When: May 18, 2025
Slightly longer than a 10K, the Bay to Breakers 12K still deserves a spot on our list for its eccentric vibe. Since its inaugural race in 1912, this quintessential San Francisco run has perfectly blurred the lines between race and block party.
Aside from the first corrals that are reserved for the elites, most participants don’t run this race for speed but for the experience instead. With tons of funky costumes and some free-spirited runners even baring it all. This race is for runners looking to enjoy the journey.
While winding through nine of San Francisco’s most iconic neighborhoods, runners will experience beautiful sights, like the Golden Gate Park, buzzing support on every street, and in true San Francisco style, lots of hills (Hayes Street Hill at the 2-mile mark is a beast).
A 7.45-mile party, you might forget that you’re racing at times, but that’s what makes this event such a blast.
Marine Corps Marathon 10K
- Where: Washington D.C.
- When: October 27, 2025
With big crowds and heavy support from the US Military, the Marine Corps Marathon 10K offers a unique way to experience the nation’s capital. Following the same route that the end of the full marathon course does, the MCM 10K takes participants by some of D.C.’s most historic landmarks.
After starting in the National Mall, runners pass the Jefferson Memorial and cross a bridge. Then, the course takes runners through Crystal City, by the Pentagon, and through Arlington National Cemetery to the finish line at the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial.
All along the way, runners are supported by the Marines, tons of volunteers, and large crowds of spectators. From start to finish, the whole event is truly inspiring.
Cooper River Bridge Run
- Where: Charleston, SC
- When: April 5, 2025
Despite being the third largest 10K in the US, the Cooper River Bridge Run is extremely well-organized. However, the true highlight of this race is, as the title suggests, the bridge.
After starting the race in the nearby town of Mount Pleasant, runners make their way to the Cooper River Bridge. With the slogan “Get Over It,” this race is notorious for its challenging bridge climb. That being said, making it to the top of the bridge promises unparalleled views of the Cooper River on each side and the city of Charleston in the foreground.
From the bridge, racers head to King Street, one of Charleston’s most popular streets, to finish the 6.2 miles. The crowds during the final two miles are massive and provide plenty of motivation to complete the race.
BOLDERBoulder 10K
- Where: Boulder, CO
- When: May 26, 2025
Named America’s All-Time Best 10K, the BOLDERBoulder has been a fan-favorite since its start 44 years ago. As one of the most well-established 10Ks out there, this race is much more than a Colorado staple. Each year, about 50,000 runners and 70,000 spectators travel from near and far to get in on the action here.
Boulder sits at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. This high-altitude course is moderately hilly with noticeable climbs at the beginning and end. While runners make their way through Boulder’s charming neighborhoods, the entire town comes out to encourage runners. The sideline shenanigans and lively crowd support make this race’s atmosphere electrifying.
The race features one of the most iconic finish lines of all time. The BOLDERBoulder concludes inside the University of Colorado’s Folsom Field. After the unforgettable finish on the field, participants take part in the largest Memorial Day tribute in the country. This high-energy event is the perfect way to spend the Memorial Day holiday.
Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas 10K
- Where: Las Vegas, NV
- When: February 23, 2025
It takes a special kind of event to shut down the Las Vegas Strip, and the Rock ‘n’ Roll 10K is just that. Nicknamed “The World’s Largest Running Party,” this 10K puts the fun in fun run.
Starting from Las Vegas Boulevard, runners head toward downtown Las Vegas before looping back for an electric finish at the Mirage. During the course, there’s plenty to see and do with live music, games, and racers dressed up in all kinds of costumes.
After finishing this energizing race, you’ll claim your glow-in-the-dark finisher medal. You’ll be in the perfect place to celebrate your victory.
Walt Disney World 10K
- Where: Orlando, FL
- When: January 10, 2025
It seems like the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend races appear on almost every list we make, but for good reason! Simply put, running through the Disney Parks surrounded by so many other runners is just magical.
During the 10K, runners race around Epcot and get to enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at several areas that are usually closed off to the public. Throughout the race, runners have countless opportunities to stop and visit Disney characters, take photos, and enjoy live entertainment. Whether it’s your first 10K or your 100th, this race is an incredibly fun experience unlike any other 10K.
To register for this race, make sure to buy tickets as soon as registration opens as they sell out quickly every year. Mark your calendars now to secure tickets for 2025!
Philly 10K
- Where: Philadelphia, PA
- When: August 2025
A local race with big-time crowd support, the Philly 10K is well-organized, fun, and fast. Although the race began somewhat recently in 2014, it has quickly become one of the city’s most beloved races. Since its start 10 years ago, every August, the residents of Philly come out to show racers why Philadelphia is called “The City of Brotherly Love.”
Part of what makes this race so special is its unique course. As one of the only races to take place in South Philly, runners get the chance to experience a historic part of the city. Known for its hometown feel, this area consists of charming neighborhoods where everyone seems to know everyone. Racing through this part of town, the welcoming atmosphere is definitely felt by runners.
It’s quite the frenzy to reserve a spot for this race. The event is only open to a limited number of racers. The 2025 registration will open soon, so make sure you’re prepared to snag tickets!
Falmouth Road Race
- Where: Falmouth, MA
- When: August 17, 2025
As if you needed a reason to go to Cape Cod during the summer, the Falmouth Road Race is a can’t-miss east coast tradition. Established 51 years ago and now hosted by ASICS, this premier race draws elites, Olympians, and recreational runners to the Cape Cod area each summer for its stunning seaside course.
Just over seven miles long, the course follows an oceanfront road full of scenic sights, like the Nobska Lighthouse and Falmouth Harbor. The few hills during the first 3 miles and the steady climb right before mile 7 will make you extra thankful for the flat section in the middle.
While the course is lovely, what truly sets this 10K apart from the rest is the epic crowd support. According to some past runners, the Falmouth Road Race feels like a mini Boston Marathon because of how many spectators line the streets for this event.
Crescent City Classic
- Where: New Orleans, LA
- When: April 19, 2025
For almost 45 years, 20,000 runners have gathered Easter weekend to run one of America’s fastest 10Ks. A fun run for some and a competitive race for others, this scenic 10K prides itself on being inclusive to all.
Taking place in the heart of New Orleans, the Crescent City Classic begins in front of Caesars Superdome. The course winds through the iconic French Quarter and then up the beautiful Esplanade Avenue. With its lovely finish line at New Orleans City Park, runners enjoy a shaded finish under the park’s historic oak trees.
As much as this course is rave-worthy, the post-race party hosted by Michelob Ultra is equally exciting. Complete with live music, classic New Orleans cuisine, and of course, cold beverages, there’s no better way to kick off the Easter weekend.
7 Mile Bridge Run
- Where: Florida Keys, FL
- When: April 5, 2025
Seven miles may not be a 10K, but with this unique race, it’s worth logging that extra 0.8 miles. This race was first started in 1982 to celebrate the opening of the Florida Keys’ 7 Mile Bridge and it quickly became a hit. In its 23nd year, this race is still adored for its bucket-list course.
While running on the shut-down road that connects many of the Florida Keys, you’ll experience breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico every step of the way. The course is mostly flat, but there is a slight ascent towards the middle of the bridge. The Florida heat can make this race a bit challenging, but the scenery makes it worth the sweat.
With only 1,500 spots each year, there’s a lot of competition to register for this race. If you can secure a spot, you’ll be rewarded with a lovely running vacation in the Florida Keys.
