$16 Car Rental Washington Heights, IL

These Washington Heights insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 28, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Washington Heights

Renting a car in Washington Heights offers travelers the freedom to explore the neighborhood and its surroundings at their own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit attractions like the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, which is 6 miles away, or enjoy outdoor activities at Abbott Park, located just 1 mile from Washington Heights. For those interested in culture, the historic Ida B Wells House is a short drive of 8 miles. A car rental also makes it easy to manage your luggage, allowing you to pack for family outings or outdoor adventures without hassle. Furthermore, exploring nearby areas such as Chicago's key sites, including Michigan Avenue and Millennium Park, or the Far Southwest Side and East Beverly neighborhoods, is simplified with your own vehicle. Whether traveling with family, seeking outdoor experiences, or enjoying city-themed activities, having a car enhances your ability to create a personalized itinerary while discovering all that Washington Heights and its surroundings have to offer.

Most popular car rentals around Washington Heights

• Midsize: The Midsize car is a great choice for travelers seeking comfort and space. Accommodating up to 5 travelers with room for 3 large suitcases, this option is perfect for couples or families exploring Washington Heights. With its balance of size and efficiency, a Midsize car allows for easy navigation through the city while providing ample room for your luggage.
• Standard: The Standard car is another excellent option for those traveling in groups of up to 5 people. Like the Midsize, it offers space for 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families or couples with additional luggage. Its versatility ensures you can enjoy your trip around Washington Heights comfortably, allowing for smooth drives and easy parking.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car stands out as the perfect choice for families or groups needing extra space. Accommodating up to 5 travelers, it offers room for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, making it suitable for those who may have more luggage. This option combines spaciousness with comfort, ensuring that you can travel around Washington Heights without feeling cramped.

Top rated car suppliers around Washington Heights

• Dollar Rent A Car: Located 7 miles away from Washington Heights, Dollar Rent A Car is a popular choice for travelers seeking flexibility during their visit. With a focus on Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, this supplier offers a straightforward rental experience, allowing you to explore attractions around the neighborhood at your convenience.
• Avis: With 2 rental locations and the nearest just 5 miles from Washington Heights, Avis is a great option for those looking for a variety of vehicles. Their most booked options include Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, perfect for accommodating travelers with extra luggage or those planning to venture out further into the city.
• Enterprise: Offering over 5 rental locations with the closest only 2 miles from Washington Heights, Enterprise provides exceptional convenience for renters. Known for their Midsize SUVs and Mini Vans, this supplier is ideal for families or groups, ensuring you have plenty of space for your journey around Chicago.

Where to stay around Washington Heights

• Washington Heights: This neighborhood is a great starting point for exploring Chicago. With its proximity to urban parks and local restaurants, Washington Heights offers a blend of family-friendly activities and outdoor experiences. Visitors can enjoy nearby attractions such as the sports facility stadium and the tourist precinct, making it ideal for a city-themed vacation.
• Far Southwest Side: Located less than 1 mile from Washington Heights, the Far Southwest Side is home to several notable points of interest. You can explore the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry and Abbott Park, both suitable for family and outdoor adventures. The Ida B Wells House also adds a cultural touch to your stay in this vibrant neighborhood.
• Whiting: Situated 8 miles away from Washington Heights, Whiting is perfect for those seeking outdoor and scenic experiences. This city features recreational areas and a beautiful beach, ideal for family outings. Key attractions include the Mascot Hall of Fame and Calumet Park, providing a delightful blend of culture and outdoor enjoyment.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Washington Heights

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical 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 rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well in advance of your trip. Booking early typically allows you to lock in lower prices and ensures better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are usually more affordable to rent and easier to navigate and park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 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 prior to making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements follow a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which can also work—just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
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 offers peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long 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 vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Washington Heights

The best time to rent a car in and around Washington Heights is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. April and May can also be good options, as they maintain average prices with slightly lower demand. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand, making it a busy time for rentals. June through August also see elevated rates and demand, making them less ideal for budget-conscious renters.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	25.7°F (-3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	27.0°F (-2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	37.0°F (2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
May	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	33.1°F (0.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low