Cleveland Car Rental, Your Key to the North Coast Adventure

Welcome to Cleveland, the vibrant “Forest City” on the shores of Lake Erie! Renting a car in Cleveland with AirportVanRental gives you the freedom to discover Northeast Ohio at your own pace from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame downtown to the roller coasters of Cedar Point and the scenic trails of Cuyahoga Valley. As a trusted online travel agency (OTA) for car rentals, AirportVanRental makes it easy to compare deals from top brands and find the perfect ride. On this page, you’ll find everything you need to secure an affordable Cleveland car rental with confidence insider driving tips, unbeatable rates, and answers to common questions. Whether you’re flying into Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) or arriving by train at Tower City, we’ve got you covered. Buckle up for savings, convenience, and the open road in Ohio’s heartland!

• No Pre-Payment Needed: Reserve your car now, pay at pick-up. Most rentals require no upfront payment, giving you flexibility if your plans change. Lock in a great rate today and keep your travel budget under your control.
• Free Cancellation: Enjoy free cancellation on most bookings up to 48 hours before pickup. Plans can change, and we get that if your schedule shifts or your trip is delayed, you won’t be stuck with fees for canceling in time.
• Instant Confirmation: Our booking process takes just a few clicks. Once you’ve found the perfect vehicle, confirm your reservation and you’re all set you’ll receive an email with all the details and pickup instructions. No waiting, no hassles.
• Transparent Pricing: The rate you see includes all mandatory taxes and fees; we itemize everything so there are no surprises at the counter. Cleveland rentals do include some local surcharges (for example, a flat $6 per rental Cleveland city tax), but our quotes show these upfront. The price you see is the price you pay, period.
• Trusted Suppliers Nationwide: We work with reputable national brands and local partners to bring you the best rates in Cleveland. Through AirportVanRental, you’ll see deals from well-known companies and more, all in one place. No need to shop multiple sites compare in one go and find the sweetest deal.
• Quick & Easy Pick-Up: After booking, simply bring your driver’s license and confirmation to the rental counter. If you’re arriving at CLE’s consolidated Rental Car Center, shuttle buses run 24/7 from the terminal. For downtown locations, it’s as simple as walking in. With your reservation ready, you’ll typically be on the road in minutes.

In short, a Cleveland car rental from AirportVanRental sets you up for a smooth trip from start to finish. Now, let’s explore why having a car in Cleveland is so beneficial for travelers.

Why Rent a Car in Cleveland?

Cleveland is a sprawling metro area with attractions spread across the city and its beautiful surrounding regions. Renting a car gives you total freedom to explore. Here’s why savvy visitors choose a car rental in Cleveland:

• See More, Beyond Downtown: While Downtown Cleveland and University Circle are walkable hubs, many of Northeast Ohio’s gems lie outside the city center. Think Cedar Point amusement park an hour west, the wineries of Lake Erie’s shore, or the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton to the south. Public transit doesn’t easily reach these spots. With a car, you can venture beyond the RTA rail lines and discover hidden gems on your own schedule.
• Flexible Sightseeing: No tour timetables or bus schedules to worry about you’re in charge. Want to spend extra time admiring the Monet paintings at the Cleveland Museum of Art, detour for a famous Polish Boy sandwich on the west side, or catch a Lake Erie sunset in Edgewater Park? With a rental car, you set the itinerary. You can cover multiple neighborhoods and attractions in one day that would be impractical otherwise.
• Comfort in All Weather: Cleveland’s weather can swing from hot summers to snowy winters. A car means climate control and comfort. In summer, enjoy the A/C as you drive to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo or Huntington Beach instead of sweating at a bus stop. In winter, having a car with heat (and maybe remote start) lets you explore even during lake-effect snow you’ll appreciate a warm ride when visiting family or holiday attractions, versus waiting outside in the cold. Plus, you can safely store your coats, boots, beach gear, or souvenirs in the car while you explore.
• Time Savings: Cleveland is a “driving city” and thankfully not a heavily congested one. With a rental, a 20-minute drive can replace an hour of coordinating bus routes. If you plan to roam beyond downtown, a car will save you valuable time. For example, you could tour the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in the morning, grab lunch in Ohio City, then hike in the national park in the afternoon all in one day. That kind of efficient adventure is nearly impossible without your own wheels.
• Explore Ohio’s Great Drives: Northeast Ohio offers scenic drives and day trips aplenty. Cruise along the Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail, trace the Cuyahoga River valley through quaint towns, or drive east to the “Covered Bridge Capital” of Ashtabula County. These experiences are best enjoyed by car you can stop wherever inspiration strikes, whether it’s a roadside farmers’ market or a scenic overlook. In a rental car, Ohio is your road to discover.

