Car Rental Grand Marais, MN

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What you need to know for your Grand Marais car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Grand Marais

Renting a car in Grand Marais offers significant freedom and flexibility for your travels. This popular choice allows you to explore attractions at your own pace, enjoy easy luggage management, and create flexible travel plans. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking scenic experiences, having a rental car lets you visit key locations like the Eagle Mountain Trailhead, where adventure awaits, and the Gunflint Trail Historical Society for a touch of culture. You can also check out the historic Cook County Court House while you're in the area. Beyond Grand Marais, a rental car makes it convenient to discover nearby destinations. Lutsen, just 17 miles away, features beautiful spots like Caribou Lake and Cascade River State Park. The charming city of Croftville, located nearby, boasts the Grand Marais Art Colony and Devils Track Falls State Wayside. If you're looking to venture further, Hovland is 21 miles from Grand Marais and is home to the Grand Portage National Monument and Judge Magney State Park. With a rental car, you can easily navigate these attractions and enjoy a personalized travel experience.

Where to stay in and around Grand Marais

  • Grand Marais: This charming town is known for its beautiful waterfront and vibrant arts community. Visitors can explore the Grand Marais Art Colony, which showcases local artists and hosts various workshops. The town is a great base for outdoor adventures, with nearby hiking trails and access to stunning lakes. Grand Marais is ideal for those seeking a mix of culture and outdoor experiences.
  • Lutsen: Located 17 miles away, Lutsen is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. Known for its ski resorts and outdoor activities, it offers attractions like Cascade River State Park for breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. Additionally, Caribou Lake is perfect for those looking for a scenic beach experience. Lutsen is also home to various food and drink options, including local wineries and breweries.
  • Croftville: Situated near Grand Marais, Croftville is a quaint village that emphasizes outdoor and scenic experiences. Visitors can enjoy recreational areas and winter sports facilities. Key attractions include the historic Cook County Court House and Devils Track Falls State Wayside, which offer a glimpse into the area's natural beauty and rich history. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the local wineries nearby.
  • Hovland: About 21 miles from Grand Marais, Hovland is perfect for those who love the outdoors and scenic landscapes. With attractions like Judge Magney State Park and the stunning High Falls waterfall, Hovland offers numerous opportunities for adventure and romance. The area also has local wineries for those interested in sampling regional beverages while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Grand Marais

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often results in lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, 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 be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most favorable option. Other rentals may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which is acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  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: Most car rental companies primarily 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 unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory for renting a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Grand Marais

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Grand Marais into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Grand Marais and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Grand Marais

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Grand Marais. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Grand Marais

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book .

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Grand Marais?
You can find cheap car rentals in Grand Marais from $13 a day with Enterprise's special. Enterprise has special cars starting from $13 a day and midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $15 a day. Budget also offers economy 2 or 4 door cars starting from $13 a day and compact 2 or 4 door cars starting from $15 a day. Comparing these suppliers on Expedia can help you find a car rental in Grand Marais that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Grand Marais.
What are the best luxury car companies in Grand Marais?
For luxury car rentals in Grand Marais, you can find premium options through providers like Enterprise. Enterprise offers premium pickup regular cab vehicles starting from $21 a day and premium crossover options starting from $33 a day. Avis also provides options such as a standard special car starting from $71 a day. These luxury rentals offer enhanced comfort and features for a more elevated travel experience. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Grand Marais.
Can I rent a car one-way in Grand Marais?
Yes, a one-way car rental in Grand Marais is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $41 a day. This allows you to pick up your vehicle in Grand Marais and drop it off at a different location, offering flexibility for extended travel plans. Providers like Enterprise, Budget, and Avis may have flexible one-way policies, making them good choices for planning your journey. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Grand Marais.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Grand Marais?
Grand Marais is well suited to round-trip rentals, with options starting from $13 a day. Picking up and dropping off your rental car at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring areas near Grand Marais and returning to the same spot. You can visit attractions such as Gunflint Trail Historical Society, Lutsen Mountains, and Devil Track Lake. Providers like Enterprise, Budget, and Avis offer wide round-trip availability, giving you plenty of choice for your travel plans. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Grand Marais.
What are the best car rentals in Grand Marais?
Car rentals in Grand Marais offer extensive vehicle variety to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Special
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
  • Compact SUV
  • Midsize SUV
Most vehicles come with automatic transmission, making driving convenient. Families visiting attractions often prefer SUVs for extra space and comfort, while couples and solo travelers might find economy or compact cars more suitable for easy navigation and fuel efficiency. Choose your vehicle based on the number of passengers, luggage requirements, and your budget. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Grand Marais.

What are the best car rentals in Grand Marais for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Grand Marais for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and economical to run for one person exploring at their own pace. An economy 2 or 4 door car, starting from $17 a day, fits up to 2 medium suitcases and is nimble on city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces. A compact 2 or 4 door car, starting from $15 a day, fits up to 3 medium suitcases, offering a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient. Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you are planning longer drives to spots like Gunflint Trail Historical Society, consider sizing up to a compact SUV for extra highway comfort. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Grand Marais.
What are the best car rentals in Grand Marais for couples?
The best car rentals in Grand Marais for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two. A midsize 2 or 4 door car, starting from $15 a day, fits up to 3 large suitcases and offers smooth cruising for two. A compact SUV, starting from $16 a day, fits up to 3 medium suitcases and provides a higher ride for day trips around the region. Both options give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a premium crossover, which offers an enhanced driving experience for scenic drives around Grand Marais. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Grand Marais.
What are the best car rentals in Grand Marais for families?
The best car rentals in Grand Marais for families are the ones with ample room for everyone and their gear. A midsize SUV, starting from $17 a day, seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat. A fullsize SUV, available from Budget starting from $47 a day, seats up to 6 people with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases. SUVs offer plenty of space for the whole family, including car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them a comfortable fit for trips around Grand Marais. Alamo is a provider popular with families. Book ahead for the June-July peak travel months, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods, and consider adding GPS if you are new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Grand Marais.
What is the best time to book a car in Grand Marais?
From January, prices in Grand Marais are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $13 a day during this period. July tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices, and June also sees increased demand. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Demand climbs as travelers head to popular spots and activities such as:
  • Gunflint Trail Historical Society
  • Lutsen Mountains
  • Devil Track Lake
  • Kerfoot Canopy Zipline Tour
  • Scavenger hunt
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 in Grand Marais?
Driving in Grand Marais is shaped by its distinct seasons, so conditions shift through the year. Traffic and demand tend to build around July, when routes to spots like Lutsen Mountains get busiest—plan drives for quieter periods where you can. For wet or slippery stretches, a standard SUV offers reliable grip and traction, and many vehicles come with automatic 4WD or AWD transmissions. Check the forecast before longer trips and carry water and an emergency kit for remote routes, especially when exploring areas like Devil Track Lake or Gunflint Trail Historical Society.
What are the best car companies in Grand Marais?
Car rentals in Grand Marais are available from providers like Enterprise, Budget, Avis, and Alamo, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Enterprise has special and midsize 2 or 4 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets, while Budget offers economy 2 or 4 door and midsize 2 or 4 door vehicles with more space and stability for highways. Avis rounds out the choices with economy 4-5 door and midsize 2 or 4 door vehicles. Choose a higher-clearance SUV for mountain or winter driving, and a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Grand Marais.
What are good day trip destinations from Grand Marais by rental car?
Top day-trip destinations and activities within easy reach from Grand Marais include:
  • Gunflint Trail Historical Society, approximately 47 miles away
  • Lutsen Mountains, approximately 23 miles away
  • Devil Track Lake, approximately 8 miles away
  • Tettegouche State Park, approximately 62 miles away
  • Kerfoot Canopy Zipline Tour
These distances are manageable for most car types, whether you prefer a compact for efficiency or an SUV for comfort. Booking a car with flexible cancellation policies can be beneficial if your day trip plans are weather-dependent, and always remember to fuel up and bring water for longer excursions. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Grand Marais.

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 Grand Marais?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Grand Marais. 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 Grand Marais?
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 Grand Marais?
Budget car rental in Grand Marais 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 Grand Marais?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Grand Marais. 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 Grand Marais car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Grand Marais?
To rent a car in Grand Marais, 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 Grand Marais car rental?
If you need to cancel your Grand Marais 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 Grand Marais 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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