Boston Marathon

The best things to do Marathon weekend, according to a hotel concierge

Seaport Hotel's Chef Concierge Danny Vargas shares his best recommendations for the biggest weekend in Boston.

The Boston cityscape. David L. Ryan/Globe Staff

Marathon Weekend is upon us. Athletes from around the world will come together to make the journey, complete with their families and eager spectators cheering on every step of the route. That means it’s time to make your plans for food, entertainment, and your spot on the 26.2 mile trek from Hopkinton to Boylston Street.

Danny Vargas, Chef Concierge of the Seaport Hotel. Seaport Hotel Boston

There’s always more to do around the city during Boston’s biggest weekend. Not many people know the ins and outs of the city’s hotspots more than Danny Vargas, Chef Concierge at Seaport Hotel (1 Seaport Lane).

You’ll see runners training all throughout the city over the weekend, fueling up and preparing for the world’s oldest annual marathon. Vargas suggests going to the North End for your lunch or dinner, at spots like Assaggio (29 Prince St.), Forcella Boston (33 N. Square), Lucca Restaurant & Bar (226 Hanover St.), and Ristorante Limoncello (190 North St.).

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“Runners and spectators alike need their carbs!” Danny wrote in an email to Boston.com.

The Boston Marathon Expo will be at Hynes Convention Center from April 17-20, featuring bib and t-shirt pickups, photo ops, and an Adidas Boston Marathon-themed store. There will also be panels like, “Mental Strategies for Mastering the Boston Marathon,” “The Finish Line, where Dreams become Reality,” and more.

See the sights of the city by visiting View Boston (800 Boylston St. Floor 52) at the top of the Pru. If it’s good weather, hop on a harbor cruise with City Experiences

Fenway Park serves as a background for visitors at View Boston atop the Prudential Center. Stan Grossfeld/Globe Staff
The Red Sox took on the St. Louis Cardinals during Opening Day at Fenway Park on April 4, 2025. Erin Clark/Globe Staff

On race day, catch the White Sox vs. Red Sox game (beginning at 11:10 a.m.) at Fenway Park for a lively atmosphere and hub of Boston pride. There will even be special Patriots’ Day vests for the first 7,500 fans who claim them.

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Thirsty for a drink? Vargas recommends Dillon’s Boston (955 Boylston St.) in Back Bay — especially for its patio and view of the runners; Cornwall’s Tavern (644 Beacon St.) in Fenway; and the Bleacher Bar (82A Lansdowne St.) beneath Fenway Park’s bleachers.

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