KAYAK’s insights & trends for Grand Rapids car rentals
Check out the latest trends and booking tips to rent a car in Grand Rapids with confidence.
How far in advance should you book a rental car in Grand Rapids?
You should book your rental car in Grand Rapids around 7 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price.
What is the most popular rental car in Grand Rapids?
Rentals in the SUV category (Mazda CX-5 or similar) are the most popular option in Grand Rapids, costing C$ 84/day on average. Some users have found deals as low as C$ 74/day.
What is the cheapest month to rent a car in Grand Rapids?
The cheapest month to rent a car in Grand Rapids is January at an average cost of C$ 71/day. July is the most expensive month to rent a car in Grand Rapids when prices are C$ 113/day on average, which tends to be 80% above the yearly average rental price for Grand Rapids.
What rental car company in Grand Rapids has the most locations?
Enterprise Rent-A-Car operates 6 locations in Grand Rapids, more than any other rental company.
Take a screenshot of your original price agreement to use as "evidence" when they overcharge you.
PeterJan 2025
Ask about road tolls if travelling long distance. Some of the roads in Michigan are in poor condition due to extreme weather so try and seek a larger (suv) car if your budget allows.
Verified travelerOct 2024
Check everything before leaving the lot. Make sure the car you are getting will work for you, other than that any car is good for Grand Rapids.
CarrieNov 2024
Rental car pickup and return is right in the terminal with the parking lot just beyond the normal pickup/dropoff parking.
Verified travelerJul 2024
Arrive early- the line was long and chaotic in such a small space. Not sure if that is typical.
MarcusAug 2024
Review your main car insurance policy prior to renting
BobMay 2024
Call the local agent to verify there are cars available
Verified travelerSep 2023
Easy to get to the car rental location.
MargaretJul 2023
The car was picked up at the airport to travel throughout MI. Was a good size for 3 people. Road construction information would have been helpful.
JudiJul 2023
Save money at 28th Street location vs airport due to required airport fees. Uber to airport about $39 but weekly rental is $300 less.
Verified travelerAug 2023
We lived there in the past - driving was fine - good compared to CA where we live.
AngieeAug 2023
It was very easy to get around in grand Rapids.
Verified travelerJun 2023
Call and make sure they have a car for you
KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids is plonked amidst the scenic countryside of Michigan, only a 40-minute car ride from the Lake Michigan and Huron-Manistee National Forests. The best way to explore the wonderful attractions in and around Grand Rapids is on your own four wheels, so pick up a rental car to make the most out of your trip to the city.
13 miles southeast of Grand Rapids is the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, where travelers can conveniently pick up a rental car. The agencies’ counters can be found on the first floor of the parking garage and include internationally renowned companies like Avis, Enterprise, and Hertz. The quickest way to Grand Rapids’ center is via the I-96 W, which will take you to the city in 20 minutes.
The winters in Michigan can be very cold and bring lots of snow. Therefore, it is imperative to familiarize yourself with driving in snow conditions if you visit in the winter. Make sure the rental car is properly equipped and fitted with winter tires. It is also recommended that you keep an emergency kit in the car with band aids, water, a torchlight, and some snacks, in case you get stuck in the snow and it requires time to be reached. Also, if you do get stuck, never spin the wheels, as the tires will only dig deeper into the ground.
Look forward to a smooth and pleasant driving experience when visiting Grand Rapids. The roads are well-maintained in most areas and drivers are not aggressive or in too much of a rush compared to many other cities. Traffic is also barely congested, so there is really no reason to avoid driving in the city, but do be a bit more careful between 7 and 8 am.
Known as the furniture capital of America, there are several reasons why you should find cheap car rentals Grand Rapids while visiting this city. However, during your stay, do keep in mind that aggressive driving is highly detested in Grand Rapids. In fact, driving in upwards of 25 mph in residential areas, near schools and work zones can seamlessly earn you a ticket. Other traffic offenses you need to be wary of while driving in Grand Rapids include driving through red lights, tailgating or making wrong turns.
As with anywhere, drunk driving is a serious offense in Grand Rapids, with the blood alcohol limit being 0.08%. A drunk driving conviction can result in serious penalties like suspension of your driver’s license, fines, and even jail time. Before hitting the road with your cheap car rental Grand Rapids, be sure to check if your driver’s license is valid and has no tickets on it
The boyhood home of President Gerald Ford, there is no shortage of attractions in Grand Rapids. If you will be driving to the outskirts of the city, be sure to get your Grand Rapids car rentals and head straight for John Ball Zoo, which is home to some of the fascinating animal species in North America. From spider monkeys to penguins, bears and pelicans, John Ball Zoo is the go-to destination if you are an animal lover. And when you step out of your four-wheeler, be sure to ride a camel, try a hand at zookeeping or groom a goat at Red’s Hobby Farm. And if you still have gas in your tank, do be sure to head over to Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum and gain insights into the life and times of President Ford.
