$46 Car Rental St. Cloud State University, MN

These St. Cloud State University insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: September 12, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental around St. Cloud State University

Renting a car around St. Cloud State University offers you the freedom to explore the local attractions at your own pace. This modern university is surrounded by beautiful sites, making a rental car a convenient choice for sightseeing. For families and nature lovers, Munsinger Clemens Gardens, located less than 1 mile away, provides a lovely setting for outdoor experiences. If you enjoy hiking or outdoor activities, Quarry Park and Nature Preserve is just 5 miles from the university, offering serene trails and natural beauty. Those interested in sports and culture can visit the Minnesota Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame, also less than 1 mile away. A car rental allows you to easily navigate between St. Cloud and nearby Waite Park, which is only 4 miles away, where you can find more attractions like Saint John's Abbey. Additionally, Downtown St. Cloud is less than 1 mile away, bringing you closer to more parks and gardens. With a rental car, you can manage your luggage effortlessly and adjust your travel plans as needed, making it an ideal option for your trip around St. Cloud State University.

Most popular car rentals near St. Cloud State University

• Midsize SUV: This option accommodates 5 travelers and up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. With its spacious interior and flexible storage, a midsize SUV allows you to explore the attractions around St. Cloud State University comfortably while managing your luggage easily.
• Mini Van: Perfect for larger gatherings, the mini van can accommodate 8 travelers and up to 6 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for families or groups looking to travel together. Renting a mini van offers ample space for everyone and their belongings, ensuring a comfortable journey as you navigate the sights near St. Cloud State University.
• Economy: This option is great for solo travelers, couples, or small families, as it accommodates 5 travelers with up to 2 medium suitcases. The economy car is perfect for those who prioritize fuel efficiency and easy maneuverability. Renting an economy vehicle allows for a budget-friendly way to explore the surroundings of St. Cloud State University while still having the freedom to travel at your own pace.

Top rated car suppliers near St. Cloud State University

• Budget: Budget has a rental location situated 2 miles away from St. Cloud State University, making it a convenient choice for travelers. This supplier is particularly popular for its Midsize SUV and Standard SUV options, which are frequently booked by customers. Budget is known for its competitive pricing and flexibility, allowing you to explore the area comfortably and at your own pace.
• Enterprise: Enterprise also has a rental location 2 miles from St. Cloud State University, providing easy access for visitors. Travelers appreciate the wide selection of vehicles, especially the Midsize SUV and Mini Van options. Enterprise is recognized for its exceptional customer service and helpful staff, ensuring a smooth rental experience that caters to both families and individual travelers alike.
• Avis: Located 2 miles away from St. Cloud State University, Avis is another solid option for car rentals. Customers often opt for its popular Midsize SUV and Standard SUV vehicles. Avis is noted for its efficient service and well-maintained cars, making it a reliable choice for those looking to navigate the attractions around St. Cloud with ease.

Where to stay near St. Cloud State University

• St. Cloud: Staying in St. Cloud offers convenient access to St. Cloud State University and a range of family-friendly activities. Enjoy the nearby Munsinger Clemens Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden perfect for outdoor adventures and romantic strolls. The city features shopping malls and recreational areas, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers. Dining options abound, with various restaurants and wineries to explore.
• Waite Park: Located just 4 miles from St. Cloud State University, Waite Park is perfect for families and couples seeking entertainment. The area boasts an arena entertainment facility and theaters, providing options for evening outings. Visit the nearby Munsinger Clemens Gardens and Saint John's Abbey for cultural enrichment. With numerous dining options available, Waite Park offers a delightful experience for visitors.
• Sartell: Situated 7 miles away from St. Cloud State University, Sartell is an excellent choice for those who appreciate outdoor scenery and family-friendly experiences. Explore Quarry Park and Nature Preserve, which offers recreational opportunities amidst beautiful landscapes. The city also features shopping malls and various dining options, including distilleries, making it a well-rounded destination for travelers.

10 tips to save on your car rental around St. Cloud State University

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by specifying vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car to save money, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well ahead of your travel date. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically less expensive 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 surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. Renters over 70 years old could face similar restrictions. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just be sure to 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 extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for 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.

Best time to rent a car around St. Cloud State University

The best value period to rent a car around St. Cloud State University is April, when both prices and demand are relatively low. January and February also offer slight savings with low demand, making them quiet months for rentals. Following April, May presents average prices and demand. However, July tends to be the most expensive month with high demand, creating a busy rental environment. June through August also see elevated prices and demand, making them less ideal for budget-conscious renters.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	12.7°F (-10.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	14.5°F (-9.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	30.2°F (-1.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
April	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	61.9°F (16.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	33.1°F (0.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	19.8°F (-6.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average