Car Rental Arlington, IL

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Arlington

Renting a car in Arlington, Illinois, offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage your luggage as you travel to various attractions. You might want to visit the Wild Bill Hickok Memorial, located 9 miles away, or immerse yourself in local history at the Mendota Museum and Historical Society, just 8 miles from Arlington. The Hegeler Carus Mansion, a historic house, is also a short drive at 13 miles away.

A rental car is particularly beneficial for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. You can easily head to nearby cities like Peru, 12 miles away, where you can enjoy Matthiessen State Park, or explore Cherry and Clarion, both 4 miles away, which feature attractions such as Baker Park and the Tri-County Fairgrounds. Having a rental car allows you to create flexible travel plans, making it simple to discover the rich culture and beautiful scenery around Arlington without relying on public transportation.

Where to stay around Arlington

• Cherry: Located only 4 miles away from Arlington, Cherry offers a serene experience for travelers seeking outdoor adventures and scenic views. Key highlights include the historic Hegeler Carus Mansion, perfect for culture enthusiasts, and Baker Park, an urban park ideal for family outings and outdoor activities. This charming neighborhood is recommended during the warmer months for optimal outdoor enjoyment.
• Mendota: Situated 9 miles from Arlington, Mendota is a fantastic destination for families and adventure seekers. Explore the Wild Bill Hickok Memorial and the Mendota Museum and Historical Society for a cultural dive into local history. The area also features beautiful recreational spaces and urban parks, making it a great spot for outdoor activities, especially in spring and summer.
• Peru: Just 12 miles from Arlington, Peru is a vibrant city known for its outdoor and family-friendly experiences. Visit the stunning Matthiessen State Park for breathtaking scenery and adventurous trails, or enjoy the waterpark for a refreshing day out. The Hegeler Carus Mansion and the Illinois & Michigan Canal are also must-see attractions. Peru is especially enjoyable in the warmer months, when outdoor activities are plentiful.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you find the ideal match for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your journey. By booking early, you’re likely to secure better rates and have more availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars typically cost less to rent and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size options 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 types—such as SUVs or premium cars—might not be available. This may also apply to renters over 70 years old. Be sure to verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
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 additional charges. This is often the most favorable option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can be convenient as well; just remember to return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports usually incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies accept only credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long 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 necessary to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Arlington

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Arlington

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Arlington. 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 Arlington

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