Ready to explore Iowa? Enter your Iowa pick-up location and dates above for instant price comparisons. We partner with all major car rental brands in Iowa plus trusted regional companies, offering the state's widest selection. From economical compacts for city driving to sturdy SUVs for rural adventures, find your ideal match. Our user-friendly platform lets you filter options, compare rates, and book in minutes. With free cancellation on most rentals, lock in today's rate risk-free and modify later if needed, total flexibility!
Welcome to Iowa, where Midwestern hospitality meets surprising natural beauty! From the iconic Field of Dreams to the stunning Loess Hills, having a rental car opens up Iowa's hidden treasures. Our Iowa car rental page combines competitive deals with essential local knowledge to ensure you not only save money but also navigate Iowa's scenic byways and rural roads with confidence. Whether you're flying into Des Moines for business, planning a Mississippi River road trip, or visiting the famous Iowa State Fair, we'll connect you with the perfect vehicle at an unbeatable price. Start your Iowa journey knowing you've secured the best deal and all the insider information you need!
Iowa's attractions span from river to river, and a rental car is essential to experience them all:
• Access Iowa's Hidden Gems: Public transportation is virtually non-existent outside Des Moines and Cedar Rapids. Want to stand in the Field of Dreams, explore the Amana Colonies, or cruise the Great River Road? A rental car is the only practical way to reach Iowa's attractions, state parks, and charming small towns on your schedule.
• Experience America's Heartland: Drive the stunning Loess Hills Scenic Byway, follow the Mississippi on the Great River Road, or explore Grant Wood's scenic inspirations. These legendary routes showcase Iowa's surprising beauty in ways organized tours can't match. With your own car, stop at every historic town, scenic overlook, or local cafe that catches your interest.
• Create Your Own Timeline: No tour bus schedules or limited options, you're on Iowa time. Want to catch sunrise over the Mississippi or spend extra time at the National Czech & Slovak Museum? Your rental car gives you complete freedom to explore at your pace.
• Connect Distant Attractions: Iowa's top destinations can be hours apart across its 300-mile width. A rental car transforms long distances into scenic journeys. Planning to visit Des Moines, the Amana Colonies, and Dubuque? Create your perfect road trip without complicated transportation logistics.
Our Iowa Car Rental Advantages
• Comprehensive Vehicle Selection: From fuel-efficient sedans for Interstate driving to pickup trucks for rural exploration, minivans for family State Fair trips to convertibles for summer scenic drives, we offer every vehicle type across Iowa locations.
• Guaranteed Best Prices: We work with 50+ rental suppliers throughout Iowa, from international brands to local specialists, ensuring competitive rates. Our system highlights deals like "Book 4+ days, save 30%" and last-minute specials so you always get the best value.
• Book Now, Pay Later: Most Iowa rentals require zero prepayment. Reserve your car without upfront charges and enjoy free cancellation if plans change (within the cancellation window).
• Complete Transparency: See the full price including Iowa's rental taxes and all fees before booking. No surprise charges, no hidden fees, just straightforward, honest pricing you can trust.
• Unlimited Mileage Standard: Explore every corner of Iowa or venture into neighboring states without mileage concerns. Drive from Des Moines to Dubuque, tour the entire Loess Hills, or visit Chicago, unlimited miles are included.
• Local Iowa Expertise: Beyond bookings, we provide authentic Iowa insights. Our comprehensive driving guide covers everything from winter road conditions to harvest season considerations. We partner with local attractions for exclusive deals and recommendations.
Today's Top Iowa Car Rental Deals
*(Note: "From" rates based on current Iowa market. Prices vary by location, dates, and season. Summer events and football season see higher demand. Search your specific dates for accurate pricing.)*
Driving in Iowa: What to Know
Iowa offers diverse driving experiences from urban interstates to scenic rural byways. Here's your complete guide to navigating the Hawkeye State safely:
Traffic Patterns & Rush Hours
Iowa traffic is generally light compared to larger states, but certain areas experience predictable congestion. Des Moines sees heaviest traffic on I-35, I-80, and I-235 during weekday rush hours (7-9 AM and 4:30-6:30 PM). The I-80/I-35 interchange frequently backs up.
Cedar Rapids underwent major traffic pattern changes with downtown converting from one-way to two-way streets (2016-2024). This improves navigation but can confuse GPS systems using older data.
College towns (Iowa City, Ames) experience dramatic traffic increases during football Saturdays and student move-in/move-out periods. Plan extra time or alternate routes during Hawkeye and Cyclone home games.
Speed Limits & Enforcement
Iowa speed limits are moderate and strictly enforced:
Iowa emphasizes "reasonable and prudent" speed for conditions. During winter or heavy rain, you can be cited for driving the posted limit if conditions warrant slower speeds. State Patrol uses radar, laser, and aircraft enforcement. Fines start at $30 plus surcharges, quickly exceeding $100.
