Why rent a car in Minneapolis
Ready to hit the road in Minneapolis–St. Paul? Use the search form above to find your ideal car. Enter your Twin Cities pick-up location (we serve all major points, MSP Airport, downtown Minneapolis, downtown St. Paul, Mall of America area, etc.), select your dates, and let our system compare real-time deals from multiple car rental companies across the metro. In seconds, you’ll see options for every need: compact cars for city errands, SUVs for family outings, luxury vehicles for business trips, even vans if you’ve got a group heading to a Vikings game. Booking is fast and secure. Most rentals here let you reserve now and pay later at pick-up, and include free cancellation if your plans change. In just a few clicks, you’ll lock in the ideal ride for your Twin Cities adventure. With a great rate confirmed, you can focus on mapping out your must-see stops, perhaps a day at Mall of America, a drive around the Chain of Lakes, or a dinner in St. Paul’s Little Italy, knowing your transportation is sorted.
Introduction: Welcome to Minneapolis–St. Paul, Minnesota’s famous Twin Cities, one a bustling modern metropolis, the other steeped in historic charm. This dynamic duo of cities offers world-class museums, sports venues, beautiful parks (known as the City of Lakes for a reason), and diverse neighborhoods to explore. Having a rental car in the Twin Cities means you can experience all sides of the metro area and beyond at your own pace. From downtown Minneapolis’s skyscrapers and theaters to St. Paul’s grand Capitol and Victorian-era streets, a car lets you seamlessly hop between attractions. This page is your complete guide to renting a car in Minneapolis and St. Paul. We’ve packed it with money-saving deals, local driving intel, and trip ideas so you can hit the road with confidence. Whether you’re a visitor flying into MSP Airport, a business traveler with meetings across town, or a local needing wheels for a weekend escape, we’ll help you find the perfect vehicle quickly and at a great price. Let’s get you on the road in the Twin Cities, stress-free and affordably!
While Minneapolis and St. Paul do have public transit (and even a light rail line connecting them), getting around the Twin Cities and suburbs is vastly easier with your own car. Here are some top reasons to rent a car when visiting the Twin Cities:
Unlock Two Cities (and More): The Twin Cities span a large area on both sides of the Mississippi River. A rental car lets you fully experience both downtown Minneapolis and downtown St. Paul, plus everything in between and around. You can catch a morning Mississippi riverboat in St. Paul, zip to a noon Twins baseball game in Minneapolis, then head out to dinner in trendy Uptown, all in one day. Without a car, juggling multiple stops across the cities (and suburbs like Bloomington or Eagan) can be time-consuming or expensive via rideshares. With wheels, the entire metro is yours to explore seamlessly.
Beyond the Metro Made Easy: Many of Minnesota’s treasures lie just outside the Twin Cities. With a car, you can venture to places like the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chanhassen, historic Stillwater on the St. Croix River, or Taylor’s Falls at the Wisconsin border, none of which are easily reached by public transport. Day trips to Duluth (2.5 hours), Lake Mille Lacs (2 hours), or even a weekend in Chicago (~6 hours drive) become possible on your schedule. Renting a car transforms Minneapolis–St. Paul from a standalone destination into a gateway for regional road trips.
Convenience for Multiple Stops: If your visit involves bouncing around, say you’re touring the University of Minnesota, then meeting friends in St. Paul, then catching a concert in Minneapolis, a car is by far the easiest way to hop between locations. The Twin Cities have pockets of attractions spread out: one afternoon you might want to hit the Minneapolis Institute of Art (south Minneapolis) and the Science Museum of Minnesota (downtown St. Paul) back-to-back. Rather than coordinate bus schedules or rideshares, you can drive 15–20 minutes between them and be on your way. No waiting, maximize your time instead of being tied to transit timetables.
All-Weather Comfort: Anyone who’s experienced a Minnesota winter or even a rainy summer day knows the value of a car. In winter, having your own vehicle means you can blast the heat and avoid standing outside for a bus or walking long distances in snow. You can safely store your winter gear in the car as you move between indoor attractions. In summer, enjoy the air conditioning and freedom to move between air-conditioned museums and outdoor sites without overheating on a stuffy bus. A car offers a reliable refuge from the elements year-round, which can make or break your trip (especially if traveling with kids or seniors).
Family & Group Friendly: Speaking of kids, the Twin Cities are a family-friendly destination (think Como Zoo, Minnesota Children’s Museum, Valleyfair amusement park). Renting a car is a game changer for families: you can easily install car seats, keep strollers and snacks handy, and maintain flexibility if nap time calls. Try doing all that on a bus or rideshare! Likewise, if you’re with a group of friends (maybe a bachelor party going brewery hopping, or colleagues in town for a convention who want to explore), a larger rental like an SUV or minivan keeps everyone together and often costs less per person than multiple Ubers.
Our Minneapolis–St. Paul Car Rental Benefits
Why choose AirportVanRental for your Twin Cities wheels? Simply put, we know Minneapolis–St. Paul and leverage our local presence plus national network to give you unbeatable value. Here are some perks of booking your Minneapolis/St. Paul rental car with us:
Best Rates in the Twin Cities: The Minneapolis–St. Paul area can be pricey in some respects, but your rental car doesn’t have to be. We work with multiple rental suppliers at MSP Airport and in-town locations to gather the cheapest rates. The competition at the airport and downtown means lower prices for you, and we make sure to highlight those. From budget economy cars to upscale SUVs, we’ve got exclusive discounts and promo deals aggregated in one place. Our system even checks nearby locations like Bloomington (Mall of America area) or St. Paul neighborhood branches, occasionally renting a mile or two away from the airport can save money, and we show you those options so you can decide. We’re confident you won’t find a lower price for the same car + terms, but if you somehow do, let us know. We’ll match it, because saving you money is our priority.
Many Convenient Pick-Up Locations: We’ve got you covered whether you want to pick up at MSP Airport’s on-site rental center or at a convenient city location. Options include downtown Minneapolis agencies (near Nicollet Mall and the Convention Center), downtown St. Paul agencies (near the Capitol and Xcel Energy Center), and suburban spots like Bloomington (ideal for Mall of America visitors). This means you can choose a location based on what’s most convenient for you, grab a car straight after you land, or maybe spend a couple days downtown car-free and then pick up a rental near your hotel for the road-trip portion. Our broad coverage in the Twin Cities ensures you won’t have to go out of your way to get your car. Plus, more locations = more vehicle inventory to choose from.
Wide Vehicle Selection (City Cars & Beyond): Thanks to our partnerships, you’ll find the right car for your Minneapolis–St. Paul needs. Compact and economy cars are popular for solo travelers or couples, easy to park on Minneapolis’s downtown streets or in tight campus parking lots at the U of M. We also offer hybrids and electrics if you’re eco-conscious (the Twin Cities have an increasing number of EV chargers!). Traveling with family or a group? Check out our minivans or 12-passenger vans, perfect for visiting attractions like the Minnesota Zoo or taking a day trip to Stillwater. Even specialty vehicles like luxury sedans or a fun convertible (cruising along the Mississippi River boulevard, anyone?) can be found for those who want to ride in style. Need a GPS or child seat? You can request add-ons during booking. Whatever your plan, we likely have a car that fits it like a glove.
No Pre-Pay, No Cancellation Fees: We get it, plans can change. Maybe your business meetings shift from Minneapolis to St. Paul, or you decide to extend your stay to catch a Timberwolves game. That’s why most of our bookings do not require any upfront payment. Reserve your car to lock in a great rate but pay at pick-up. If you need to cancel or modify, do so up to 48 hours before pickup and it’s typically free. We don’t believe in burdening you with prepayment or penalties; flexibility is key, especially when travel schedules are in flux. This customer-friendly policy sets us apart from sites that charge you instantly or make cancellation a hassle.
Transparent Twin Cities Pricing: Renting a car in a metro area can come with extra fees, airport concession charges at MSP, city surcharges, etc. We itemize all these upfront in our quotes, so you know exactly what’s included. The price we show encompasses mandatory taxes and fees, with no hidden surprises at the counter. Also, we give you a heads-up on common optional expenses: e.g., approximate parking costs in town (we’ll note if a hotel has high parking rates, etc.) or the fact that the light rail from MSP to downtown is just $2–$3 (in case you’re considering picking up your car in the city instead of at the airport to save on the airport fees). Knowledge is power, and we want you to budget confidently for your Twin Cities trip.
Insider Info & Local Support: This page itself is proof, we’re packing it with local driving knowledge, from navigating the tricky I-94/I-35E interchange (“Spaghetti Junction”) to finding the cheapest gas in the area. When you book with us, you’re not just getting a car, you’re tapping into a Minneapolis/St. Paul–savvy resource. We often send a pre-trip email with driving tips (like reminders of State Fair traffic in late August or how to handle winter parking bans, if applicable). If you have questions, our customer support knows the Twin Cities’ layout and can help, whether it’s “Where do I park for a Twins game?” or “Is it easy to drive to Duluth on a Friday afternoon?” (Answer: expect some traffic heading north, we’d advise leaving early!). We go the extra mile so you can drive yours comfortably. And in case any issue arises during your rental, we’re a quick call away to assist or liaise with the rental company on your behalf. You’re not alone on the road with AVR.
Top Car Deals in Minneapolis–St. Paul
Economy Car, from $12/day.Example: Kia Rio or Chevrolet Spark (2-4 door). These pint-sized rides are perfect for zipping around city streets and fitting into tight parking spots in Uptown or Dinkytown. Fuel-efficient and budget-friendly, economy cars are ideal for solo travelers or couples with light luggage. With lots of inventory at MSP Airport and local branches, prices start low, around $12 a day in off-peak times. It’s a great choice if you’re primarily doing city driving (say, hotel to meetings, or a day trip to Mall of America) and want to save on gas and rental costs.
Standard SUV, from $18/day.Example: Nissan Rogue or Hyundai Tucson (5 passenger). A small SUV gives you a bit more room and a higher drive height without being too bulky for city driving. At under $20/day, it’s a fantastic value for families or anyone wanting extra comfort. SUVs are popular year-round here, in winter, you’ll appreciate the available AWD for peace of mind on snowy days, and in summer you’ll love the cargo space for picnic gear or shopping hauls. Whether you’re driving across Minneapolis to Minnehaha Park or taking a scenic route up to Duluth, an SUV offers versatility at a bargain price.
Minivan, from $20/day.Example: Dodge Grand Caravan or Chrysler Pacifica (7 passenger). Traveling with the whole crew? Minivans are extremely popular for Twin Cities family vacations or group outings, think a friends’ day trip to Valleyfair amusement park or shuttling relatives to a wedding. With seating for 7 (and plenty of luggage room), ~$20/day is an excellent deal (split among 6 or 7 people, that’s just a few dollars each!). Book early, though, during summer and holidays, minivans often sell out as the Twin Cities are a starting point for many road trips and events (like groups coming for the State Fair).
12-Passenger Van, from $22/day.Example: Ford Transit 12-Seater or similar. Got a big group to move? These large vans are the ticket, popular with school groups, sports teams, or extended families visiting the Twin Cities. Load up everyone for a tour of the city or a journey down to Chicago together. Despite their size, they’re not too hard to drive in the Twin Cities’ wide streets and highways (just be mindful of parking, you’ll need a larger spot or multiple meters). At around $22/day (often less per person than a public transit fare if you filled all 12 seats), it’s the most cost-effective way to keep a group together. These vans are in high demand during peak travel seasons and for events (like college move-in weekends or tournaments at U of M), so reserve in advance if you need one.
(Pricing note: The above “from” rates are based on recent searches for 2-3 day rentals, picking up from MSP Airport or central city locations in the current season. Rates can vary with demand, expect higher prices in June–August (peak tourist season) and during big events (e.g. the Minnesota State Fair in late August, major conventions or sports playoffs). Conversely, you might snag even lower rates in the winter off-season (aside from holiday weeks). Always use our search for real-time prices for your specific dates and location, we often have special discounts applied there. And remember, booking early usually locks in a better price, but with our free cancellation, you have flexibility if you find a better deal later. We’ve got you covered either way!)
