Rapid City car rental information
| Pick-up location | Rapid City |
|---|---|
| Car types | |
| Rental locations | 11 |
| Airport locations | 8 |
Cheap car rentals in Rapid City
| Mini |
| Economy |
| Compact |
| Intermediate |
| Standard |
| Full-size |
| Luxury |
| Minivan |
| Passenger Van |
| SUV |
| Commercial |
| Pick-up truck |
KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Rapid City
- Cheap car rentals in Rapid City enable travelers arriving by train to connect to different destinations within the city and also the neighboring cities. If you're planning for a holiday vacation with friends and arrive at Rapid City Pierre and Eastern train station, you need not worry about how you move around in the city. You should consider getting yourself your preferred rental car rental from Avis, Enterprise, Hertz, or other companies located at this train station, located along Cambell Street.
- It is essential to have a glimpse of traffic interruption when getting cheap car rentals in Rapid City. The city is well known for several festivals and events leading to traffic interruption. For instance, Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is one of the largest events that happens in August in South Dakota for ten days. In early February and the end of January, the city holds the Black Hill Stock Show and Rodeo, a second-largest event that captures more attention of the people in the city since it is an extravaganza of western fun for everyone.
- If you've landed at Rapid City Airport and need to drive your rental car to the city center, you can use three routes for a successful trip. The longest route is via the Radar Hill road, which will take you around 20min to cover a distance of around 13.3mi. The shortest route is via the SD-44 W route, which would take you around 16min to cover a distance of around 10.3mi. If both short and long routes have heavy traffic, you may use the third option, which is through Elk Vale road. You'll spend 18min to cover a distance of 10.4mi on this route.
- There is plenty to discover in and around Rapid City and the best way to ensure you get to see everything is by renting a car during your stay. The city has various places of interest like the Dinosaur Park, Skyline Wilderness Park, or Watiki Waterpark, but, being nestled next to various major national parks, it is also the perfect base for extended walks and hikes. With their own rental car, travelers are guaranteed maximum freedom to explore everything on their wish list.
- There is a regional airport (RAP) east of the city and it features various onsite car rental agencies, so the easiest way to start your time in Rapid City is by picking up a car right there. Internationally acclaimed agencies like Avis, Hertz, and Enterprise offer their vehicles for travelers, and with a car you will be in Rapid City in approximately twenty minutes via the SD-44 W.
- Driving in and around Rapid City during the winter can be adventurous, as the cold season can bring plenty of snow to the mountainous region. It is imperative to prepare for driving on snowy and icy roads when visiting in winter. First of all, ensure there are the appropriate tires on your rental car and consider renting additional snow chains if weather conditions are severe. Adjusting your speed and slowing down are important aspects when driving in wintery conditions, and remember to switch on your headlights so other cars can see you better.
- Like every city, Rapid City has certain times in which traffic increases and main arterial roads can be clogged up. If possible, avoid driving through the city during the morning rush hour between 7 and 9 am and the evening rush hour from 5 to 8pm. Especially the I-190 and I-90 can face severe traffic increase during these times, with commuters coming in and out of Rapid City.
- Book your rental car in Rapid City at least 4 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Standard rental cars in Rapid City are around -15% cheaper than other car types, on average
Rapid City car rental experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users
FAQs about renting a car in Rapid City
What type of car is recommended for driving in Rapid City?
A 4-wheel-drive car is certainly a wise option when visiting Rapid City, especially when planning to venture out into the National Forest. Good traction is required when driving up winding roads, or when driving on snow or ice. For the winter, check whether there is an ice scraper in the car, as you may need it.
What’s the speed limit in Rapid City?
Depending on the area, the speed limit within city limits is between 20 mph and 40 mph. Always check the posted signs and street markings. On rural roads drivers can go up to 65 mph, provided the weather conditions permit it, and 80 mph can be driven on most freeways and interstates, but there are exceptions close to urban areas.
Where are the best places to park in Rapid City?
Parking in Rapid City is a pleasant experience, as many city lots are free after 4 pm on weekdays and are entirely free on weekends. On-street parking is often without any charge for the first few hours, like parking on Main Street, for example. Metered parking is also available and costs around $0.50 per hour and is enforced Monday through Friday.
What is the best rental car company in Rapid City?
Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car rental company in Rapid City is Hertz (8.6, 55 reviews).
How much is gas price in Rapid City?
The average gas price in Rapid City is C$ 4.88 per litre over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between C$ 58 and C$ 78, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular rental car in Rapid City?
