Lenox Square (3393 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta 30326): The race begins at Atlanta's shopping mecca. Lenox Square was Atlanta's first mall with Macy's and Bloomingdale's now serving as anchor. Across Peachtree Road, the newly renovated Phipps Plaza is home to upscale designers and brands.
Lenox MARTA station (955 East Paces Ferry Road NE, Atlanta 30326): Located next to Lenox Square, the station is used by commuters and shoppers throughout the year. Runners and spectators can use it on July 4 to get to the starting line. One tip: Purchase your fare beforehand to save time.
Cook Hall (3377 Peachtree Road, Atlanta 30326): Snap up spectator seating and enjoy breakfast on the patio of restaurants along Peachtree Road, including this contemporary eatery in the W Atlanta - Buckhead.
Caribou Coffee (3621 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta 30305): Grab coffee, breakfast and pastries at this coffee shop on Peachtree Road near Piedmont Road.
Peachtree Road United Methodist (3180 Peachtree Road, Atlanta 30305): Cheer on racers as the bells chime at this stately columned church on Peachtree.
Buckhead Village (Peachtree Road, Roswell Road and West Paces Ferry): Join other spectators at Mile 2. Longtime favorites such as Henri's Bakery and new high-rise apartments and condos have merged at this major intersection in Buckhead. If you haven't been here in a few years, you'll marvel at the changes and continued construction. The updated Charlie Loudermilk Park also is nestled in the triangle.
Buckhead Atlanta (3035 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta 30305): Don't let Shake Shack veer you off course. Or make one of its milkshakes — or designer shoes, purses or an entire outfit from boutiques in Buckhead Atlanta — your reward for finishing the race. Christian Louboutin, Billy Reid, Hermes and Jimmy Choo are just a few of the designers with stores in this walkable shopping district.
The Cathedral of St. Philip (2744 Peachtree Road, Atlanta): Dean Sam Candler sprinkles racers with "holy water" just before they reach "Cardiac Hill." Two other churches — the gothic Cathedral of Christ the King and Second Ponce de Leon Baptist with its tall steeple — make up what's known as "Jesus junction."
Cardiac Hill (Peachtree and Collier roads): Mile 3 will put racers to the test. The route gets steep to Piedmont Hospital, where crowds gather to cheer on participants who will climb 12 stories between Peachtree Battle and Collier Road. Other race-watching locations are Peachtree Battle Shopping Center, where you'll find restaurants and coffee.
Peachtree Christian Church (1580 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta 30309): Listen for the chimes playing patriotic music at this Midtown landmark. You'll see and hear it after crossing the bridge over the downtown connector.
Rhodes Hall (1516 West Peachtree St. NW, Atlanta 30309): Known as the castle on Peachtree and a beloved historic site in the city.
First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta (1328 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta 30309): Spectators typically hand out water in front of this spot for race watching.
High Museum (1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta 30309):It's time to soak up the scenery at this Atlanta landmark and enjoy the last mile or so of the course. Get inspired by the sculptures and the modern architecture. It's part of the Woodruff Arts Center complex, which also includes the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Alliance Theatre.
Colony Square (1197 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta 30361): Arrive early to grab a spot on Peachtree Street to watch racers approaching the end of the course. Then everyone can return to Colony Square for food and fun on the plaza afterward. MARTA's Arts Center station is a 3-minute walk away.
MARTA's Midtown Station (41 Tenth St. NE, Atlanta 30309, 10th Street near West Peachtree Street): The nearest station to high-five racers when they're done. Take this station to get back to your starting point, too.
Piedmont Park (400 Park Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30309): This popular intown Atlanta park is even more beloved once runners finish the 6.2-mile course. Meet family and friends in the meadow. Enjoy post-race activities and awards, and snap a selfie to prove you've completed the course.
Park Tavern (500 10th St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309): Enjoy Piedmont Park views at this restaurant and bar set in a stone building.
Flying Biscuit Cafe (1001 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta 30309): Slather a biscuit with cranberry apple butter (it's July 4th after all) at this local chain near Piedmont Park.
TAP (1180 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309): The gastropub typically has brunch specials and music on July 4.
Panera (1080 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta 30309): Grab quick-service sandwiches, salads and more for a post-race meal.
Rí Rá Irish Pub (1080 Peachtree St. NE #1, Atlanta, GA 30309): Enjoy pub fare, beer and music not far from the finish line.
