On Sunday, October 25th, tens of thousands of people descended upon
Washington DC, and
Arlington VA, to experience the 40th U.S. Marine Corps Marathon. Runners and spectators alike gathered together to enjoy the event.
As a potential homeowner, the marathon landscape gives you a perfect opportunity to explore the neighborhoods. At Movoto, we study community dynamics in order to be able to find the perfect matches for our clients. Take a look at this very popular event and some of the magnificent places runners saw in Washington DC and Northern VA. Ask yourself whether this is a place you’d like to call home.
40,000 Participants in Two Races
At 7:55 a.m., runners from 48 states, the District of Columbia and 29 nations lined up to participate in one of two races. Those 30,000 participants joining in on the Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) were about to forge through a traditional 26 mile, 385 yard marathon. The 10,000 who chose MCM10K would embark on a path spanning across 6.2 miles. Tens of thousands more spectators lined the scenic routes to cheer them on.
Race Kicks Off at Nationally Cherished Historic Places
Arlington County, VA
Virginia Governor, Terry McAuliffe, was on the scene of the MCM starting point as the honorary starter to kick off the MCM race. Located at Route 110, between Arlington Cemetery and the Pentagon, it’s the ideal setting because it sparks memories of the heroes who served on one side, while honoring those who now work so hard for our country on the other.
You can’t go wrong choosing Arlington VA for an event. It’s surrounded by beautiful landscape, rich history and well-established governance. Arlington County is one of those places you’re sure to enjoy whether it’s where you live, work or simply visiting.
As you take in the breathtaking views and immaculate communities, it isn’t uncommon to feel like it’s a place you’d like to call home. Why not? Arlington County is considered a world-class community located about five miles from the heart of Washington DC. Aside from its beauty, it’s known for stable neighborhoods, quality schools and acclaimed medical facilities. Arlington has won the Environmental Protection Agency's highest award for Smart Growth in 2002.
The National Mall, Washington DC
As MCM runners prepared in Arlington, across the Potomac River in the heart of downtown Washington DC, Mayor Muriel Browser was on the National Mall as the honorary starter of the MCMK10 race. Browser met with thousands of runners at the starting point on the Mall between 4th and Madison Drive in front of the National Art Gallery’s West Wing.
Beautiful Weather, Spectacular Views and Gorgeous Terrain Highlight the Noble Cause
The MCM is a meaningful experience. It raises awareness, contributes to causes that help Marines and gives joy and comfort to families of our heroes. That’s special enough. On this day, there was more.
The morning started out chilly with a light mist of drizzling rain. But by the start of the marathons, the sun was out, the rain was gone and the day was as perfect as the smiles on the faces of the attendees. And the designed path was the perfect layout for joggers to enjoy some of the best scenic attractions of Washington DC and Northern VA.
The Nation’s Capital Balances Beauty, Tranquility and a Thriving Metropolis
Examining the paths enjoyed during the event lends great insight to DC neighborhoods and surrounding communities. Even if you can’t attend in person, articles and pictures can be a great help in determining if it’s the right place for you to find your dream home.
Runners passed through Georgetown, built in 1789 and named after the iconic Jesuit University. Going into this college town is like stepping back in time. On the surface it looks modern. Yet, it still maintains its Georgian Era style and the hustle and bustle of an old port city.
Joggers honored those who served as they passed by military memorials, like the Korean and FDR WWII Memorials. They saw stunning architecture and impressive numbers of Smithsonian Museums along the National Mall.
Competitors ran by historical treasures such as the famous Washington Monument and the Jefferson Memorial, with its rotunda roof and Tidal Basin (great for paddle boating). The Lincoln Memorial and Martin Luther King Memorial were also part of the run.
Throughout, joggers were able to breathe in fresh air as they traveled along parks and tree-lined communities beautified with historical bridges and underpasses. They sprinted through Rock Creek Park, Potomac Park, and Haynes peninsula, with its views of the East Potomac Golf Course.
Beyond the finish line, runners slowed their pace, as they greeted family and collected their rewards. Most stopped to pay homage before the magnificent U.S. Marine War Memorial (Iwo Jima) before continuing into the city streets of Rosslyn VA, to enjoy free food, drinks and entertainment.
Rosslyn is located in Arlington County VA, just across the Key Bridge from Washington DC. It’s the closest Virginia neighborhood to our nation’s capital. When looking towards Rosslyn over the Potomac from the National Mall, the tall urban skyscrapers lining the horizon stands in sharp contrast to downtown DC buildings that have height limitations. The urbanite style of modern buildings lend a refreshing airiness to the regal Roman- and Grecian-style landmarks that grace our capital city. Rosslyn is centrally located, filled with beautiful landscapes, history and lots of fun events. No wonder it’s a favorite spot for so many and a great place to end a wonderful day!
Have you thought about living in the DC area? The great thing about DC is there’s many choices for different lifestyles and budgets. If you think Washington DC or one of the surrounding areas may be the place you’d like to call home, give us a call at (888) 766-8686. Our customer-friendly care center experts will gladly connect you to the Movoto Partner Agent best suited to help you. We’ll work with you to find your dream home!
