Car Rental Alpena, MI

These Alpena insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 22, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Alpena

Renting a car in Alpena offers you the freedom to explore this charming city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for sightseeing, outdoor adventures, or romantic getaways. Key attractions like Devils Lake, known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor experiences, are easily accessible. You can also visit the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, perfect for family-friendly adventures, or take a cultural trip to the Alpena County Library. The convenience of a rental car allows you to explore nearby cities, such as Ossineke and Herron, both just 11 miles away, where you can find unique attractions like the Thunder Bay River Lighthouse and Dinosaur Gardens Prehistorical Zoo. Additionally, Lachine, located 14 miles from Alpena, is home to more scenic spots like Devils Lake. Whether you're seeking outdoor activities, family experiences, or romantic scenery, a rental car provides the flexibility and convenience you need to make the most of your visit to Alpena and its beautiful surroundings.

Top rated car suppliers in Alpena

• Avis: Avis is the most popular car rental supplier in Alpena, offering 1 rental location in the area. Travelers appreciate the flexibility of renting a car from Avis, allowing them to explore local attractions at their own pace. The most booked vehicles are Midsize and Fullsize, making it easy for groups or families to manage their luggage comfortably. Avis is a reliable choice for those looking for quality vehicles and convenient service while visiting Alpena.

Where to stay around Alpena

• Ossineke: Located 11 miles from Alpena, Ossineke offers a charming escape with its stunning outdoor scenery and romantic atmosphere. Travelers can explore attractions like the Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statue, and the Dinosaur Gardens Prehistorical Zoo, ideal for family outings. Enjoy recreational activities at local campgrounds or golf courses, and relax by Hubbard Lake, perfect for a beach day or a scenic picnic.
• Herron: Also 11 miles from Alpena, Herron is a delightful spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can admire the historic Thunder Bay River Lighthouse and explore the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary for a mix of adventure and family-friendly fun. With opportunities for ice skating and amusement park activities, Herron provides a great blend of recreation and culture for a memorable stay.
• Lachine: Situated 14 miles away from Alpena, Lachine is known for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor experiences. Key attractions include the Thunder Bay River Lighthouse and the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, making it perfect for both adventure seekers and families. Enjoy the beauty of Devils Lake, which is ideal for a romantic day out or a scenic retreat. Lachine is also home to local wineries, offering delightful tastings for adults.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, making it wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to lock in lower rates and ensure better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a good compromise between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This age restriction can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always confirm the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is typically the most advantageous. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable; just be sure to return the vehicle empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards as payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help prevent unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, search for rental options that include unlimited mileage to avoid extra fees.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Alpena

The best time to rent a car in and around Alpena is November, when prices are slightly low and demand is at a manageable level. This period offers great value, making it an ideal choice. Additionally, January and February can be quiet options, with slightly low prices and low demand, although February is slightly high in price. In contrast, April tends to be the most expensive month, with higher prices and low demand, making it a busy time for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	22.8°F (-5.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Very Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	22.1°F (-5.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Very Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
March	29.8°F (-1.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	38.8°F (3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
May	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	59.5°F (15.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly Low
July	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
August	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
September	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	38.7°F (3.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	30.0°F (-1.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Alpena

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Alpena into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Alpena and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Alpena

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Alpena. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Alpena

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book .

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals