Downtown Phoenix Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Phoenix

Renting a car in Downtown Phoenix offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. This makes it an ideal choice for families, couples seeking a romantic getaway, or anyone looking to enjoy entertainment-themed experiences. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Arizona State Capitol, Arizona Science Center, and the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix, all conveniently located within Downtown. Additionally, the convenience of managing luggage and planning your travel schedule allows for a stress-free experience.

Exploring beyond Downtown is also simple with a rental car. You can take short drives to nearby cities like Scottsdale, located 14 km away, where you can visit the Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West, or Tempe, just 11 km away, which features Tempe Town Lake and Desert Botanical Garden. Having a car allows you to enjoy the stunning scenery of Camelback Mountain and other attractions in and around Phoenix without the constraints of public transport or rideshares. Overall, renting a car enhances your sightseeing experience in Downtown Phoenix and its surrounding areas.

Most popular car rentals in Downtown Phoenix

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice for travellers in Downtown Phoenix, accommodating up to 5 passengers and offering space for 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking the flexibility to explore the area comfortably. With ample room for both passengers and luggage, you can enjoy your trip at a leisurely pace without worrying about space constraints.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is another top pick among renters in Downtown Phoenix. It comfortably fits 5 travellers and provides room for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, making it perfect for families or larger groups. Its spacious interior ensures that everyone can travel together without sacrificing comfort, allowing you to enjoy your adventures in and around the city with ease.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is an excellent choice for those looking for a balance between space and manageability. This vehicle accommodates up to 5 passengers and can hold 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for couples, families, or small groups. With its versatile design, the Standard SUV offers an enjoyable driving experience while providing enough room for your essentials, giving you the freedom to explore Downtown Phoenix without compromise.

Top rated car suppliers in Downtown Phoenix

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travellers in Downtown Phoenix, known for its friendly service and cleanliness. With an overall rating of 8.4 out of 10, customers appreciate the short wait times and hassle-free experience. Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars are the most booked options, making Alamo a reliable and comfortable choice for your rental needs.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental offers a solid option for those looking to explore Downtown Phoenix. With a single rental location in the area, it is convenient for travellers. Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles are popular among customers, ensuring you have plenty of space and comfort during your journey. Thrifty is well-regarded for its competitive pricing and straightforward rental process.
• Fox Rental Cars: Fox Rental Cars also has a location in Downtown Phoenix, providing convenience for visitors. Like its competitors, Fox is popular for its Midsize SUVs and Fullsize SUVs, which are frequently booked by customers. The supplier is noted for its good selection of vehicles, making it a practical option for those looking to explore the area at their own pace.

Where to stay around Downtown Phoenix

• Downtown Phoenix: As a vibrant metropolis, Downtown Phoenix offers a blend of family, business, and city-themed experiences. Visitors can enjoy nearby attractions such as shopping malls, theaters, and sports facilities. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Camelback Mountain for adventure and stunning scenery, while Tempe Town Lake provides a romantic setting. The area is also known for a variety of dining options, including local restaurants and wineries, making it an ideal base for your stay.
• Laveen: Located 15 km from Downtown Phoenix, Laveen is perfect for those seeking a romantic or business-themed getaway. The city features a range of venues such as resorts and event conference venues. Key highlights include the Phoenix Raceway, which is suitable for motor racing enthusiasts, and cultural visits to the Phoenix Art Museum and Heard Museum. Laveen also offers excellent dining options that include restaurants and wineries, providing a delightful experience for travellers.
• Scottsdale: Situated 14 km from Downtown Phoenix, Scottsdale caters to families and business travellers alike, with access to shopping centres and resorts. The area boasts cultural attractions such as the Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West and outdoor adventures at Camelback Mountain. Tempe Town Lake is another scenic spot nearby, ideal for relaxation. With a variety of restaurants and wineries, Scottsdale ensures a fulfilling stay for all visitors.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Downtown Phoenix

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying the vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those sunny days, or an economical car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, making it advantageous to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to obtain lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a solid compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers younger than 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This could also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is often the most economical choice. Other options might include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel plans, which are also acceptable—just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides added peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Phoenix

The best value period for renting a car in Downtown Phoenix is July, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. June through August can also provide good options, as they generally see lower demand. January and February offer slight price advantages, with average demand levels. However, October tends to be the most expensive month, with prices rising and demand remaining steady. November also shows slightly high prices with average demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	55.4°F (13.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	58.6°F (14.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
March	66.0°F (18.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
April	74.5°F (23.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
May	82.0°F (27.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	92.3°F (33.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
July	95.7°F (35.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
August	94.8°F (34.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
September	89.8°F (32.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	77.7°F (25.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	55.4°F (13.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average