Ready to hit the road in Little Rock? Use the search form above to find your ideal car. Enter Little Rock as your pick-up location (we serve all major points, including Clinton National Airport (LIT) and downtown Little Rock), select your dates, and let our system compare real-time deals from multiple car rental companies in the area. In seconds, you’ll see offers for every need: economy cars for zipping around the city, SUVs for family trips to state parks, luxury vehicles for business or a special night out, and even passenger vans if you’ve got a group heading out to the Ozarks. Booking is fast and secure. Most rentals in Little Rock allow you to reserve now and pay later at pick-up, with free cancellation if your plans change. In just a few clicks, you’ll lock in the ideal ride for your Little Rock adventure. With a great rate confirmed, you can focus on mapping out your must-see stops, perhaps a hike at Pinnacle Mountain, a tour of Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, or a day trip to Hot Springs, knowing your transportation is sorted.
Introduction: Welcome to Little Rock, Arkansas’s capital city known for its rich history and “Natural State” beauty. Having a rental car in Little Rock means you can experience all sides of the region, from downtown’s River Market and the Clinton Presidential Library to the Ozark mountains and crystal lakes, at your own pace. Little Rock offers a blend of cultural landmarks and outdoor adventures, and with your own set of wheels, you’re free to explore it all without relying on limited public transit. AirportVanRental is a trusted online travel agency (OTA) that makes finding a cheap car rental in Little Rock a breeze. This page is your complete guide to securing an affordable Little Rock car rental, packed with money-saving deals, local driving tips, and trip ideas. Whether you’re a visitor flying into Clinton National Airport, a business traveler with meetings around town, or a local planning a weekend road trip, we’ll help you find the perfect vehicle quickly and at a great price. Let’s get you on the road in Little Rock, stress-free and budget-friendly!
Little Rock does have rideshares and a streetcar downtown, but much of Arkansas is best explored with your own vehicle. Here are top reasons savvy travelers choose to rent a car in Little Rock:
In short, renting a car in Little Rock unlocks the full Arkansas experience. You’re in control, from downtown’s historic sites to remote hiking trails, with the flexibility to go where you want, when you want. Next, we’ll show you why booking with AirportVanRental is the smartest choice to make it happen.
Our Little Rock Car Rental Benefits
Why choose AirportVanRental for your Little Rock wheels? In addition to being a specialist in rental vehicles (especially vans) nationwide, we leverage our partnerships to give you an easy, affordable experience. Here are some perks and USPs (Unique Selling Propositions) you get by booking your Little Rock car rental with us:
With AirportVanRental, you’re not just getting a car, you’re getting peace of mind, flexibility, and support. Now, let’s check out some of the top deals available for Little Rock rentals today.
Top Car Rental Deals in Little Rock
Little Rock might not be as large as L.A. or Boston, but you can still find a wide range of vehicles at great prices. Here are some typical rental deals you can snag in Little Rock right now (prices vary by season and demand):
Pricing Note: “From” rates exclude taxes/fees. In Little Rock, expect roughly 15–18% in combined taxes (state and local) and, if renting at the airport, an additional airport fee (often around 11% concession recovery plus a small customer facility charge). Don’t worry, when you search on our site, we show you the total price with all these included. Prices can fluctuate with seasons: for example, rentals may cost a bit more during summer vacation months or around holidays (like Thanksgiving or Christmas when many travel to see family). Conversely, you might find rock-bottom deals in quieter months like January. Always enter your exact dates to see current rates. And remember, booking early usually locks in a better price, but with our free cancellation, you have flexibility to change later if needed. We’ve got you covered either way!
Driving in Little Rock: Tips for Visitors
Driving in Little Rock and the surrounding areas is generally a pleasant experience, traffic is lighter than in big metropolitan cities, and the roads will take you through some beautiful landscapes. That said, every city has its quirks. Here’s what you need to know to drive confidently in Little Rock and Arkansas:
Traffic & Rush Hours: Little Rock is the largest city in Arkansas, but compared to mega-cities, its traffic is very manageable. Rush hour here typically peaks 7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–6:00 PM on weekdays. You might encounter slowdowns on main arteries like I-30 (especially crossing the Arkansas River) and I-630 through downtown during those times. Also, I-40 can get busy if you’re heading west toward Conway or east toward Memphis. Outside of rush hour, driving is smooth sailing. A “traffic jam” in Little Rock might mean a 10-minute delay due to an accident or road work. Still, it’s wise to use a navigation app (Google Maps, Waze) which locals rely on for real-time traffic alerts, especially if there’s construction or a Razorbacks game that could cause extra cars on the road. Pro tip: If you can, avoid the I-30 river bridge during peak times and take the less congested I-430 loop to bypass downtown; it can save time during heavy traffic.
City Streets & Navigation: Downtown Little Rock’s layout is a straightforward grid in many areas, but like any city, there are one-way streets to watch for (especially in the core around the State Capitol and business district). Pay attention to signage; one-ways are clearly marked. The River Market District and areas around Main Street are pedestrian-friendly zones, so drive cautiously and yield to people crossing. Outside downtown, roads are more suburban in layout. One thing to note: Little Rock drivers are generally polite and not as aggressive as big-city drivers, but they do appreciate using turn signals and a quick pace when the light turns green. Don’t be surprised if someone waves you through at a 4-way stop, southern hospitality extends to the roads too! Always be alert, especially at intersections like Asher Ave & University Ave, which can be busy and have multiple lanes. If you miss a turn, no worries; it’s usually easy to go around the block.
Driving Laws & Safety: Arkansas drives on the right-hand side of the road (as everywhere in the U.S.). Seat belts are mandatory for all front-seat passengers (and back-seat passengers under 15). Cellphone use: Texting or emailing while driving is illegal statewide, so put the phone down or use hands-free voice if needed. It’s also illegal for drivers aged 18-20 to use a cellphone at all while driving, and for everyone in school or work zones. Our advice: just connect your phone to the car’s Bluetooth or use a mount, so you stay hands-free and safe. Speed limits in the city are typically 25–35 mph on local streets unless posted otherwise. On highways, Arkansas recently raised some limits: interstate speed limits are often 70–75 mph on rural stretches (check for signs; e.g., I-30 and I-40 outside the city are 75 mph in many areas), and around urban areas it may drop to 60–65 mph. Law enforcement (Arkansas State Police or local police) do monitor speeds, especially on the interstates and near construction zones, so stick to the limit. Also, Arkansas is strict about DUI (driving under the influence), the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08%. Never drink and drive; enforcement is taken seriously for everyone’s safety.
Tolls: Good news, Arkansas has no toll roads, bridges, or tunnels anywhere in the state. You won’t need to worry about any toll booths or electronic toll systems when driving around Little Rock or beyond. If your road trip takes you into neighboring states, keep in mind some do have tolls (for instance, Oklahoma has turnpikes, and driving to Texas might involve toll highways depending on your route). But within Arkansas, it’s toll-free driving. If you do plan to cross state lines, ask our team or check if the rental has a toll transponder option, but for most folks staying around AR, it’s not needed at all.
Fuel & Gas Stations: Fueling up in Arkansas is easy on the wallet. Arkansas generally has lower gas prices than the national average (often thanks to being near oil refineries in the Gulf region). Expect to pay around ~$2.80–$3.00 per gallon for regular unleaded in 2025, though prices fluctuate. Most cars will take regular unleaded gas. If you end up with a luxury or a large SUV that recommends premium fuel, it will be labeled on the gas cap or fuel gauge, but those are rare. Gas stations are plentiful in and around Little Rock, especially near freeway exits and in town centers. You’ll find familiar chains like Shell, Exxon, Phillips 66, Valero and local convenience store chains. Most pumps are self-serve and accept credit/debit cards right at the pump. A quick tip: Pre-paying in cash inside the station is an option if you prefer, but you’ll need to guess how much to pay (the clerk can adjust if you overpay). Also, if you’re heading into more rural areas (like driving deep into the Ouachita National Forest or Ozark backroads), try to fill up when you’re in larger towns. In very remote parts of Arkansas, gas stations can be 30-40 miles apart, so don’t ride on fumes in the countryside.
Parking in Little Rock: One of the perks of a smaller city like Little Rock is that parking is generally easy and affordable. Downtown has a mix of street parking (metered spots) and parking garages/lots. Street meters in the central areas usually operate 8 AM to 6 PM, Monday-Friday and cost around $1–2 per hour (you’ll often see $0.25 for 15 minutes at older meters or use the parking app/ kiosk for credit cards). Even better, parking is free on evenings and weekends on most city meters (and the city often doesn’t enforce on Sundays or holidays). Always check the meter or posted sign to be sure, but locals enjoy free spots on Saturdays/Sundays downtown. If you’re visiting the River Market or an event at Simmons Bank Arena across the river, there are dedicated parking lots and decks. For example, the River Market Parking Deck on E 2nd Street is $2 per hour, up to $12 max for a full day, quite reasonable. Many surface lots downtown charge in the range of $5 to $10 for daily parking. Hotel parking: most Little Rock hotels offer free parking for guests, especially outside downtown. A few downtown hotels may charge a small overnight fee ($10-$15) or valet charge, but nothing like the $40+ big-city rates. In residential and suburban areas, parking is usually free and plentiful. Just be mindful of any posted signs, downtown has some loading zones or permit areas, and during big events (like a concert or marathon) certain streets might have temporary restrictions. Lastly, never leave valuables visible in your car, Little Rock is safe overall, but like any city, it’s wise to put bags in the trunk or take them with you to deter break-ins.
Weather & Seasonal Driving: Arkansas has four distinct seasons, and your driving experience can change with them. Summers (June–August) are hot (90°F+ often) and humid. Car AC is a lifesaver, ensure your rental’s AC is working well. Summer also brings pop-up thunderstorms; if rain pours, slow down to avoid hydroplaning, and remember headlights on in rain (it’s good safety practice even if not strictly required by law here). Autumn (Sept–Nov) is gorgeous, mild weather and beautiful fall foliage in the Ozarks. It’s one of the best times for a road trip. Watch out for wet leaves on roads in forested areas, as they can be slippery. Winter (Dec–Feb) is generally mild in Little Rock (daytime highs often 40s°F), but we do get occasional snow or ice storms. If it ices, roads can become hazardous because Arkansas doesn’t have the heavy-duty snow removal of northern states. The city will salt major bridges and highways, but if you’re not used to winter driving, it’s best to wait until roads are cleared. Fortunately, snow/ice events usually only last a day or two here before melting. If you must drive in winter weather, go slow, leave extra following distance, and avoid sudden braking. Rentals in winter will have all-season tires; you won’t need chains (and they’re rarely used here). Spring (Mar–May) is lovely, blooming flowers, but also the season for rain and possibly severe weather. Keep an ear on the radio or phone alerts; if there’s a tornado warning (rare but possible in spring), the safest action is to not be driving, seek shelter. This is unlikely during a short trip, but just something to be aware of living in the South. Most visitors never encounter severe weather, but it’s good to know the drill. On a positive note, spring driving in Arkansas means scenic routes lined with dogwoods and wildflowers, a treat!
Fueling & Trip Planning: As you drive around Arkansas, plan fuel stops when heading into less populated areas. Major highways like I-30 and I-40 have frequent gas and food at exits. If you’re going off the beaten path (say, a scenic drive on AR-7 through the mountains), top off your tank in the last big town (such as Russellville or Hot Springs) before the remote stretch. It’s also handy to carry some water and snacks on longer drives, some state parks are wonderfully remote (read: no convenience stores nearby). Cell phone coverage is generally good around Little Rock and along interstates but can get spotty in the deep mountains or rural river valleys. Having downloaded Google Maps offline or an old-fashioned paper map as backup isn’t a bad idea if you’ll roam off-grid, like the Pig Trail Scenic Byway in the Ozarks.
By following these tips and using common sense, you’ll find driving in Little Rock and across Arkansas to be quite straightforward. Many visitors comment on how relaxing and enjoyable the drives are, from smooth highways to picturesque back roads. Plus, Arkansas drivers tend to be friendly, don’t be surprised if you get a polite wave on a country road. Enjoy the journey and remember: sometimes the best finds (a hidden waterfall or a great barbecue joint) happen on the other side of an unplanned turn!
Road Trip Ideas from Little Rock, AR
One of the best things about having a car in Little Rock is the ability to embark on some fantastic road trips. Within a few hours’ drive, you’ve got national parks, historic cities, and scenic highways waiting to be explored. Here are three exciting road trip ideas to consider, all starting from Little Rock:
Highlights: Head out from Little Rock and in about an hour you’ll reach Hot Springs, home to Hot Springs National Park, the only national park located within a town. Stroll Bathhouse Row where you can even take a traditional thermal bath in century-old bathhouses. The Grand Promenade behind the bathhouses offers a pleasant walk with views. Hot Springs also has a charming downtown with shops and eateries (try a local BBQ or the famous Ohio Club for a bite). After rejuvenating in the hot springs, drive west on AR-7 or AR-88 into the Ouachita Mountains. This region offers winding roads through lush forests and clear lakes. A great detour is Lake Ouachita, known for crystal-clear waters, perfect if you fancy a swim or short boat tour. If you continue on AR-7 north, you’ll be on one of Arkansas’s most famous scenic byways, passing through quaint towns like Jessieville and offering overlooks of the Ouachita range. Loop back toward Little Rock via AR-5 for a different scenery, rolling hills and small communities.
Pro Tip: In summer, Hot Springs can be busy on weekends, start early to beat the crowds at the park (and secure parking downtown). Bring a swimsuit and towel if you plan to enjoy the thermal waters at a spa or hotel (many offer day-use pools filled with hot spring water). The drive through Ouachita National Forest has curvy sections; take your time and enjoy the views. Stop at Ouachita National Forest Visitor Center (on AR-7) if open, they have maps and info on short hikes (like the Hot Springs Mountain Tower for a panoramic view). This trip can be a day trip (~5-6 hours total driving round-trip plus stops) or a relaxing overnight if you stay in Hot Springs for the evening.
Highlights: This road trip takes you on a musical and historical journey. First, drive into the Arkansas Delta region. In about 2 hours, you’ll reach Helena, an old Mississippi River port town steeped in blues music history. If you’re a music lover, you might know Helena from the King Biscuit Blues Festival. Visit the Delta Cultural Center in Helena for exhibits on blues legends and Civil War history (Helena played a role in the Civil War as well). Stroll Cherry Street for some Southern small-town charm; if you’re lucky, you might catch live blues at a local venue or hear strains of gospel from a church. After Helena, continue across the Mississippi into Tennessee, heading to Memphis, the home of blues and rock ‘n’ roll. Memphis is only about an hour and a half from Helena. Once there, you can tour Graceland (Elvis Presley’s famous home), visit the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, and of course walk down Beale Street where live blues pours out of every open door in the evenings. Foodie alert: you must try Memphis barbecue (Central BBQ or Rendezvous are iconic picks). After soaking up Memphis’s vibrant atmosphere, head back to Little Rock via I-40 (a straight shot west about 2 hours).
Pro Tip: This trip spans two states and lots of sights, so start early. If you want to do it all in one day, Memphis might be a quick tour, consider focusing on one or two attractions there. Alternatively, make it an overnight trip: spend the night in Memphis to enjoy the nightlife on Beale Street and return to Little Rock the next day. When driving through the Delta, tune your radio to some blues (Helena’s KFFA 1360 AM is famous for the King Biscuit Time radio show). Also, be mindful of speed limits on rural highways in the Delta, towns are small but often strictly enforce the limit when the road passes through. The I-40 stretch back to Little Rock can be busy with trucks; stay alert and use the left lane to pass when needed. All in all, this journey offers a mix of culture, music, and history that’s well worth the miles.
Highlights: Ready for some breathtaking mountain scenery? This road trip heads north into the Ozark Mountains. It’s a longer loop, so consider it a full day adventure (or overnight in the Ozarks). Drive west on I-40 then cut up AR-21 into the heart of the Ozark National Forest. You’ll wind your way to Jasper, a tiny town that’s a jumping-off point for the Buffalo National River, America’s first national river. Outdoor enthusiasts might rent a canoe or kayak at Buffalo River if time allows, floating the Buffalo (particularly near Ponca or Steel Creek) is magical in warmer months, with towering bluffs along the riverbanks. Even if you don’t paddle, drive to Ponca and keep an eye out for elk in the fields (especially around dusk; the area is known for its elk herd). From Jasper, take the scenic Arkansas Highway 7 north, it’s often cited as one of the most beautiful drives in the country. You’ll pass through forests, alongside ridges with pull-off overlooks (don’t miss Arkansas Grand Canyon viewpoint just north of Jasper for a stunning panorama of rolling hills). Continue on to Eureka Springs, a quirky historic town in the far northwest of Arkansas. Eureka Springs is famous for its Victorian architecture built into steep hillsides and its artistic, slightly bohemian vibe. Stroll the narrow winding streets, check out boutiques and art galleries, or visit the Thorncrown Chapel (a gorgeous glass chapel in the woods just outside town). From Eureka Springs, start heading back east toward Little Rock. You can take US-62 to Harrison then US-65 south to pick up I-40, or for a different route, go north a bit to catch US-412 east across the Ozarks and then south on 65. Either way, you’ll eventually meet I-40 and return to Little Rock.
Pro Tip: This is a full-day road trip with lots of scenic driving, be prepared for mountain roads (they are well-paved but very curvy). If you have multiple drivers, consider swapping to stay fresh. Start at dawn if you want to do it all in one day, or better yet, split it into two days with an overnight in Eureka Springs or a cabin near the Buffalo River. Bring a cooler with snacks and water; you’ll be in remote areas for stretches (also, fill up on gas in Clarksville or Russellville before heading north, gas stations in the deep Ozarks are sparse). Cell service will be spotty in the mountains, so have offline maps or a printed map. Watch the road for wildlife, deer are common, and in fall/winter, they might wander onto roadways especially at dusk. In Eureka Springs, parking can be tight downtown; look for public lots or street parking on Spring Street and be prepared to walk a bit (totally worth it to see the town). Finally, if you’re traveling in autumn, the Ozarks fall foliage (mid-late October) is spectacular, this drive lights up with reds, oranges, and yellows, making it one of the best times to go.
These are just a few of the many road trips you can enjoy starting from Little Rock. Whether you’re into natural beauty, music and culture, or small-town charm, having a rental car lets you dive into it all. From thermal springs to mountain peaks and blues joints, a short drive unlocks a new world. The beauty of Little Rock’s location is that you can be in multiple different landscapes within a few hours’ drive. So pack a playlist, hit the open road, and discover why Arkansas is truly “The Natural State”, on your own schedule!
Frequently Asked Questions
Aside from the base rental rate, you will encounter some standard taxes and fees, but nothing hidden if you book with us, since we show them upfront. In Little Rock (and Arkansas generally), the rental is subject to state and local taxes. Arkansas has a 10% rental car tax (on top of the normal 6.5% sales tax), plus any city/county sales taxes, effectively, expect around 15-17% tax on your rental rate. If you rent at Clinton National Airport (LIT), there will also be an airport concession fee (around 11-12% of the rental) and usually a customer facility charge (often a flat fee, say $4-5 per day). These airport fees are charged by the airport to the rental companies (for operating on-site and funding the facilities), and they pass them to renters. For a short rental, these might add roughly $20-30 total. When you see your quote from AirportVanRental, all of these are already included in the total price we display. We don’t like surprises any more than you do! Other fees to be aware of: if you add optional items like GPS, child seats, or choose extra insurance coverage at the counter, those have daily charges (we show estimated costs during booking). One-way drop fees apply only if you drop the car at a different location, we’ll clearly list that in your quote if applicable. Lastly, if you’re under 25, the “young driver fee” (mentioned earlier) is an extra daily charge. To avoid any gotchas, review your rental agreement when you pick up the car, it will list all charges. But if you book through our site, you can be confident that the price quoted encompasses all mandatory fees for a Little Rock rental. We believe in transparent pricing, so you’re not blindsided at the counter.
Yes, one-way rentals are often available from Little Rock through our network. Many travelers do this if, for example, they fly into Little Rock but are leaving via another city, or they want to take a scenic one-way road trip. Common one-way routes might be Little Rock to Memphis, Little Rock to Dallas, or even to Oklahoma City or New Orleans. To book a one-way, simply select a different drop-off location when you search on our website. Our system will show you which vehicles are available for one-way and if there’s a drop-off fee. One-way fees can vary, sometimes it’s $0 (especially if it’s a relatively short distance or between major cities), other times it could be $100 or more for a long distance. For example, dropping in Memphis might have a small fee or none, whereas dropping at a far-away location like Chicago could carry a larger fee. We always include the drop fee in the price you see, so it’s transparent. A tip: try different rental companies in the search results, some waive drop fees for certain city pairs if they need to reposition cars. Also, book one-ways in advance; availability can be a bit more limited. If you have a particular route in mind and don’t see an option online, feel free to contact our customer support, we can often find a solution or advise on the best way to arrange it. One-way rentals are a fantastic way to see more of the country without backtracking, and yes, unlimited mileage still usually applies (just double-check the rental terms we provide). So go ahead and plan that one-way adventure!
Little Rock offers plenty of parking options, often more affordably than larger cities. In downtown Little Rock, street parking is available and generally costs $1-2/hour (enforced weekdays 8am-6pm; evenings and weekends are usually free). You’ll also find parking decks such as the River Market Garage and surface lots around popular areas, these typically charge $5 to $10 for a day or event parking. For example, if you’re visiting the Clinton Presidential Library, there is a free parking lot on site for visitors. Hotels: The good news is that most hotels in Little Rock, even downtown, provide free parking for guests. Many mid-range and all suburban hotels include parking at no extra charge. A few of the upscale or downtown boutique hotels might charge a small overnight parking fee or for valet service, but it’s relatively low (maybe $10-15/night). If having a car is crucial, consider staying slightly outside the core, areas like West Little Rock or North Little Rock, where hotels almost universally have free parking and you can drive into downtown in 10-15 minutes when needed. Always double-check with your specific hotel about parking arrangements, but compared to places like downtown Memphis or New Orleans, Little Rock is very car-friendly and you won’t struggle to find a spot.
Most people find driving in Little Rock quite manageable, even if it’s their first time. The city isn’t too large, and traffic congestion is minimal compared to big cities. Downtown has some one-way streets that might take a moment to get used to, but a GPS will help greatly with navigation. Drivers in Little Rock tend to be moderate and courteous, you won’t typically encounter the aggressive driving found in places like NYC or Boston. Just be sure to drive defensively as you would anywhere: watch out for pedestrians downtown (especially around the River Market area where people cross the street to restaurants and shops). Outside of downtown, roads are broad and signage is clear. During rush hours, you might hit slow traffic on the interstates or primary arterials, but it’s not gridlock, maybe a little delay. If you’re uneasy in any city driving situation, plan your drives outside peak times and you’ll have an even easier go. Overall, newcomers usually adapt quickly, many comment that Little Rock is “easy to get around” after a day of driving. And if you plan to explore nature or small towns, you’ll find highways and rural roads to be low-stress and scenic.