25% of our users found rental cars in Grand Rapids for C$ 66 or less
Medium rental cars in Grand Rapids are around 24% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in Grand Rapids
What type of car is recommended for driving in Grand Rapids?
For the ultimate American driving experience, it would obviously be a good idea to get a pickup truck, but bear in mind that they eat lots of gas. A less bulky alternative would be an SUV, for instance. In any case, choosing a 4-wheel-drive car, especially in the winter, is definitely a good call.
What’s the speed limit in Grand Rapids?
Unless otherwise indicated, 25 mph is permitted for driving in residential areas in Grand Rapids. On unposted highways, the maximum speed is 55 mph and up to 75 mph on freeways. Michigan operates under the Basic Speed Law, which means the driving speed must be adapted to the prevailing weather conditions.
Where are the best places to park in Grand Rapids?
There are various options for parking in Grand Rapids, the easiest being accommodation with parking included. On-street parking is metered in most places, so check the time restrictions and prices on the sign. There are also parking lots and garages available all around the city, some of which are connected to the DASH lines, a bus service circulating the city which will bring travelers into the center.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Grand Rapids?
On average a rental car in Grand Rapids costs C$ 80 per day.
Which car rental companies are at Gerald R. Ford Intl airport (GRR)?
Car rental companies onsite at Gerald R. Ford Intl airport include Dollar, Avis and Hertz.
Which car rental companies will pick you up at Gerald R. Ford Intl airport (GRR)?
Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Gerald R. Ford Intl airport to off-airport locations include Avis and Hertz.
How can I find car rentals near me in Grand Rapids?
How much does a Small car rental cost in Grand Rapids?
A Small car rental in Grand Rapids costs C$ 85 per day, on average.
How much does a Medium car rental cost in Grand Rapids?
A Medium car rental in Grand Rapids costs C$ 83 per day, on average.
Should I rent a car in Grand Rapids?
Of course, renting a car while visiting Grand Rapids is a wonderful idea. With your cheap Grand Rapids car rentals, you can drive around the city and explore the wonderful scenery around the city that you would otherwise not be accessible via public transportation.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Grand Rapids?
The minimum age for renting a car in Grand Rapids is 18 years. However, some car rental companies will allow younger renters (basically those under 25) to rent a car from them for an extra free. Car rental prices vary from company to company. However, you can use online resources on platforms like KAYAK to compare and find the best car rental deals. While renting, be sure to provide a valid driver’s license, and well as proof of insurance. And if you are a foreign national, be sure to come along with your passport for identification purposes.
Picked up car and it was filthy. Should have went back in office and told them but took it home and cleaned it. Was very happy with the price.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Mar 2026
Compact
So my flights into GR got cancelled and Qeeq (the company I made my reservation with) did an excellent job helping me get refunded even though I was not within my 24 hour prior cancellation time. They communicated very well on everything and I would use them and Budget again.
4.0 Mediocre
Anonymous, Nov 2025
Intermediate
Budget overcharged my by over $100 from the agreed upon price for no reason which they also did the last time I rented from them forcing me to deal with customer service to "prove" my original agreed upon rental price which I will have to do again.
2.0 Poor
Anne, Jun 2025
Luxury
It was awful. Upon arriving was informed there were no vehicles in the premium class I had reserved. Was put in a small SUV. I own and drive a Cadillac. I did not want an SUV. I did not reserve an SUV. No other option I’m told. Go to vehicle and tires are bald! Was switched to another SUV. Tires bald. Third try another SUV. Tires were good. There was a dirty diaper by the door I had to step around. I will never rent from Budget if there’s any other option.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Apr 2025
Intermediate SUV
All very good. Excellent attention.
6.0 Okay
Anonymous, Mar 2025
Standard SUV
The vehicle was great however when I arrived after I had previously reserved a vehicle I was told they didn’t have any vehicles outside a pickup truck and 12 passenger van. I then waited about 45-60 minutes until a returned vehicle was ready. The vehicle was comfortable however it smelled like someone had been smoking weed in it. Overall it was a very average rental experience.
