Extraordinary selection
From standard cars to supercars, find the perfect car for any occasion or budget
Liability insurance included
Third-party liability insurance comes standard, and choose from a range of vehicle protection plans
Easy airport pickup
You can skip the rental counter at 100+ airports across the US and Canada
Top rated rental cars in West Lafayette, IN
Browse by category
West Lafayette, Indiana, is a vibrant college town that offers a unique blend of academic atmosphere and Midwestern charm. Home to Purdue University, this city boasts a dynamic cultural scene, beautiful parks, and exciting sporting events. Booking a rental car allows visitors to fully explore the area's attractions, from the historic downtown to the surrounding natural beauty, providing the freedom to discover hidden gems and local favorites at their own pace.
West Lafayette offers a variety of attractions easily accessible by rental car. From the iconic Purdue University campus to the scenic Wabash Heritage Trail, visitors can explore the city's rich history and natural beauty. A car rental provides the flexibility to visit popular spots like the Celery Bog Nature Area or catch a game at Ross-Ade Stadium, allowing guests to create their perfect itinerary.
Purdue University's picturesque campus is a must-visit attraction in West Lafayette. Rent a car to explore the sprawling grounds, admire the historic architecture, and soak in the collegiate atmosphere. Don't miss the iconic Purdue Bell Tower or the Engineering Fountain. Parking is available in designated visitor lots throughout campus, making it convenient to stop and explore on foot. Consider taking a leisurely drive around the surrounding neighborhoods to fully appreciate the university's impact on the city.
Located just outside West Lafayette, Prophetstown State Park offers a perfect escape for nature lovers. With a rental car, visitors can easily access this beautiful park, which features diverse ecosystems, hiking trails, and a working farm. The park's aquatic center is a great spot for summer fun. Ample parking is available near the visitor center, making it convenient to start your outdoor adventure. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in one of the park's scenic areas after exploring the trails.
Wabash Landing, a vibrant shopping and entertainment district in West Lafayette, is easily accessible by rental car. This area offers a mix of local boutiques, restaurants, and a movie theater. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Wabash River after shopping or dining. Several parking options are available in the district, including street parking and a convenient garage. Consider visiting during evening hours to experience the area's lively atmosphere and enjoy dinner at one of the local eateries.
Here's how to get to West Lafayette:
• By plane: Fly into Indianapolis International Airport, then rent a car for the drive to West Lafayette.
• By train: Take Amtrak to Lafayette station, then use local transportation or rent a car to reach West Lafayette.
• By car: West Lafayette is accessible via Interstate 65, making it easy to drive from major cities in the region.
When booking a rental car in West Lafayette, consider these tips: Reserve early on Turo for the best selection, especially during busy periods like Purdue University events. Choose a vehicle that suits your plans, whether it's a compact car for city driving or an SUV for exploring nearby state parks. Look for extras like GPS navigation for easy route-finding or a bike rack if you plan to explore local trails. Consider all-wheel drive for winter visits, and don't forget to check for parking options at your accommodation.
West Lafayette offers several convenient pickup locations for rental cars. Guests can find hosts on Turo offering vehicles near Purdue University campus, which is ideal for visiting students or faculty. Downtown West Lafayette is another popular area, providing easy access to local attractions and restaurants. Some hosts on Turo may offer delivery to specific locations, enhancing convenience for guests. When choosing a pickup spot, consider proximity to your accommodation or planned activities. Factor in parking availability at your destination, as some areas may have limited options. Additionally, guests should evaluate the vehicle selection available at different pickup points to ensure they find a rental car that suits their needs, whether it's a compact car for city driving or a larger vehicle for exploring Indiana's countryside.
West Lafayette offers several picturesque driving routes for those looking to explore the area by car. The Wabash River Scenic Byway is a delightful option, winding along the river and offering stunning views of the water and surrounding landscape. Another enjoyable route is the drive to Prophetstown State Park, where you can experience the beauty of Indiana's prairie lands. For a longer journey, consider taking your rental car on a scenic drive through the nearby Hoosier National Forest, which showcases the diverse natural beauty of Indiana. Remember to check your car's fuel level before embarking on these trips, as some routes may have limited gas stations along the way.
