$64 Car Rental Downtown Des Moines, IA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Des Moines

Renting a car in Downtown Des Moines provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace, making it an ideal choice for business travelers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts. With a rental car, you can easily access key attractions such as Casey's Center, located within Downtown Des Moines, which offers numerous entertainment experiences. Additionally, the Iowa State Fairgrounds, just 4 miles away, and Adventureland, located 8 miles from downtown, are perfect for family and outdoor activities.

A car also allows for convenient exploration of nearby neighborhoods. The Court District, only 0.3 miles away, features attractions like the Iowa Events Center and the Iowa State Capitol Building. If you're looking for a unique experience, the Historic East Village, situated 0.8 miles from downtown, offers a vibrant atmosphere. For those heading to Drake, which is 2 miles from Downtown Des Moines, you can easily visit Drake University and additional local sites. Renting a car ensures easy luggage management and the flexibility to create your own travel plans, making your visit to Downtown Des Moines enjoyable and hassle-free.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown Des Moines

• Midsize: The midsize car is a popular choice among travelers in Downtown Des Moines, comfortably fitting 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for couples and families who need a balance between space and efficiency. Whether you’re navigating the city or heading out for a day trip, the midsize car provides ample room for both passengers and luggage, making it a reliable choice for your travel needs.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car offers even more versatility, accommodating 5 travelers with the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for families and groups who require extra space for both passengers and their belongings. With its spacious interior, the fullsize car allows for comfortable travel around Downtown Des Moines, ensuring everyone has room to relax as you explore the area.
• Compact: If you’re looking for a smaller, more economical option, the compact car fits 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This choice is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or smaller families who want to navigate Downtown Des Moines with ease. The compact design makes parking and maneuvering in urban settings simpler, while still providing sufficient space for your luggage and travel essentials.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Des Moines

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is known for its friendly service and efficient operations, making it a popular choice among travelers. Located just 4 miles away from Downtown Des Moines, Alamo boasts an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10. Customers often highlight their short wait times and the cleanliness of the vehicles. The most booked cars with Alamo include Midsize SUVs and Premium SUVs, offering reliable options for those looking to explore the area comfortably.
• Hertz: With a location 4 miles from Downtown Des Moines, Hertz is a well-regarded car rental supplier known for its wide selection of vehicles. Customers frequently choose Midsize and Fullsize cars, which provide ample space for passengers and luggage. Hertz's reputation for quality and service makes it a great option for those seeking a dependable rental experience while exploring the sights of Des Moines.
• Payless: Payless, situated 4 miles from Downtown Des Moines, offers competitive pricing and a straightforward rental process. Most travelers opt for Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, which are ideal for both solo travelers and families. The supplier is recognized for its efficient service, making it a convenient choice for those looking to navigate the city and its surroundings with ease.

Where to go around Downtown Des Moines

• Court District: Located 0.3 miles away from Downtown Des Moines, Court District is an engaging neighborhood perfect for family and business experiences. Visitors can enjoy a variety of entertainment options, including the arena entertainment facility at Casey's Center and the Iowa Events Center, which also serves as an event conference venue. For a touch of culture, the historic Iowa State Capitol Building is nearby, making it a great spot for exploration.
• Historic East Village: Situated 0.8 miles from Downtown Des Moines, Historic East Village is a vibrant area ideal for family and city experiences. The neighborhood features a shopping mall center and the Casey's Center for entertainment. The Iowa Events Center is also close by, making it suitable for business travelers. Don't miss the chance to explore the historic Iowa State Capitol Building, adding a cultural touch to your visit.
• Drake: About 2 miles from Downtown Des Moines, Drake is a neighborhood rich in culture and educational experiences. Visitors can explore the modern Drake University, which offers an engaging atmosphere. The area is home to the arena entertainment facility at Casey's Center and the Iowa Events Center, catering to both family and business needs. Enjoy the local fairgrounds and nearby lake, enhancing your overall experience in Drake.

10 tips to save on your Downtown Des Moines car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for warm-weather driving, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to maneuver 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 fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions 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 charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are also acceptable; just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
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 you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if unforeseen issues arise during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning 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 Des Moines

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Des Moines is December, when prices are slightly low and demand is also low. January and April follow closely, offering good value with similar pricing and demand characteristics. However, June through August see higher prices and demand, making it the most expensive time to rent. As demand peaks in August, it’s wise to plan ahead if you’re looking to visit during those busy summer months.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	21.7°F (-5.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	24.1°F (-4.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
March	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	71.8°F (22.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	74.8°F (23.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
November	40.5°F (4.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	29.3°F (-1.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low