$100 Car Rental Great Plains Zoo, SD

These Great Plains Zoo insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 13, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental around Great Plains Zoo

Renting a car around Great Plains Zoo in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, offers you the freedom to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit nearby attractions like the Sioux Empire Fairgrounds, just 1 mile away, which is perfect for family outdoor experiences. The Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science, located 2 miles from the zoo, provides a rich cultural experience. Additionally, history enthusiasts will appreciate the Old Courthouse Museum, also 2 miles away. Having a rental car allows for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, making it ideal for both tourists and business travelers looking to connect with friendly locals. You can venture into the vibrant city of Sioux Falls, which features beautiful spots like Falls Park, as well as other attractions. The West 10th Street neighborhood, less than 1 mile away, and Downtown Sioux Falls, 2 miles from the zoo, are also accessible with your rental car. This convenience enhances your sightseeing experience, making it easier to enjoy all that the area has to offer.

Most popular car rentals near Great Plains Zoo

• Midsize SUV: This option accommodates 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. With its spacious interior, a midsize SUV provides comfort for both short trips and longer excursions around the Great Plains Zoo, allowing you to manage your luggage easily while enjoying the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
• Compact: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families, this car type also accommodates 5 travelers and up to 3 medium suitcases. The compact car is a practical choice for navigating the area surrounding Great Plains Zoo, offering ease of parking and fuel efficiency while still providing enough room for your essentials. It’s an excellent option for those who appreciate convenience and cost-effectiveness.
• Fullsize: With space for 5 travelers and the capacity to carry either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize car option is perfect for families and groups. This flexibility allows you to comfortably transport your belongings while exploring the attractions near Great Plains Zoo. Fullsize cars provide ample room and comfort, making them an excellent choice for those looking for a spacious and accommodating vehicle.

Top rated car suppliers near Great Plains Zoo

• Alamo Rent A Car: Located just 3 miles away from Great Plains Zoo, Alamo Rent A Car is a popular choice among travelers. With an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10, they are recognized for their friendly service and short wait times. The most booked vehicles from Alamo include Midsize and Compact cars, offering you flexibility and convenience during your trip.
• Hertz: Also situated 3 miles from Great Plains Zoo, Hertz provides a reliable car rental experience. Known for its selection of Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, this supplier is favored by many for its quality service. Whether you're heading to the zoo or exploring the surrounding attractions, Hertz ensures you have the right vehicle to meet your travel needs.
• Enterprise: With three rental locations and the nearest one located less than 1 mile from Great Plains Zoo, Enterprise offers exceptional convenience for travelers. They boast popular vehicle options such as Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs. Their commitment to customer satisfaction makes them a top choice for visitors looking to explore the area comfortably.

Where to stay near Great Plains Zoo

• Cathedral: Located 2 miles from Great Plains Zoo, the Cathedral neighborhood offers a scenic outdoor experience perfect for families. Visitors can explore local attractions such as St. Joseph Cathedral and Falls Park, both renowned for their beauty and cultural significance. The recreational areas nearby make it an ideal spot for enjoying nature while still being close to the city's amenities.
• Downtown Sioux Falls: Also situated 2 miles from Great Plains Zoo, Downtown Sioux Falls is vibrant and bustling, making it a fantastic choice for families seeking a city-themed getaway. Here, you can visit attractions like the historic Old Courthouse Museum and the Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science. The area features a lively shopping mall center and various dining options, ensuring a fulfilling stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental around Great Plains Zoo

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilize Expedia's filters 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 secure your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking in advance, you are more likely to lock in lower rates and ensure better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver and park 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 fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most cost-effective choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can also be acceptable. Just be sure to 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 extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively 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. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is simple.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional costs.
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 around Great Plains Zoo

The best time to rent a car around Great Plains Zoo is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. These months offer good value without the crowds. April and May also present average prices and demand, making them decent shoulder periods for rentals. In contrast, October typically sees higher prices and average demand, as it is one of the most expensive months for car rentals. September and November maintain average pricing with steady demand.