Simply put, having a car in Cleveland transforms your visit. You can reach further, experience more, and do it all on your terms. Next, we’ll cover what makes booking with AirportVanRental in Cleveland a smart choice, and share local tips to help you drive with confidence.

Our Cleveland Car Rental Benefits (Why Book with AirportVanRental)

When you book your Cleveland ride through AirportVanRental, you’re not just getting a car you’re getting a seamless experience from start to finish, with perks you won’t get by walking up to the counter. Here’s what sets us apart for your Cleveland car rental:

• Transparent Pricing & No Hidden Fees: We hate hidden fees as much as you do. The price we quote is the price you pay. Ohio rentals will include standard sales taxes (around 8%), and airport or city surcharges (CLE airport adds its own fees, and Cleveland has a $6 vehicle tax), but we display all of these in your online quote upfront. You’ll know the true total cost before you book, so you can budget accurately with no last-minute surprises. No “Cleveland” extras popping up on your receipt we’ve made everything clear for peace of mind.
• Trusted Supplier Network & Best Rates: AirportVanRental partners with all the major rental brands in Cleveland and across Ohio. By aggregating deals from multiple companies, we make sure you see the lowest price available for your dates. We often have exclusive promo rates thanks to our partnerships whether it’s a weekend special or a free upgrade offer. If there’s a better rate out there, we’ll help you find it. Our goal is simple: get you the best deal on your Cleveland car rental. (Found a cheaper price? Let us know, and we’ll do our best to match or beat it!)
• Diverse Vehicle Selection (Including Vans): Need a small car for easy parking in downtown Cleveland? An SUV for a family outing to the Cleveland Metroparks? A roomy minivan or 12-passenger van for a Browns game tailgate or a group road trip? We’ve got them all. AirportVanRental specializes in van rentals, so you’ll find plenty of passenger van options here that other sites might not show. Of course, you’ll also see economy cars, sedans, luxury vehicles, and hybrids. With thousands of vehicles in our system, you can choose exactly what fits your trip. (Tip: Cleveland’s downtown streets are fairly spacious compared to older East Coast cities, but if you’re primarily city-hopping solo, a compact car will be easiest to park. For larger groups or winter travel, an SUV or van offers comfort and cargo space.)
• Flexible Booking & Free Cancellation: Plans change we get it. That’s why most reservations on our site require no prepayment. Reserve your vehicle to lock in a great rate, and pay when you pick it up. Need to cancel or modify? It’s usually free as long as you do so at least 48 hours in advance (check your specific booking terms). This flexibility means you can book early to grab a deal, then adjust later if needed, without stress. We also don’t add any extra charges on our end for young drivers or additional drivers; any such fees (e.g. under-25 surcharge) are transparently noted from the rental provider, so you won’t be caught off guard.
• Exceptional 24/7 Support & Local Expertise: Renting through AirportVanRental means you have a travel partner in your corner, not just a booking engine. Our customer support team is available 24/7 in case you hit any snags or have questions during your rental. Flight delayed? We can help update your reservation so your car is held. Stuck in traffic on I-480 and worried about making your return time? Give us a call we’ll assist or advise. Not sure about Ohio’s toll system or need to extend your rental a day? We’re here to help. Plus, we infuse local knowledge into our guides (see our Cleveland driving tips below), so you’re never in the dark about driving in an unfamiliar city. With AirportVanRental, you’re booking with friendly experts who’ve got your back.

One-Way Rentals: Want to pick up in Cleveland and drop off in another city? No problem! Many of our partners allow one-way rentals. Just select a different return location when you search (for example, drop off in Columbus, Detroit, or Chicago). We’ll clearly display any one-way fee before you book. One-way rentals are perfect for travelers planning a Midwest road trip fly into Cleveland, drive to your destinations, and fly out of another city. (Pro tip: book one-way trips further in advance if possible, as availability can be limited. And if you plan to drive into Canada, check the rental policy or ask us some companies allow it with advance notice.) Whatever your itinerary, we’ll help make it happen!

Top Car Rental Deals in Cleveland

• Economy Car from $12/day:Example: Nissan Versa, Ford Fiesta or similar. Perfect for solo travelers or couples on a budget. Easy to park in neighborhoods like Ohio City or Tremont, and fuel-efficient for day trips (great if you plan to drive out to Mentor Headlands Beach or Akron). Low cost, high savings an economy car gets you around Cleveland cheaply and reliably.
• Midsize SUV from $29/day:Example: Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue or similar (5-passenger). A versatile choice if you have a family or extra luggage. Comfortable on the highway for trips to Cedar Point or Columbus, with plenty of cargo room for souvenirs or sports gear. SUVs handle Ohio’s winter roads nicely, and you’ll appreciate the space whether you’re touring the Lake Erie coastline or tailgating at a Guardians (Indians) game.
• Minivan from $52/day:Example: Dodge Grand Caravan, Chrysler Pacifica (7-8 passenger) or similar. Ideal for larger families or groups exploring together. A minivan lets you keep everyone and everything in one vehicle no splitting up. Drive the crew to the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, then out to the suburban attractions like Great Northern Mall or Aurora Farm outlets with ease. With sliding doors and ample seating, it’s the ultimate road trip vehicle for comfort and convenience. (Bonus: splitting the cost with 6 or 7 people makes a van one of the cheapest per-person options!)
• 12-Passenger Van from $85/day:Example: Ford Transit Passenger Van or similar. Got a big crew? This is perfect for sports teams, church groups, or extended family reunions. Visit the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo or Edgewater Park all together, or head down to King’s Island near Cincinnati as a group. Despite the size, these vans are straightforward to drive and offer unbeatable per-person cost for group travel. Plus, AirportVanRental’s specialty means you’ll find these larger vans readily available in Cleveland when other sites might not list them.
• Luxury/Premium Car from $90/day:Example: BMW 3 Series, Cadillac XTS or similar. Arrive in style to that business meeting in Downtown Cleveland or treat yourself for a special occasion. Premium cars offer a smooth ride on I-90 and plenty of modern features. Whether you’re impressing a client or enjoying a weekend getaway to the Lake Erie islands, you can ride in comfort and class without breaking the bank (premium rentals in Cleveland often cost far less than in bigger cities). Go ahead add a touch of luxury to your trip!

Note: “From” rates exclude taxes/fees. Approximately 13-18% in taxes and mandatory surcharges may apply in Cleveland (Ohio state sales tax ~8%, plus local fees like Cleveland’s $6 rental tax and, if at CLE Airport, airport facility fees). We show you the final price with all these included during booking. Also, prices can spike during peak seasons or major events e.g. summer tourist months (June–August), holiday weeks, or big events like the NFL Draft or a Cavaliers playoff run. It’s wise to book early for those times to lock in lower rates. Conversely, you might find great bargains in off-peak periods or on weekends when demand is lower. Always search with your exact dates and pickup location for the most accurate deal.

Driving in Cleveland: What to Know

Driving in Cleveland is generally straightforward and stress-free, especially compared to mega-cities like New York or Chicago. The roads are well laid out, and traffic congestion is usually moderate. That said, every city has its quirks. Here are key tips, rules, and local insights for driving around Cleveland and Northeast Ohio:

• Traffic & Rush Hours: Good news Cleveland’s traffic isn’t too intense. Rush hour on weekdays typically runs 7:30–9:30 AM inbound and 4:00–6:00 PM outbound. The peak is usually 7:30–8:30 AM and around 5 PM. Because Cleveland’s metropolitan area is fairly compact, most commuters can get downtown within 30 minutes, and truly heavy congestion is often limited to about an hour in the evening. Major highways like I-71, I-77, I-90, and the I-480 belt can slow down during those times, especially at merging points (for example, where I-480 meets I-77 on the south side, or along I-90 on the Innerbelt curve downtown). If you can avoid driving at the height of rush hour, you’ll likely have a smooth ride. And if you must drive during peak times, using a navigation app for traffic updates is wise Cleveland drivers are generally polite, but accidents or construction can cause intermittent delays. Overall, compared to many cities, Cleveland ranks low for congestion (drivers here lose far less time in traffic annually than in most big U.S. cities).
• City Driving & Parking: Downtown Cleveland’s street layout is a grid in most areas, making navigation relatively easy. Some one-way streets exist (Pay attention especially in areas like around Public Square or the Warehouse District), but they’re well-marked. Parking in downtown Cleveland is plentiful and more affordable than in many cities. Street parking meters in the central business district cost about $1.00 per hour (2-hour max) and many accept credit cards or mobile app payment via ParkMobile. Most meters are enforced 8 AM to 6 PM Monday-Saturday, with free overnight and Sunday parking (always check signage to be sure!). For longer stays, public and private garages are widely available daily rates typically range from $10 to $20 depending on location. For example, the Key Tower garage maxes out around $20/day, while some lots near the courthouse are about $12/day. During special events (say a Browns home game, or a concert at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse), parking lots near the venue may raise prices or fill up fast. If you’re visiting for an event, consider arriving early or parking a bit farther away and walking or using the RTA trolley within downtown. Neighborhoods: Outside of downtown, most Cleveland neighborhoods (Ohio City, Tremont, University Circle, etc.) have a mix of free street parking and paid lots. In crowded areas like near West 25th Street (Ohio City) or Little Italy, you might use paid lots ($5-10) if street spots are full. Overall, parking is easier and cheaper here than in Boston, NYC, or Chicago one of the perks of visiting Cleveland by car!
• Tolls & EZ-Pass: Within the immediate Cleveland area, there are no tolled city highways driving around the city and suburbs is toll-free. However, if you plan to venture farther, know that the Ohio Turnpike (I-80/I-90) is a major toll road running east-west just south of Cleveland. For example, if you drive to Sandusky/Cedar Point via the Turnpike, or head toward Pennsylvania on I-80, you’ll encounter tolls. The Ohio Turnpike uses a combination of E-ZPass electronic tolling and traditional toll plazas. If your rental car has an E-ZPass transponder or if you bring your own, you can use the express lanes and get a discounted toll rate (about 33% less in many cases). If you don’t have E-ZPass, no worries you can take a ticket and pay cash or credit card when you exit, or use the new “open road” lanes and they’ll bill the car via license plate. (The rental company will charge the toll to you later, often with a small admin fee, if you go through E-ZPass-only lanes without a transponder.) Our recommendation: check with your rental provider about their toll policy. Many offer an optional toll plan (a flat daily fee for unlimited toll usage) which can be convenient if you expect to hit a lot of toll roads. If you’re just making one or two trips on the Turnpike, you might opt to pay cash/credit at the toll booth instead. Beyond the Turnpike, note that if you drive west into Pennsylvania or use certain bridges on the east side of Cleveland, there might be small tolls, but generally Northeast Ohio is toll-free aside from the Turnpike system.
• Speed Limits & Road Rules: Ohio’s rules of the road are fairly standard for the U.S. You’ll be driving on the right-hand side. Speed limits: On interstates, the maximum is typically 70 mph in rural areas, and often 60-65 mph in urban stretches (around Cleveland, watch for 60 mph zones on I-90/I-71 through downtown). Other state highways usually post 55 mph, and city streets are often 25-35 mph unless otherwise signed. Always keep an eye out for posted signs, as limits can change approaching city centers or in school zones. Seat belts are mandatory for all drivers and passengers in Ohio. Right on Red: It’s legal in Ohio (and Cleveland) to turn right at a red light after a full stop, unless a sign specifically says “No Turn on Red.” This is useful at many intersections just be sure to stop completely and yield to any cross-traffic/pedestrians first. Left on Red: Here’s a lesser-known rule Ohio does allow turning left on red but only from a one-way street onto another one-way street, after a full stop. In downtown Cleveland, this scenario comes up occasionally (for example, certain one-way grid streets). If you encounter it, remember it’s permitted only if there’s no sign prohibiting it and you exercise caution. If that sounds confusing, don’t worry it’s not commonly needed, but good to know it’s legal in case you see others doing it. Hands-Free Law: As of 2023, Ohio has a strict distracted driving law it is illegal to hold or use a phone while driving (no texting, emailing, or social media scrolling). Drivers over 18 can use phones only in hands-free mode (e.g. Bluetooth for calls). Police can pull you over for phone use as a primary offense now. So, if you need to use your phone for GPS, ensure it’s mounted, or have a passenger handle it. Basically, keep your attention on the road Ohio is serious about curbing distracted driving.
• Seasonal Driving (Winter & Summer): Cleveland experiences all four seasons in full force. Winter (Dec–Mar): Snow and ice are common. The city and Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) are generally efficient at plowing and salting main roads when snow hits. Highways like I-90, I-480, and I-77 are cleared first, along with main arteries. Still, if a lake-effect snow squall comes through, roads can get slick quickly. If you’re not used to winter driving: slow down, leave extra following distance, and avoid sudden braking or turns on snow/ice. All rental cars will have all-season tires (snow chains are not typically used or required in Ohio). On particularly snowy days, consider delaying travel until plows have done their work Ohio often clears major routes within a few hours after a storm. Also, be prepared for possible road closures in severe blizzards (rare, but occasionally sections of I-90 east of Cleveland might close if snowfall is extreme). On the upside, many winter days are cold but clear and a drive along the lakeshore after a fresh snowfall can be beautiful (just watch for occasional lake-effect bursts). Summer (Jun–Aug): No snow, but this is construction season. You’ll notice orange barrels and lane closures as crews repair roads in the warm months. Traffic can slow in work zones always heed reduced speed limits in these zones (fines can double). Summer also brings occasional heavy rain or thunderstorms; if rain is torrential, slow down to avoid hydroplaning, and remember Ohio law requires headlights on when wipers are in use (if it’s raining hard enough to use wipers, turn your lights on for safety). Summer storms can be strong but usually pass quickly. Also, check event schedules: a big festival downtown (like the Cleveland Air Show on Labor Day weekend) or a sports championship parade (we can dream!) might cause road closures or heavy traffic in certain areas.
• Navigating & Local Etiquette: Cleveland drivers are generally courteous and not as aggressive as in some larger cities. Use turn signals when changing lanes (always a good practice). At 4-way stop intersections, Ohio follows the standard “first come, first go” and right-of-way rules. If you’re exploring the suburbs or rural outskirts, be mindful of Amish buggies on roads especially to the south/southeast (if you head toward Amish Country, you may encounter horse-drawn carriages pass them slow and wide). In urban areas, watch for pedestrians especially around downtown, University Circle, and near stadiums on game days. Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks (state law requires yielding to people in marked crosswalks). In Cleveland, jaywalking is not uncommon downtown, so stay alert for folks crossing mid-block as well. Also keep an eye out for bicycles Cleveland has been adding more bike lanes in areas like Detroit Ave and Superior. Give cyclists at least 3 feet of space when passing, per Ohio law. And one quirky local note: “Cleveland Left” some locals joke about quickly turning left when a traffic light turns green before oncoming traffic starts moving. It’s not officially sanctioned (and can be risky), so as a visitor, don’t feel pressured to do it. Just drive normally and let anyone in a real hurry go around you.

By following these tips and using common sense, you’ll find driving in Cleveland to be quite manageable and even enjoyable. The roads are open, the sights are great, and you now have the knowledge to navigate like a local. So set your favorite radio station (Cleveland’s got some great rock and sports radio) and enjoy the ride!

Popular Road Trips from Cleveland

One of the best things about having a rental car in Cleveland is the ability to embark on some fantastic road trips. Within a few hours’ drive, you have access to thrilling amusement parks, serene national parks, quaint Amish communities, big-city adventures, and even other Great Lakes. Here are three awesome road trip ideas to consider, complete with routes, highlights, and tips:

1. Thrills on Lake Erie Cedar Point & Shores (Cleveland ➜ Sandusky, OH) ~60 miles, ~1 hour one-way via I-90 W / OH-2 or I-80 (Ohio Turnpike)
Highlights: Drive west from Cleveland along the Lake Erie coast to Cedar Point, the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World.” This famed amusement park is located on a peninsula in Sandusky, about an hour’s drive. On the way, you can enjoy views of the lake, especially if you take the scenic Route 2 instead of the Turnpike. Cedar Point offers 70+ rides, including record-breaking roller coasters like Steel Vengeance and Millennium Force, plus a water park (Cedar Point Shores) in summer. Beyond the park, the Sandusky area has other attractions: check out the historic Marblehead Lighthouse on a picturesque rocky shore or take a ferry from nearby Port Clinton to the Lake Erie Islands (Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island is a popular summer day trip for wineries and caves). If you have extra time, downtown Sandusky has a charming vibe with ice cream parlors and waterfront dining a nice way to unwind after a day of coaster thrills.

Pro Tip: Weekdays in summer (especially Tuesdays/Wednesdays) often have shorter lines at Cedar Point go then if you can. If driving from Cleveland, you have two main routes: the Ohio Turnpike (I-80) or Route 2. The Turnpike is faster by about 10 minutes and has tolls, while Route 2 is toll-free and offers lake views but has a few traffic lights. Consider taking one route there and the other back for variety. Also, park parking lots are huge; snap a photo of your section to remember where you parked. And if you’re a coaster enthusiast, get to Cedar Point at opening time to ride a top attraction with minimal wait.

2. Nature Escape Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Cleveland ➜ CVNP, Peninsula area) ~25 miles, 30-40 minutes via I-77 S or Riverview Rd

Highlights: Just south of Cleveland lies Cuyahoga Valley National Park, a green oasis along the Cuyahoga River that’s perfect for a quick escape to nature. Head south on I-77 (or for a more scenic approach, take Riverview Road through the valley) to reach the park’s Boston Mill Visitor Center area (~23 miles from downtown). In CVNP, you’ll find waterfalls, forests, and trails aplenty. Hike to the beautiful Brandywine Falls, a 65-foot waterfall that’s one of the park’s star attractions (a short walk from the parking area). Explore the Ledges Trail for unique rock formations and a panoramic overlook of the valley (especially lovely at sunset). History buffs can visit Hale Farm & Village, a living history museum depicting 19th-century Ohio life (in Bath, on the edge of the park). Another fun option is the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad you can actually hop on a train at Rockside Station (near Independence, north end of the park) or Peninsula and take a scenic ride through the park (you can even do a bike-and-ride, cycling one way on the Towpath Trail and taking the train back). The park is gorgeous year-round: wildflowers in spring, lush green in summer, stunning fall foliage in October, and snowy beauty in winter. And it’s all just a short drive from the city!

Pro Tip: On weekends, go early to popular spots like Brandywine Falls the small parking lot can fill by mid-morning on a nice day. If it’s full, have a Plan B trail in mind (the park is large, and less-traveled trailheads like Oak Hill or Blue Hen Falls might have more space). Also, note that GPS can be spotty in some parts of the valley; it’s a good idea to download an offline map or carry a park map. Watch the speed limit on Riverview and Oak Hill roads park rangers do enforce them for wildlife safety. Lastly, bring some cash or card for Szalay’s Farm Market (open seasonally on Riverview Rd) where you can grab local snacks like corn on the cob or fresh apple cider a perfect treat after hiking.

3. Cultural Journey Ohio Amish Country (Cleveland ➜ Holmes County, OH) ~80 miles, ~1.5 hours via I-77 S to US-250/ OH-83

Highlights: Trade city skylines for rolling hills and a step back in time in Amish Country south of Cleveland. The heart of Ohio’s Amish community is about 1.5 to 2 hours away, in Holmes County and surrounding areas. Drive I-77 south to Dover, then west towards towns like Sugarcreek, Walnut Creek, Berlin, and Millersburg. As you enter Holmes County, you’ll notice scenes of rural life: tidy farms, one-room schoolhouses, horse-drawn buggies on the roads. Popular stops include Berlin, a town filled with shops selling Amish-made furniture, quilts, and crafts. Nearby Walnut Creek has the famous Der Dutchman Restaurant, where you can savor homestyle Amish cooking (think fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and pies that are the stuff of legend). In Sugarcreek (aka “Little Switzerland”), don’t miss the giant cuckoo clock chiming on the hour in the downtown — it’s a fun photo op. You can also tour Yoder’s Amish Home or the Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center for insight into the Amish way of life. Scenery-wise, the drive itself is a joy: lush green pastures, silos, and perhaps laundry drying on the lines on Mondays. It’s like a tranquil drive back in time.

Pro Tip: Drive carefully and courteously you will almost certainly share the road with Amish buggies on rural routes. They typically travel on the shoulder, but when passing a horse and buggy, do so slowly and with plenty of room (and avoid honking, as it could startle the horse). Many Amish businesses are closed on Sundays, so plan your trip for a weekday or Saturday for the fullest experience. Cell service can be spotty in the hills, so have directions saved offline. Need gas or restroom? Larger towns like Dover or Millersburg have plenty of modern amenities, so top off your tank before venturing onto backroads. Finally, embrace the slower pace — this trip isn’t about rushing, it’s about enjoying a peaceful journey. Roll down your windows, breathe in the country air, and maybe buy some fresh cheese or baked goods to take home; you won’t regret it!

Of course, these are just a few ideas. With a car, you could also head 2 hours east to Niagara Falls (passing through scenic wine country on the Lake Erie shoreline) or southwest to Columbus for a day in the capital. From Cleveland, the open road can lead you to countless adventures. Happy travels!

Cleveland Car Rental Quick Facts (At a Glance)

• Vehicle Types Available: Economy cars, compact & midsize sedans, full-size cars, SUVs (small to large), minivans (7-8 passenger), 12-15 passenger vans (great for groups), plus premium and luxury models. (Tip: AirportVanRental specializes in vans, so you’ll see plenty of van options other sites might miss.)
• Average Rates: Off-peak daily rates from about $12/day for economy to $30/day for SUVs. In peak summer, expect higher perhaps $40+ for economy and $60+ for SUVs or vans. Always search with exact dates Cleveland often has cheaper rental prices than larger cities, especially if you book ahead.
• Main Pick-Up Locations:Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) largest selection and extended hours; Downtown Cleveland convenient if you’re staying in the city (locations in Warehouse District and near Tower City); Suburban hubs like Brookpark, Parma, or Mayfield (often cheaper, but check hours). Internal links: Don’t miss our dedicated pages for Cleveland Hopkins Airport car rentals and the Ohio Car Rentals guide for more options.
• Fuel Type & Gas Prices: Virtually all rentals use regular unleaded gasoline. Gas prices in Cleveland tend to be around or slightly below the U.S. average typically in the range of $3–$4/gallon (fluctuating with market). There are plenty of gas stations around the city and near the airport (e.g., on Brookpark Rd by CLE). Remember to refill the tank before returning to avoid high refueling fees. Ohio is self-service for gas pump your own (pay at the pump with card is common).
• Tolls: No tolls on most Cleveland area highways. The Ohio Turnpike (I-80/I-90) is the primary toll road if you head west/east or south of the city. It accepts E-ZPass and cash/credit. If your rental car has an E-ZPass, you can use it and you’ll be billed later. Otherwise, grab a ticket and pay when exiting the Turnpike. Note: If you plan a trip to downtown Chicago or East Coast via Ohio/Pennsylvania, you’ll encounter toll roads consider the rental’s toll pass option if so.
• Speed Limits:70 mph on rural interstates in Ohio; usually 60 mph on interstate stretches through urban Cleveland. Other freeways/US highways around Cleveland range 55–65 mph. City streets are generally 25 mph unless posted higher (some bigger arterials are 35). Always watch for posted signs, especially in school zones (20 mph when flashing) and construction zones (speeds often lowered). Ohio State Highway Patrol and local police do monitor speeds on highways like I-90 and I-480; staying at or slightly above the limit is wise to avoid tickets.
• Parking Tips: Downtown Cleveland: street meters $1/hour (2 hour limit), free after 6 PM and on Sundays. Lots and garages $10–$20/day on average, with higher rates right by venues (Gateway garages for basketball/baseball games might be $25+ event rate). For cheaper parking, look a few blocks from your destination for example, when visiting the Rock Hall or Science Center, the official lots cost ~$10, but you might find street parking by Voinovich Park if timing is right. In neighborhoods, be mindful of any permit signs or time limits, but much free parking can be found on side streets. During winter, if a snow emergency is declared, special parking rules may limit street parking to one side watch for city announcements if a big snowfall is forecast.
• Driving Etiquette: Locals are relatively calm drivers. Use turn signals, don’t tailgate, and you’ll blend in fine. At four-way stop intersections, Ohio etiquette is first-come, first-go; if unsure, yield to the car on your right. On highways, left lane is for passing slower traffic keep right. You’ll hear Cleveland called “The Land” but on the road, it’s pretty standard Midwestern hospitality mixed with a dash of city hustle when necessary. Relax and enjoy the ride!