Car Rental Downtown Tacoma, WA

Search and Compare from Car Companies in Downtown Tacoma

Photo by Clinton Gage
I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car rentals
    Learn about One Key
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

Top Car Deals in Downtown Tacoma

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Tacoma, Washington, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Tacoma, Washington, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Tacoma, Washington, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Tacoma, Washington, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in Downtown Tacoma
View all cars

What you need to know for your Downtown Tacoma car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Tacoma

Renting a car in Downtown Tacoma offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city's rich cultural attractions at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit the Museum of Glass, Tacoma Art Museum, and Foss Waterway Seaport, all conveniently located within Downtown Tacoma. This is especially appealing for families, as it allows for easy luggage management and comfortable travel with children. Additionally, you can venture beyond Downtown Tacoma to nearby neighborhoods like New Tacoma and Hilltop, both less than 1 mile away, where you can find more attractions such as the Washington State Fair Events Center and LeMay Car Museum. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly adventure, a cultural experience, or a business-themed trip, having a rental car ensures you can navigate the area with convenience. You won’t have to rely on public transportation schedules, allowing you to create a flexible itinerary that suits your needs. Enjoy the sights of Tacoma and its surrounding neighborhoods with the ease of a rental car, making your visit memorable and stress-free.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown Tacoma

  • Midsize SUV: This option accommodates 5 travelers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. Midsize SUVs provide a comfortable ride while allowing you to explore the attractions in and around Downtown Tacoma without feeling cramped.
  • Economy: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families, this car type can fit 5 travelers and up to 2 medium suitcases. The economy option is a great choice for those who prioritize affordability and efficiency while navigating the streets of Downtown Tacoma.
  • Fullsize Van: Accommodating up to 10 travelers with space for 6 large suitcases, the fullsize van is an excellent choice for large families or groups. This vehicle ensures everyone can travel together comfortably, making it easy to manage your luggage while exploring the sights in and around Downtown Tacoma.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Tacoma

  • Enterprise: Enterprise is a top choice for travelers in Downtown Tacoma, boasting 3 rental locations, the nearest being in the heart of the neighborhood. Known for its excellent customer service, Enterprise offers a wide selection of vehicles, with Midsize and Fullsize cars being the most popular among renters. This supplier provides flexibility and convenience, making it easy for you to explore the area at your own pace.
  • Hertz: Hertz is another reliable option, located 3 miles away from Downtown Tacoma. Travelers appreciate Hertz for its well-maintained fleet and efficient service. The most booked vehicles from this supplier are Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, catering to a variety of travel needs. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Hertz ensures a seamless rental experience for your journey.
  • Budget: Budget offers convenient car rental options with a location situated in Downtown Tacoma. This supplier is popular for its competitive pricing and selection of vehicles, including Midsize SUVs and Economy models. Many travelers find Budget to be an excellent choice for those looking to manage their budgets without compromising on quality or service during their trip.

Where to stay around Downtown Tacoma

  • Downtown Tacoma: Staying in Downtown Tacoma offers convenient access to various attractions including the Museum of Glass, perfect for culture lovers. The area is surrounded by outdoor experiences, family-friendly venues, and scenic spots. Enjoy nearby dining options ranging from local restaurants to wineries. The Washington State Fair Events Center and Wild Waves Theme and Water Park are also within reach, providing fun for families and adventure seekers alike.
  • Gig Harbor: Located 9 miles from Downtown Tacoma, Gig Harbor is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and beautiful scenery. Key attractions include Sunrise Beach and Lake Minterwood, both perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities. The area features charming restaurants and wineries, making it a delightful spot for food enthusiasts. Explore Crescent Creek Park for a family-friendly urban park experience.
  • Auburn: Situated 11 miles from Downtown Tacoma, Auburn is a vibrant city that offers a mix of romantic and family-friendly experiences. Visit the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden for a serene nature escape or enjoy a fun day at FieldhouseUSA Auburn for sports activities. Local dining options include a variety of restaurants and cafes, enhancing your stay while enjoying the nearby national parks and lakes.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you’re in need of an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars typically come at a lower rental price and are easier to navigate in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age criteria prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals adhere to a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which can also be suitable. Just ensure to return the vehicle empty in this scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily 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 something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended 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 Tacoma

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Tacoma is January and February, when prices and demand are slightly low. This period offers good value for travelers looking to explore the area. March and April also present average prices and demand, making them decent shoulder months for rentals. However, prices begin to rise in May as demand increases, peaking in July and August when both prices and demand are slightly high, making it the most expensive time to rent a car.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January40.6°F (4.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February40.3°F (4.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April48.2°F (9.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May55.4°F (13.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
June60.6°F (15.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July66.7°F (19.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August67.3°F (19.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September61.2°F (16.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
October52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November44.2°F (6.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
 
