$53 Car Rental Wilmette, IL

These Wilmette insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 17, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Wilmette

Renting a car in Wilmette offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and tailor your travel plans to fit your needs. This is particularly beneficial for families seeking outdoor and city-themed experiences. You can visit key attractions like the Baha'i House of Worship, a cultural landmark located right in Wilmette, or take a short drive to the Chicago Botanic Garden, which is only 6 miles away and perfect for family outings or romantic strolls.

If you're interested in history, the Chicago History Museum is a convenient 12 miles from Wilmette. Additionally, the nearby city of Kenilworth, less than 1 mile away, features attractions such as the Chicago Botanic Garden and Adagio Teas. Exploring Chicago itself is straightforward with a rental car, allowing you to visit iconic spots like Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park without the hassle of public transport. Overall, having a car enhances your ability to enjoy the diverse experiences that Wilmette and its surroundings have to offer.

Where to stay around Wilmette

• Wilmette: Wilmette offers a charming suburban experience, ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Close to attractions like the Baha'i House of Worship, which is a beautiful temple suitable for cultural exploration, Wilmette also features local parks and recreational areas. Enjoy nearby dining options that showcase a variety of cuisines, perfect after a day of exploring.
• Evanston: Located 3 miles away, Evanston is vibrant and family-friendly, featuring key attractions such as Clark Street Beach for beach vacations and the Grosse Point Lighthouse for a taste of local history. This city is also known for its educational venues and theater, making it a great spot for cultural experiences. The dining scene here includes numerous restaurants and wineries.
• Kenilworth: Less than 1 mile from Wilmette, Kenilworth is a peaceful neighborhood with a focus on outdoor activities and family experiences. The Chicago Botanic Garden is a must-visit for nature lovers, while the Baha'i House of Worship adds a cultural element to your stay. Local dining options include various wineries and restaurants, offering delightful culinary experiences.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Wilmette

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV to accommodate extra passengers, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to save on costs, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your travel date. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to find lower prices and better availability, especially during peak 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 strike a good balance between price, 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 available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most economical option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can also be acceptable—just remember 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 be worth the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only 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 events during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Wilmette

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Wilmette into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Wilmette and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Wilmette

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Wilmette. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Wilmette

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $53.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals