$35 Car Rental Downtown Detroit, MI

These Downtown Detroit insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 23, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Detroit

Renting a car in and around Downtown Detroit is a great choice for travelers looking to explore the area at their own pace. With a rental car, you gain the freedom and flexibility to visit key attractions such as the GM Renaissance Center and Hart Plaza, both located within Downtown Detroit. Additionally, you can easily reach the Motown Museum, which is just 3 miles away, making it convenient for culture enthusiasts. A rental car is particularly appealing for families, as it allows for easy luggage management and keeps everyone together while exploring the city.

Moreover, with a vehicle, you can venture into nearby neighborhoods like Greektown Historic District and Lafayette Park, both less than 1 mile from Downtown Detroit, which feature additional attractions. This is especially beneficial for those seeking romantic outings or family-related experiences. Navigating Detroit's roads is straightforward, ensuring that you can make the most of your time in the city. Whether you are visiting for sightseeing or a special occasion, renting a car enhances your travel experience by allowing you to create flexible travel plans and explore at your leisure.

Most popular car rentals around Downtown Detroit

• Fullsize Van: Ideal for large families or groups, the Fullsize Van accommodates up to 10 travelers and offers space for up to 6 large suitcases. This option is perfect for those needing ample room for passengers and luggage while exploring Downtown Detroit and its surrounding areas, providing comfort and convenience for group travel.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers and allowing for 3 large suitcases. With its spacious interior and versatile design, this vehicle offers a great balance between comfort and practicality, making it perfect for navigating the urban landscape of Downtown Detroit.
• Premium Pickup: Designed for adventure travelers and families, the Premium Pickup also accommodates 5 travelers with space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is well-suited for those looking to combine comfort with the capability to handle a variety of terrains, making it a fantastic choice for exploring both the city and the surrounding areas.

Top rated car suppliers around Downtown Detroit

• Enterprise: Enterprise has established itself as a top choice for car rentals in Downtown Detroit, with three conveniently located rental sites within 2 miles of the neighborhood. Travelers frequently opt for their Midsize SUV and Fullsize vehicles, which are well-suited for both city driving and longer excursions. Known for its excellent customer service and flexible rental options, Enterprise makes the car rental experience smooth and enjoyable for visitors.
• Budget: Budget provides reliable car rental services with a location situated 9 miles from Downtown Detroit. This supplier is popular among travelers looking for affordability without compromising on quality. Their Midsize SUV and Standard SUV are among the most booked options, offering a great balance of space and efficiency for your adventures in and around the city. Budget is an excellent option for those seeking economical choices for their travels.
• Avis: Avis also offers a solid car rental option with a location 9 miles away from Downtown Detroit. Known for its well-maintained vehicles, Avis features Midsize SUV and Standard SUV as popular choices among renters. Their reputation for providing quality service and dependable vehicles makes them a trusted supplier for travelers looking to explore the area comfortably and conveniently.

Where to stay around Downtown Detroit

• Downtown Detroit: The heart of the city, Downtown Detroit is ideal for travelers seeking a vibrant urban experience. With attractions such as the GM Renaissance Center, a prominent skyscraper, and the Henry Ford Museum, this area caters to family, romantic, and city-themed adventures. Enjoy shopping at local centers and explore nearby restaurants and bars for a taste of Detroit's culinary scene.
• Greektown Historic District: Located less than 1 mile from Downtown, Greektown Historic District offers a blend of city charm and romantic ambiance. With access to entertainment venues, including theaters and arenas, this neighborhood is perfect for both leisure and business visitors. Key highlights include Hart Plaza and the Motown Museum, along with numerous dining options that enhance the local experience.
• Dearborn: Situated 7 miles away from Downtown Detroit, Dearborn is an excellent destination for those interested in cultural experiences. It features notable attractions like the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village, making it suitable for family-themed vacations. Additionally, the area boasts shopping malls and various dining experiences, providing a delightful contrast to the bustling city life of Detroit.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car to save money, use 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 book your car well in advance of your trip. By reserving early, you’re likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. 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 vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Other rentals might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just remember 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 convenience may be worth the extra cost.
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 something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid any extra 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 Detroit

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Detroit is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. April is another good option, as prices remain slightly low while demand picks up a bit. March and September offer average prices and demand, making them decent choices as well. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, with both prices and demand rising. June through August also see heightened demand and higher rental costs.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	25.3°F (-3.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	26.2°F (-3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	36.3°F (2.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
May	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
June	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	74.1°F (23.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	41.9°F (5.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	32.9°F (0.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average