Ready to hit the road straight from Mitchell Airport? Use the search form above to find real-time car rental deals at Milwaukee Mitchell (MKE). Just enter your travel dates and choose “Milwaukee Mitchell International (MKE)” as your pick-up location. In seconds, you’ll see offers from all the major car rental companies at MKE and more. Our system lets you filter by vehicle type, passenger capacity, and price so whether you need a compact car for downtown errands or a 12-passenger van for a family reunion, we’ve got options ready. Booking is fast and secure. Most rentals allow you to reserve now and pay later at pick-up, and include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup if your plans change.
Welcome to Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, the primary airport serving Wisconsin’s largest city and your starting point for exploring the Badger State and Great Lakes region on wheels. Renting a car at MKE gives you the freedom to experience Milwaukee’s vibrant Brew City culture from brewery tours and lakefront festivals to cheese curds and MLB games and then venture beyond the city to Wisconsin’s picturesque small towns, parks, and shorelines. This page is your complete guide to securing an affordable Milwaukee airport car rental with ease. We’ve combined AirportVanRental’s best deals with local tips on navigating Milwaukee and Wisconsin roads, so you can rent a car at MKE confidently, whether you’re a visitor flying in or a local starting a road trip.
Top Milwaukee Mitchell Car Rental Deals
Economy Car from $25/day. Example: Kia Rio, Ford Fiesta or similar. Great for solo travelers or couples staying around Milwaukee. Easy to park on city streets and extremely fuel-efficient for trips to Madison or a quick jaunt down to Kenosha.
Standard SUV from $40/day. Example: Nissan Rogue, Ford Escape or similar. Fits 5 passengers plus luggage comfortably. A smart choice if you’re heading to the suburbs or taking a family day trip to Wisconsin Dells plenty of room for strollers, picnic gear, and souvenirs. SUVs also handle Wisconsin’s winter roads better if you’re visiting during snow season.
Minivan from $50/day. Example: Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Grand Caravan or similar. Seats 7-8. Ideal for families or groups, whether you’re visiting relatives or headed to Green Bay for a Packers game. Extra cargo space for luggage, sports equipment, or that haul of Wisconsin cheeses you’re bringing home no need to pack light.
12-Passenger Van from $75/day. Example: Ford Transit or Chevrolet Express Passenger Van or similar. Got a big crew? Perfect for sports teams, church groups, or an extended family vacation. You can keep everyone together (and split the cost!). Despite its size, it’s straightforward to drive and gives unbeatable per-person cost for travel. Great for college tours or group outings to Milwaukee’s Summerfest.
Luxury/Premium Car from $65/day. Example: BMW 3 Series, Cadillac XTS or similar. Arrive in style for that business meeting or special event. These premium vehicles offer a smooth ride on I-94 and a touch of luxury. Perfect for impressing clients in downtown Milwaukee or treating yourself to a comfortable drive out to Lake Geneva.
(Note: “From” rates exclude taxes/fees. Approximately 15–20% in total taxes and surcharges applies at MKE, including Wisconsin state sales tax (~5%), local rental car fees (~3–5%), and airport concession fees (around 10%). Unlike some sites, we show you the final price with all these included during booking. Prices can spike during peak seasons or big events e.g. summer tourist months, Summerfest (late June/early July), major sports playoffs, or holidays so it’s wise to book early for those times. Also, compare weekdays vs. weekends: a weekend rental might be cheaper per day due to specials. Always search with your exact dates for the most accurate pricing.)
Navigating Car Rentals at Milwaukee Mitchell Airport (MKE)
Picking up your rental at MKE is straightforward the airport keeps everything close and convenient for travelers. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to expect when you arrive to collect your car at Milwaukee Mitchell:
On-Site Rental Car Center (No Shuttle Needed): All the major rental car companies at MKE operate on-site, and their counters are located in or adjacent to the main terminal. In fact, the rental car desks are situated on the ground floor of the main parking garage, directly across from Baggage Claim. Once you’ve grabbed your luggage, simply follow the signs for “Rental Cars.” You’ll exit the baggage claim area and cross the small roadway via a crosswalk (it’s only a few yards). The Rental Car Center is essentially the first level of the parking structure. No need for any shuttle bus it’s a quick walk from the terminal.
