Why rent a car in Missouri? Ready to hit the road in Missouri? Use the search form above to compare real-time deals across the state, from Kansas City and St. Louis to Springfield, Branson, and beyond. Select your Missouri pick-up location (major airports like MCI Kansas City or STL St. Louis, or local offices in towns and cities), choose your dates, and in seconds you’ll see offers from dozens of rental companies. Filter by vehicle type if you have specific needs, maybe a compact car for easy parking in downtown St. Louis, an SUV for exploring the Ozark Mountains, or a roomy van for a family vacation at Lake of the Ozarks. Booking is fast and flexible: most rentals offer reserve now, pay later at pick-up, plus free cancellation up to 48 hours before pick-up. That means you can lock in a $15/day deal now and adjust plans later if needed. In just a few minutes, you’ll secure the perfect car for your Missouri trip at a price that leaves more budget for Kansas City barbeque and Branson shows.
Introduction: Welcome to Missouri, a state of big cities, small towns, and wide-open spaces in between. From the jazz halls and barbecue joints of Kansas City to the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis, having a rental car in Missouri gives you the freedom to experience it all at your own pace. This page is your complete guide to scoring great car rental deals and driving through the Show-Me State like a local. Planning to gaze up at the Gateway Arch on the Mississippi, cruise down historic Route 66 in Springfield, or wind through the Ozark Mountains to Table Rock Lake? We’re here to help, with affordable rates and insider info on everything from avoiding rush-hour traffic on I-70 to finding the best scenic detours. With our cheap Missouri rental deals and local driving tips, you can book with confidence and hit the road knowing you’re prepared for an amazing Missouri adventure.
Rent a Car in Missouri?
Missouri’s attractions are spread far and wide, from vibrant cities to rolling countryside, and public transit is limited outside the metro areas. Renting a car is by far the best way to experience Missouri. Here’s why having your own set of wheels is a game-changer in MO:
Our Missouri Car Rental Benefits
When you book your ride through AirportVanRental, you get more than just a car, you get value, flexibility, and peace of mind. Here are our top Missouri car rental benefits that set us apart:
Top Missouri Car Rental Deals
(Note: “From” rates are estimates. Prices may be higher in smaller towns or during peak travel periods like summer vacations, holiday weeks, or events (e.g. Kansas City World Series games or St. Louis during Mardi Gras). Always enter your specific pick-up location and dates to get the most accurate quote for your Missouri car rental.)
Driving in Missouri: Tips and Local Insights
Driving in Missouri offers a mix of urban and rural experiences. You might be zipping along multi-lane interstates one day and cruising down a two-lane country highway the next. Here are key tips and local insights to keep you safe and stress-free on Missouri roads:
Traffic & Rush Hours: Outside of St. Louis and Kansas City, traffic is generally light. On the interstates that cross Missouri (I-70 east–west, I-44 southwest, I-55 south, etc.), you’ll find smooth sailing most of the day. In the two big metro areas, expect typical rush hour congestion on weekdays: roughly 7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–6:00 PM. In Kansas City, traffic is said to be quite manageable by big-city standards, locals often brag that “KC traffic isn’t that bad unless there is an accident”. Still, highways like I-70, I-35, and I-435 around downtown KC do slow down at rush hour. In St. Louis, I-64/US-40 and I-270 see heavy commuter traffic, and I-70 near downtown can back up, especially where it meets I-64 near the Mississippi River. If you can, time your drives through KC or STL during off-peak hours (midday or after 7 PM) for a breezier trip. Elsewhere in Missouri, “traffic jam” usually means getting briefly stuck behind a tractor on a two-lane road.
Parking in Cities & Attractions: Parking in Missouri’s cities is relatively easy and affordable compared to coastal metros. In St. Louis, downtown has plenty of garages and surface lots, many near Busch Stadium and the Gateway Arch. Metered Street parking is available (usually free in evenings and on Sundays). Just watch for any signage about permit zones in residential areas, especially in the Central West End or near universities. In Kansas City, downtown and the Country Club Plaza area have garages (some offer free or validated parking while shopping). Street parking downtown KC is often free after 6 PM and on weekends but check meter labels to be sure. At popular tourist sites like the Gateway Arch, there’s a designated parking garage nearby and additional parking along the riverfront, on busy summer days, plan to arrive early. In Branson, most theaters and attractions have free parking lots, but traffic on the main strip (Highway 76) can slow to a crawl during peak season, consider using back roads or attending shows at off-peak times to avoid the parking rush. Overall, parking is typically plentiful and low-cost in Missouri, especially outside the downtown cores.
