Car Rental at Watertown Regional Airport (ATY)

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Top Car Deals in Watertown Regional

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

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Watertown, South Dakota, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Watertown, South Dakota, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Watertown, South Dakota, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Watertown, South Dakota, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Watertown Regional car rental

Reasons to book a car rental at Watertown Airport

Renting a car at Watertown Airport is an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore the area with freedom and flexibility. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel itinerary that suits your preferences. This convenience is particularly appealing for those seeking a romantic getaway or a friendly experience with the local culture. You can visit key attractions like Lake Kampeska, located just 2 miles away, where you can enjoy beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. The Terry Redlin Museum, 5 miles from the airport, offers a cultural experience that showcases local artistry. Additionally, the historic Mellette House is only 2 miles away, giving you another cultural stop to explore. With a rental car, you can also discover nearby destinations such as Kranzburg and Florence, each 12 miles away, where you can find more attractions like the Codington County Heritage Museum and Riverside Park. Having your own vehicle allows you to enjoy these experiences at your own pace, making your trip to Watertown both enjoyable and memorable.

Where to stay near Watertown Airport

  • Watertown: Staying in Watertown offers easy access to beautiful outdoor scenery and romantic experiences. Enjoy nearby attractions such as Lake Kampeska, perfect for beach activities and picturesque views. For culture enthusiasts, the Terry Redlin Museum and Mellette House provide enriching experiences. With various food and drink options, including local distilleries, Watertown is a great hub for your adventures.
  • Florence: Just 12 miles from Watertown, Florence is an excellent option for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. The area features scenic parks and Lake Kampeska, ideal for outdoor activities. Key highlights include Riverside Park, which caters to family outings and relaxation. Florence also boasts local distilleries for those interested in sampling regional beverages.
  • Kranzburg: Located 12 miles from Watertown, Kranzburg is a tranquil retreat known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Explore the captivating Terry Redlin Museum and the Redlin Art Center for a taste of local culture. The Codington County Heritage Museum further enriches your visit with historical insights. Kranzburg is perfect for a peaceful getaway while still being close to Watertown's attractions.

9 tips to save on your Airport car rental near Watertown

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your trip.
  2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It's usually advisable to reserve your ATY car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months in advance is ideal, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and the availability of certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may be limited. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
  4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles like economy or compact cars tend to be more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
  6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
  7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you'll be spending considerable time on the road, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid extra charges on longer journeys.
  9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Car Rental Information

 
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Frequently asked questions

What are the best day trips by car from Watertown Regional Airport (ATY)?
Several rewarding destinations are within an easy drive of Watertown Regional Airport:
  • Lake Kampeska, approximately 7 miles away, offers scenic views and recreational opportunities right near Watertown Regional Airport.
  • Pelican Lake Recreation Area, also about 7 miles away, is perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying nature.
  • Lake Poinsett, approximately 28 miles away, provides another beautiful lake setting for a day out.
  • Pickerel Lake, about 51 miles away, is a great option for a slightly longer drive to a tranquil spot.
  • Lake Madison, approximately 80 miles away, is suitable for a full day trip, offering more extensive lakeside experiences.
Closer spots like Lake Kampeska and Pelican Lake make great half-day outings, while destinations farther out like Lake Madison are better as full day trips. Standard rental cars can typically handle these routes comfortably, but an SUV can provide extra space for gear or passengers, especially for families or groups heading to the lakes.

Which side of the road do you drive on from Watertown Regional Airport (ATY)?
In Watertown Regional Airport, drivers use the right-hand side of the road. If you are accustomed to driving on the left, take a moment to adjust after picking up your rental car, paying extra attention at intersections and when turning. Most rental cars in the United States are configured for right-hand driving, so you will quickly become comfortable once you are on the road.
What is the best time to book a car at Watertown Regional Airport (ATY)?
From January, demand for car rentals at Watertown Regional Airport tends to be lower, offering more competitive rates. June and July are typically the busiest months, when high demand can push prices up, so booking 3-4 weeks ahead during this period helps secure availability. Demand climbs as travelers explore popular spots and activities such as:
  • Lake Kampeska
  • Pelican Lake Recreation Area
  • Lake Poinsett
  • Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Black Hills
  • Mount Rushmore Extended Expedition Tour
Major holidays and local events, like the Brown County Fair in August or the South Dakota State Fair in September, can also increase rental rates. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup, so you can book early and rebook if rates become more favorable.

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