At the Rental Counters: Inside the rental car area, you’ll find counters for all the major brands (Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Sixt, etc.). They are grouped together, making it easy to locate your company. If you booked through AirportVanRental, your confirmation email will list which rental provider (and possibly the counter name or logo) to look for. Get in line (if there is one Milwaukee’s a mid-size airport, so lines are usually short and move quickly). Have your driver’s license, credit card, and reservation number ready to present. The agent will pull up your booking, confirm any details (like car type or optional insurance), and then have you sign the rental agreement. International renters: if your license is not in English, it’s a good idea to have an International Driving Permit for translation, though most agents in Wisconsin are familiar with various licenses.
Picking Up Your Vehicle: Once the paperwork is done, you’ll be directed to the rental car pickup area in the adjacent garage. In many cases at MKE, the cars are parked in the same structure just a short walk from the counters (often on the same level or one level up). The agent might give you a stall number or direct you to a section labeled for your rental company. Walk out to your assigned car if it’s late at night, the garage is well-lit and secure. Before driving off, do a quick inspection of the vehicle. Check for any pre-existing scratches or dents and report them (note them on the form or take photos with your phone though at MKE the staff is usually right there and can mark any issues). Adjust your mirrors and seat, familiarize yourself with the controls, and you’re ready to roll. Exiting the garage is simple: follow the signs to the exit, where you’ll pass through a gate. An attendant may ask for your rental agreement and ID one more time as a security check while leaving the facility then lift the gate for you. Now you’re officially on your way into Milwaukee!
Early & Late Flight Arrivals: Getting Your Car Outside Normal Hours
MKE is not a 24-hour airport, but it does have flights arriving early in the morning and late at night. What if your flight lands very late, past the rental counters’ usual hours? Don’t worry rental agencies at Milwaukee Mitchell Airport are accustomed to accommodating late arrivals, especially if they have your reservation. Most major rental desks at MKE open around 5:30 or 6:00 AM and stay open until about 11:00 PM or midnight (some adjust hours based on flight schedules). If you have a confirmed reservation and your flight is delayed into the wee hours, agencies will typically honor it. Many will stay open until the last scheduled incoming flight of the night has arrived and those passengers are served. However, if you’re arriving extremely late (e.g. after midnight) or unexpectedly delayed, here are some tips:
Overall, Milwaukee’s rental agencies are quite accommodating. Just communicate if you have a very late (or very early) arrival, and you should still be able to grab your keys with minimal hassle.
Returning Your Rental Car at MKE
When it’s time to head home or move on, returning your rental car at Milwaukee Mitchell Airport is easy and quick. A little preparation will make it seamless:
Follow the Airport Signs: As you drive toward Milwaukee on your way back, you’ll see green signs for “Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport” (along I-94, I-41, or Highway 119 depending on your approach). Once on the airport access road, keep an eye out for “Rental Car Return” signs. MKE’s layout directs all rental returns to the same parking garage where you picked up. The signage will usually point you to enter the Parking/Rental Car entrance. Pay attention to lane markings or overhead signs indicating rental car return they may direct you to a specific level or area of the garage designated for returns.
Fuel Up Beforehand: Most rentals come with a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you should refill the tank to full before returning the car to avoid refueling charges. Luckily, gas prices in Wisconsin are often moderate. There are several gas stations near the airport: for example, you’ll find stations on S. Howell Avenue and W. Layton Avenue not far from the airport. It’s a good idea to fill up within 5 miles of MKE. (Tip: Prices in the city or suburbs may be a little cheaper than right next to the airport, so plan your last fill-up accordingly but even near MKE, prices are reasonable compared to many big-city airports.)