Cell Phone & Distracted Driving Laws
Iowa has relatively relaxed cell phone laws:
However, you can still be cited for distracted driving if phone use contributes to an accident or violation.
Unique Iowa Traffic Laws
Seat Belts: Front seat occupants must wear belts ($25 fine). Unusually, adults in back seats are NOT required to buckle up, Iowa is one of few states with this exemption.
Headlights: Required sunset to sunrise and when visibility is under 500 feet. Also required with windshield wipers in continuous use.
Right on Red: Permitted after complete stop unless posted otherwise.
Farm Equipment: Must pull over if three or more vehicles are waiting to pass.
Weather Impacts on Driving
Iowa weather dramatically affects road conditions throughout the year:
NO Toll Roads
Great news! Iowa has ZERO toll roads. Despite studies in 2018 and 2021 considering tolls on I-80, none exist. You can drive across Iowa without encountering a single toll. The Mississippi River bridges to Illinois and Wisconsin are also toll-free.
Rural Road Considerations
Iowa has unique rural driving challenges:
Wildlife Hazards
Iowa ranks high for deer-vehicle collisions. Peak danger times:
If you see one deer, expect more. Don't swerve dramatically, brake firmly and maintain your lane. Report any collision to police and your rental company.
Unique Driving Challenges
Parking
Road Trip Ideas from Iowa
Iowa's central location and scenic diversity create excellent road trip opportunities. Here are three detailed routes showcasing the state's variety:
Field of Dreams Country (Des Moines to Dyersville)
Distance: 194 miles one-way (3.5 hours direct, full day with stops) Route: I-80 East to US-151 North through Cedar Rapids Best Time: April-October (Field of Dreams site closed in winter)
Highlights: Begin your journey in Des Moines with breakfast in the historic East Village. Head east on I-80 through Iowa's rolling farmland. After about an hour, exit at Brooklyn to visit the historic Lincoln Highway Bridge, a beautiful 1915 concrete bridge perfect for photos.
Continue to the Amana Colonies (exit 225), a collection of seven villages settled by German Pietists in 1855. This living history museum offers craft shops, breweries, wineries, and family-style restaurants serving authentic German cuisine. The Amana Heritage Museum provides fascinating colony history. Plan 2-3 hours to explore multiple villages.
Back on I-80, continue to Cedar Rapids. The Czech Village/New Bohemia district offers unique shopping and dining reflecting the area's strong Czech heritage. The National Czech & Slovak Museum is world-class, featuring immigrant stories and cultural exhibits.
From Cedar Rapids, take US-151 North through picturesque small towns. In Dyersville, follow signs to the Field of Dreams Movie Site. The baseball diamond remains exactly as filmed, surrounded by corn. Ghost Players emerge from the corn Tuesdays and Thursdays (10 AM-2 PM in season). Play catch, run the bases, or just soak in the magic. The site is free and open sunrise to sunset April through November.
For extended adventure, continue to Dubuque (20 minutes north) for Mississippi River views. Ride the Fenelon Place Elevator, tour the National Mississippi River Museum, or try your luck at the casino.
Tips: Book Dyersville accommodations early during baseball season. The Field of Dreams can be muddy after rain, bring appropriate footwear. Amana Colonies are less crowded weekdays. Many Czech Village restaurants close Mondays. Download offline maps, cell service is spotty between towns.
Great River Road Adventure (Davenport to Dubuque)
Distance: 90 miles direct, 150+ with scenic detours (3-4 hours driving, full day minimum) Route: US-61/67 North (Great River Road) Best Time: May-October for best weather, September-October for fall colors
Highlights: Start in Davenport, Iowa's third-largest city beautifully situated on the Mississippi. The Figge Art Museum and Putnam Museum offer cultural options before your journey. Stock up on snacks at the historic Freight House Farmers Market (Saturdays May-October).
Head north on US-67, officially the Great River Road, marked by green pilot wheel signs. The route hugs the Mississippi, offering constant river views. Stop at Lock and Dam 14 in LeClaire to watch barges navigate. The Buffalo Bill Museum here celebrates the town's famous native.
Continue through charming river towns. Princeton has spectacular river overlooks. Clinton's historic downtown and riverfront park merit exploration. The route alternates between bluff-top vistas and riverside runs.
Near Bellevue, don't miss Bellevue State Park, climb to the butterfly garden overlook for panoramic river views. The town's historic downtown has excellent restaurants with river views.
Approaching Dubuque, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic with limestone bluffs. Stop at Mines of Spain Recreation Area for hiking trails and Native American mounds. Dubuque itself offers incredible architecture, museums, and river activities.
For the ultimate experience, time your arrival for sunset from the Julien Dubuque Monument, spectacular views of three states (Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin) and the Mississippi confluence.
Tips: The Great River Road is narrow and winding in places, not ideal for large RVs. River towns have limited services Sundays-Mondays. Bring binoculars for eagle watching (winter) and barge spotting. Cell service is intermittent. Many attractions are seasonal. Flooding can close riverside portions, check conditions.
