Cleveland Hopkins Airport Car Rental Deals Explore Ohio with Ease

Cleveland is a sprawling metropolitan area on the shores of Lake Erie and while it does have public transport (the RTA Red Line train can take you from the airport to downtown), a rental car is by far the most convenient way to explore the city and beyond. With a car, you’re free to experience everything Northeast Ohio offers on your own schedule. Want to visit the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in the morning, then drive to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park in the afternoon? You can. Planning to catch a Cavaliers game downtown one night and head to an outlet mall in the suburbs the next day? Easy.

Public transit in Cleveland doesn’t cover the suburbs extensively, and many of the region’s gems (like Cedar Point amusement park an hour away, or the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton) are well outside the city. Renting a car at CLE means freedom: you can cruise along the Lake Erie coast, venture into Amish Country, or pop over to neighboring cities like Toledo or Pittsburgh whenever you like. Business travelers also appreciate the flexibility Cleveland’s business hubs and surrounding communities (Akron, Westlake, Mentor, etc.) are much easier to reach by car than by any other means. Plus, if you’re visiting in the winter, having a car means you stay warm between destinations (versus standing outside waiting for a bus in the snow!). In short, a rental car transforms your Cleveland trip, letting you see more and do more without waiting or hassle.

Our CLE Airport Car Rental Benefits

• Best Rates from Top Brands: We guarantee you’ll see the lowest prices available because we pull offers from every major rental company at Cleveland Hopkins. No more jumping between websites with AirportVanRental, you compare all the brands in one place and snag the cheapest rate for the car class you want.
• Specialty Vehicles (Vans & More): Need something larger or specific? We’ve got you covered. AirportVanRental specializes in van rentals and hard-to-find vehicle types. Looking for a minivan or a 12-passenger van rental for a group trip to Cedar Point? You’ll find plenty of options here that other sites might miss. Prefer an SUV for a ski trip or a luxury car for a client meeting? We list those too. Our wide selection at CLE ranges from compact economy cars to full-size SUVs and everything in between, so you won’t have to compromise on your needs.
• No Hidden Surprises: Booking with us means transparent pricing. Cleveland airport rentals include some extra fees (airport facility charges, etc.), and we make sure all of that is included in the quote you see. The price displayed already has taxes and mandatory fees calculated. What does that mean? When you get to the counter, you won’t be blindsided by unexpected charges. The total should match what we showed you. We believe in no hidden fees and no last-minute add-ons just honest, clear pricing you can trust.
• Flexible Booking No Prepay Needed: We know travel plans can change. With AirportVanRental, most reservations don’t require any prepayment. Reserve your car to lock in a great deal, and pay when you pick it up. If your flight gets rescheduled or your trip is postponed, you can cancel in advance (usually with no penalty, as long as it’s within the allowed window often 24-48 hours before pick-up). This flexibility means you can book early to get a low rate without worrying about being locked in financially.
• 24/7 Customer Support & Local Know-How: Have questions during your trip? Our support team is here around the clock. Stuck in traffic and worried about making your drop-off time? Give us a call we can often adjust your booking or advise you. Not sure if you need an E-ZPass for Ohio tolls? We’ll explain (and see below for tips!). We pride ourselves on customer service from the moment you consider renting to the moment you return the car, we’re an email or phone call away to ensure everything goes smoothly. Travel with confidence knowing we’ve got your back.

Top Car Rental Deals at CLE

Even big family vehicles can be affordable when you book at the right time. Here are a few top deal examples at Cleveland Hopkins (pricing varies by date, but these give you an idea of our low rates):