At the Garage: As you enter the rental return area, you’ll likely be directed up a ramp to the return lanes for your specific company. Drive slowly and be cautious of pedestrians and other vehicles. Park in the indicated spot or as directed by any attendants. In many cases, an attendant will meet you at your car, check the fuel and mileage, and do a quick inspection. If it’s during off-hours and no one is present, you can simply lock the car and drop the keys at the counter or in a drop box (see After-Hours Returns below). But usually, during business hours, the check-in process takes just a couple of minutes.
Final Checks: Make sure you’ve removed all your belongings from the car (double-check the trunk and glove box that Green Bay Packers cap or phone charger might be hiding!). If an agent is present, they’ll provide or email you a receipt noting the return time and any final charges (which should match your quote unless you added services). Keep your copy of the rental agreement/receipt until you’ve verified your final credit card charge.
Walk to Terminal: Once the return is complete, you’re already right at the airport. From the garage, follow signs back to the terminal via the pedestrian bridge or walkway. It’s a short walk into the Departures area for check-in and security. If you have heavy luggage, there are usually luggage carts around, or you can drop off passengers and bags at the curb first before returning the car (just be mindful of curbside parking rules).
After-Hours Returns
Got a crack-of-dawn flight before the rental counters open? No problem. Milwaukee Mitchell Airport allows after-hours rental car returns. Each rental company has a slightly different procedure, but generally it goes like this: When you arrive at the rental return garage during off hours, park in the returns area for your rental brand (as usual). There will be a drop box or slot, typically at or near that company’s counter or exit booth. Simply park and lock the car, and place the keys (and the rental contract if they gave you a paper copy) into the drop box. The next morning, staff will process your return and email you the receipt. Make sure to note the date and time of your drop-off on the contract if instructed. If the garage itself is closed (unlikely, as it’s typically open 24/7), you’d park in the adjacent short-term lot and hand the keys to an airport security or information desk but this scenario is rare. In short, yes, you can return a car very early or very late at MKE. Just follow the posted instructions on where to leave the keys.
Milwaukee Driving Tips: Navigating Wisconsin Roads Like a Pro
Driving in Milwaukee and around Wisconsin is generally a pleasant experience wide roads, reasonable traffic, and friendly Midwestern drivers. However, every region has its quirks. Here are essential local driving tips and info to keep you safe and stress-free on your Milwaukee adventure:
Seasonal Conditions Winter & Summer: Wisconsin is known for cold, snowy winters and construction-filled summers. If you’re visiting in winter (roughly late November through March), be prepared for snow and ice. Milwaukee and major highways are plowed and salted regularly, but after heavy snowfall roads can be slick. Drive slower, leave extra space between cars, and avoid sudden braking on icy roads. Many rental cars will have all-season tires; if you’re not used to winter driving, consider renting an AWD SUV for extra stability. Also note: Milwaukee enforces snow emergency rules if a big snowstorm hits, street parking may be restricted on main routes to allow plowing. Pay attention to any “Snow Route” signs or alerts. In summer, the joke is Wisconsin has a second season: road construction. Expect some detours or orange barrels, especially on interstates and around the city center as they repair roads in the warm months. Construction zones will have reduced speed limits (and hefty fines for speeding so slow down). Plan a bit of extra time for potential detours, particularly on I-94 and I-43 which often have maintenance projects.
Traffic & Rush Hours: Compared to cities like Chicago, Milwaukee’s traffic is light. But it does have rush hours, roughly 7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–6:00 PM on weekdays. I-94/I-43 through downtown can get congested at those times, as can I-41/US-45 on the west side. Expect some slow-and-go near the Marquette Interchange (where I-94, I-43, and I-794 meet) during peak periods. Also, after big events (a Brewers baseball game at American Family Field or a Bucks game at Fiserv Forum), nearby roads will see brief heavy traffic. Overall, you’re unlikely to be stuck for long. Just give yourself a few extra minutes if you’re driving to the airport during peak commute times. Tip: local drivers tend to exceed the speed limit a bit on freeways when traffic is light but stay alert for Wisconsin State Patrol, especially on I-94 heading toward Madison or Chicago; they do monitor for speeders.
Tolls: Good news Wisconsin has no toll roads. You can drive the length of the state without ever paying a highway toll. However, if you plan a side trip into Illinois (e.g. to visit Chicago or drive south), be prepared for tollways once you cross the state line. I-94 south of Milwaukee becomes a toll road in Illinois. The toll plazas there accept cash or the automatic I-PASS/E-ZPass transponder. If your rental vehicle has an E-ZPass (some companies offer them), it will cover Illinois tolls (charges will be billed later). If not, you can pay cash at manned booths or pay online via Illinois’ website if you miss a toll. Just something to keep in mind if your Wisconsin road trip takes you into Chicagoland. But within Wisconsin, relax no tolls to worry about on the Interstate or major highways.
Parking in Milwaukee: Milwaukee’s downtown and neighborhoods have plenty of parking, and it’s generally affordable. Street parking meters are common in downtown, the Third Ward, and near popular attractions. Most meters accept coins and credit cards, and some use mobile apps. Rates are around $1–$2 per hour and many meters are free after 6 PM or on Sundays (check the posted times). Always read the signs: some downtown streets have rush-hour parking restrictions (e.g. no parking 7-9AM) or overnight rules. The city also has public parking garages/lots for example, the Milwaukee Central Library parking, Water Street Garage, or lots in the Third Ward which might charge ~$10-20 for a full day, often less on weekends. Compared to larger cities, even hotel valet rates here are reasonable (maybe $30/night versus Chicago’s $60+). If you’re staying with a rental car, ask your hotel about parking options; many have their own lots or deals with nearby garages.
Overnight & Winter Parking Rules: Milwaukee has some unique overnight parking regulations. On residential streets, overnight street parking (2AM–6AM) typically requires an overnight parking permit (for locals, it’s a small annual fee). Visitors can usually get up to 3 nights of temporary permission by calling a city hotline or using an app, but easiest is to avoid street parking overnight if possible. If you’re at an Airbnb or friend’s place in the city, check if they have a driveway or inquire about a guest parking permit. Also, from December 1 to March 1, Milwaukee enforces alternate-side parking on many streets at night (during snow season, park on even-numbered side on even dates, odd side on odd dates) to help with snow plowing. There will be signs on affected blocks. If you’re unsure, the safe bet is to use off-street parking on winter nights or follow what other cars on the street are doing. Getting a $30 parking ticket or, worse, a tow due to a snow emergency is not a fun vacation memory so pay attention to winter parking rules if visiting in the snowy months.
Fuel & Gas Stations: Finding fuel is easy in Milwaukee and throughout Wisconsin. In the city, gas stations are sprinkled throughout downtown and neighborhoods (though downtown proper has fewer; you might head a few blocks west or south for one). Prices are typically a bit cheaper than the national average. If you’re heading on a longer drive, know that on rural Interstates, services (gas, food) can be 20-30 miles apart not too bad, but keep an eye on your gauge. On I-94 between Milwaukee and Madison, for instance, you’ll find regular service areas and towns every so often. If driving north to Green Bay or Door County, there are long stretches of I-43 and US-57 that are pretty rural, but still, a town with gas every 30 miles or so. A good rule of thumb: when you’re down to a quarter tank, start planning a refill, especially at night when smaller town stations might close. Also note: Illinois gas is more expensive than Wisconsin’s (due to higher taxes), so if you’re doing a round-trip to Chicago, fill up in Wisconsin before crossing the border to save a few bucks.
