Car Rentals in Minneapolis, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Minneapolis

Renting a car in Minneapolis provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This convenience is ideal for families, business travellers, and those looking for a city-themed experience. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Minneapolis Institute of Art and the Basilica of Saint Mary, both located in the heart of Minneapolis. The scenic Lake Harriet is also accessible, offering a lovely spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Additionally, a car allows you to discover the wider Minneapolis - St. Paul metropolis, including popular destinations like Nickelodeon Universe and the picturesque Lake Minnetonka. Downtown Minneapolis is another must-see, with attractions such as the Mill City Museum and the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. The Warehouse District is also nearby, featuring Minnehaha Park and more cultural experiences. With a rental car, you can manage your luggage easily and adapt your travel plans to suit your needs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit to Minneapolis and its vibrant surroundings.

Most popular car hires in Minneapolis

• Midsize SUV: This popular choice accommodates 5 travellers with ample space for up to 3 large suitcases. Midsize SUVs are ideal for families, couples, or small groups, providing the perfect balance between comfort and cargo capacity. Their versatility makes them suitable for both city driving and exploring the wider Minnesota area, ensuring you can enjoy your trip without worrying about luggage space.
• Standard SUV: Accommodating 5 travellers while fitting in up to 2 medium suitcases, standard SUVs are a fantastic option for couples, families, or groups seeking a comfortable ride. With their spacious interiors, these vehicles offer a smooth driving experience, allowing you to navigate Minneapolis and its surroundings with ease, while still providing enough room for your belongings.
• Fullsize: This car option is perfect for those travelling with family or groups, as it accommodates 5 travellers with the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. Fullsize cars provide generous space and comfort, making them ideal for longer journeys around Minneapolis. Whether you're planning day trips or simply need extra room for luggage, a fullsize vehicle ensures a convenient and enjoyable driving experience.

Top rated car suppliers in Minneapolis

• Thrifty Car Hire: Thrifty Car Hire has a rental location conveniently situated in Minneapolis, making it accessible for travellers looking to explore the area. This supplier is particularly noted for its popular Midsize SUV and Compact vehicles, which are ideal for navigating the urban landscape as well as venturing into nearby attractions. Customers appreciate the straightforward rental process, which allows for a hassle-free experience while managing luggage and creating personalised itineraries.
• Dollar Rent A Car: Dollar Rent A Car also features a rental location in Minneapolis, providing an excellent choice for those seeking flexibility during their travels. With a focus on Midsize SUV and Compact vehicles, Dollar caters to a variety of needs, whether you are travelling alone or with family. Many customers highlight the efficiency of the rental process and the straightforward pick-up and drop-off procedures that enhance the overall experience.
• Budget: Budget offers a reliable car hire option with its rental location in Minneapolis, ensuring easy access for tourists. Known for its Midsize SUV and Standard SUV offerings, Budget is well-suited for travellers who require extra space for luggage or passengers. Customers value Budget's competitive pricing and the convenience of their services, allowing for a smooth and enjoyable driving experience as you explore the sights and sounds of Minneapolis and its surroundings.

Where to stay in Minneapolis

• Minneapolis - St. Paul: This vibrant metropolis is ideal for family, city, or business-themed experiences. You can explore attractions like Nickelodeon Universe, a family-friendly amusement park, and Lake Minnetonka, perfect for scenic outdoor activities. The area also offers dining options ranging from restaurants to wineries, making it a well-rounded choice for your stay.
• Downtown Minneapolis: Nestled in the heart of the city, Downtown Minneapolis is known for its family-friendly and business-oriented atmosphere. It features notable landmarks such as the Basilica of Saint Mary and Mill City Museum, both rich in culture. The nearby Minnesota State Fairgrounds adds to the lively environment, complemented by numerous restaurants and alcohol wineries for dining.
• Calhoun Isles: For those seeking outdoor and romantic experiences, Calhoun Isles is an excellent choice. This picturesque neighbourhood is home to the Chain of Lakes, ideal for beautiful scenery and leisurely activities. The Walker Art Center adds a cultural touch, while the proximity to recreational areas ensures a pleasant stay amidst nature.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Minneapolis

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting specific vehicle types and features. Whether you're after an SUV for added space, a convertible for those sunny days, or a compact car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy a greater selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come with lower rental fees and are easier to manoeuvre and park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 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 the age of 70. 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 must return the vehicle with a full tank to avert additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Other rentals may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel alternatives, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, although the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards as a method of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and provides additional peace of mind during your travels. Adding car hire insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Minneapolis

The best time to rent a car in and around Minneapolis is September, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. October and November also offer moderately priced options with steady demand. However, July sees the highest prices and demand, making it the most expensive month for rentals. August follows closely with high demand as well, leading to increased rental costs. June experiences slightly high pricing and average demand, further contributing to the busyness of summer months.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	14.9°F (-9.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	16.9°F (-8.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	32.5°F (0.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
April	44.4°F (6.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	58.6°F (14.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
June	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	73.6°F (23.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	64.4°F (18.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	49.3°F (9.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	35.4°F (1.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	21.9°F (-5.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average