Navigating peak hour traffic in West Lafayette requires some strategic planning. To avoid congestion, consider using alternative routes like Yeager Road or Sagamore Parkway instead of the busier State Street during rush hours. If you're renting a car with GPS, utilize real-time traffic updates to find the quickest routes. Planning your trips outside of peak hours (typically 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM) can significantly reduce travel time. When driving near Purdue University campus, be aware of increased pedestrian and bicycle traffic. Parking in designated areas and using the campus shuttle system can be an efficient way to access the university without dealing with campus traffic.
Downtown West Lafayette offers various convenient parking options for visitors with rental cars. The Morton Community Center parking lot provides ample space and is centrally located. For those exploring the Chauncey Village area, the Chauncey Hill Mall parking garage is a practical choice. Street parking is available along Northwestern Avenue and State Street, but be sure to check posted time limits. When visiting Purdue University, consider using the Grant Street Parking Garage or the Northwestern Avenue Parking Garage. Remember to bring quarters for metered parking in some areas. It's advisable to arrive early during special events or busy weekends to secure a spot in these popular parking facilities.
West Lafayette has several easily accessible gas stations for those using rental cars. The Speedway on Sagamore Parkway West is conveniently located and often used by visitors. Another popular option is the Marathon station on State Street, which is close to downtown and Purdue University. For those exploring the outskirts of West Lafayette, the Shell station on Yeager Road is a good choice. Remember to refuel your rental car before returning it to avoid additional charges. It's also wise to familiarize yourself with your car's fuel type and tank location to make refueling quick and hassle-free during your stay in West Lafayette.
When choosing a rental car for West Lafayette, consider a vehicle that suits both city driving and potential countryside excursions. A midsize sedan is often a good all-round choice, offering comfort for city trips and fuel efficiency for longer drives. If you're planning to explore rural areas or visit during winter, an SUV might be preferable for its better handling in varied conditions. For those focused on city driving and easy parking, a compact car could be ideal. Electric vehicles are also becoming more popular, with charging stations available in West Lafayette. Whatever your choice, ensure your rental car is equipped to handle local weather conditions, especially during Indiana's snowy winters.
When driving in West Lafayette, it's crucial to be prepared for varying weather conditions. In winter, ensure your rental car is equipped with all-season or winter tires for better traction on snowy or icy roads. Always keep the fuel tank at least half full to prevent fuel line freezing. During summer, check that your car's air conditioning is working properly to combat the heat and humidity. Spring and fall can bring sudden rain showers, so familiarize yourself with the windshield wipers and defrosting system. Year-round, it's wise to check the local weather forecast before setting out on any trips. Adjust your driving speed and style according to the conditions, and allow extra time for journeys during inclement weather.
Driving in West Lafayette differs significantly from navigating rural Indiana backroads. In West Lafayette, you'll encounter more traffic lights, pedestrian crossings, and lower speed limits, especially around Purdue University. City driving requires more attention to signage and potential congestion. In contrast, rural Indiana backroads often feature long stretches of open road with higher speed limits. These country routes may have less lighting and more wildlife, so extra caution is needed, especially at dawn and dusk. Rural areas might also have unpaved sections or narrower lanes, requiring careful maneuvering. When transitioning between these environments in your rental car, adjust your driving accordingly and always be prepared for sudden changes in road conditions.
While driving around West Lafayette, you'll be pleased to know that there are no immediate toll roads in the vicinity. However, if you're planning a longer trip in your rental car, be aware that Indiana does have some toll roads in other parts of the state. The main toll road, I-80/90, runs across northern Indiana, far from West Lafayette. If your journey takes you towards Chicago or the eastern part of the state, you might encounter this toll road. It's always a good idea to plan your route in advance and keep some cash or a credit card handy just in case. Remember, most rental cars in West Lafayette are equipped for easy toll payment if needed during your travels.
* Any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host’s vehicle would kick in before your protection plan, except in limited situations for trips booked in Maryland, but this protects your own wallet. In the US, liability insurance is provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company. Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. The policy does not provide coverage for damage to a host’s vehicle.
For questions or information about the third party liability insurance for trips in the US, consumers in Maryland and the licensed states listed here may contact Turo Insurance Agency at (415) 508-0283 or claims@turo.agency. For questions about how damage to a host’s vehicle is handled, visit the Turo Support site. When a trip is booked in the state of Washington, physical damage to the host’s vehicle is covered by insurance purchased by Turo, but the Turo insurance does not change the contractual responsibilities of hosts or guests with respect to physical damage to a host’s vehicle.