I was initially a skeptic about attending a Disney race, but I get it now!

The cost of the race is higher than most others, but the swag and medal quality are unmatched.

The race expo did have significantly long wait times, but you could skip portions if you weren’t interested in merch. Getting the bib/race packet was very easy!

Transportation to and from the race and the expo was via bus, if you stay on Disney property- which I highly recommend! We stayed at Pop Century, where the buses ran frequently and had very little to no wait time.

The race itself was well organized, not overly crowded in the front corrals (I was in C), and the energy was fantastic. The half marathon course was fairly even, with some of the highway portions creating a little difficulty due to the pitch. Running in and around the parks was phenomenal and photographers were all over the course. There was no major crowding or bottle necking.

If you enjoy Disney, try out the magic of RunDisney!

On my journey to run in every state, I chose the Asheville Half Marathon at the Biltmore for North Carolina.

The race at the Biltmore offers several options - a half marathon on either Saturday/Sunday, running both half marathons, running a full and a half, or running the full. The number of participants is significantly limited, so you aren't elbow to elbow the whole course - or even at the start! When you finish, they do their best to announce each runner, which was a nice touch. The race fee is higher than most, but you are paying for the medal, swag, and access to the Biltmore the day of the race - and it's worth it!

The mini expo on Saturday was efficient and easy to navigate. The staff were supremely helpful in the ticketing/spectator ticket process which seems confusing before arriving. With the Biltmore being private property, as a race participant, you and your family/friends have to pay to be on the property - it's included in the race fee for runners, but is a separate purchase for friends/family. A plus is that you can upgrade that ticket for an entrance ticket to tour the Biltmore later. I would hope the spectator fee can be negotiated down in price eventually, but it worked out just fine for the family with me.

For staying near the Biltmore, there were plenty of affordable hotel options - many of the hotels were partnered with the race. A shuttle was offered, but I opted out and parked my own car- parking was very easy to navigate on race day.

The course for the half marathon is stunning all the way through- but definitely gritty and elevated! You navigate an uphill adventure and part of the course is on gravel/mud. The volunteers were very supportive and water stations/bathrooms were well placed.

Overall - this race was fun, had stunning views, a great medal, and takes place in a unique and charming city that was fun to explore. I would recommend this for those looking for a scenic but challenging course.