Car Rental in Detroit

Why rent a car in Detroit?

Detroit is a major city in the United States and was once an industrial powerhouse of car manufacturing. It is a tourist gem with much to see and do, and despite its reputation, is perfectly safe and worth the visit. 

As with many American city, you'll probably want to drive to see everything and get out of the city, so renting a car is definitely a good decision. 

Top ways to enter Detroit

Detroit Metropolitan Airport - Detroit's airport is a major international airport. It can be reached via direct flights from most states and 30 different countries, so it's by far the best way to reach the city.

You might fly to a city close by, like Flint, or even Toledo, Ohio. You can pick up a rental car at these and drive to Detroit, but you're likely only to pay more for your flight. 

By road - You can reach Detroit via I-75 from Ohio or northern Michicgan. I-94 connects the city with western Michigan and the Chicago area.

Via Canada - You can reach Detroit from Canada via the Ambassador Bridge and the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel between Windsor and Detroit. Many (but certainly not all) car rental companies allow you to take a vehicle from Canada to the United State, but mao Canada with the car. You can also take the bus through the tunnel and pick up a rental car in Detroit.

Amtrak trains from Chicago call at Detroit Station. To reach the city from Washington D.C. or New York, you'll have to switch to a bus in Toledo. 

City facts

Detroit is known as the Motor City (and Motown for music). Its dominance as the primary place cars are made in America has long been declining. However, there is much to visit and learn about concerning the auto industry.

Detroit is perhaps the city most known for urban blight and decay. However, it has experienced renewal in certain areas, particularly downtown. 

Detroit has a reputation as being dangerous. And while crime has fallen precipitously in recent years, certain areas are still dangerous. Avoid surface streets, particularly in areas you don't know. Downtown is safe, as is any sporting event. 

The city is also one of the only major cities to have legal casinos. There are three major resorts in the city if you would like to gamble. 

Top sights and activities

Buildings - Downtown and Midtown have many buildings worth seeing. These include modern skyscrapers and Art Deco buildings from the previous century. There's also plenty for urban explorers to enjoy (unsurprisingly).

Museums - There is a plethora of museums in Detroit for the curious traveler. There an African American history museum, an institute of arts, a museum dedicated to the Motown music era, a contemporary art museum and more. 

Belle Island - An island in the Detroit River just north of the border, Belle Island is a lovely, large state park. It can be reached via a bridge. In addition to just strolling around, you can visit the Belle Isle Conservatory, Aquarium, or Nature Center. You can also rented a kayak or canoe and enjoy some time on the water. 

Traffic and parking

Traffic is not as bad in Detroit as it is in other major American cities. AS usual, rush hour sees more traffic, so avoid it if you can.

Parking is the same as in other large cities. Due to safety concerns, you may want to park in garages or secured lots instead of on the street. Make sure your preferred hotel has parking and how much it costs before you book it. 

Toll roads

While there are no toll roads in the Detroit area, you do have to pay to cross the Ambassador Bridge or drive through the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. You can pay the toll for either with a credit card and though you maybe be able to still pay the toll on the Ambassador Bridge in cash, that may no longer be an option soon. 

Ideas for day trips

Windsor - Just across the river in Canada, Windsor is the perfect place to visit Canada for the day. You can either take a bus through the tunnel or take your rental car. Almost all companies let you take their cars to Canada without purchasing any extra insurance (as long as your insurance covers it). Be sure to ask in advance, though. 

Ann Arbor - Just west of Detroit, Ann Arbor is the location of the University of Michigan. It's a nice university town with lots of culture and a lovely downtown area. 

Dearborn - Although it's now famous for its immigrants, Dearborn was first home to Ford and his automotive empire. Visit the Henry Ford Museum and the Automotive Hall of Fame to take it all in. 

Further destinations

Mackinaw Island - The resort island in the Straights of Mackinaw is mostly a state park. There is an old fort on the island along with a Victorian-era feeling. Personal cars are not allowed on the island, which can be reached either by ferry or a small airplane. 

Isle Royal National Park - If you seek more secluded nature than a resort experience, then this national park in Lake Superior is for you. It can be reached by ferry from Copper Harbour (or via a commercial flight). Once there, you will have to get around either by hiking or some form of a boat whether it be a kayak, motor boat, or sailboat. 

The Upper Penisula - Cross the Mackinaw Bridge and get ready to explore the rugged northern part of the state. From hiking trails to ski hills, the peninsula is the crown jewel of Michigan for those that love the outdoors. Any route taken through the peninsula will take you through state and national forests and past great beaches. 

Car rental prices in Detroit

• Large cars - from $50 per day
• Small cars - from $49 per day
• SUVs - from $52 per day
• Medium cars - from $49 per day
• Premium cars - from $82 per day
• Vans - from $73 per day
• Convertibles - from $161 per day