Driving Etiquette & Laws: Wisconsin drivers are generally courteous. Here are a few key laws and customs: Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants. Right turn on red is allowed after a full stop (unless a sign says “No Turn on Red”). At many Milwaukee intersections, you’ll see a blinking red or yellow light late at night treat a blinking red like a stop sign, and a blinking yellow as a caution (slow down, but no stop needed). Distracted driving laws: It is illegal to text or email while driving in Wisconsin. Handheld cellphone calls are allowed for adult drivers except in construction zones (where it’s banned) however, it’s best practice to use hands-free or pull over to use your phone, as police can still cite you for inattentive driving. DUI/OWI: Wisconsin has strict penalties for drunk driving, and the legal limit is 0.08% BAC. Milwaukee has a big bar and brewery scene if you’re indulging in the local beer, absolutely use a rideshare or a designated driver. Move Over law: If you see an emergency vehicle or police stopped on the roadside, move to the next lane if possible or slow down significantly. And watch your speed in small towns speed limits will often drop quickly as you enter a village; local police do enforce those.
Signage and Navigation: Road signage in Wisconsin is straightforward. Highways are well-marked with route numbers and directional signs. Milwaukee’s streets are mostly a grid, with north-south streets numbered on the south side and named on the north side, and east-west streets changing from “Street” to “Avenue” as you go west it sounds confusing, but a GPS will make it easy. One quirky thing: Milwaukee has a few diagonal bridges/viaducts and the freeway has a double-decker section through downtown just follow your lane for your exit and you’ll be fine. If you venture into rural areas or the Northwoods, be aware that cell service can get spotty. It’s wise to have your route preloaded or an old-fashioned paper map as backup when exploring remote parks. Also, watch for wildlife crossing signs deer are very common, especially around dawn and dusk outside the city. Hitting a deer can ruin your trip (and the car), so if you see those yellow deer signs, stay alert, use high beams on dark country roads, and slow down a bit.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll handle Milwaukee and Wisconsin roads like a pro. Remember, a little patience and a good navigation app (or map) go a long way. And if you ever feel unsure of directions, it’s better to pull over safely and get your bearings than to make a sudden last-second turn. Enjoy the journey you might just discover an unexpected farm stand or a hidden supper club along the way! Safe travels and have fun driving in Wisconsin.
Road Trip Ideas from Milwaukee Explore More of Wisconsin & Beyond
One of the best parts of renting a car in Milwaukee is the ability to embark on some fantastic road trips. Here are a few original, location-specific road trip ideas to make the most of your wheels from MKE:
Each of these road trips offers a distinct flavor of the region, from small-town Wisconsin charm and natural beauty to big-city energy. With unlimited mileage on most rentals, you can explore freely. AirportVanRental makes it easy to find the perfect vehicle for any of these journeys whether it’s a comfy SUV for the family or a fuel-efficient car for zipping down the interstate. Fill up the tank, cue up your favorite road trip playlist (perhaps some classic rock from Wisconsin’s own Violent Femmes or Bon Iver’s indie tunes), and hit the road!
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s easy no shuttles required. After you collect your bags at Milwaukee’s baggage claim, follow the signs for “Rental Cars.” The rental car counters are located in a building directly across the street from the terminal (on the ground floor of the main parking garage). Simply walk out of the baggage claim area, cross the small roadway via the crosswalk, and you’ll see the entrance to the Rental Car Center. It’s about a 1-2 minute walk. Inside, all the rental company counters (Alamo, Avis, Budget, etc.) are together. In short, MKE’s rental car facility is on-site and very convenient just steps from the terminal. No need to wait for a shuttle bus; you can be at the rental desk almost immediately after landing.
In most cases, yes. The major car rental agencies at MKE typically stay open to meet late flights. Usual hours for rental counters are roughly 5:30 AM until 11:00 PM, but if there’s a scheduled incoming flight at 11:30 PM, for example, they often remain open for those passengers. If you have a reservation and your flight is delayed into very late hours, rental staff will generally honor it they do monitor incoming flights (especially if you provided your flight number in your booking). That said, if you’re arriving around or after midnight, it’s a good idea to call the rental office earlier that day to inform them, just to be safe. They may hold your keys or give you instructions for an after-hours pick-up. In the unlikely event that a counter does close, they might have an arrangement (for example, an agent from a sister company like National/Alamo might assist Hertz/Dollar customers, etc.) or you may need to return in the early morning. But rest assured, Milwaukee’s airport isn’t huge, and they won’t leave a confirmed customer stranded if they can help it. Pro Tip: Always include your flight number when booking and keep the rental agency’s local phone number handy if you’re flying late.
The standard minimum age to rent at MKE (and throughout Wisconsin) is 21 years old with most companies. Renters age 21-24 will usually incur a “young driver fee” (typically around $25–$30 per day) and might be limited to certain vehicle types (often no luxury cars or large SUVs for under-25 drivers). If you’re 25 or older, you can rent at the normal rates with no young driver surcharges, and all vehicle categories are generally available. Some agencies have special policies: for example, a few will rent to 18-20 year-olds but only under specific conditions (often for military personnel or if you have insurance replacement paperwork) these cases come with steep fees and restrictions. Our booking platform will let you know if any age-related rules apply once you input your age. Also, note that drivers under 25 will usually need a credit card (not just a debit card) in their name, and should have a clean driving record for the past year or so. In summary, 21+ can rent in Milwaukee, but expect an extra fee until you hit 25. If you’re under 21, your options are limited you may need to look at specialized programs or stick to being an additional driver on someone else’s rental. Always check the specific company policy if you’re a younger renter so there are no surprises at the counter.
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport hosts a range of major rental car brands on-site. As of now, you’ll find Avis, Budget, Alamo, National, Enterprise, Hertz, Dollar, and Sixt all with counters at MKE. (There’s even a kiosk for Turo car-sharing, for those interested in peer-to-peer rentals.) The rental counters for all these companies are together in the airport’s rental car facility across from baggage claim. The fleets for these brands are located in the attached garage, so vehicles are right on the airport property. This means whether you book an affordable Avis compact or a 12-passenger van through Enterprise, you’ll pick it up and drop it off at the airport’s consolidated rental area. AirportVanRental works with multiple MKE rental partners when you search our site, you’ll see availability across essentially all these brands, allowing you to compare prices in one go. In summary, you have all the well-known options at Milwaukee Airport, and we’ll help you snag the best deal among them!
Like most airports, yes, there are a few extra fees baked into the cost of a rental at MKE but we disclose them upfront in our quotes. Here’s the breakdown: First, there’s the usual Wisconsin state sales tax (about 5%) and a county stadium tax (0.5% in Milwaukee County) on rentals. Wisconsin also imposes a rental car fee of 5% on rentals statewide. Additionally, Milwaukee County has a small $2/day “wheel tax” on rentals (this might show up as a flat fee). Now, for airport-specific fees: MKE, like other airports, charges rental companies a Concession Recovery Fee (often around 10% of the rental) this helps the airport operate the rental facilities and shuttles, etc. Rental agencies pass this on to renters as a percentage of your rate. There’s also usually a Customer Facility Charge (CFC), which at MKE is relatively low (sometimes a few dollars per day or a flat $X per rental) to fund facility improvements. In plain English, when you rent at the airport you might see line items like “Airport Concession Fee 11%” and “Facility Fee $X/day” on your contract. These can add roughly 15–18% to the base price. The good news is AirportVanRental’s pricing will show you the total with all these included, so you’re not blindsided. One more: if you opt for extras like the rental company’s insurance, GPS, car seat, or if you’re under 25 (young driver fee) or add extra drivers, those are additional, but again, we’ll show those costs as you select options. Finally, keep in mind if you violate terms (like return the car low on gas or very late), there could be fees, but those are avoidable with good planning. To save money, some travelers try renting off-airport to dodge fees in Milwaukee, off-airport might save the ~10% concession fee, but you’d have the inconvenience of traveling to a suburban location. For most, the difference isn’t huge and the convenience of on-site pickup is worth it. Rest assured, our goal is transparency: you’ll know exactly what you’re paying when you book with us, airport fees and all. No last-minute surprises at the counter in Milwaukee!