Our second best deal of the day
 
Our third best deal of the day
 
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 Tacoma?
You can find cheap car rentals near Downtown Tacoma from $10 a day with Fox Rental Cars's economy 2/4 door. Sixt offers options such as a midsize SUV starting from $11 a day, while Avis provides economy 2 or 4 door cars also starting from $11 a day. Budget has compact 2 or 4 door cars available from $11 a day. Comparing these suppliers on Expedia can help you find a great value car rental near Downtown Tacoma that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Downtown Tacoma.
What are the best luxury car companies near Downtown Tacoma?
For luxury car rentals near Downtown Tacoma, you can find premium options through providers like Sixt and Alamo. Sixt offers fullsize elite SUVs starting from $16 a day, providing a comfortable and stylish ride. Alamo also specializes in luxury vehicles, with premium elite SUVs available from $30 a day. These luxury rentals often come with enhanced features and a more refined driving experience, perfect for those seeking extra comfort and sophistication during their trip. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Downtown Tacoma.
Can I rent a car one-way near Downtown Tacoma?
Yes, a one-way car rental near Downtown Tacoma is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from $10 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise may have flexible one-way policies, allowing you to pick up your vehicle near Downtown Tacoma and drop it off at a different location. This flexibility is ideal for travelers planning to explore beyond the immediate area without needing to return to their original pickup point. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Downtown Tacoma.
Can I rent a car round-trip near Downtown Tacoma?
Yes, the area near Downtown Tacoma is well suited to round-trip rentals, with options starting from $10 a day. Picking up and dropping off your rental car at the same location generally helps avoid one-way drop-off fees, making it a cost-effective choice for exploring the region. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise offer wide round-trip availability, perfect for visiting attractions such as Tacoma Dome, Mount Rainier National Park, and Olympic National Park, before returning to the Downtown Tacoma area. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Downtown Tacoma.
What are the best car rentals near Downtown Tacoma?
Car rentals near Downtown Tacoma offer extensive vehicle variety to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize SUV
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
Most vehicles come with automatic transmission, offering ease of driving. 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 city navigation and fuel efficiency. Choose a car based on your passenger count, luggage needs, and planned activities. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Downtown Tacoma.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Tacoma for solo travelers?
Good car rentals near Downtown Tacoma for solo travelers include economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door cars, starting from $11 a day—these fit up to 2 medium suitcases, are nimble on city streets, and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 2 or 4 door cars, starting from $11 a day—these fit up to 3 medium suitcases, offering a little 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 scenic spots like Mount Rainier National Park, consider sizing up to a compact SUV for extra highway comfort and a higher ride. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Downtown Tacoma.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Tacoma for couples?
The best car rentals near Downtown Tacoma for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door cars, starting from $11 a day—these fit up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $14 a day—these fit up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both options provide comfortable seating and ample trunk space without being difficult to park. For a special trip, consider a convertible for scenic drives around the Downtown Tacoma area, offering an open-air experience. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Downtown Tacoma.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Tacoma for families?
The best car rentals near Downtown Tacoma for families are those with ample room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $11 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $26 a day—seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and minivans provide comfortable space for the whole family, car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most suitable fit for trips around the Downtown Tacoma area. Booking 4 or more weeks ahead can help with availability, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during the June-July peak months. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Downtown Tacoma.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars near Downtown Tacoma?
Yes, the area near Downtown Tacoma has excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options. Sixt offers electric vehicles starting from $14 a day, and Avis also provides electric options from $14 a day. For hybrid choices, Budget has hybrid vehicles available from $10 a day, and Enterprise offers hybrid options starting from $20 a day. Multiple rental companies near Downtown Tacoma carry electric and hybrid cars, which are widely available on Expedia. These vehicles can offer fuel savings, and the region has public charging infrastructure to support your travels.
What is the best time to book a car near Downtown Tacoma?
From January, prices near Downtown Tacoma are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $11 a day during this period. July tends to be the busiest month, 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:
  • Tacoma Dome
  • Mount Rainier National Park
  • Olympic National Park
  • Shared 3 Hour Sunset Cruise from Gig Harbor on Puget Sound
  • Issaquah Salmon Days Festival
Booking 3–4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24 or more hours before pickup—consider booking early and rebooking if rates drop.

What are the best car companies near Downtown Tacoma?
Car rentals in the Downtown Tacoma area are available from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt has midsize SUV and fullsize 2 or 4 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Enterprise offers midsize 2 or 4 door and midsize SUV vehicles with more space and stability for highways. Alamo rounds out the choices with compact 2 or 4 door and midsize 2 or 4 door vehicles. For exploring varied terrain or during certain seasons, a higher-clearance SUV can be beneficial, while a compact car is excellent for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Downtown Tacoma.
What are good day trip destinations from Downtown Tacoma by rental car?
Top day-trip destinations and events within easy reach from Downtown Tacoma include:
  • Tacoma Dome, approximately 2 miles away
  • Mount Rainier National Park, approximately 52 miles away
  • Olympic National Park, approximately 84 miles away
  • Seattle Waterfront, approximately 30 miles away
  • Issaquah Salmon Days Festival
These distances are manageable for most car types, though a midsize SUV can offer extra comfort for longer drives to national 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 Tacoma.

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 Tacoma?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Downtown Tacoma. 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 Tacoma?
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 Tacoma?
Budget car rental in Downtown Tacoma can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . 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 Tacoma?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Downtown Tacoma. 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 Tacoma car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Downtown Tacoma?
To rent a car in Downtown Tacoma, 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 Tacoma car rental?
If you need to cancel your Downtown Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia