Not a Spectator's Race

Being a spectator of the Boston marathon is quite possibly more difficult than actually running the marathon. I have read several articles that say it's not a spectator's race. Almost all streets are closed to traffic near the route, public transportation slows to parade speed, and the streets are lined with people along the entire 26.2 miles. Sounds like total chaos! So, I'm doing everything I can to help out my cheering section navigate through the mayhem.

This site has some excellent advice and suggestions on how to watch the race:

http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/6/6_1/274.shtml

In another article, a spectator writes:
"If you are a spectator, I highly recommend doing your research before you leave for the race. Do not expect the BAA to provide any different information or maps than what they give to the runners. The map designed by the BAA is rudementary and not complete. Use google maps or another mapping tool online to create a complete race route. Look at train schedules and ticket prices to see what works best. Pay attention to the weather. We had unseasonably cold weather and the two previous years saw unseasonably hot weather. Dress in layers and make sure you have rain gear available."
Source: www.virtualtourist.com

The article "Idiots Guide to the Boston" from ESPN.com lists the best and worst places to watch:

Q: Which places would you recommend to watch the Marathon?
Definitely check out that Wellesley College area, just because everyone in the all-female school comes out in droves (right around the 10-mile mark). Also, the Coolidge Corner area can get pretty lively (quality bars galore, especially if you walk down to Allston), plus, you can hop right onto the Mass Pike or Storrow Drive after the runners cruise though. And Heartbreak Hill -- a punishing uphill climb near the Boston College campus, kicking off the final six miles of the race -- is appealing if you want to watch exhausted runners throwing up and defecating on themselves.

Q: Which places would you avoid?
Avoid the Kenmore area at all costs, because there's a double whammy: the Marathon and the annual 11 a.m. Red Sox game, which makes for a congestion nightmare once Sox fans start pouring out of Fenway (usually around 1:30-2:00, right as the first runners are running through). And Cleveland Circle is always too crowded, filled with drunken BC students bemoaning the fact that they couldn't get into Holy Cross