Driving in Minneapolis–St. Paul: Tips for the City & Suburbs
Driving in the Twin Cities is generally straightforward by big-city standards, the roads are modern and relatively well planned, but every city has its quirks. With a bit of local know-how, you’ll be cruising around Minneapolis and St. Paul like a pro. Here are essential Twin Cities driving tips and things to know:
Navigating City Streets: Minneapolis is laid out on a partial grid, with numbered streets and avenues, though it’s bisected by the Mississippi River. St. Paul’s layout is a bit more old-school (curvy streets and lots of avenues named after people or places). Don’t worry, a GPS or map app will serve you well in both cities. One quirky thing: In downtown Minneapolis, many streets are one-way, and there’s a skyway system of indoor bridges, great for walking, but as a driver, note that some downtown streets have fewer pedestrians at street level because of it. In St. Paul, don’t be alarmed by diagonal streets (like Summit Ave or Hiawatha intersecting grids), just follow signage. Key roads: University Avenue connects the downtowns (also carries the Green Line light rail, watch for trains at crossings). “Interstate 94” is the main freeway between Minneapolis and St. Paul (roughly 10 miles, ~20-minute drive without traffic). If you miss an exit, no biggie, both cities have loop routes (I-694/494 around the metro) that can get you back on track, though going too far out of the way isn’t usually necessary.
Rush Hour Patterns: Minneapolis–St. Paul has typical rush hours but is less congested than, say, LA or Chicago. Weekday mornings see inbound traffic into both downtowns from about 7–9 AM. Evenings, outbound traffic peaks 4–6 PM. Notorious slow spots include the Lowry Hill Tunnel area on I-94 west of downtown Minneapolis, the I-35W stretch through South Minneapolis (especially where it meets I-94, dubbed the “Crosstown Commons”), and I-94/I-35E through downtown St. Paul (lane merges can cause backups). Also, I-494/Bloomington area near the airport can jam at rush hour. If you’re traveling between the cities during rush hour, consider using alternate routes like historic Summit Avenue (a scenic but slower city street) or timing around the peak. Traffic also spikes whenever there’s a big event, for example, expect congestion around US Bank Stadium on Vikings game days, around the University of Minnesota during Gophers games or college move-in day, and near the State Fairgrounds in late August (parking and traffic can extend for miles during the fair). Plan accordingly, leave early or avoid those areas when events let out.
Parking in Minneapolis & St. Paul: Both downtowns have ample parking ramps and surface lots. In Minneapolis, look for city-owned ramps for the best day rates (they often have names like “Ramp A/B/C” near Target Field or “Millennium Garage” etc.). Typical downtown ramp cost is ~$6–$15 for a evening or all-day parking, which is quite reasonable. St. Paul’s downtown ramps (around Rice Park or near Xcel Energy Center) are similarly priced. On-street parking: Minneapolis uses meters (credit cards accepted) with varying time limits, downtown core might be 2-hour limit until 10pm on weekdays, whereas some neighborhood streets allow longer. St. Paul has fewer meters overall but around downtown and Grand Ave area you’ll find them. Both cities enforce parking rules pretty strictly, check signage before leaving your car on residential streets (some areas require resident permits at certain hours, others have street cleaning nights where parking is banned). The good news: outside of downtown and busy commercial districts, parking is often free and easy on side streets. At popular tourist spots like the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden or Minnehaha Falls, there are dedicated pay lots or meters (bring a credit card or use the mobile app, usually posted on signage). And remember winter rules: if >3” of snow falls, city officials may declare a Snow Emergency which triggers specific parking restrictions by day, if you’re unsure, it’s safest to park off-street in a ramp or lot during a heavy snow to avoid tickets/tows.
