Boston Marathon guide: Best places to watch as a spectator

Framingham, Natick – but not downtown

These areas can get quite congested, but between the two areas, there is room to spread out. Hartford and Speen streets in Natick provide good access points.

Wellesley – across from the scream tunnel

The road along 135 after downtown Natick also provides good viewing. Taking Route 9 to Oak Street south brings you close to 135. In Wellesley, the south side of 135 is filled with screaming college students, but if you position yourself on the north side of the road, you’ll be clear of the chaos.

Route 128 overpass

You can’t get to the course from 128 onto 135 because the onramp is closed, but this is another good area that is not too crowded. At this point in the race, Route 9 is south of the course. This spot is also key for runners: it’s just after 16 miles and the road goes uphill over the highway. The Newton hills loom soon, but this rise is a reminder of what’s to come.

Heartbreak Hill

If you truly want to experience all that is the Boston Marathon – the cheering, the inspirational signs, the agony of the runners – this is the spot. Runners are on Commonwealth Avenue now (Route 30), but the area is quite congested. Same with the MBTA. Get there early.

Finish line

If you’re looking to meet your runner after the race, the MBTA can get extremely crowded. The Copley stop on the Green Line is closed, but Arlington is open. Plan for extra time if using this option.

The entire day takes patience and a little creativity. But it's worth it. And your runner will owe you a solid - after they recover, of course.

This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: Boston Marathon best spots for fans to watch race