$44 Car Rental Downtown Indianapolis, IN

These Downtown Indianapolis 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 in and around Downtown Indianapolis

Renting a car in Downtown Indianapolis offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions like White River State Park, a beautiful outdoor space ideal for adventure experiences, or Monument Circle, a cultural landmark that showcases the city's history. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the NCAA Hall of Champions, a museum dedicated to collegiate athletics, all within the vicinity of Downtown Indianapolis.

A rental car also allows convenient access to nearby neighborhoods, such as Mile Square and the Wholesale District, both less than 1 mile away, where you can find more attractions like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Whether you are traveling with family, carrying luggage, or planning to enjoy various entertainment and sports-related experiences, having a car makes it easier to manage your schedule and explore multiple destinations without relying on public transportation. The roadways are straightforward, ensuring that you can maximize your time and enjoy everything Indianapolis has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown Indianapolis

• Midsize SUV: This car type is a popular choice for travelers in Downtown Indianapolis, accommodating up to 5 people and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. It's an ideal option for families, couples, or small groups looking for space and comfort. With a midsize SUV, you can easily manage your luggage while enjoying the freedom to explore the area at your own pace.
• Compact SUV: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families, the compact SUV can comfortably seat 5 passengers and hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This versatile option is ideal for navigating the urban landscape of Downtown Indianapolis while providing enough room for your travel essentials. It’s a great way to balance convenience and efficiency during your trip.
• Standard SUV: The standard SUV is another great option for those traveling in groups or with family, accommodating 5 travelers and allowing for up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle type offers a balance of space and comfort, making it suitable for various travel needs. Whether you're embarking on a day trip or exploring the city, a standard SUV will give you the flexibility you need.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Indianapolis

• Thrifty Car Rental: Located 7 miles away from Downtown Indianapolis, Thrifty Car Rental provides a reliable option for travelers seeking flexibility during their visit. With a focus on customer satisfaction, this supplier is particularly popular for renting Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, allowing you to comfortably explore the city and surrounding areas.
• Dollar Rent A Car: Also situated 7 miles from Downtown Indianapolis, Dollar Rent A Car is another great choice for tourists looking to rent a vehicle. Known for its competitive rates, Dollar offers a selection of Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars that cater to various travel needs, ensuring an enjoyable experience as you navigate the vibrant attractions of the area.
• Enterprise: With over 5 rental locations, Enterprise is one of the most convenient options for car rentals in Downtown Indianapolis. The nearby location makes it easy for travelers to pick up their vehicles. Enterprise is favored for offering Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, providing ample space and comfort for your journey around the city and beyond.

Where to stay around Downtown Indianapolis

• Downtown Indianapolis: The heart of the city, Downtown Indianapolis offers a vibrant atmosphere with access to key attractions like the sports facility stadium and convention center. It's an ideal base for families and sports enthusiasts, with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park nearby. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, making it convenient for food lovers.
• Mile Square: Located less than 1 mile from Downtown Indianapolis, Mile Square is a lively neighborhood known for its family-friendly and entertainment-themed experiences. Here, you'll find attractions like Monument Circle and the NCAA Hall of Champions, perfect for sports and culture lovers. The area also features numerous food and drink options, including local wineries and distilleries, providing a taste of the local scene.
• Wholesale District: This neighborhood, also less than 1 mile away from Downtown Indianapolis, offers a mix of family, entertainment, and sports experiences. Key highlights include White River State Park and the NCAA Hall of Champions, making it a great spot for outdoor activities and cultural exploration. The Wholesale District boasts a variety of dining options, including restaurants and wineries, ensuring visitors have plenty of choices for meals and refreshments.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Downtown Indianapolis

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting specific vehicle types and features. Whether you're seeking an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your trip.
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 lock in lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are generally more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver 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 luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports 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 unexpected expenses and provide 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 plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra 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 in and around Downtown Indianapolis

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Indianapolis is January and February, when prices and demand are both slightly low. March can also be a decent option, with average prices and low demand. As spring approaches, April sees moderate pricing and average demand, while May through July become the busiest and most expensive months, with high demand peaking in July. August shifts back to slightly high demand before demand stabilizes in the fall months.