The first car we were given at the hire point was very dirty and internally had a strong cannabis odour. On advising the staff they were apologetic and helpful however it baffled me that the vehicle could be sent out to hire in the state it was. Given we had a 12 hour drive ahead of us it was implausible that we could be subjected to the stench of the car for that long. Further as we were returning to Australia there was also a risk that our luggage could also become compromised through contact with whatever substances had been used in that car putting us at risk when trying to clear customs. The attendant said the previous driver would be charged additional cleaning costs. This begged the question if I had not said anything at point of hire then I would have been subjected to the cleaning cost. Altogether a very unacceptable experience.
6.0 Okay
Bret & Morgen, Aug 2024
Full-size
The full size car we were given was not in good condition and the back up camera did not work.
6.0 Okay
Jacquelyn, Jun 2024
Intermediate
Being disclosed about the deposit and them preferring credit cards would be great. My credit card had gotten stolen so I only had a debit on me and was charged a $500 deposit because of that. Of course you get it back, but it’s an inconvenience. My plane landed late, they gave away the car I originally booked… I was only 30 mins late to pick up. The line itself was long so I spent another 10-15 mins waiting which is fine ! But just to say, it’s odd they gave away the car I booked so quickly. Whatever. At least I got a car, but it still was far from a smooth experience.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Dec 2023
Passenger Van
they didn't have the van that was promised
4.0 Mediocre
Robert, Oct 2022
Car was filthy, had to wait 90 minutes extra to leave on my trip.☹️
Car had some trash in it from the prior customer. As a non flying customer, it was difficult to find where my ride to the pickup location could park and offload my luggage.
Loved the workers there they tried and felt horrible that they couldn’t fulfill my reservation for a suv. When I returned I talked to her and she was super helpful!
I was charged twice. Once for my debit card to reserve the vehicle and charged mu credit card for an uograde. Not happy about the double charges.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Nov 2023
Intermediate SUV
Great car, clean, and the people I worked with at pick up and drop off had great customer service- super friendly! It was a breath of fresh air. Thank you!
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Oct 2023
Full-size SUV
Very good! Customer Service agent was friendly and helpful. Return was easy and personable.
10.0 Wonderful
Dana, Jun 2023
Intermediate
It was what I expected other than being charged for a full second day's rental when I only had the vehicle for 27 hours. Perhaps that is standard, but seems excessive.
First car I was offered should have been removed from the fleet. Changed to a new car . Service was fine.
6.0 Okay
Anonymous, Mar 2026
Intermediate
The car was old and in terrible shape. Dirty interior and exterior.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Oct 2025
Full-size
Car was ready with an up grade. easy pickup and drop off.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Oct 2025
Compact SUV
Owner of the location where we picked up our car was great! Didn’t charge us for the booster seat we requested because he didn’t have much on hand to choose from. He upgraded our vehicle. And it still was so cheap and a great deal!
2.0 Poor
Kyle, May 2025
Intermediate SUV
The rental car was terrible. It was the dirtiest rental I’ve ever had. There were scratches and dents all over from previous renters. The radio didn’t work. The car should be removed from the rental lineup. I’d like a full refund.
10.0 Wonderful
Carrie, Nov 2024
Supplier choice
Parking lot signs could have been clearer about where to leave the car. But that's on the airport, not Avis' fault.
Professional and friendly agents. Easy in and out process at beginning and also return.
2.0 Poor
Bigs, Jul 2024
Standard
Charged outrageous fee to return to different airport after flight was cancelled
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Jun 2024
Intermediate
Absolutely a disastrous experience. I flew from Los Angeles to Grand Rapids, Michigan for a funeral. When I arrived via Uber at the Enterprise location with my reservation and confirmation number, I was told that there were no cars available, despite my confirmed reservation and confirmation. They offered no resolution, and I was stranded in Grand Rapids until a family member could pick me up. I was late to the funeral visitation and vigil. I will never use Kayak or Enterprise again. I called their corporate head quarters and have yet to receive any follow up from them.
KAYAK and its partners wish to use cookies or similar technologies to store and/or access information on and about your device and process personal data such as your IP address, device identifiers etc., in order to improve your experience on the site, to analyze navigation, to offer and measure personalized advertising, and to facilitate sharing on social networks. We also allow the use of third-party cookies (including those from our advertising partners) on our sites.
By clicking 'Accept', you consent to your data being processed by 0 vendors on this web site for the purposes described in this notice. You can review the vendors and their individual processing purposes on the .
To review individual processing purposes and cookie categories, please click ’Select individual purposes’. You can review and update your choices anytime by clicking the ’Privacy Preferences’ link in the page side navigation.
