$45 Car Rental Downtown Chicago, IL

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Chicago

Renting a car in Downtown Chicago offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel itinerary that suits your needs. This is especially beneficial for families looking to visit attractions like the Field Museum of Natural History, located just 2 miles away, or those wanting to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Navy Pier, situated within Downtown Chicago. Additionally, a rental car allows you to explore nearby neighborhoods such as the Magnificent Mile and The Loop, both less than 1 mile away, where you can experience iconic sites like Michigan Avenue and Millennium Park. Whether you are seeking family-friendly activities or a chance to enjoy the outdoor city environment, having your own vehicle ensures that you can visit these popular destinations conveniently and comfortably. Renting a car in Downtown Chicago truly enhances your sightseeing experience, making it easier to discover everything this lively metropolis has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Downtown Chicago

• Midsize: This car option accommodates up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for couples and families. If you're looking for a comfortable ride that provides ample space for both passengers and luggage, the midsize car is a popular choice for exploring Downtown Chicago at your own pace.
• Compact: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families, the compact car also accommodates up to 5 travelers with room for 3 medium suitcases. Its smaller size makes it convenient for navigating the busy streets of Downtown Chicago and finding parking, while still offering enough space for your luggage needs.
• Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, and groups, the standard SUV holds up to 5 travelers and provides space for 2 medium suitcases. This option combines comfort and versatility, making it a great choice for those who want a higher driving position and more room for passengers. The standard SUV is a favored choice for exploring the vibrant city and its surroundings.

Top rated car suppliers in Downtown Chicago

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travelers for its single rental location in Downtown Chicago. Known for its quick pickup process and friendly staff, Alamo provides a selection of well-maintained vehicles. The most booked options are Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, which offer a comfortable and practical choice for exploring the city. Travelers appreciate the hassle-free returns and cleanliness of the cars, making Alamo a reliable option for your rental needs.
• Hertz: With two convenient rental locations in Downtown Chicago, Hertz is a favored supplier offering flexibility for travelers. Customers often choose Midsize SUVs and Economy cars due to their suitability for urban driving and parking. Hertz is recognized for its efficient service and variety of vehicle options, ensuring that you can find the right fit for your trip. The ease of access to multiple locations enhances the overall rental experience for visitors to the city.
• Enterprise: Enterprise stands out with three rental locations throughout Downtown Chicago, making it highly accessible for travelers. Customers frequently opt for Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, which are ideal for navigating the bustling city streets. Known for its exceptional customer service, Enterprise is praised for its helpful staff and smooth check-in process. This supplier is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and accommodating rental experience while exploring Chicago.

Where to stay around Downtown Chicago

• Downtown Chicago: Nestled in the heart of the city, Downtown Chicago is an excellent choice for tourists seeking a vibrant city experience. Visitors can explore famous attractions like Millennium Park and Navy Pier, both easily accessible. The area is rich in shopping options and dining experiences, featuring a variety of restaurants and wineries. Perfect for family outings or outdoor activities, Downtown Chicago offers a dynamic urban environment with plenty of entertainment venues, including theaters and sports facilities.
• Magnificent Mile: Located less than 1 mile from Downtown Chicago, Magnificent Mile is renowned for its shopping and dining options. This bustling neighborhood is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, with attractions such as Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier within close reach. Visitors can also enjoy the serene atmosphere of nearby urban parks. Magnificent Mile features various educational activities and arena entertainment facilities, making it a versatile spot for all types of travelers.
• The Loop: The Loop, situated less than 1 mile from Downtown Chicago, is a lively neighborhood filled with cultural experiences. This area is known for its theaters and shopping areas, attracting families and city-themed travelers alike. Local landmarks like Millennium Park and urban parks provide perfect spots for relaxation and outdoor activities. The Loop's proximity to sports facilities and entertainment venues enhances its appeal, while various restaurants and wineries offer delightful dining options for visitors.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Downtown Chicago

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and key features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best 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 car well ahead of your trip. Booking early often results in lower rates and improved availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded locations. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. 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 additional fees. This is typically the most favorable option. Other policies may allow full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car 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: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help prevent unexpected costs and offers peace of mind if anything unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra fees.
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 time to rent a car in and around Downtown Chicago is January, when both prices and demand are slightly low. February continues this trend, offering quiet conditions and good value. March sees a slight increase in demand, while April and May bring average prices with demand rising. The summer months, particularly July and August, become the most expensive and busiest periods for rentals, 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	Slightly Low	Average
April	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	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	Average	Slightly Low