$100 Car Rental Downtown Springfield, IL

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Springfield

Renting a car in Downtown Springfield offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility for your travel plans. This popular choice appeals to road trippers, family travelers, and business travelers alike, allowing you to explore key attractions at your own pace. For culture enthusiasts, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is located conveniently within Downtown Springfield, while the Illinois State Capitol and Lincoln Home National Historic Site are just 0.5 miles and 0.3 miles away, respectively. With a rental car, you can easily manage luggage and create a flexible itinerary to experience these historic sites without the constraints of public transportation.

Additionally, your rental car opens up opportunities to venture beyond the downtown area. For example, Chatham is only 9 miles away and features attractions like the University of Illinois at Springfield and beautiful Washington Park Botanical Gardens. Southern View, located 3 miles from Downtown Springfield, offers similar experiences with its own slice of nature. Meanwhile, Rochester, 7 miles away, provides access to the Lincoln Home National Historic Site and the Bank of Springfield Center. A rental car truly enhances your visit, making it easier to enjoy the diverse attractions in and around Downtown Springfield.

Most popular car rentals around Downtown Springfield

• Midsize SUV: This car is a popular choice for families, couples, or small groups, fitting up to 5 travelers comfortably with space for up to 3 large suitcases. The midsize SUV offers versatility and ample room, making it ideal for those looking to explore the attractions in and around Downtown Springfield while managing their luggage easily. It's perfect for road trippers and travelers seeking outdoor experiences, providing both comfort and practicality for your journey.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option accommodates up to 5 travelers and has the capacity for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for families or larger groups wanting to explore Downtown Springfield and its surroundings. With added space for luggage, you can enjoy the freedom of flexible travel plans without sacrificing comfort. It's a reliable option for those planning a longer stay or who have more gear to manage.
• Economy: The economy car type is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or smaller families, fitting up to 5 travelers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This option is not only budget-friendly but also offers the convenience of easy maneuverability in Downtown Springfield. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to explore without the need for excessive space. Ideal for short trips and quick getaways, the economy car ensures you can navigate city streets with ease while enjoying your time in the area.

Top rated car suppliers around Downtown Springfield

• Budget: Budget has 1 rental location situated 3 miles away from Downtown Springfield, making it a convenient choice for travelers. Known for its competitive rates, Budget's most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, offering plenty of space and comfort for your journey. This supplier is popular among those looking for flexibility and affordability in their travel plans.
• Hertz: Hertz maintains a rental location 3 miles from Downtown Springfield, providing easy access for tourists. Travelers frequently choose Hertz for its well-maintained fleet, with Midsize and Economy vehicles being the most popular options. This supplier is recognized for its efficient service and straightforward rental process, making it a solid choice for those looking to explore the area.
• Enterprise: With 3 rental locations and the nearest being only 2 miles from Downtown Springfield, Enterprise stands out for its customer service and vehicle selection. Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars are the most booked options, catering to families and groups. Enterprise is well-regarded for its reliable service and a variety of vehicles, ensuring that you find the perfect ride for your adventures in and around Springfield.

Where to go around Downtown Springfield

• Southern View: Located 3 miles away from Downtown Springfield, Southern View is an ideal spot for those seeking outdoor and romantic experiences. Notable attractions include the beautiful Washington Park Botanical Gardens, perfect for family outings and leisurely strolls. Additionally, the historic Illinois State Capitol offers a glimpse into local culture. The area is also home to recreational areas and scenic lakes, making it a lovely destination for nature enthusiasts, especially from June to August when visitor numbers peak.
• Chatham: Approximately 9 miles from Downtown Springfield, Chatham is known for its outdoor and family-friendly activities. Visitors can explore the University of Illinois at Springfield, a modern institution suitable for city vacations. The Chatham Dog Park provides a great urban space for families, while the Washington Park Botanical Gardens offers a serene environment for relaxation and romance. Peak travel seasons occur in April and from June to July, making it a vibrant time to visit this charming city.
• Rochester: About 7 miles from Downtown Springfield, Rochester invites travelers with its outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site provides a cultural experience, while the University of Illinois at Springfield adds to the city's educational charm. For entertainment, the Bank of Springfield Center offers various events and activities. The best times to explore Rochester are in April, July, and November, when visitor numbers are at their highest, ensuring a lively atmosphere.

10 tips to save on your Downtown Springfield car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 might encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—may 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 rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This option is usually the most favorable. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure that you return the car empty in those cases.
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 cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively 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. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If your plans include long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Springfield

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Springfield is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. April also presents a good opportunity, as prices remain average while demand dips. From June through August, however, prices rise and demand peaks, making it the most expensive time to rent a car. March and September also see average demand and pricing, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	27.7°F (-2.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	30.7°F (-0.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	64.2°F (17.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	75.2°F (24.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	73.8°F (23.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	68.4°F (20.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	34.7°F (1.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low