$42 Car Rental Downtown Tacoma, WA

These Downtown Tacoma insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: September 12, 2026.

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 Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.6°F (4.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	40.3°F (4.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	55.4°F (13.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
June	60.6°F (15.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	67.3°F (19.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	61.2°F (16.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
October	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	44.2°F (6.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average