Car Rental Watertown, SD

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Top Car Deals in Watertown

* 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 car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Watertown

Renting a car in and around Watertown provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the area's attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your itinerary. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, scenic views, or romantic experiences, a car allows you to visit key destinations like Lake Kampeska, known for its beautiful beach and outdoor activities, or the Terry Redlin Museum, which showcases local culture. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Mellette House, a historic site that adds to the cultural richness of the area.

Additionally, a rental car makes it convenient to venture beyond Watertown to nearby cities. You can drive to Castlewood, just 13 miles away, to enjoy more lakes and museums, or visit Kranzburg, located 10 miles from Watertown, where the Codington County Heritage Museum is situated. For those exploring Florence, a short 15-mile drive will lead you to more attractions, including Riverside Park. Overall, renting a car enhances your travel experience by offering the ability to discover both the city and its surrounding beauty with ease.

Where to stay around Watertown

  • Castlewood: Located 13 miles from Watertown, Castlewood is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and romantic getaways. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views at Lake Poinsett, which is perfect for beach activities and relaxation. The area also features the Terry Redlin Museum and the Redlin Art Center, both offering cultural experiences. With its beautiful parks and recreational areas, Castlewood provides a serene atmosphere for travelers looking to immerse themselves in nature.
  • Florence: Situated 15 miles from Watertown, Florence is a charming city that attracts tourists with its picturesque outdoor settings and lakeside experiences. Lake Kampeska is a highlight, offering opportunities for beach activities and scenic views. History enthusiasts can explore the Mellette House, while families can enjoy Riverside Park’s urban green space. As an added bonus, Florence is home to local food and drink options, including a distillery, making it a delightful stop for visitors.
  • Kranzburg: Just 10 miles from Watertown, Kranzburg is known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the Terry Redlin Museum and the Redlin Art Center for cultural insights, while the Codington County Heritage Museum provides a glimpse into local history. The area is perfect for those seeking a romantic escape amidst natural beauty, with lakes and parks offering a peaceful setting for relaxation and exploration.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Watertown

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during busy seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically have lower rental rates and are easier to navigate in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, 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 requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is generally the most favorable. Other policies may allow for 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 the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
  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 unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a straightforward process when booking with 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 car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Watertown

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Watertown

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Watertown. 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 Watertown

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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One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

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

Car Rental Information

Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Watertown?
The lowest daily rate for a rental car in Watertown within the past seven days was . In the comfort of your own vehicle, it's easy to cruise to whichever landmarks are calling your name.
What happens if I need to cancel my Watertown car reservation?
Don't stress. You should receive a full refund if you cancel more than six hours prior to collecting the car. Your confirmation contains information about this, as does our Customer Service Portal. Not all reservations result in a refund though, so it's a good idea to go over the car's rental agreement.
Where can I go on a road trip from Watertown?
Watertown is full of surprises, but don't limit yourself to just one place. Pick up a set of wheels and take to the road to discover what else awaits in the wider region. We've pulled together these great options:
  • Head to Sioux Falls for a fantastic sightseeing adventure. About 95 miles from Watertown, it has many great sights like Denny Sanford Premier Center.
  • Why not see all that's on offer in Walnut Grove too? Notable sights in this vibrant city include Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum. Walnut Grove is roughly 95 miles from Watertown.
  • Head to Itasca State Park to feel grounded in nature. Pack a picnic to enjoy or just chill out in the fresh air. From Watertown, it's approximately 180 miles away.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Watertown with Expedia?
Score the best deal with Expedia. Just choose the car class, select your dates and preferred pickup and drop-off points, and browse offers from all the major suppliers. Make even bigger savings when you combine your Watertown car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Watertown?
You need to be 21 and over to take the wheel of a rental vehicle in Watertown. Be aware that young drivers may only be able to rent from a few car categories, such as economy, compact and medium size. Higher age limits usually apply for luxury and specialty vehicles. Many providers will also charge a young renter fee. Read the rules carefully before clicking the book button and factor any extra fees into your vacation budget.
What do you need to rent a car in Watertown?
Renting a car in Watertown is a cinch. Normally, all that's required is a current driver's license and a credit card. After selecting your ride, read the terms and conditions to ensure there are no extra requirements prior to your scheduled pickup.
What is the cheapest car rental in Watertown?
According to prices found within the past seven days, the lowest daily rate for a car rental in Watertown was just . The second lowest was a day. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Watertown?
Whether you're planning to stay in Watertown or explore what's beyond, it's easy to reserve a long-term rental with Expedia. Enter your trip dates and pick-up/drop-off locations and we'll find you excellent long-term car rental deals.
Where can I find a Watertown car rental if I am younger than 25?
Some Watertown outlets will rent cars to drivers under 25 years old, and others won't. Age policies differ from supplier to supplier, so you'll need to do some research. Also, find out if there are any extra costs. Some places will have a surcharge for young drivers between 21 and 24. Make sure you read through the terms and conditions to avoid any surprise fees.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Watertown?
After perfectly planning your vacation, don't scrimp on safety — purchase collision protection while reserving your Watertown car rental with Expedia. There are loads of benefits to this plan, including up to $35,000 in primary coverage for theft, accident damage and vandalism. Plus, with a zero-dollar deductible and 24/7 emergency help, you'll be able to breathe a little easier should the unexpected occur.

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