Standard (Chevrolet Blazer or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Rapid City.
How can I find car rentals near me in Rapid City?
Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.
How much does a Standard car rental cost in Rapid City?
A Standard car rental in Rapid City costs C$ 125 per day, on average.
How much does an Intermediate car rental cost in Rapid City?
An Intermediate car rental in Rapid City costs C$ 99 per day, on average.
How much does a Compact car rental cost in Rapid City?
A Compact car rental in Rapid City costs C$ 81 per day, on average.
What is the most popular rental car location in Rapid City?
In Rapid City, cars are most frequently rented at Alamo 4550 Terminal Rd (14 km from city centre ).
Which places can you visit with your Rapid City car rental?
It would be convenient for you to get a cheap car rental in Rapid City to move around Spearfish City, Gillette City, and Douglas City. It would take you around 44min to Spearfish City, around 126min to Gillette city, and around 18h or to Douglas City.
Are there car rentals in train stations in Rapid City?
You'll never miss a car rental at Keystone train station. You may consider getting one of the car rentals from Enterprise, Casey's Auto Rental, or Avis car rentals for successful navigation in the city. You'll get your car rental at the company's offices located within the train station.
Rapid City car rental reviews and directory
Hertz
8.6
Very good
104 reviewsCleanliness
8.9
Comfort
8.9
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.8
Value for money
8.1
One location in Rapid City
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Jan. 2022
8.0 Very good
Nov. 2021
2.0 Poor
Apr. 2021
Pros:
Quick check in and check out.Cons:
I returned the car a day early but I was still charged for that day.4.0 Mediocre
Apr. 2021
Pros:
The ease of pick up.Cons:
I rented a car two weeks ago to see my elderly mother in the hospital. A week later I had to return for her funeral as she passed away. The price of the rental was three times higher than it was when I rented from them the week before. The car was also dirty, and was definitely not cleaned to COVID standards. I had arrived late at night, so I did not have time to see the inside of the car until the next morning. I called the Hertz 1-800 number and they told me it was a Hertz Licensee Rental location and I would have to call the local number. I called and they told me the rates had gone up in the last week (almost 60%!?). Hertz also said they did not have a bereavement policy. On the call, I told the employee about the car being dirty and he said they would check into it. I never received a call back from Hertz. When I returned the car on April 17 two employees were behind the counter. They told me the same thing about the price increase, and when I told them about the interior of the car being dirty they both said "oh I know who that was". Evidently, there had been several complaints recently regarding the cleanliness of their cars, and all the complaints had been cleaned by the same employee. I continued my check out and left to catch my flight home. I would like to thank the two employees who checked me out as they both told me their condolences. They were also helpful in making notes in the computer regarding my complaint. I do realize there was nothing they could do, as neither was the owner.9.2 Wonderful
Aug. 2020
Pros:
Short line even without standing in Gold line. Low mileage modern car as upgrade when compact sedan not available. Simple return process too.Cons:
Chevy Malibu upgrade when compact sedan not available was acceptable (no other sedans available). Just not my preferred brand/model.10.0 Wonderful
Aug. 2020
Pros:
The staff was friendly and the pick up was quick and easy. When we got to the car we found they gave us an upgrade for no extra cost. Must have been what they had available at the time.Cons:
Everything went smoothly. The price was higher than we would have preferred, but that was because we picked up in Rapid City and dropped off in Sioux Falls. The price was lower through Kayak than directly with Hertz. It couldn't have been easier though at both ends.Alamo
9.4
Wonderful
85 reviewsCleanliness
9.2
Comfort
9.5
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.5
Value for money
9.0
One location in Rapid City
Filters
Reviews
9.6 Wonderful
Oct. 2020
Pros:
all around good deal!Cons:
Nissan Rogues are not the most comfortable ride, but not bad overall.9.2 Wonderful
Jul. 2020
Pros:
The airport was difficult to find where to drop off. Had to park and go inside to ask questions.9.6 Wonderful
Dec. 2019
Pros:
speed at check inCons:
Better tires to navigate through the snow8.4 Very good
Sep. 2019
Pros:
the pick up and drop off was very easy9.2 Wonderful
Aug. 2019
Cons:
Car was not clean5.2 Fair
Jun. 2019
Pros:
Staff was good, truck was notCons:
Truck was well used and could have been cleaner inside. Inside had an odor to it. Alamo must have acquired this truck used and put it into service. I had a new Ford four door pickup rented from Hertz the week before and it was great. I thought I was getting a better deal with Alamo on the trip.Enterprise Rent-A-Car
9.0
Wonderful
71 reviewsCleanliness
8.9
Comfort
8.8
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.0
Value for money
8.5
2 locations in Rapid City
Filters
Reviews
8.0 Very good
Oct. 2020
Pros:
The staff was friendly and helpful.Cons:
We had paid for Sirrius radio but it was not available in our car. Enterprise was quick to credit us back the cost quickly upon having it reported to them.10.0 Wonderful
Oct. 2020
Pros:
The agent who rented us the vehicle was outstandingCons:
Nothing really. Got a tire pressure warning on way back to airport, but had nothing to do with Enterprise9.2 Wonderful
Aug. 2020
Cons:
Pick up time was a little slow ... several callers who called AFTER I walked in office were handled while I waited instead of putting them on hold and taking care of me in proper order5.6 Fair
Aug. 2020
Pros:
Yes. Drop was easyCons:
billing was all messed up.. could not reach pickup location prior to straiten out so wasted an hour at pick up trying to fix! Rental was on 9 days but I was being billed for 2 weeks.10.0 Wonderful
Jul. 2020
Pros:
The staff at both the pick-up & drop-off points were very nice, courteous & professional.3.6 Poor
Jun. 2020
Cons:
Try Casey's auto rental insteadBudget
8.4
Very good
14 reviewsCleanliness
8.9
Comfort
8.2
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.7
Value for money
7.9
One location in Rapid City
Filters
Reviews
1.9 Poor
Jul. 2021
10.0 Wonderful
May 2020
Cons:
The whole experience far exceeded my expectations ....From pick-up to drop-off9.2 Wonderful
Oct. 2019
Pros:
Staff very helpful and friendly.Cons:
Price could have been lower.9.2 Wonderful
Jul. 2019
Pros:
Staff at Rapid City, SD was friendly and cars were right out the airport exit doors.Cons:
Staff could of been more familiar with the additional insurance sold on the web site. They told me it didn't cover an additional driver, which is why I purchased it through you rather then budget.8.0 Very good
Sep. 2018
Pros:
The car was a very smooth ride and drove very well. Was very handy to have the two extra seats in the back that made it comfortable for 6.Cons:
They were not very good at explaining all the extra charges associated with the insurance and gas options which cause my rental to wind up being almost double the original quoted price.10.0 Wonderful
Aug. 2018
Pros:
Last minute rental decision made simple!Cons:
Counter person requiring a SSN!Avis
7.3
Good
26 reviewsCleanliness
7.8
Comfort
7.5
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.4
Value for money
6.6
One location in Rapid City
Filters
Reviews
6.0 Okay
Oct. 2022
2.0 Poor
Jul. 2020
Cons:
The car I booked on line didn’t exist. Showed up at the counter. No one was there called the number. Lady identifies herself as the owner tells me she doesn’t even own a car like that in her business.8.4 Very good
Sep. 2019
Pros:
Every aspect of pickup and drop-off was very easy and smooth.Cons:
I was supposed to get a Chevrolet Impala or equal, but got a Hyundai Sonata, which I do not consider as equal.8.0 Very good
Sep. 2019
Pros:
The staff was great! Very friendly and quick. Explained everything.Cons:
The price for the car for one weekend was a bit high, and the car was small and not very powerful. Only 2 suitcases fit in the trunk. But it got us where we wanted to go.7.2 Good
Aug. 2019
Pros:
Staff was helpful and drop off was easyCons:
Would have liked a smaller vehicle, like what we requested.8.0 Very good
Sep. 2018
Cons:
There was a mileage limit that was so low that I would not be able to complete my planned activities. They were quite willing to sell me a higher mileage rate, but the original mileage restriction was not advertised (to my recollection), so I did not have an option but to add this fee. If I had this knowledge sooner I may have reserved with a different company.National
7.0
Good
4 reviewsCleanliness
6.4
Comfort
8.2
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.2
Value for money
6.7
One location in Rapid City
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Sep. 2023
2.0 Poor
Jul. 2023
7.9 Good
Jul. 2021
Easirent
4.7
Mediocre
No reviews available
One location in Rapid City
Eagle Rent A Car
No score available yet
One location in Rapid City
Rent-A-Wreck
No score available yet
One location in Rapid City
Sunnycars
No score available yet
One location in Rapid City
Car rental locations in or near Rapid City
Good to know
Most popular car type | Standard |
|---|