Driving Etiquette & Safety: Minnesotans have a reputation for being “Minnesota Nice”, and that extends somewhat to driving. You’ll find many drivers are polite, they’ll let you merge with a friendly wave (feel free to wave “thank you” back). But of course, this is still a metro area and people can be in a hurry. Expect a normal mix of cautious drivers and the occasional aggressive one. Horn use is moderate (usually only if truly necessary). One fun fact: locals often zipper merge at construction lane closures (this is actually encouraged by MnDOT, drivers use both lanes up to the merge point, then alternate). So don’t feel like you must get over early; in Minnesota, merging late (politely) is accepted practice. In terms of safety, be vigilant for bicyclists, especially in Minneapolis which is very bike-friendly. There are many bike lanes and dedicated bike paths that sometimes cross or run alongside city streets. Give cyclists at least 3 feet of space when passing. Also watch for pedestrians, especially around nightlife areas like Uptown, Northeast Minneapolis, or St. Paul’s West 7th, particularly in evenings. Crosswalk laws are enforced, cars should stop for pedestrians at marked crosswalks. Overall, follow the rules (speed limits are generally 30 mph on city streets unless posted otherwise, 55–60 on urban freeways) and you’ll do fine. Minneapolis–St. Paul is not a difficult driving city compared to many others.
Alternate Transportation Options: It’s worth noting that the Twin Cities do have alternative ways of getting around. Light rail (the Metro Transit Blue Line and Green Line) connects key points: MSP Airport and Mall of America to downtown Minneapolis (Blue), and downtown Minneapolis to downtown St. Paul (Green). If your plan involves just those corridors, you might use the train for part of your trip. Additionally, both cities have bus networks, and Minneapolis has NiceRide bike share in warmer months. Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) is widely available. Why do we mention this on a car rental page? Because sometimes a mix is ideal, for example, you might not need a car every day if you plan to stay downtown some days (where parking is an extra cost). You could rent a car for the specific days you’re venturing out. We encourage you to do what fits your itinerary and budget. If that means picking up a rental after you’ve spent two days downtown without one, we have downtown locations to accommodate that. And if you do go car-free for some city exploring, you can always taxi or rideshare for short hops. That said, having a car gives you maximum freedom, especially at night (light rail stops service around 11pm–1am depending on line/day). Many travelers rent a car for the entirety of their Twin Cities trip for convenience, and use it even for some in-city travel (parking costs are relatively low here versus other big cities). The choice is yours, and we’re here to provide a car exactly when you need it.
Seasonal Driving Considerations: The Twin Cities experience four distinct seasons, each with its own impact on driving. Winter (Dec–Feb): Snowy, icy conditions as discussed, just allow extra travel time and follow plows at a safe distance. Minneapolis and St. Paul declare parking restrictions during heavy snow (to clear streets), so pay attention to local news or city alerts if visiting in winter. Also, watch for “black ice” on cold clear nights, bridges and ramps can be slippery. Spring (Mar–May): Generally mild, but early spring can have potholes from winter freeze-thaw, so drive cautiously as crews work to repair roads. Flooding can occasionally impact low-lying roads near rivers in spring, detours will be posted if so. Summer (Jun–Aug): Road construction peaks; you’ll see orange cones on highways like I-94 or I-35 as maintenance and expansions happen in the good weather. Check ahead if any major freeway is under construction (e.g., I-494 often has projects), a quick look at Google Maps traffic or MnDOT updates can save you a headache. Also be prepared for event traffic, summer brings countless festivals, from Minneapolis Aquatennial fireworks to St. Paul’s Grand Old Day, which can close streets. But overall, summer driving is easy, just beware of sudden thunderstorms; if rain is torrential, pull off until visibility improves. Fall (Sept–Nov): Probably the best driving weather, cool temps and gorgeous foliage, especially late Sept through October. You might hit slow traffic on scenic weekends (everyone’s out leaf-peeping), but otherwise, roads are clear. One note: late fall is the rutting season for deer, they’re very active, so deer collisions peak in October/November; stay extra alert on wooded roads. In summary, Minneapolis–St. Paul is a year-round driving city. With a bit of planning for conditions, you’ll find getting around by car very manageable and convenient.
Popular Minneapolis destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
The primary airport is Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport (MSP), located roughly 10 miles from both downtown Minneapolis and downtown St. Paul (it’s between them). It’s by far the most convenient choice, and all major car rental brands operate there with on-site rental facilities at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. You can absolutely rent a car at MSP, in fact, many travelers pick up their car right after landing to start exploring immediately. (See our MSP Airport Car Rental Guide for detailed info on the airport rental process and tips.) There are also smaller regional airports (like St. Cloud or Rochester), but if you’re coming to the Twin Cities, MSP is the way to go. And yes, we’ve got you covered with great deals at MSP Airport, or if you prefer to avoid airport fees, you can rent at various city locations after you arrive via shuttle or light rail.
Not especially, driving in the Twin Cities is relatively user-friendly, even if you’re new. Downtown Minneapolis has a straightforward grid for the most part, though a fair number of one-way streets. As a newcomer, use a GPS and pay attention to signs about one-ways and turn lanes (there are dedicated turn lanes at many downtown intersections). Traffic in downtown Minneapolis can be a bit busy around rush hour, but nothing too intimidating (speeds are lower and drivers are used to pedestrians). Downtown St. Paul is a bit more winding in layout and has a couple of quirky intersections (like where multiple roads converge near the Cathedral), but again, if you miss a turn or get briefly lost, it’s easy to circle back, the downtowns aren’t huge. Pro tip: In Minneapolis, 7th Street and 8th Street provide useful east-west routes across downtown and are paired one-ways, and in St. Paul, keep an eye out for signs to I-94 and I-35E which encircle downtown, those are your main arteries in and out. Also note: both cities have some bus-only lanes downtown, these are clearly marked; avoid driving or stopping in them (typically during business hours). Overall, thousands of visitors drive in our downtowns every day, with basic caution and GPS assistance, you’ll be fine. Go slow, use your turn signals, and you’ll quickly get the hang of the downtown flow.
Many hotels in Minneapolis and St. Paul offer on-site parking or valet, but in the downtowns they often charge extra (around $25–$40 per night). If having a car is central to your plans, you might consider hotels outside the downtown cores where parking is typically free. Areas like Bloomington (near Mall of America) have lots of hotels with free parking and give quick highway access to both cities. In downtown Minneapolis, hotels like the Hilton, Marriott, etc., have attached parking ramps (for a fee), convenient but budget accordingly for nightly parking. Some St. Paul hotels, like those near the Capitol or along Kellogg Blvd, have slightly cheaper parking or included in rates, check individual hotel policies. Another tip: University of Minnesota area hotels (in Minneapolis) often have lower-cost parking and you can still be near the light rail to get downtown. If you don’t mind a short drive in, staying in suburbs like Roseville or Eagan can save money and usually include free parking, then you drive 10-15 minutes into the city for attractions. Ultimately, if you plan to use your car often, ensure the hotel you choose has in/out privileges (most do, if you pay the daily fee or it’s free). We list parking info on our site for many hotels in search results. And remember, with a rental car, you’re not tied to staying in one city, for example, you could lodge in Minneapolis’s lively downtown and still drive to St. Paul (only a 20-minute drive) for day trips, or vice versa.
No, the Twin Cities do not have any toll bridges, congestion fees, or city entrance charges. Unlike some larger metros, you won’t pay just to drive into downtown or cross a river. The only “extra” driving costs here are optional FAST lanes (E-ZPass lanes) on a few highways, as mentioned earlier, which are avoidable. Bridge crossings over the Mississippi (like I-35W bridge, I-94 bridge, etc.) are free. So breathe easy, you won’t be fumbling for change or toll transponders when driving around Minneapolis–St. Paul.
Big events can definitely create traffic spikes in certain areas, though rarely a citywide gridlock. Here are a few scenarios:
• Vikings Football at U.S. Bank Stadium (Minneapolis): Games typically Sunday afternoons (Sept–Dec) or occasional weeknight. Expect heavy traffic on I-94, I-35W, and downtown surface streets 1–2 hours before kickoff and especially right after the game ends. Parking ramps near the stadium fill up (and charge event rates). Many fans take light rail to avoid parking. If you’re not attending the game, you might steer clear of the immediate downtown East area during those times.
• Twins Baseball at Target Field (Minneapolis): April–Sept, many evening games starting ~7pm. Downtown Minneapolis sees a minor rush around 6pm on game nights on I-394 and I-94, and the ramps by Target Field (A, B, C) fill up but usually handle the crowds well. After games (~10pm), a flood of cars exit ramps onto I-394/94, a brief jam for 20-30 minutes. If you attend, consider parking a few blocks away and enjoying a walk or post-game drink while traffic thins.
• Wild Hockey or Concerts at Xcel Energy Center (St. Paul): Event nights see congestion on I-94 around downtown St. Paul and on West 7th Street by the arena. It’s busy right at event end (9-10pm) on West 7th as everyone funnels out. Give it a little time or park a bit farther away (there are many ramps a 5-6 block walk).
• Minnesota State Fair (Falcon Heights/St. Paul): Late August through Labor Day, this is a huge draw, over 100,000 people a day. Traffic around the fairgrounds (Snelling Ave/Hwy 51 and I-94 area) is extremely heavy, especially on weekends. Many locals park at remote lots and shuttle in. If you’re driving to the Fair, go early and expect slow going near the grounds. If not attending, you might avoid Snelling Ave altogether during the Fair.
• University of Minnesota Gophers Football (Minneapolis): 50,000 fans in the Stadium Village area on Saturdays in fall, causes traffic on I-94 (near campus) and University Ave. Plan for extra 30 minutes if passing through at game end.
• Concerts & Events: Big concerts at U.S. Bank Stadium or Target Center can bring in 40,000+ people, similar traffic to a sports game at those venues. Downtown will be lively but you’ll still be able to drive; just expect full parking ramps if you don’t arrive early.
In summary, yes, events cause localized congestion, but the rest of the metro usually stays normal. We recommend tuning into local traffic radio (AM 830 or FM 91.1) on game days for real-time updates. And if you’re attending an event, go early, enjoy the atmosphere, and you’ll avoid the worst of the traffic crunch.
Typically, rental cars in the Twin Cities will have all-season tires year-round. All-season tires are designed to handle moderate winter conditions and are standard on most vehicles, they usually suffice for Minneapolis–St. Paul winters, where roads are plowed and salted regularly. Fully dedicated snow tires (or studded tires) are generally not used by rental companies here. Studded tires are actually illegal for Minnesota passenger vehicles (except non-residents), and snow tires, while great on ice, would require swapping out every year, something rental fleets don’t commonly do in this region. Rest assured, though, that all-season tires combined with front-wheel drive (or AWD on many SUVs) and the city’s prompt snow removal mean you’ll be able to drive safely in most conditions. If a blizzard hits, the best course is to wait until plows clear the major roads anyway. One tip: if you’re concerned about winter traction, consider renting an AWD vehicle. Also, slow down and give extra space in winter, the type of tire helps, but good driving habits are most important. We also ensure each car has an ice scraper/brush for clearing snow, you might find it in the trunk or back seat (if not, ask at the counter). And remember, if conditions are truly severe, you can always delay travel, safety first.
Many Twin Cities rental locations (especially MSP Airport and large downtown branches) do allow after-hours drop-off. At MSP Airport’s rental center, for example, most companies operate nearly 24/7 or have a drop box for keys if they’re closed. Downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul locations often have drop boxes as well, you park in the designated return area and place the keys in a secure drop slot. When using an after-hours drop, we advise taking photos of the car (to note fuel level and condition) as a precaution. Smaller neighborhood rental offices may have more limited hours (e.g. closed at 6pm and on Sundays). Always check the specific location’s policy: our booking details will note hours. If you anticipate needing to return when a location is closed, confirm that an after-hours option is available. And if not, plan your return accordingly (or choose a different drop-off location like the airport which is always open). AirportVanRental’s support can also help coordinate if your plans change last-minute. Overall, the flexibility is there, just read the instructions provided for an easy after-hours drop-off experience.