$36 Car Rental Downtown Chicago, IL

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Chicago

Renting a car in Downtown Chicago offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at their own pace. This option is particularly appealing for business travelers, weekend adventurers, and families, as it simplifies luggage management and allows for flexible travel plans. With a rental car, you can easily visit iconic attractions like Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park, all located in Downtown Chicago. Additionally, popular destinations such as the Magnificent Mile and The Loop are conveniently just 0.5 miles away, while River North is a short 0.8 miles from Downtown.

A rental vehicle is especially beneficial for families, providing ample space for strollers and luggage while keeping everyone together. Whether you are seeking outdoor experiences or vibrant city life, having a car allows you to navigate easily between attractions without relying on public transportation. With so much to see and experience in and around Downtown Chicago, a rental car ensures a more enjoyable and convenient trip, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore the area comprehensively.

Most popular car rentals in Downtown Chicago

• Midsize SUV: This car option is perfect for families, couples, or small groups, comfortably fitting up to 5 travelers along with 3 large suitcases. Renting a midsize SUV in Downtown Chicago allows you to navigate the urban landscape while enjoying ample space and comfort. It's an excellent choice for those looking to explore the city and its surroundings at a leisurely pace, making it easy to manage luggage and travel plans.
• Fullsize: Ideal for families and groups, the fullsize car accommodates up to 5 travelers and offers room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases. This option provides the flexibility needed for weekend getaways or business trips, allowing you to travel comfortably and efficiently around Downtown Chicago. The extra space is great for those who want to carry more luggage without compromising on passenger comfort.
• Compact: Best suited for solo travelers, couples, or small families, the compact car fits up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is particularly advantageous for navigating the busy streets of Downtown Chicago, as it allows for easier parking and maneuverability. Renting a compact car provides an economical choice for travelers looking to explore the city with minimal hassle.

Top rated car suppliers in Downtown Chicago

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is known for its efficient service with one rental location in Downtown Chicago. Travelers appreciate the quick pickup process and the friendly staff. Popular choices from Alamo include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, perfect for navigating the city and surrounding areas. With a focus on cleanliness and hassle-free returns, Alamo provides a reliable option for those looking to explore Chicago at their own pace.
• Hertz: Hertz operates two rental locations in Downtown Chicago, making it convenient for travelers. This supplier is favored for its selection of Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, catering to various travel needs. Customers often highlight the straightforward rental process and the quality of vehicles, ensuring a smooth driving experience while you enjoy the attractions in and around the city.
• Budget: Budget also features two rental locations within Downtown Chicago, providing flexibility and convenience for tourists. Known for offering competitive rates, Budget's popular vehicle choices include Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, which are ideal for families and groups. Customers appreciate the ease of pickup and drop-off, making Budget a practical choice for exploring the vibrant city of Chicago.

Where to go around Downtown Chicago

• Magnificent Mile: Located 0.5 miles from Downtown Chicago, Magnificent Mile is a vibrant neighborhood known for its shopping, family-friendly attractions, and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore Michigan Avenue, the Chicago Riverwalk, and Millennium Park, all of which are ideal for a city vacation. The peak visitor seasons are from March to April and July, making it a lively spot during these times.
• The Loop: Also situated 0.5 miles from Downtown Chicago, The Loop is a dynamic area perfect for families and those seeking outdoor activities. Key attractions include Michigan Avenue, Millennium Park, and the Chicago Riverwalk, which offer a mix of urban parks and entertainment venues. Visitor numbers are highest from March to April and July, providing a bustling atmosphere during these months.
• River North: Located 0.8 miles away from Downtown Chicago, River North is known for its vibrant arts scene, theaters, and shopping areas. Key points of interest include Michigan Avenue, the Chicago Riverwalk, and Millennium Park, making it an excellent choice for family and outdoor experiences. The neighborhood sees its peak visitors from March to April and July, enhancing its lively appeal during these periods.

10 tips to save on your Downtown Chicago car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best options 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 in advance, you are more likely to find lower rates and greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between affordability, 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 luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most economical choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as long as you return the car 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 make it worthwhile.
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 in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
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 Downtown Chicago

The best value period to rent a car in and around Downtown Chicago is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. Following these months, April and May offer average prices with slightly low to average demand, making them good shoulder periods to consider. However, July typically sees the highest prices and demand, as summer tourism peaks. June and August also experience slightly high pricing and busy rental activity, making them less ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	25.7°F (-3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	27.0°F (-2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	37.0°F (2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	33.1°F (0.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average