$64 Car Rental Downtown Lincoln, NE

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What you need to know for your Downtown Lincoln car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Lincoln

Renting a car in Downtown Lincoln offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions like the Sheldon Museum of Art, which is ideal for cultural experiences, and is located within Downtown Lincoln. The historic Nebraska State Capitol is less than 1 mile away, providing another enriching stop. For families and outdoor enthusiasts, the Sunken Gardens, located 1 mile from Downtown, offers a beautiful urban park experience. A car also makes it convenient to explore nearby neighborhoods such as Haymarket and Near South, both less than 1 mile away, where you can find attractions like the Sheldon Museum of Art and the Nebraska State Capitol. This flexibility is especially beneficial for families, culture seekers, and sports fans, as it allows for easy luggage management and the ability to adjust travel plans as needed. Whether you're visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, renting a car in Downtown Lincoln enhances your travel experience by making it easier to discover all that the area has to offer.

Most popular car rentals around Downtown Lincoln

  • Standard: This car type accommodates up to 5 travelers and has space for up to 3 large suitcases. It’s an ideal choice for couples or families looking for comfort and ample room for luggage while exploring the attractions around Downtown Lincoln. With its spacious interior, the Standard car offers a pleasant driving experience for those who prefer a bit more room during their travels.
  • Compact: The Compact car is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families, accommodating up to 5 passengers with room for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is particularly great for navigating the streets of Downtown Lincoln, as its smaller size allows for easy parking and maneuverability. Enjoy the convenience of a fuel-efficient vehicle that makes city driving a breeze.
  • Midsize: Ideal for couples and families, the Midsize car comfortably accommodates up to 5 travelers and can handle up to 3 large suitcases. This option strikes a balance between size and efficiency, providing a roomy interior while remaining manageable for urban driving. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, the Midsize car offers the versatility you need for a smooth travel experience around Downtown Lincoln.

Top rated car suppliers around Downtown Lincoln

  • Avis: Located less than 1 mile away from Downtown Lincoln, Avis is a top choice for many travelers seeking convenience and reliable service. Known for its accessible location, Avis offers a range of vehicles tailored to suit your needs. The most booked options with this supplier include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, perfect for accommodating both passengers and luggage as you explore the area.
  • Enterprise: Situated 2 miles from Downtown Lincoln, Enterprise is another popular car rental option that provides flexibility for your travel plans. With a focus on customer satisfaction, this supplier offers a diverse selection of vehicles. Travelers frequently choose Midsize SUVs and Premium SUVs from Enterprise, making it an excellent choice for those looking for comfort and style during their adventures.
  • Hertz: Located 3 miles away from Downtown Lincoln, Hertz is well-regarded for its reliable service and wide array of vehicle choices. This supplier is particularly favored for its Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, which cater to various travel needs. Renting from Hertz allows you to enjoy the freedom of exploring Downtown Lincoln and its surroundings at your own pace.

Where to stay around Downtown Lincoln

  • Downtown Lincoln: The heart of the city, Downtown Lincoln offers a vibrant atmosphere with easy access to numerous cultural, sporting, and family-friendly attractions. Here, you can explore the historic Nebraska State Capitol, enjoy the serene beauty of the Sunken Gardens, or appreciate art at the Sheldon Museum of Art. This area is ideal for travelers seeking a mix of activities, dining, and nightlife.
  • Near South: Located just 1 mile away from Downtown Lincoln, Near South is a charming neighborhood that caters to families and culture enthusiasts alike. With attractions like the Sunken Gardens and the Nebraska State Capitol nearby, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and explore local history. The area also features theaters and educational venues, making it a great place for a well-rounded experience.
  • Haymarket: Less than 1 mile from Downtown Lincoln, Haymarket is known for its lively atmosphere, sports events, and cultural experiences. This neighborhood boasts easy access to the Nebraska State Capitol and the Sheldon Museum of Art, as well as local theaters and entertainment facilities. It's a fantastic spot for families and sports fans to enjoy the vibrant local scene while being close to key attractions.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect fit for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking early often allows you to lock in lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars tend to be more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size options strike a great balance between cost, 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 luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements operate on 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 advisable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Renting a car from an airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case something goes wrong during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Lincoln

The best value period for renting a car in and around Downtown Lincoln is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. January also offers good value with similar characteristics. Moving into March, prices and demand are average, making it a decent shoulder month. However, July tends to be the most expensive time, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand. June and August also see elevated prices and demand, making them less ideal for budget-conscious renters.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January25.3°F (-3.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February27.7°F (-2.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
March42.3°F (5.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May62.6°F (17.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
June74.1°F (23.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
July77.4°F (25.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August75.4°F (24.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September68.7°F (20.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November42.1°F (5.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
December30.0°F (-1.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$64
 
Our second best deal of the day
$69
 
Our third best deal of the day
$73
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies near Downtown Lincoln?
You can find cheap car rentals near Downtown Lincoln from $12 a day with Avis's special. Avis, Alamo Rent A Car, and Payless offer competitive rates. Avis provides economy 2 or 4 door cars starting from $16 a day, which is an excellent value for budget-conscious travelers. Alamo Rent A Car has special vehicles available from $19 a day, and Payless also offers economy 2 or 4 door cars starting from $19 a day. Comparing these suppliers on Expedia can help you find a car rental near Downtown Lincoln that fits your budget while still offering comfort and convenience for your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Downtown Lincoln.
What are the best luxury car companies near Downtown Lincoln?
For luxury car rentals near Downtown Lincoln, you can find premium options through providers like Alamo Rent A Car and Enterprise. Alamo Rent A Car offers premium crossover vehicles starting from $30 a day, providing a comfortable and stylish ride. Enterprise also features premium crossover options from $31 a day, along with premium pickup regular cab vehicles starting from $25 a day, which can be a unique luxury choice. These vehicles offer enhanced comfort and features, making them ideal for travelers seeking a more upscale experience in the Downtown Lincoln area. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Downtown Lincoln.
Can I rent a car one-way near Downtown Lincoln?
Yes, a one-way car rental near Downtown Lincoln is a convenient option for travelers planning to pick up their vehicle in the area and drop it off at a different location. One-way rentals start from around $22 a day, offering flexibility for regional road trips or onward travel. Providers like Alamo Rent A Car and Enterprise often have flexible one-way policies, allowing you to explore beyond the immediate Downtown Lincoln area without needing to return to your original pickup point. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Downtown Lincoln.
Can I rent a car round-trip near Downtown Lincoln?
Yes, round-trip car rentals near Downtown Lincoln are widely available and often the most cost-effective choice for exploring the area. Round-trip rentals start from $13 a day. Picking up and dropping off your vehicle at the same location generally helps you avoid one-way drop-off fees, making it ideal for visiting local attractions such as Memorial Stadium, Pinnacle Bank Arena, and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Providers like Alamo Rent A Car and Enterprise offer extensive round-trip availability, ensuring you have plenty of options for your travel plans. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Downtown Lincoln.
What are the best car rentals near Downtown Lincoln?
Car rentals near Downtown Lincoln offer extensive vehicle variety to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Special
  • Midsize SUV
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact SUV
Most vehicles come with automatic transmission, making driving convenient. Families visiting attractions often prefer SUVs or minivans for their space and comfort, while couples and solo travelers might find economy or compact cars more suitable for easy city navigation and fuel efficiency. Choose a vehicle based on your passenger count, luggage requirements, and planned activities. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Downtown Lincoln.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Lincoln for solo travelers?
The best car rentals near Downtown Lincoln for solo travelers are economy and compact classes, which are small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for exploring at your own pace.
  • Economy 2 or 4 door cars, starting from $16 a day—these fit up to 2 medium suitcases and are nimble for city streets and easy parking.
  • Compact 2 or 4 door cars, starting from $19 a day—these fit up to 3 medium suitcases, offering a bit more room for luggage while remaining fuel-efficient.
Both options comfortably accommodate a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you are planning longer drives to spots like Memorial Stadium, consider sizing up to a compact SUV, starting from $23 a day, for extra highway comfort and a higher ride. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Downtown Lincoln.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Lincoln for couples?
The best car rentals near Downtown Lincoln for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two travelers. Consider these options:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door cars, starting from $18 a day—these fit up to 3 large suitcases and offer smooth cruising for two.
  • Compact SUV, starting from $23 a day—these fit up to 3 medium suitcases and provide a higher ride for day trips around the region.
Both vehicle types give a couple comfortable seating and ample trunk space without being difficult to park. These options are perfect for exploring the Downtown Lincoln area and its surroundings comfortably. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Downtown Lincoln.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Lincoln for families?
The best car rentals near Downtown Lincoln for families are those with ample room for everyone and their gear. Consider these spacious options:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $22 a day—this seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases, making it suitable for families with car seats and luggage.
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $30 a day—this seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage.
SUVs and minivans provide the necessary space and comfort for family trips around the Downtown Lincoln area. It is advisable to book 4+ weeks ahead, especially for the September, June, and October peak months, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Downtown Lincoln.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars near Downtown Lincoln?
Yes, the area near Downtown Lincoln offers excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options. Alamo Rent A Car provides electric vehicles starting from $13 a day, and Enterprise also offers electric options from $13 a day. Additionally, hybrid vehicles are available from Alamo Rent A Car and Enterprise, both starting from $13 a day. Multiple rental companies near Downtown Lincoln carry electric and hybrid cars, which are widely available on Expedia. These vehicles can help you save on fuel costs, and the area has charging infrastructure to support your travels. Booking electric or hybrid vehicles 4-6 weeks ahead is recommended as demand can be high.
What is the best time to book a car near Downtown Lincoln?
From January, prices near Downtown Lincoln are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $16 a day during this period. September tends to be the busiest month, along with June and October, when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Demand climbs as travelers head to popular spots and activities such as:
  • Memorial Stadium
  • Pinnacle Bank Arena
  • University of Nebraska-Lincoln
  • Haymarket Park
  • Lincoln, NE: Murder Mystery Detective Experience
Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.

