The Broad Street Run is big, drawing about 40,000 runners, and its 10-mile course down Broad Street — from North Philly to the Navy Yard — bisects the city on Sunday morning. It also brings with it some big disruptions.
So whether you’re out to support a runner, soak up the atmosphere, or just trying to get around town, here’s what you need to know. (And if you are a longtime runner, or want to get started and find support, check out our comprehensive runners’ guide.)
The race kicks off at 7 a.m., near Central High School. If you want to catch the thrill of the start, you’ll need to be up with the sun! But don’t worry if you’re not an early riser. The Broad Street course offers plenty of great spots to watch along the way. City Hall is always a favorite for its iconic backdrop, and the finish line at the Navy Yard is where you’ll find the most excitement, with music, food and thousands of runners celebrating their achievement.
If you want to keep tabs on a friend or family member running the race, you can sign up for runner tracking on the Broad Street Run website. You’ll get updates as your runner passes key points and crosses the finish line, so you don’t have to worry about missing them in the crowd.
Now, for those who live along the route or need to get around the city, a little planning will go a long way. Broad Street will be closed to traffic from Olney Avenue all the way down to the Navy Yard, starting as early as 4 a.m. in the north and by 7:15 a.m. along the full route. No parking is allowed on Broad Street during the race, so if you usually park there, make sure to move your car the night before — towing starts at 2 a.m. Most streets should reopen by noon, but it’s always best to check for updates.
Getting across Broad Street during the race can be tricky. Police officers will be stationed at intersections to help pedestrians cross safely, but expect to wait a bit, especially as big packs of runners go by. If you’re driving, your best bet is to avoid Broad Street altogether and use alternate routes. SEPTA has a race-specific web page that includes information on bus detours, and its Broad Street Line subway is a great way to get around on race day. Trains will be running frequently, but they’ll be crowded, so plan accordingly.
A few other things to keep in mind:
So, whether you’re cheering on a loved one, enjoying the city’s biggest running party, or just trying to get to brunch, a little preparation will help you make the most of Broad Street Run Sunday. Enjoy the day, and don’t forget to cheer loudly. Runners love it!