Downtown Chicago Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Chicago

Renting a car in Downtown Chicago offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city's attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed. This is especially beneficial for families or those looking for outdoor and city-themed experiences. Key attractions are within reach, including the vibrant Michigan Avenue for city experiences and Navy Pier, both conveniently located in Downtown Chicago. The Field Museum of Natural History, just 2 km away, is ideal for family and cultural experiences. Additionally, exploring nearby neighborhoods like Magnificent Mile and The Loop, both less than 1 km from Downtown Chicago, becomes effortless with a rental car. This allows you to visit popular destinations without the hassles of public transportation. Whether you are travelling with family or planning a leisurely day out, a rental car ensures a comfortable and convenient way to experience all that Downtown Chicago and its surroundings have to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Downtown Chicago

• Midsize: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases—ideal for couples and families. This car option strikes a perfect balance between comfort and space, making it suitable for various travel needs. Whether you're navigating through Downtown Chicago or planning day trips, the midsize car offers ample room for passengers and luggage, ensuring a relaxed journey.
• Compact: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 medium suitcases—ideal for solo travellers, couples, and families. The compact car is perfect for urban driving, especially in the bustling streets of Downtown Chicago. Its smaller size allows for easier parking and maneuverability, making it a practical choice for those who want to explore the city without the hassle of larger vehicles.
• Standard SUV: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 2 medium suitcases—ideal for couples, families, and groups. The standard SUV provides a higher seating position and more storage space, making it suitable for those who prefer a robust vehicle. It offers comfort and versatility for both city driving and potential excursions outside the downtown area, ensuring your travel experience is both enjoyable and convenient.

Top rated car suppliers in Downtown Chicago

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a popular choice among travellers in Downtown Chicago, boasting three rental locations in the area. Known for its reliable service, this supplier offers a wide selection of vehicles, with Midsize and Compact cars being the most booked options. Customers appreciate the ease of managing their rental experience, making it a great option for those looking to explore the city at their own pace.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car has established itself as a convenient option with its single rental location in Downtown Chicago. Travellers favour this supplier for its smooth booking process and well-maintained vehicles. The most booked cars are Midsize and Fullsize, which provide ample space for luggage and comfort during your journey. Alamo’s focus on customer satisfaction makes it a solid choice for visitors.
• Hertz: Hertz offers two rental locations within Downtown Chicago, making it accessible for tourists. This supplier is particularly noted for its selection of Midsize SUVs and Economy vehicles, catering to a variety of travel needs. Customers value Hertz for its efficient service and the reliability of its fleet, ensuring a pleasant driving experience while exploring the vibrant attractions of the city.

Where to stay around Downtown Chicago

• Downtown Chicago: A bustling metropolis, Downtown Chicago is at the heart of the city, offering a vibrant atmosphere for family, outdoor, and city-themed experiences. Within proximity, you can explore iconic attractions such as Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park, all suitable for delightful outings. With numerous shopping areas, arena entertainment facilities, and theaters, Downtown Chicago is a great base for your stay, especially during the warmer months when outdoor activities are more enjoyable.
• Magnificent Mile: Located less than 1 km from Downtown Chicago, Magnificent Mile is a lively neighbourhood ideal for families and those seeking an urban adventure. This area boasts an array of shopping options, educational venues, and arena entertainment facilities. It is also close to key attractions like Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park, making it perfect for exploring the city's cultural offerings. Dining options abound, with restaurants and wineries providing a taste of local flavours.
• The Loop: Less than 1 km from Downtown Chicago, The Loop is a vibrant neighbourhood that caters to family and city-themed experiences alike. Known for its shopping areas, theaters, and arena entertainment facilities, The Loop is home to notable landmarks such as Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park. With a variety of dining establishments including local wineries, The Loop provides a convenient and exciting environment to immerse yourself in the city's energy.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, take advantage of the filters on Expedia to help you find the perfect fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact vehicles typically cost less to rent and are easier to manoeuvre and park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. Similar restrictions can apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel arrangements, which are also acceptable—just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for transactions.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen incidents during your trip. It’s easy to include car rental insurance when making your reservation with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning to embark on long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional costs.
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 Chicago

The best value period to rent a car in and around Downtown Chicago is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. March offers a slight increase in demand and remains a good option. As spring approaches, April to May sees prices and demand increase to average and moderately high levels. June through August can be the most expensive months, with higher demand and prices, making it a busy time for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	25.7°F (-3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	27.0°F (-2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	37.0°F (2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
June	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	33.1°F (0.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average