• 12-Passenger Vans from $90/day: For large groups, sports teams, or church outings, a Ford Transit 12-seater (or similar) is an economical choice. Split the cost among passengers and it often comes out to just a few dollars per person! Room for everyone and their luggage.
• 7–8 Passenger SUVs from $88/day: Traveling with family or need extra cargo space? Full-size SUVs like a Chevy Tahoe or Ford Expedition (or similar) can be found at budget rates. These are perfect for road trips, offering comfort, safety, and plenty of room for gear (think ski trips or tailgating at a Browns game).
• Minivans from $47/day: A Dodge Grand Caravan or Toyota Sienna (7-passenger) is a favorite for families. Slide open the doors and load up the kids for a day at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo or a drive down to Cincinnati. With flexible seating and good fuel economy, minivans are a great all-around choice and at under $50 a day, a great deal too!
• Economy Cars from $12/day: Just need to zip around town solo or as a couple? Economy models like a Hyundai Accent or Nissan Versa are ultra-affordable. Enjoy easy parking downtown and excellent gas mileage (helpful if you’re driving out to Cedar Point or making the 2-hour run to Columbus). A small car at ~$12/day is hard to beat for value.

These example rates are subject to availability and seasonal demand. Start a search with your travel dates to see the latest cheap Cleveland car rental prices and special offers.

Driving in Cleveland & Ohio

If you’re new to Cleveland or Ohio driving, here’s a handy overview to make your trip smooth:

Road Network & Traffic: Cleveland sits at the crossroads of several interstates. I-71 runs southwest toward Columbus, I-77 runs south toward Akron and Canton, and I-90 runs east-west (east to Pennsylvania/Northeast, west towards Toledo/Chicago). These interstates converge in the downtown area, so that stretch (known as the “Innerbelt”) can get busy during weekday rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM). Outside of rush hour, traffic on highways is generally light to moderate. The city has a few quirks for example, I-90 West and I-71 South share the road briefly through downtown, which can be confusing on a map, but just follow the signs for your exit and you’ll be fine. Also, note that the Interstate 480 outerbelt is a handy bypass if you want to circle around the city through the southern suburbs. Cleveland drivers are used to winter conditions and generally drive a bit cautiously if weather is bad, but otherwise they follow typical Midwestern driving patterns (friendly enough, but not afraid to honk if someone’s slow at a green light!).

Winter Driving: Cleveland’s winters are snowy lake-effect snow from Lake Erie can be intense. If you’re visiting in late fall or winter (November through March), be prepared for possible snow or ice on the roads. The city and Ohio Department of Transportation do an excellent job plowing and salting main roads and interstates quickly, but during a heavy snowstorm you may encounter slick conditions. If you’re not experienced in snow: drive slower, keep a larger following distance, and brake gently to avoid skids. Many rental cars in Ohio come with all-season tires, which are usually sufficient. If you plan to head into rural areas in winter (like a cabin in the snowbelt region east of Cleveland), you might consider renting an AWD/4x4 vehicle for extra confidence. Also, be aware of black ice when temperatures hover around freezing, patches of ice can form on bridges or shaded roads even if it looks clear. On the bright side, Cleveland’s urban layout means you’re rarely far from a main road, and those are cleared first. And if the weather is truly severe, you can always delay travel a bit things tend to get back to normal within a day of even big snowfalls.

Summer & Construction: Summers in Ohio are warm and sunny perfect for road trips to Lake Erie’s beaches or amusement parks. One thing to note: summer is road construction season. You might encounter orange cones and reduced speed zones where crews are repaving or repairing bridges. The Ohio DOT tries to minimize disruptions, but it’s common to see lane closures on parts of I-71, I-77, or I-480 in summer months. Usually these projects cause minor slowdowns or short merges. Just stay alert, follow the temporary speed limit (for safety, as workers might be present), and you’ll get through fine. On longer drives, keep an eye on highway signs they often post alerts like “Left Lane Closed in 2 Miles” to give you a heads-up. You can also tune into AM 1100 or other local radio for traffic updates, or use a navigation app that accounts for live traffic to reroute you if needed.