Tolls: Great news, Missouri essentially has no highway tolls for passenger cars. You can drive across the entire state without paying a penny in road tolls. The Missouri constitution forbids tolling on state highways, so interstates like I-70, I-44, I-55, etc., are all free. One exception: the Lake of the Ozarks Community Bridge in central Missouri, which charges a small toll (around $3 for cars) to cross a portion of the lake. Unless you’re vacationing at Lake of the Ozarks and choose that bridge route, you’re unlikely to encounter any tolls. However, if your travels take you out of Missouri, be prepared. For example, driving west into Kansas on I-70 turns into the Kansas Turnpike (toll road), you can pay those Kansas tolls with cash or K-Tag (note: Kansas does not accept E-ZPass). Driving east into Illinois, you’ll hit some tolls around Chicago (which do accept E-ZPass). But within Missouri’s borders, relax, no toll tags needed.
Speed Limits & Enforcement: Default speed limits in Missouri: 70 mph on rural interstates, 60–65 mph on divided highways near cities, and typically 55 mph on smaller state highways (lower if curvy or through towns). In urban areas, interstate limits often drop to 55 mph (e.g., parts of I-70 and I-64 in St. Louis, and I-35/I-70 loop through downtown KC). Standard city street limits are around 25–35 mph unless posted otherwise. Missouri State Highway Patrol and local police do enforce speed limits, especially on major corridors like I-70 which see a lot of cross-state traffic (so don’t be surprised to see troopers watching for speeders between KC and STL). A good rule: traffic often goes 5-10 mph over the limit on highways, but exceed 80+ mph at your own risk, not only is it unsafe, but it could earn you a hefty ticket (Missouri can deem 20+ over the limit as reckless driving). Also note: Missouri has double fines in work zones when workers are present, so slow down and stay alert in construction areas (and there are frequent summer road projects on I-70). Overall, drive with the flow and you’ll be fine.
Road Conditions & Navigation: Missouri’s interstates and major highways are well-maintained and well-marked. In rural areas, roads can be narrow and winding, especially in the Ozarks. At night on country roads, use caution, they may not be well-lit and wildlife (deer, etc.) can dart out (more on that in a moment). It’s a good idea to have a GPS or smartphone map app for navigation, as rural signage can be sparse. Cell coverage is generally solid along interstates and near towns, but there are pockets in the deep Ozark hills or far north farmland with weak signals, so it doesn’t hurt to have offline maps or an old-fashioned road atlas as backup if you’re venturing off the beaten path.
Weather & Seasonal Driving: Missouri has four distinct seasons, and your driving experience can change with the weather. Winters (Dec–Feb) bring cold temps and occasional snow/ice, especially in northern Missouri. After a snowstorm, highways are cleared relatively quickly by MoDOT, but secondary roads might remain slick. If you’re not used to winter driving, slow down, leave extra space, and consider renting an SUV for better traction. (Most rentals will have all-season tires; snow chains are generally not used in Missouri.) Watch out for black ice on bridges and overpasses on freezing mornings. Spring in Missouri is beautiful with blooming redbud trees, but it’s also storm season, keep an eye on weather forecasts. Severe thunderstorms (and even tornadoes) can occur in spring and early summer. If you hear tornado sirens or alerts, seek shelter (not in your car). Heavy rain can cause flash flooding on low roads, never drive into standing water. Summer brings heat and humidity. Your car’s AC will be your friend. Thunderstorms can pop up, so use headlights in rain and be prepared for sudden downpours that slow traffic. On long summer drives, have water in the car and don’t underestimate the sun, even with AC, a sunshade and sunglasses help on those bright Missouri afternoons. Autumn is a fantastic time for road trips, cool weather, generally dry, and gorgeous foliage in October (particularly in the Ozarks and along the Mississippi River bluffs). Just watch for occasional early morning fog in river valleys and farm areas as temps cool. No matter the season, Missouri weather can change quickly, so check the forecast and plan accordingly.
Wildlife on the Roads: Much of Missouri is rural or wooded, which means animals on the move. Deer are the number one animal hazard, they are abundant in Missouri and often graze along highway shoulders, especially around dawn and dusk. Keep an eye out for deer crossing signs and use high-beams on dark two-lanes when no oncoming traffic, so you have more warning. If you see one deer, slow down, they often travel in groups, and a second (or third) may bolt out. Hitting a deer can badly damage your vehicle (and the deer), so it’s worth being vigilant. In the Ozarks, armadillos have surprisingly expanded into Missouri, mostly they end up as roadkill, but swerving for small animals can be dangerous, so be cautious but don’t make extreme maneuvers to avoid a squirrel or armadillo. Livestock: In farm country, occasionally cattle or horses might get loose (you might even encounter an Amish horse-drawn buggy on some rural roads in Missouri’s Mennonite communities). Just slow down and pass wide. And watch out for smaller critters like raccoons or opossums at night. The good news: with attentive driving, you’ll mostly just enjoy Missouri’s scenery and wildlife from afar, think of spotting a deer grazing in a field as part of the road trip charm.
Driving Laws & Safety: Missouri follows the same general driving rules as the rest of the U.S. A few key points: Drive on the right-hand side of the road; you may turn right on red after a full stop unless a sign says “No Right on Red.” Seat belts are mandatory for all drivers and front-seat passengers (and required in back seats for kids, and speaking of kids, Missouri law requires child safety seats or boosters for young children). Distracted driving is taken seriously, as of August 2023, Missouri implemented a new hands-free law that makes it illegal to manually text, hold, or use a phone while driving (only hands-free voice commands or mounted GPS use is allowed). So put that phone down, police can and will ticket you for texting and driving. Also, don’t drink and drive, Missouri’s legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08%, with strict enforcement, especially in cities and around university towns (you’ll see plenty of “Drive Sober” signs). One unique Missouri rule: when windshield wipers are on due to rain, headlights should be on too (it’s the law and common sense for visibility). And like most states, Missouri has a “Move Over” law, if you see an emergency vehicle or police pulled over on the shoulder, you must vacate the lane next to them if safe or slow down significantly. Following these rules will keep you safe and ticket-free.
In summary, driving in Missouri is generally easy and enjoyable. The roads are open, the scenery is diverse, and with your own car, you’re free to discover both Missouri’s famous attractions and its hidden treasures. Buckle up, take it steady, and enjoy the ride through the Show-Me State!
Road Trip Ideas from Missouri
Missouri is a fantastic launching point for road trips, both within the state and into the heart of America. Whether you want to trace historic routes or seek out natural beauty, having a car lets you craft an unforgettable journey. Here are three detailed road trip itineraries to inspire your Missouri adventure:
1. Route 66 Across Missouri (St. Louis to Joplin)
Distance: ~300 miles (St. Louis to Joplin one-way). Plan 2 days to fully enjoy, though it’s about 4.5 hours of drive time without stops.
Route: Start in St. Louis and follow the path of historic Route 66 (now mostly I-44 and sections of Historic U.S. 66) southwest across Missouri, ending at Joplin on the Kansas border.
Highlights: Kick off in St. Louis by visiting the Gateway Arch National Park, it’s the symbolic “Gateway to the West” and a fitting start for Route 66. From St. Louis, head west on I-44 (which parallels old Route 66). Stop in Eureka to see the Route 66 State Park visitor center (learn some Mother Road history) or in Pacific for a classic diner breakfast. As you drive through the rolling hills of the Ozark Plateau, you’ll encounter quirky Americana. Don’t miss Meramec Caverns near Stanton, this spectacular cave was a famous Route 66 attraction (and legendary hideout of Jesse James). In Cuba, MO (nicknamed Mural City), admire the large outdoor murals depicting Missouri history, and maybe grab a slice of famous pie at Missouri Hick Bar-B-Q or a old-fashioned root beer atWagon Wheel Motel (a historic motel on 66). Near Rolla, consider detouring onto the older highway segments like through Devil’s Elbow, an old Route 66 river crossing with a scenic dramatic bend in the Big Piney River. In Lebanon, stop at the Route 66 Museum inside the local library, it’s small but packed with nostalgia (neon signs, vintage gas pumps, and more).
Heading onward, Springfield, MO is a major stop, known as the “Birthplace of Route 66” (it was here in 1926 that officials coined the name Route 66). Springfield has its own Route 66 Car Museum if you’re a classic car fan, and plenty of eateries; try local favorite Casper’s for chili or the retro Rail Haven Motel (an iconic motel where Elvis once stayed). Finally, continue west to Joplin, a charming town with a rich mining history. Joplin’s downtown has been revitalized with cafés and murals, check out the Route 66 Mural Park for a perfect photo op with the colorful “Joplin 66” mural. Just beyond Joplin, you can even dip into Kansas for 13 miles, the shortest state section of Route 66, at Galena, KS, where a vintage Kan-O-Tex service station (now “Cars on the Route”) inspired a character in the Pixar movie Cars.
Tips: This drive is all about the journey, not making speed. Old Route 66 alignments parallel the interstate in many spots, follow the brown Historic 66 signs to venture off the highway for more scenic, slower-paced stretches where you can. Summer is a popular time for Route 66 road-trippers, expect crowds at major stops like Meramec Caverns. Spring and fall are wonderful with milder weather and fewer people. Keep some cash on hand, as a few mom-and-pop attractions or diners (and that cash-only toll at Lake of the Ozarks Bridge if you detour north) may not take cards. Embrace the nostalgia, play some rock ’n’ roll on the radio, take pictures with old service stations, and if you see a roadside stand selling local honey or pecans, go ahead and stop, it’s all part of the classic Route 66 Missouri experience!
2. Ozarks Lake & Branson Loop (Kansas City to Branson via Lake of the Ozarks)
Distance: ~350 miles round-trip (Kansas City → Lake of the Ozarks → Branson → back to KC). Recommend 3–4 days to enjoy fully.
Route: Begin in Kansas City, head east on I-70 then south on US-65 to reach Lake of the Ozarks. Continue south through the Ozark Mountains to Branson. Return to Kansas City via Springfield (I-44 west then I-49 north or US-65 north). This forms a loop showcasing Missouri’s famous lake resort and entertainment capital.
Highlights: From Kansas City, drive about 2.5 hours to Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri’s premier lake getaway. The lake’s twisting shoreline has more miles than the coast of California! Base yourself around Osage Beach or Lake Ozark. Enjoy boating, fishing, or swimming by day, many marinas rent speedboats or pontoons (the lake is the place to be in summer). Don’t miss Lake of the Ozarks State Park, which has hiking trails and quiet coves for a picnic, and if you’re into geology, tour Bridal Cave near Camdenton for stunning underground formations. In the evenings, the lake area has a fun nightlife and dining scene, try some fresh Missouri fried catfish or famous Ozarks barbecue at a lakeside restaurant. Families will enjoy attractions like Miner Mike’s Adventure Town for kids or shopping at the Osage Beach Outlet Marketplace.
From the Lake, drive south on scenic roads (Highway 5 or US-65) about 2 hours to Branson, nestled in the Ozark Mountains. Branson is often called the “Live Music Show Capital of the World”, it’s like a mini-Vegas meets country jamboree. Along the 76 Strip you’ll find dozens of theaters with daily shows (music, comedy, magic, you name it). See a matinée at Dolly Parton’s Stampede (dinner show with horses) or catch an evening performance at the historic Presleys’ Country Jubilee. By day, explore Silver Dollar City, a 1880s-themed amusement park known for its roller coasters and artisan crafts (and great food, don’t skip the skillet dinners or cinnamon bread!). Nature is also a star here: take a scenic drive to Table Rock Lake for ziplining or a boat cruise on the Showboat Branson Belle. The Shepherd of the Hills area offers the Inspiration Tower with a huge view of the surrounding mountains, or for a quieter escape, drive to Dogwood Canyon Nature Park (just outside Branson) for walking/biking among beautiful streams and rock bluffs.
