$48 Car Rental Drake University, IA

These Drake University insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 25, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental around Drake University

Renting a car around Drake University offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it a popular choice for tourists. Nearby attractions include the historic Iowa State Capitol Building, located just 3 miles away, and the Des Moines Civic Center, which is only 2 miles from the university. Families will find the convenience of a rental car particularly beneficial, allowing for easy transportation to the Iowa State Fairgrounds, situated 6 miles away, where outdoor experiences await.

Additionally, having a vehicle allows you to venture into nearby destinations such as Downtown Des Moines, a mere 2 miles away, where you can enjoy the cultural experiences offered by the Iowa State Capitol and the Des Moines Civic Center. Urbandale, located 3 miles from Drake University, features attractions like Living History Farms. Whether you are traveling with family or seeking to explore the cultural highlights of Des Moines, renting a car provides an efficient and comfortable way to experience everything this vibrant area has to offer.

Most popular car rentals near Drake University

• Midsize SUV: The midsize SUV is a popular choice for travelers around Drake University, accommodating up to 5 passengers and providing space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for families, couples, or small groups, allowing you to explore the area comfortably and with ease. The added space makes it suitable for carrying luggage and any gear you may need for your adventures.
• Premium Pickup: For those looking for a bit more adventure, the premium pickup option is highly booked. It can also accommodate 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases, making it perfect for families or small groups embarking on an exciting journey. This vehicle type combines ruggedness with comfort, enabling you to tackle various terrains while enjoying the flexibility of a spacious ride.
• Economy: If you are traveling solo or with a partner, the economy car is a great choice. It accommodates up to 5 travelers with space for 2 medium suitcases, making it a practical option for those who prioritize efficient travel without sacrificing comfort. This vehicle type is ideal for couples or families seeking a convenient and budget-friendly way to navigate around Drake University.

Top rated car suppliers near Drake University

• Budget: Located 4 miles away from Drake University, Budget is celebrated for its friendly service and offers expected pricing. Travelers often choose Budget for its great value, with popular vehicle options including Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, making it a convenient choice for those looking to explore the area comfortably.
• Enterprise: With 4 rental locations and the nearest just 3 miles from Drake University, Enterprise provides excellent convenience for travelers. Known for its wide selection of vehicles, the most booked options here are Midsize and Fullsize cars. Enterprise is a strong choice for those seeking reliability and flexibility during their trip.
• Hertz: Hertz operates a location 4 miles from Drake University, offering a range of vehicles tailored to various travel needs. Popular choices among customers include Midsize and Economy cars, making it easy to find the right fit for your journey. Hertz is known for its efficient service, ensuring you can get on the road quickly and enjoy your exploration.

Where to stay near Drake University

• Downtown Des Moines: Located 2 miles from Drake University, Downtown Des Moines offers a vibrant atmosphere ideal for family, business, and entertainment experiences. Here, visitors can explore cultural sites like the Iowa State Capitol Building and enjoy shopping at the local malls. The area is also home to a variety of restaurants and wineries, making it a great choice for those looking to indulge in local cuisine.
• Urbandale: Situated 3 miles from Drake University, Urbandale is perfect for families and business travelers. This city features attractions such as Living History Farms and various shopping centers. Dining options abound, including restaurants and wineries, ensuring that visitors can enjoy a taste of local flavors while exploring the area’s event venues and theme parks.

10 tips to save on your car rental around Drake University

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to find lower rates and better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a great compromise between cost, 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 be restricted. This may also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making your reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is often the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure to return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payments.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case anything unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance while booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of additional fees.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car around Drake University

The best value period to rent a car around Drake University is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. January also offers good options, being another quiet month. Moving into spring, April sees moderately low demand with average prices, making it a reasonable choice as well. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand, which continues into the busy summer months of June and August.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	21.7°F (-5.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	24.1°F (-4.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	71.8°F (22.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	74.8°F (23.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	40.5°F (4.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	29.3°F (-1.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average