$61 Car Rental Penn State Harrisburg, PA

These Penn State Harrisburg insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: September 10, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental around Penn State Harrisburg

Renting a car around Penn State Harrisburg offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. This modern college town serves as a great starting point for visiting nearby attractions such as Hersheypark, located just 7 miles away, perfect for family-friendly outdoor adventures. You can also head to the historic Pennsylvania State Capitol, which is 9 miles from campus, to immerse yourself in local culture. For those seeking a relaxing day outdoors, Riverfront Park, situated 8 miles away, offers a beautiful urban escape. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and customize your travel plans, whether you're visiting Harrisburg to see the National Civil War Museum or exploring the charming city of Hershey. Additionally, being in Middletown allows you to efficiently reach local destinations and attractions. Renting a car is particularly appealing for families and those looking to connect with friendly people, making your trip around Penn State Harrisburg not only convenient but also enjoyable.

Most popular car rentals near Penn State Harrisburg

• Midsize SUV: This option accommodates 5 travelers and has room for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The midsize SUV offers a balance of space and comfort, allowing you to travel around Penn State Harrisburg with ease, whether you're heading to nearby attractions or enjoying a scenic drive.
• Standard SUV: With capacity for 5 travelers and space for up to 2 medium suitcases, the standard SUV is well-suited for couples, families, or groups. This vehicle provides a comfortable ride for exploring the area, giving you the flexibility to manage your luggage while enjoying the freedom of the open road.
• Compact SUV: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families, the compact SUV accommodates 5 travelers and has room for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for those looking for a versatile vehicle that can navigate around Penn State Harrisburg while offering sufficient space for your belongings, ensuring a pleasant travel experience.

Top rated car suppliers near Penn State Harrisburg

• Alamo Rent A Car: Located less than 1 mile from Penn State Harrisburg, Alamo Rent A Car is a popular choice among travelers. Known for its excellent customer service, Alamo offers a variety of vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Premium SUVs being the most booked options. This supplier provides the flexibility you need to explore the local attractions at your own pace.
• Enterprise: Also situated less than 1 mile from Penn State Harrisburg, Enterprise stands out for its wide selection of vehicles and commitment to customer satisfaction. Midsize SUVs and Premium SUVs are the top choices for those renting from Enterprise. With a convenient location, you can easily pick up your rental and start your adventure in the Harrisburg area.
• Budget: Budget is another great option, located less than 1 mile from Penn State Harrisburg. Known for its competitive pricing, Budget’s most popular vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars. This supplier makes it easy to find an affordable rental that suits your travel needs, allowing you to enjoy the flexibility of driving around the beautiful surroundings.

Where to stay near Penn State Harrisburg

• Hershey: Located 7 miles from Penn State Harrisburg, Hershey is a vibrant city known for family-friendly outdoor adventures. Notable attractions include the famous Hersheypark, which offers amusement park fun, and the Pennsylvania State Capitol, a historic site perfect for a cultural visit. Visitors can also explore the Antique Automobile Club of America Museum for an engaging family experience. With plenty of nearby food options, including sweet treats and local breweries, Hershey is an excellent choice for a stay filled with excitement and leisure.
• Harrisburg: Situated 9 miles from Penn State Harrisburg, Harrisburg is a city rich in culture and outdoor activities. The Pennsylvania State Capitol is a must-see for history enthusiasts, while Riverfront Park provides a scenic spot for families and adventurers alike. The National Civil War Museum offers a deep dive into local history, making it an engaging stop for culture seekers. With a variety of dining options, including wineries and breweries, Harrisburg combines urban charm with exploration opportunities, making it a great base for your travels.
• Hummelstown: Just 5 miles from Penn State Harrisburg, Hummelstown is ideal for families looking for outdoor adventures. Key attractions such as Indian Echo Caverns provide unique experiences, while Hersheypark nearby guarantees amusement park excitement. The Hershey Story Museum offers a glimpse into local history and culture. Hummelstown's proximity to wineries and sweet treat options enhances its appeal, making it a delightful place to stay for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

10 tips to save on your car rental around Penn State Harrisburg

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize filters on Expedia to locate the ideal vehicle for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your reservation well ahead of your departure. Booking in advance often leads to lower prices and greater availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to navigate 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 some vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This also applies to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are 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 airports often incurs a surcharge, but the 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 of unforeseen incidents during your trip. It's easy to add rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
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 around Penn State Harrisburg

The best value period to rent a car around Penn State Harrisburg is February, when prices are slightly low and demand remains moderately low. March and November also offer decent value with similar demand characteristics. As the summer approaches, June becomes the most expensive month, coinciding with higher demand. July and August continue to see elevated rental prices and moderate demand, making them less favorable for budget-conscious travelers.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	29.8°F (-1.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
February	32.2°F (0.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	40.3°F (4.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
April	51.3°F (10.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	69.6°F (20.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	75.2°F (24.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	66.2°F (19.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	42.8°F (6.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	35.6°F (2.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average