Downtown Minneapolis Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Minneapolis

Renting a car in Downtown Minneapolis offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its attractions at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families, business travellers, or anyone looking for a city-themed experience. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage luggage and create flexible travel plans without relying on public transportation.

You can easily visit key attractions within Downtown Minneapolis, such as the Basilica of Saint Mary and the Mill City Museum, both of which provide rich cultural experiences. Additionally, the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, located 8 km away, is perfect for family outings and outdoor activities. The car also allows for quick access to broader destinations, including the Minneapolis Institute of Art and Lake Harriet, enhancing your exploration of the Minneapolis - St. Paul metropolis. Furthermore, Downtown West, less than 1 km from Downtown Minneapolis, features attractions like Minnehaha Park, adding to your itinerary. A rental car ensures you can make the most of your visit while enjoying the convenience of easy navigation and the ability to discover attractions beyond the immediate area.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown Minneapolis

• Midsize SUV: This popular choice accommodates 5 travellers and offers ample space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The midsize SUV provides the freedom to navigate Downtown Minneapolis and its surrounding areas comfortably, with enough room for everyone and their belongings. Enjoy a smooth ride while exploring at your own pace, making it perfect for those who value convenience and flexibility.
• Premium Pickup: Perfect for adventure travellers, the premium pickup also accommodates 5 travellers with space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for families and small groups who appreciate the ruggedness and versatility of a pickup. With the capability to handle a variety of terrains, a premium pickup allows you to easily transport equipment or luggage, enhancing your travel experience around Downtown Minneapolis.
• Compact: The compact car option is well-suited for solo travellers, couples, or small families, accommodating 5 travellers with room for up to 3 medium suitcases. This choice is great for those seeking a more economical rental while still enjoying the freedom of exploring Downtown Minneapolis and its surroundings. Compact cars are easy to manoeuvre in urban settings, making them a practical option for navigating the busy streets and finding parking.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Minneapolis

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a top choice for car rentals in Downtown Minneapolis, boasting 4 rental locations, with the nearest conveniently situated in the area. Travellers appreciate the flexibility of choosing from a variety of vehicles, with Luxury and Midsize options being the most popular. Enterprise is known for its excellent customer service, making the rental experience smooth and enjoyable.
• Sixt: Sixt operates 1 rental location in Downtown Minneapolis and is celebrated for its selection of vehicles. The most booked options include Standard SUVs and Premium cars, catering to those looking for comfort and style. Sixt's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction makes it a reliable choice for any traveller wanting to explore the city.
• Budget: With 2 rental locations in and around Downtown Minneapolis, Budget provides convenient options for car rentals. Popular choices among travellers include Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, ideal for navigating the urban landscape. Budget is recognized for its affordability and efficient service, making it a practical choice for those looking to manage their travel expenses effectively.

Where to stay around Downtown Minneapolis

• Downtown Minneapolis: The heart of the city, Downtown Minneapolis offers a vibrant mix of culture and commerce. Visitors can explore the Minneapolis Institute of Art and the Basilica of Saint Mary, both excellent for those seeking cultural experiences. With proximity to shopping centres, restaurants, and entertainment venues, there’s something for everyone. The nearby lakes provide scenic spots for relaxation, making it an ideal base for both family and business-themed trips.
• Golden Valley: Located 7 km from Downtown Minneapolis, Golden Valley is perfect for families and business travellers alike. This city features a range of shopping mall centres and local eateries. Key attractions include the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, ideal for outdoor activities. The Basilica of Saint Mary and the Minneapolis Institute of Art are also accessible, allowing for a seamless blend of culture and fun.
• St. Anthony Park: Situated 6 km from Downtown Minneapolis, St. Anthony Park is a charming neighbourhood that caters to families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy local shopping centres and educational venues. Notable highlights include Minnehaha Park, perfect for outdoor gatherings, and the Science Museum of Minnesota for a cultural deep dive. This area offers a relaxed atmosphere while remaining close to the city’s main attractions.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for warm weather, or an economy car for budget-friendly transportation, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just remember to return the car empty in that situation.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports; however, the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
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 unnecessary expenses and provides you with added peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Minneapolis

The best value period for renting a car in and around Downtown Minneapolis is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is low. March and April also offer moderate options with average pricing and low demand. However, July tends to be the busiest and most expensive month, with high demand and slightly higher prices. Following July, August and September also see increased demand, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.