What is the weather like for driving near Downtown Lincoln?
Driving near Downtown Lincoln experiences varied conditions throughout the year. Traffic and demand tend to build around September, when routes to spots like Memorial Stadium get busiest—plan drives for quieter periods where you can. For reliable grip and traction in changing conditions, a midsize SUV offers good stability. Always check the forecast before longer trips and consider carrying water and an emergency kit, especially for routes that might take you further afield.
What are the best car companies near Downtown Lincoln?
Car rentals in the Downtown Lincoln area are available from trusted providers like Alamo Rent A Car, Enterprise, and Budget, offering a variety of vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Alamo Rent A Car has special and midsize SUV options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets, while Enterprise offers special and midsize SUV vehicles with more space and stability for highways. Budget rounds out the choices with special and fullsize 2 or 4 door vehicles. Choose a higher-clearance or all-wheel-drive class for varied terrain, and a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Downtown Lincoln.
What are good day trip destinations from Downtown Lincoln by rental car?
Top day-trip destinations within easy reach from Downtown Lincoln include:
  • Memorial Stadium, approximately 1 mile away
  • Pinnacle Bank Arena, approximately 1 mile away
  • University of Nebraska-Lincoln, approximately 1 mile away
  • Haymarket Park, approximately 2 miles away
  • Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, approximately 30 miles away
These distances are manageable for most car types, whether you prefer a compact car for city exploration or an SUV for a more comfortable ride to state parks. Booking a car with flexible cancellation policies can be beneficial if your day trip plans are weather-dependent, allowing you to adjust as needed. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Downtown Lincoln.

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Downtown Lincoln?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Downtown Lincoln. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Downtown Lincoln?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Downtown Lincoln?
Budget car rental in Downtown Lincoln can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $64. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Downtown Lincoln?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Downtown Lincoln. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Downtown Lincoln car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Downtown Lincoln?
To rent a car in Downtown Lincoln, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Downtown Lincoln car rental?
If you need to cancel your Downtown Lincoln car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Downtown Lincoln with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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