Dubuque Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Dubuque

Renting a car in Dubuque offers the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and make flexible travel plans, enhancing your sightseeing experience. This option is particularly appealing for families and those looking for outdoor adventures. You can visit key attractions like Crystal Lake Cave, which is perfect for adventure seekers, or Eagle Point Park, an urban park ideal for family outings. The Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens also beckons for leisurely strolls amidst nature. Additionally, a rental car allows you to venture to nearby destinations such as East Dubuque, located only 3 km away, where you can enjoy more outdoor activities and visit the Port of Dubuque Marina. Exploring Downtown Dubuque provides access to cultural sites like the Dubuque Art Center and Grand Opera House. Even the Key West area is within reach, offering similar attractions. Overall, renting a car in Dubuque ensures a convenient and enjoyable travel experience tailored to your interests.

Most popular car rentals in Dubuque

• Fullsize: The Fullsize car is the top choice for travellers in Dubuque, accommodating up to 5 individuals with ample space for luggage. With capacity for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, it is perfect for families or groups looking to explore the area comfortably. This option offers the freedom to travel at your own pace while managing your belongings easily.
• Midsize SUV: A Midsize SUV is an excellent choice for those visiting Dubuque, comfortably seating up to 5 travellers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle type is ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a blend of space and versatility. The Midsize SUV provides a higher driving position and robust capability, enhancing your travel experience while navigating the region.
• Compact: If you're looking for a more economical option, the Compact car is a great fit for up to 5 travellers and can accommodate up to 3 medium suitcases. This car type is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families who value efficiency without sacrificing comfort. The Compact offers a manageable size for city driving and parking, making it a smart choice for exploring Dubuque.

Top rated car suppliers in Dubuque

• Enterprise: With a rental location in Dubuque, Enterprise is a top choice for travellers seeking flexibility and convenience. Known for its excellent service, the most popular vehicles available from Enterprise are Midsize SUVs and Compacts, catering to a variety of needs whether you're exploring the city or venturing out into the scenic surroundings.
• Budget: Budget provides a great option for those looking for value without compromising on quality. With a rental location in Dubuque, Budget’s fleet includes popular choices like Fullsize and Economy cars, ensuring that you can find the perfect vehicle to suit your travel plans while managing your budget effectively.
• Avis: Avis stands out with its commitment to customer satisfaction, offering a rental location in Dubuque. If you're in search of a reliable vehicle, Avis's Midsize SUVs are a favourite among renters. This supplier is ideal for those who appreciate a balance of comfort and capability when exploring the local attractions and landscapes.

Where to stay in and around Dubuque

• Downtown Dubuque: This vibrant neighborhood offers a blend of family-friendly activities and cultural experiences. Notable attractions include the Dubuque Art Center for art enthusiasts, the Grand Opera House for those seeking romance and entertainment, and the Carnegie-Stout Public Library, perfect for families and culture lovers. Additionally, Downtown Dubuque is surrounded by excellent dining options such as wineries and breweries, making it a great base for your stay.
• East Dubuque: Located 3 km away, East Dubuque is ideal for travellers looking for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Explore the Crystal Lake Cave for a unique experience or enjoy the natural beauty at Eagle Point Park, which caters to families and outdoor enthusiasts. The Port of Dubuque Marina offers exciting water activities. Nearby wineries and breweries provide excellent options for relaxation after a day of adventure.
• Key West: Nestled in the Dubuque area, Key West is perfect for those interested in family activities and cultural exploration. Visit the Crystal Lake Cave for outdoor fun or enjoy the serene environment at Eagle Point Park. The local urban park and historic buildings add to the charm. With various dining options, including distilleries and restaurants, Key West provides a rich cultural experience, making it a delightful place to stay.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible to enjoy in the summer, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to access lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically come at a lower rental price and are easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also 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 car with a full tank to avoid incurring extra charges. This is typically the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
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 only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a simple process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of 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 Dubuque

The best value period to rent a car in and around Dubuque is March, when both prices and demand are low. Following closely, June also offers low prices and low demand, making it another attractive choice. April and May see average prices but high demand, while February stands out as the most expensive month, with average demand continuing through July and August. This pattern indicates that planning your rental during March or nearby months may provide the best balance of cost and availability.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	19.2°F (-7.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	21.7°F (-5.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	High
March	36.1°F (2.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Low
April	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
May	59.0°F (15.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
June	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Low
July	72.5°F (22.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	High
August	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	High
September	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Low
November	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	27.3°F (-2.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average