Mattoon Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Mattoon

Renting a car in Mattoon, Illinois, offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel itinerary that suits your needs. This option is particularly appealing for those interested in outdoor adventures, scenic views, or romantic experiences. You can visit key attractions like the Lincoln Log Cabin, located 18 km away, which provides a glimpse into local culture. For nature lovers, Fox Ridge State Park, just 21 km from Mattoon, offers beautiful landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities. If you're looking for family-friendly experiences, Rockome Gardens, also 21 km away, is an urban park perfect for a day out. Beyond Mattoon, nearby cities like Charleston and Gays, 17 km and 10 km away respectively, feature additional attractions such as Lake Shelbyville and Mattoon Peterson Park. Having a rental car enables you to explore these popular destinations with ease, making it an ideal choice for tourists seeking a convenient and enjoyable travel experience.

Most popular car rentals in Mattoon

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a top choice for travellers in Mattoon, accommodating up to 5 passengers and offering space for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for comfort and versatility. With its spacious interior and ample luggage capacity, you can explore Mattoon’s attractions at your own pace without worrying about storage space.
• Midsize: The Midsize car is another popular option for those renting in Mattoon. Also accommodating 5 travellers with room for 3 large suitcases, this vehicle is ideal for couples and families alike. Its balanced size provides a comfortable ride while maintaining flexibility for your travel plans, making it a great choice for enjoying the freedom that comes with renting a car in this charming destination.

Top rated car suppliers in Mattoon

• Enterprise: With a rental location conveniently situated in Mattoon, Enterprise is the most popular choice among travellers. Known for its excellent customer service, Enterprise offers a range of vehicles to suit your needs, with Midsize SUVs and Midsize cars being the top choices. Enjoy the flexibility to explore Mattoon and its surroundings at your own pace while benefiting from their reliable service.

Where to stay around Mattoon

• Charleston: Located 17 km from Mattoon, Charleston offers a vibrant blend of outdoor, city, and culture-themed experiences. Visitors can explore highlights like Fox Ridge State Park, perfect for adventure and scenic views, and the historic Lincoln Log Cabin for a cultural immersion. The urban Mattoon Peterson Park is also nearby, making it great for family outings. Charleston features a variety of dining options, including restaurants and wineries, ideal for enjoying local cuisine and drinks.
• Arcola: Situated 23 km from Mattoon, Arcola is another charming city that caters to those seeking city and culture-themed adventures. Key attractions include Rockome Gardens, a lovely urban park for families, and the Hippie Memorial, a unique cultural monument. The Mattoon Peterson Park is also accessible, providing opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. Arcola's selection of restaurants and wineries offers delightful dining experiences for visitors.
• Sullivan: Also located 23 km from Mattoon, Sullivan is known for its outdoor and romantic experiences. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Shelbyville, which is perfect for scenic views and outdoor activities. The Lake Shelbyville Beach provides a relaxing spot for beach lovers, while Eagle Creek State Park invites adventure seekers to explore more. Sullivan's local restaurants and breweries also offer a taste of the area’s culinary delights, making it a wonderful destination for romantic getaways.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Mattoon

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you’re after an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to navigate and park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, 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 restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also be suitable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides you with peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra fees.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a vehicle.