Loess Hills Scenic Loop (Des Moines to Council Bluffs)
Distance: 350-mile loop (6-7 hours driving, better as 2-day trip) Route: I-80 West to Loess Hills Scenic Byway to I-29 South Best Time: May for wildflowers, September-October for prairie grass colors
Highlights: From Des Moines, take I-80 West toward Council Bluffs. After crossing the West Nishnabotna River, exit at US-59 toward Harlan. You're entering the Loess Hills, windblown soil formations found only here and in China, created during the Ice Age.
Follow the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway signs through a landscape unlike anywhere else in Iowa. These golden hills rise 200+ feet above surrounding farmland. Stop at Hitchcock Nature Center for hiking trails and a 45-foot observation tower providing 360-degree views.
The byway winds through tiny towns like Mondamin and Pisgah. Murray Hill near Little Sioux offers spectacular vistas. The landscape constantly changes, prairie remnants, oak savannas, and dramatic ridgelines.
At Akron, detour west to the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center for exhibits explaining the hills' unique geology and ecology. The hiking trails showcase the rare plants thriving in this unusual ecosystem.
Continue south through the Waubonsie State Park, offering camping and trails if you're making this a two-day adventure. The southern section near Hamburg features some of the most dramatic formations.
Complete the loop by heading east on US-34 through Red Oak and Corning, returning to Des Moines via US-169. This return route passes through classic Iowa farmland, a striking contrast to the hills.
Tips: Fill up gas in larger towns, services are limited in the hills. Many roads are gravel, dusty when dry, potentially muddy after rain. Bring water and snacks. Spring and fall offer best weather and colors. Download offline maps as cell service is poor. The narrow, winding roads aren't suitable for large RVs. Consider staying overnight in Council Bluffs or a state park to fully appreciate the landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Iowa typically enjoys moderate gas prices near the national average, currently $3.10-3.40 per gallon for regular unleaded. Rural stations and truck stops along I-80 often offer the best prices. Avoid filling up at interstate exit stations unless necessary. Des Moines and Cedar Rapids have competitive prices due to numerous options. Ethanol blends are widely available and sometimes cheaper. Most rentals use regular unleaded. Return the car at the same fuel level to avoid expensive refueling charges.
Iowa winters are serious business. From December through March, be prepared for snow, ice storms, and blizzards. Always check 511IA.org before traveling. Keep emergency supplies: blanket, water, snacks, phone charger, ice scraper. If you're inexperienced with winter driving, consider upgrading to an AWD vehicle. During blizzards, Iowa DOT advises "Ice and snow, take it slow!" Many rental locations offer winter driving tips. If conditions are severe, delay travel, no destination is worth risking safety.
arm machinery is common during planting (April-May) and harvest (September-November). These vehicles travel 15-25 mph and can be 20+ feet wide. Never attempt passing unless the operator clearly waves you around, they'll pull over when safe. Maintain 50+ feet distance due to dust clouds. Be especially cautious at dawn/dusk when visibility is reduced. Farm equipment has right-of-way at field entrances. Remember, farmers are working, be patient and courteous. Your few minutes' delay helps feed the world!
Depends on your plans and season. Economy cars work perfectly for city driving and paved highways, offering better fuel economy for long interstate drives. SUVs provide advantages for winter driving (better traction and visibility), gravel roads (higher clearance), and carrying more gear. During winter months or for extensive rural exploration, SUVs are worth the extra cost. Convertibles are delightful for summer scenic drives. All vehicles include air conditioning, essential for humid Iowa summers.
Yes, Iowa has some distinctive rules. Adults in back seats aren't required to wear seatbelts (though we recommend it). You can legally make phone calls while driving if 18+ (texting is banned for everyone). Farm equipment must pull over if three+ vehicles are waiting to pass. Studded tires are illegal. Headlights are required with wipers. Iowa uses "reasonable and prudent" speed enforcement, you can be ticketed for driving too fast for conditions even if under the limit.
Parking is generally plentiful and affordable. Des Moines downtown uses meters ($1-2/hour) and the ParkDSM app. Cedar Rapids has free 2-hour street parking in many areas. Small towns typically offer free parking with time limits on main streets. However, college football Saturdays are different, expect to pay $20-40 near stadiums in Iowa City and Ames. The Iowa State Fair (August) creates parking challenges, consider park-and-ride lots. Winter overnight street parking is often banned for snow removal.
Best rates occur January-March (except during caucus years) and late October-November. Prices spike during: Iowa State Fair (August), college football season (September-November), RAGBRAI bicycle ride (July), graduation weekends (May), and major festivals. Book 2-3 weeks ahead for best selection and prices. Weekly rentals offer better per-day rates. Tuesday-Thursday pickups are typically cheaper than weekends. Avoid peak summer travel and college event weekends.