Speed Limits & Driving Laws: Ohio’s interstate speed limits are 65–70 MPH in most areas. On the Ohio Turnpike (I-80) and some rural freeways, the limit is 70. Closer to Cleveland’s city center, some stretches of highway might drop to 60 MPH. State routes and non-interstate highways usually are around 55 MPH outside towns. In urban and residential areas, expect 25 or 35 MPH zones. Always watch for posted signs Ohio also uses flashing school zone signs (20 MPH when flashing during school times). By law, seat belts are required for all front-seat passengers and any passengers under 15 (and recommended for everyone, of course). Ohio has recently strengthened its distracted driving laws it’s effectively hands-free only (it’s illegal to hold a phone to text or dial while driving, except in emergencies). If you need to use your phone for GPS, put it in a mount or cupholder. Another tip: you can turn right on a red light after a full stop (unless a sign says “No Right on Red”). If you’re driving in downtown Cleveland, note that there are a few one-way streets pay attention to signage if you’re turning off a main road. Overall, Ohio driving laws won’t surprise anyone familiar with general U.S. rules.

Tolls: The Cleveland area itself does not have any toll roads, so you can drive around the city and suburbs toll-free. However, if you plan to venture farther afield, you might encounter tolls on certain routes:

• The Ohio Turnpike (I-80/I-90): This toll road runs east-west about 20 miles south of downtown Cleveland. If you drive west toward Sandusky/Toledo or east toward Pennsylvania using the Turnpike, you’ll pay tolls based on distance. The Turnpike still has some staffed toll booths issuing tickets and taking cash/credit, but it also accepts E-ZPass for electronic payment.
• If you head east into Pennsylvania or New York, those states have their own turnpikes and thruways (toll roads).
• Going south toward Columbus or Cincinnati? Good news: I-71 and I-77 are toll-free. Ohio’s only tolled interstates are the Turnpike (I-80/I-90) up north.
  When renting at CLE, you can opt into a toll pass program usually. This means the rental car will have an E-ZPass or similar device. If you know you’ll be using the Turnpike or heading into a toll area, opting in can be convenient you’ll be billed the tolls later (plus a small daily fee for the service on the days you actually incur a toll). If you don’t opt in and still take a toll road, you can pay cash at many toll plazas. If a toll road is all electronic (no cash), the system will photograph the license plate and bill the rental company, who will then charge you (often with an extra admin fee). To play it safe: ask the rental agent about Ohio tolls. They’ll explain the specific policy. But for many travelers, if you’re just staying around Cleveland and doing a day trip or two (like to Cedar Point via Route 2, or to Amish country), you can easily avoid toll roads altogether by sticking to alternative free highways.

Parking in Cleveland: One pleasant surprise for visitors parking in Cleveland is relatively plentiful and affordable compared to many big cities. If you’re staying downtown, most hotels have parking garages or valet (typically $20-35/night for hotel valet). For day trips downtown, you’ll find numerous public parking garages and lots especially around venues like Progressive Field/Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse (for sports games, expect $10-20 on event days) and around downtown office areas (often $8-12 for a few hours). Street parking: Cleveland uses coin/credit card meters in the city core with rates roughly $1.50 per hour. Many meters downtown are free after 6 PM on weekdays and free all day on Sunday check the meter for hours. The Warehouse District, Ohio City, and University Circle neighborhoods all have mix of street and lot parking; just read signs to avoid any permit-only residential areas. At tourist spots like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame or the Cleveland Museum of Art, you’ll find on-site lots (the Museum of Art’s parking garage, for example, charges around $12 for the day). One tip if you’re going to Edgewater Park or any of the Metroparks parking there is free! On nice summer weekends those lots can fill up by midday, but turnover is decent. Generally, you won’t struggle to find a spot in Cleveland it’s a driving-friendly city. Just keep some small bills or a credit card handy for the self-serve parking kiosks and meters.

Exploring Ohio: Once you’re behind the wheel, Ohio is your oyster. From Cleveland, you can drive just a few hours and reach big cities like Detroit, Columbus, Pittsburgh, or even Toronto (about 5 hours). If you’re planning such trips, check if your rental has any restrictions on crossing international borders (Canada is usually allowed, but inform the rental company). Ohio scenery ranges from the Lake Erie coastline (don’t miss a drive along Lake Road for great lakefront homes and views) to rolling farmland and vineyards in the east (yes, Ohio has wine country in the Geneva area!). If you venture south toward Hocking Hills (a beautiful park with caves and hikes about 3 hours away) or Amish Country (2 hours south), the state routes will give you a pleasant, unrushed drive through countryside. Keep an eye out for Amish buggies on roads in Holmes County; slow down and pass wide, they’ll appreciate it. Fuel is generally inexpensive in Ohio relative to East Coast prices, and you’ll find service plazas on interstates and plenty of gas stations in towns. One more thing Ohio, like many states, has increased enforcement on speeding in recent years, so use cruise control on the highway if you have a lead foot, and enjoy the journey safely!

Popular Road Trips from CLE

Cleveland’s central location in the Great Lakes region makes it a perfect launch point for numerous road trips. Here are a few favorites among visitors and locals:

• Cleveland to Cedar Point (Sandusky, OH ~60 miles, 1 hour west): If you love thrills, this trip is a must. Hop on the Ohio Turnpike or Route 2 west and in about an hour you’ll reach Cedar Point, dubbed the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World.” The park juts into Lake Erie on a peninsula, offering 70+ rides (including some of the tallest, fastest coasters on the planet). A minivan or SUV rental is perfect for this outing if you’re traveling with family or friends plenty of room for the drive and for all the souvenirs you’ll bring back. Consider spending the whole day (or even two) at the park; you could also visit the nearby Cedar Point Shores waterpark on a hot summer day. On the way to Sandusky, you’ll pass scenic coastal spots like Huron and Vermilion small lakefront towns where you can grab an ice cream or take a beach break. If you have time, the Lake Erie islands (like Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island) are accessible via ferry from Catawba or Port Clinton, just west of Sandusky, and make a fun detour for winery tours or cave exploration.
• Cleveland to Cuyahoga Valley National Park (25 miles, ~30 minutes south): This is a quick trip but a rewarding one. Just a half-hour drive south of downtown lands you amid the green hills of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, one of the most-visited national parks in the U.S. Take I-77 or scenic Riverview Road into the park. Once there, you can drive to trailheads for hikes like the popular Brandywine Falls (a beautiful 65-foot waterfall a short walk from the parking area) or the Ledges Trail (unique mossy rock formations and overlooks). For a leisurely experience, consider a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, which runs through the park you can even do a one-way bike & rail combo (ride the train one way, bike back along the Towpath Trail). With your rental car, you’ll have the freedom to explore sites that interest you: stop by the Boston Mill Visitor Center for maps and then hit spots like Virginia Kendall Ledges, Beaver Marsh (great for wildlife viewing), or the charming Peninsula village for lunch. In autumn, this park is a top spot for fall foliage, and in winter, you might try a bit of snowshoeing or sledding. Best of all, the park has no entry fee, making it a budget-friendly excursion.
• Cleveland to Ohio’s Amish Country (Holmes County, OH ~80 miles, 1.5 hours south): Head south on I-77, then west on US-30/US-250 into the rolling hills of Holmes County, and you’ll feel like you stepped back in time. This region is home to one of the nation’s largest Amish communities. It’s a peaceful drive past farms, silos, and horse-drawn buggies. Explore towns like Berlin, Walnut Creek, and Sugarcreek. In Berlin, you’ll find shops selling handmade quilts, Amish cheese, jams, and woodworking. Walnut Creek has the famous Der Dutchman restaurant where you can feast on fried chicken and pie (come hungry!). Sugarcreek, known as “Little Switzerland,” has charming alpine-style architecture and even a giant cuckoo clock in the town square. Remember to slow down and share the road respectfully with Amish buggies they typically travel on the shoulder, and Ohio law allows them on most country roads. Scenery-wise, you’ll encounter some of Ohio’s prettiest country vistas: think patchwork fields and covered bridges. It’s especially lovely in late spring (horse-drawn plows tilling fields) and fall (autumn colors and harvest season). A rental car is essential here there’s no public transit in these parts, and that’s part of the charm. This trip provides a unique glimpse into a way of life far removed from city hustle, all just a short drive from Cleveland.

(Bonus Road Trip: Feeling adventurous? Cleveland to Niagara Falls is about 3.5 hours northeast. It’s a doable weekend trip just remember you’ll cross into Canada to see the best views, so bring a passport or required ID. With a one-way rental, some travelers even fly into Cleveland, rent a car, drive through Niagara, and fly out of New York City, turning their journey into one grand road adventure!)

Quick Reference: CLE Car Rental Info

• Airport: Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) situated ~9 miles (14 km) southwest of Downtown Cleveland.
• Rental Car Center: Located off-site from the main terminal. After landing, take the free shuttle from baggage claim (shuttles depart every 5-10 minutes, 24/7). It’s about a 5-minute ride to the consolidated Rental Car Center where all the rental agencies’ counters and cars are housed.
• Speed Limits: 65–70 MPH on most Ohio interstates (70 MPH on the Ohio Turnpike and rural stretches; around 60 MPH on urban interstate sections near Cleveland). State highways are often 55 MPH. City streets in Cleveland typically 25 or 35 MPH. Always adhere to posted signs, especially in construction zones (speed limits may be temporarily lower there).
• Fuel: Regular unleaded (87 octane) gasoline is standard for rental cars. Several gas stations are conveniently located near CLE for refueling e.g., along Brookpark Road, Lorain Road, and Snow Road just a few blocks from the Rental Car return entrance. Gas prices in Ohio are moderate (often below national average; expect around $3–$4/gallon, though it fluctuates).
• Tolls: The Greater Cleveland area itself has no toll roads. If you head west/east on the Ohio Turnpike (I-80/I-90), you’ll encounter tolls (take a ticket and pay on exit, or use E-ZPass). The Turnpike toll from Cleveland to Sandusky costs only a few dollars; to go all the way to Chicago or Pennsylvania costs more but still reasonable. E-ZPass is accepted on the Turnpike and in most surrounding states. Check with your rental company if a transponder is provided or available.
• Parking: Cleveland has ample parking. Downtown: street meters ($1.50/hour, free after 6pm and on Sundays in many areas) and numerous parking garages/lots (daily max in many garages is $10–$20). At attractions: Rock Hall and Science Center share a big lot ($10-$15 day rate), Cleveland Clinic and University Circle museums have garages (~$10). Neighborhoods like Ohio City or Tremont have free street parking on side streets and paid lots on main streets. During events (sports games, concerts), parking near the venue will inflate (private lots may charge $20-30), but you can often park a bit further and walk or use the RTA train. Overall, parking is easier and cheaper than most cities of Cleveland’s size.
• Average Rental Price: ~$30/day for economy/compact cars in off-peak seasons. Summer months and holiday periods might see averages closer to $45-60/day for a mid-size or SUV. Weekend rentals can be a bargain in Cleveland (lower demand on weekends for business-oriented locations, so prices may drop). Always compare in advance booking 1-2 weeks out usually yields the best rates.
• Peak Travel Season:Summer (June through August) is peak for tourists (visiting amusement parks, Lake Erie beaches, etc.) and sees many events (outdoor concerts, sports). Availability can tighten especially around holiday weekends (Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day) book early for those times. Winter holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas) also are busy due to people visiting family, though the weather is cold. Cleveland also hosts big events occasionally (national sports events, conventions); during those, car demand spikes. If you plan to visit in early August, note events like the Pro Football Hall of Fame induction in Canton or the Twins Day Festival in Akron area can create regional demand. In general, you’ll find good availability year-round, but for summer Saturdays and any major event, secure your vehicle ahead of time.

Traveling with a group? Don’t miss our dedicated 12-passenger van rentals page these larger vans are perfect for keeping everyone together on trips from Cleveland (and splitting the cost!). And wherever you roam in Ohio or beyond, we’re here to ensure you have a reliable ride at a great price.