Best Places To Run in Chicago, Illinois

Explore the most scenic running routes in and around Chicago.

Running Events in Chicago

Race For A Ride!
1Dec
5K

Race For A Ride!

Chicago, IL
Organized by RunSignup
Santa Hustle Chicago
6Dec
5K
10K

Santa Hustle Chicago

Chicago, IL
Organized by RunSignup
Run Against Breast Cancer 5k/10k/13.1 Chicago/evanston
13Dec
5K
+1
+1

Run Against Breast Cancer 5k/10k/13.1 Chicago/evanston

Chicago, IL
Organized by RunSignup
A Merry Christmas Run 5k/10k/13.1 Chicago/evanston
27Dec
5K
+1
+1

A Merry Christmas Run 5k/10k/13.1 Chicago/evanston

Chicago, IL
Organized by RunSignup
2025 Life Time Events: Add-on Purchases
31Dec

2025 Life Time Events: Add-on Purchases

Chicago, IL
Organized by RunSignup
2025 Tri312 Indoor Triathlon & Duathlon Series
31Dec
Triathlon

2025 Tri312 Indoor Triathlon & Duathlon Series

Chicago, IL
Organized by RunSignup
New Year New Me Run 5k/10k/13.1 Chicago/evanston
3Jan
5K
+2
+1

New Year New Me Run 5k/10k/13.1 Chicago/evanston

Chicago, IL
Organized by RunSignup
Mlk Freedom Run 5k/10k/13.1 Chicago/evanston
17Jan
5K
+2
+1

Mlk Freedom Run 5k/10k/13.1 Chicago/evanston

Chicago, IL
Organized by RunSignup
17th Annual F^3 Lake Half Marathon & 5k
31Jan
5K
Half-Marathon

17th Annual F^3 Lake Half Marathon & 5k

Chicago, IL
Organized by RunSignup
Lunar New Year Run 5k/10k/13.1 Chicago/evanston
7Feb
5K
+2
+1

Lunar New Year Run 5k/10k/13.1 Chicago/evanston

Chicago, IL
Organized by RunSignup
Run For Chocolate 5k/10k/13.1 Chicago/evanston
14Feb
5K
+2
+1

Run For Chocolate 5k/10k/13.1 Chicago/evanston

Chicago, IL
Organized by RunSignup
Superheroes Run 5k/10k/13.1 Chicago/evanston
7Mar
5K
+3
+1

Superheroes Run 5k/10k/13.1 Chicago/evanston

Chicago, IL
Organized by RunSignup

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do you choose the top places to run in Chicago?
    We rank routes based on community feedback, scenery, safety, accessibility, and popularity among local runners in Chicago.
  • Are these routes suitable for beginners?
    Yes! Many routes listed are flat and beginner-friendly, but we also include more challenging runs with elevation and distance for experienced runners.
  • Can I suggest a new running route?
    Absolutely. Scroll to the bottom of the route detail page and click 'Suggest a Route' to submit your favorite running spot.
  • Are these routes verified or user-submitted?
    Our team curates these routes based on local data and contributions. We also allow runners to upload photos, ratings, and tips.