Some races are about competition. Others are about connection. From coast to coast, women-only half marathons celebrate community, sisterhood, confidence, and the kind of power that builds when women run together.
This list highlights seven of the best women’s half marathons in the USA, each offering empowering vibes, special gifts, and a true celebration at the finish line.
1. National Women’s Half Marathon
- When: May
- Where: Washington, D.C.
- Official website: nationalwomenshalf.events
The scenic course passes by iconic landmarks of the capital, including the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument creating an inspiring atmosphere.
This race is known for its support of runners at all levels: it offers a generous 4-hour time limit and welcomes participation regardless of pace or result.
Finishers receive a personalized medal, a designer T-shirt, and enjoy complimentary refreshments and entertainment, turning the event into a true celebration.
Altogether, it creates a warm, festive environment where every runner feels like a winner.
2. USA Women’s Half Marathon (series)
- When: Multiple dates
- Where: Palm Desert, CA; Nashville, TN; Dallas, TX; Phoenix, AZ; Islamorada, FL
- Official website: usawomensraceca.com
The series is promoted as “A Luxury Race Experience”—a high-end running event designed specifically for women.
At the finish line, participants are treated to exclusive rewards: instead of a traditional medal, each finisher receives a stylish silver Legacy Necklace, created especially for the series.
Runners also receive a designer finisher’s shirt, a glass of mimosa, and an invitation to a continental breakfast.
At select locations, recovery massages are available, and the awards including the signature necklace and more are presented by a team of men in tuxedos, adding to the event’s elegant, celebratory atmosphere.
3. Divas Half Marathon (series)
- When: Multiple dates
- Where: Chicago, IL; Peachtree City, GA; Galveston, TX
- Official website: divasrun.com
Divas is the most glamorous and colorful women’s running series in the country.
Every participant is transformed into a diva: tiaras and “Diva” sashes are handed out along the course, while feather boas and sparkly skirts make runners feel like queens.
The routes are festively decorated, and at the finish line, everyone receives a glass of bubbly (champagne) and a dazzling medal adorned with “jewels”. What more could a true diva want?
The race atmosphere is fun and supportive, with participants dressed as their favorite princesses and pop divas, sharing smiles and encouragement along the way.
4. Disney Princess Half Marathon
- When: February-March
- Where: Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, FL
- Official website: rundisney.com
Note: Although the event is open to all participants regardless of gender, the majority of runners are women. We’ve included it for its strong atmosphere of female empowerment and joyful celebration.
This half marathon is a true “fairy tale come to life” for runners.
Thousands of participants dress up as their favorite Disney princesses: Cinderella, Ariel, Belle, and other beloved heroines fill the course with color and magic.
Finishers receive large, themed medals featuring princess designs, and the entire event is held in support of charity.
The Disney Princess Half Marathon is often called the “ultimate bachelorette party,” bringing together women of all ages from 14 to 70+ from around the world to celebrate strength, friendship, and the power of dreams.
5. Mermaid Series Half Marathons
- When: Multiple dates
- Where: Multiple places
- Official website: mermaidseries.com
The Mermaid Series blends road, park, and trail running to create a welcoming environment designed especially for women.
The series aims to inspire women of all levels to experience the joy of crossing the finish line.
Since its debut in 2004, the organizers have cultivated a warm and encouraging atmosphere, a supportive space where every participant, regardless of experience, feels seen, empowered, and truly welcome.
6. Thelma and Louise Half Marathon Trail
- When: April
- Where: Moab, UT
- Official website: madmooseevents.com
The Thelma & Louise Half Marathon is an all-female trail race named after the legendary duo from the film, and it truly lives up to its name.
Described by organizers as “a bachelorette party with an adventure,” the event celebrates friendship and fearless fun: “Because a girls’ weekend should include an exciting challenge.”
The course winds through the rugged, breathtaking landscapes of the Moab Desert.
This women-only race is fueled by the spirit of sisterhood and adventure, girlfriends run side by side, encouraging each other through climbs and tough terrain.
The organizers make sure the course is just challenging and “wild” enough to be worthy of the name Thelma & Louise.
7. Indiana Women’s Running Festival
- When: August
- Where: Carmel, IN
- Official website: womensrunningfestival.com
The Indiana Women’s Running Festival is the largest women’s race in Indiana and one of the biggest women’s half marathons in the United States.
The festival includes a half marathon, 10K, and the Get a MOVE on Cancer 5K charity race, with proceeds supporting cancer research and care.
The fast, scenic course winds through peaceful parks and leafy streets dotted with ponds and trees, offering a refreshing escape in the late-summer heat.
What makes the Indiana Women’s Running Festival truly special is its combination of spirited competition with a strong field and age-group awards and a celebratory, supportive atmosphere.
Related: From Skyscrapers to Salt Mines: 7 Unbelievable Running Races in the USA
These races are like bachelorette parties in running shoes. Some run in tiaras, others in mermaid costumes and some simply walk, step by step, toward a new version of themselves.
What matters most is the atmosphere: a space to feel your strength, celebrate yourself, and recharge for months to come.
Pick your half marathon and run where you’ll be truly understood!