On your way back, consider a stop in Springfield, MO, about 45 minutes north of Branson. Springfield is home to the original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, a massive outdoor gear store that’s more like a tourist attraction (with indoor waterfalls, aquariums, and even a connecting Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium, an impressive stop for families). From Springfield, it’s about a 2.5-hour drive back to Kansas City (via I-49 or the scenic rural route US-13 through apple orchard country).
Tips: Summer is high season for both Lake of the Ozarks and Branson, expect crowds, especially on holiday weekends, and book lodging well in advance. Traffic in Branson on Hwy 76 can be very slow on summer evenings before showtimes, use alternate-colored routes (Red, Blue, Yellow routes marked on Branson maps) to bypass the strip when possible. The Lake of the Ozarks Community Bridge is a handy shortcut across the lake (toll ~$3, cash only) that can save time driving around the huge lake, worth it if you’re exploring both sides. Bring swimsuits and comfortable shoes, you’ll want to jump in the lake at Ozarks and do some walking in the hilly streets of Branson. This loop packs in a great mix of Missouri’s natural beauty and fun attractions, you’ll experience city, lake, and mountains all in one trip!
3. Great River Road (St. Louis to Hannibal, Mark Twain’s Missouri)
Distance: ~200 miles round-trip (St. Louis ➞ Hannibal and back). About 2 hours each way driving, but plan a full day or overnight in Hannibal.
Route: Follow the Mississippi River north from St. Louis to Hannibal, MO via US-61, which closely parallels the Great River. Return via the same route or a slight detour through scenic rural roads and wineries along Hwy 79/MIssouri Great River Road.
Highlights: Begin in St. Louis, heading north on I-70/US-61 out of the city. As the urban landscape gives way to countryside, consider a pit stop in Alton, Illinois (just across the river from Missouri) or stay on the Missouri side through St. Charles County. For a more leisurely and picturesque drive, you can branch off US-61 to Highway 79 at Clarksville to hug the river bluffs, this Great River Road route offers wonderful views of the Mississippi and bald eagle spotting in winter months. Continue to Hannibal, a charming river town most famous as the hometown of author Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens). In Hannibal, step back in time: tour the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, where the real Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn adventures were born. You can even explore Mark Twain Cave, which Twain wrote about (kids love trying to spot “Injun Joe’s” hiding spot inside!). Stroll Main Street for antique shops and maybe grab some homemade fudge or ice cream. Down by the river, take a one-hour cruise on the Mark Twain Riverboat, the Mississippi vistas are lovely and you’ll learn a bit of river lore.
Hannibal has a thriving arts scene too, check out some local galleries or the Big River Train Town museum if you have train enthusiasts in the group. For a panoramic view, drive up to Lover’s Leap just south of downtown Hannibal, local legend says two lovers from warring tribes jumped to their death here, but it’s now a peaceful overlook with one of the best views of the river and town. In the evening, if you’re staying overnight, consider one of Hannibal’s ghost tours (the town is quite proud of its spooky history) or simply enjoy a riverside dinner.
On your way back to St. Louis, wine lovers might detour at Hermann, MO (a bit southwest in Missouri’s wine country) or closer en route, stop in Clarksville or Louisiana, MO, small river towns with antique shops and historic sites. If you return via US-61, you’ll pass Cuivre River State Park near Troy, a nice place to stretch your legs among wooded trails if time permits.
Tips: This road trip is especially magical in autumn, when the river bluffs explode with fall colors, aim for mid-October for peak foliage. If traveling in winter, bring binoculars: the stretch of Mississippi near Alton/Clarksville is famous for bald eagles that migrate south and fish in the open water; there are eagle viewing events in January/February. Summer can be hot and humid, but the river breeze in Hannibal is pleasant; just watch out for mosquitoes near the water in the evenings. Hannibal is very walkable, but wear comfy shoes for the cave tour (it’s a constant cool temperature underground, a nice break on a hot day). This drive is short enough to do in one (long) day, but by turning it into an overnight trip you can savor the relaxed river town vibe and not rush your Mark Twain sightseeing. As Mark Twain once said, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.”, hitting the Great River Road in Missouri is a great way to broaden your horizons and enjoy some American history and scenery.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, Missouri does not have standard toll roads or toll bridges on its highways for passenger cars. You can drive across the state without paying tolls. The only minor exception is the Lake of the Ozarks Community Bridge, a small regional toll bridge (about $2–$3) near Lake Ozark. Unless your travels take you around Lake of the Ozarks, you likely won’t encounter any tolls within Missouri. If you drive into neighboring states, be aware those might have tolls (for example, the Kansas Turnpike if you head into Kansas, or toll bridges if you drive into Illinois). But in Missouri itself, no toll pass needed, just enjoy the open road!
The minimum rental age in Missouri is generally 21 years old. Renters age 21–24 will usually pay a “young driver” surcharge (around $25–$30 per day, depending on the rental company) and may be limited to certain car classes (often no luxury cars or large SUVs for under-25). Some agencies make exceptions for military or corporate rentals at 18, but for most travelers, 21+ is required. Tip: If you’re under 25, compare the total price with the young driver fee included, sometimes a weekly rental can still be a great deal even with the surcharge. And remember, AirportVanRental shows you all fees upfront, so you won’t be surprised at pick-up.
Yes, driving in Missouri is generally straightforward, especially if you’re accustomed to driving on the right side of the road. Roads are well-marked and drivers are relatively courteous. Traffic is moderate outside of the big-city rush hours, and even in Kansas City or St. Louis, it’s manageable with basic caution. If you’re visiting from abroad, remember that in the USA we use miles (mph for speed, miles for distance). 1 mile is about 1.6 kilometers. Speeds might feel high if you’re used to km/h, e.g. 70 mph ≈ 113 km/h, but those are typical highway speeds here. Stay in the right or middle lanes if you’re more comfortable going at or slightly below the limit; left lane is generally for passing or faster traffic. Missouri allows right turns on red after stopping (common in the US), which may be unfamiliar if you’re from a country that doesn’t allow it, just remember to yield to any cross traffic or pedestrians first. Also, our traffic lights go green-yellow-red (and no flashing green like in some countries). Overall, most international visitors find driving in Missouri quite manageable, just give yourself a little time to adjust if it’s your first time driving in the States. And our rental cars will have automatic transmission (unless you specifically request manual), which simplifies things if you’re not used to shifting gears. When in doubt, ask our team or consult the car’s GPS, and enjoy the freedom of exploring Missouri’s cities and countryside on your own schedule!
Yes, driving in Missouri is generally safe. The vast majority of roads are well-maintained, and local drivers are used to sharing the road with out-of-state visitors (especially in tourist areas like Branson or around the interstates). Missouri’s traffic laws are designed to keep you safe, just follow the rules (wear seatbelts, don’t speed excessively, don’t drive impaired, etc.). Rural areas at night can be very dark, so use caution and stay alert for wildlife as mentioned. In cities, be defensive but not overly anxious, Kansas City and St. Louis have typical city traffic and some aggressive drivers here or there, but nothing unusual if you’ve driven in any medium-to-large city before. Keep your doors locked in urban areas as a general precaution, and avoid leaving valuables visible in a parked car (common travel advice anywhere). Missouri does experience a range of weather (snow, storms, etc.), so adapt to conditions, slow down on wet or icy roads. One noteworthy point: flooding, Missouri has lots of rivers and low-water crossings; if you’re driving and encounter a flooded roadway (common in heavy rain seasons in rural parts), do not attempt to drive through it. “Turn around, don’t drown” as the saying goes. But this is a rare scenario and usually well-marked by closures. Overall, millions of travelers drive through Missouri every year without incident. Exercise normal caution and you’ll find Missouri a safe and pleasant place to drive. And remember, if anything does happen, you have 24/7 roadside assistance through our rental partners and can call our support line anytime, we’re here to help keep you safe on the road.