Car rental Traverse City, MI
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Rental cars in Traverse City, MI
Rent a car in Traverse City on Turo
Securing a car rental in Traverse City, Michigan, is easier, faster, and more flexible with Turo. Whether you're flying into Cherry Capital Airport or just searching for the best car rental deals, you'll find a wide selection of vehicles to match your trip. From sleek electric sedans for scenic coastal drives to rugged pickup trucks for adventures beyond the city, booking on Turo lets you hit the road without the hassle.
With its sparkling shoreline, vibrant downtown, and easy access to the Sleeping Bear Dunes, Traverse City is best explored at your own pace. Renting a car on Turo gives you access to unique car models you won't find anywhere else, available to book for any length of time. Whether it's for a weekend getaway or a family trip, booking on Turo makes getting on the road as effortless as the drive itself.
Traverse City, MI car rental: How it works
On Turo, renting a car in Traverse City is easy. Browse cars online, choose your preferred pickup location, book your car, and get on the road sooner. With pickup locations all across Traverse City, Michigan and beyond, you'll be able to find the perfect car for whatever you have planned.
1. Find the perfect car
Enter a date and location in Traverse City, MI (or beyond), filter to find the best car for you, and read reviews from previous renters.
2. Select a pickup location
Rent a car nearby or get one delivered to various destinations, including many airports, train stations, hotels, or maybe even your home.
3. Hit the road
Your host sends you pickup details, and you’re all set to hit the roads of Traverse City, MI! If you have questions, you can easily chat with your host or contact support.
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Rent a car and explore Traverse City, MI
Things to do and places to see in Traverse City, MI
With its perfect mix of outdoor adventure and laid-back atmosphere, Traverse City is the kind of place that invites you to slow down and savor every moment. Whether you're driving scenic coastal roads, strolling along Grand Traverse Bay, or indulging in local flavors, there's no shortage of ways to fill your itinerary.
Rent the perfect carSleeping Bear Dunes
Consistently ranked as one of America's most stunning landscapes, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is where golden sand meets endless blue water. Whether you're climbing the massive dunes, hiking forested trails, or soaking up panoramic views from the bluffs, every inch of this place feels straight out of a postcard. If you're up for a challenge, tackle the Dune Climb — just be prepared for the leg burn on the way back up!
Old Mission Peninsula
Stretching into Grand Traverse Bay, Old Mission Peninsula is a peaceful retreat filled with vineyards, orchards, and lakefront beauty. Sip your way through local wineries, take a scenic drive past charming farms and fruit stands, and stop by the Mission Point Lighthouse, a historic gem standing at the peninsula's northernmost tip. It's the kind of place where every turn reveals a new breathtaking view — and maybe a new favorite bottle of wine.
Clinch Park
Just steps from downtown Traverse City, Clinch Park is the perfect spot to slow down and soak in the lakeside beauty. Whether you're walking along scenic paths, having a picnic by the bay, or renting a kayak for a paddle on the water, this park delivers pure, easygoing bliss. Visiting in summer? The small lively beach area is a local favorite for cooling off with a quick dip — because nothing beats a refreshing swim with a Lake Michigan view.
Why rent a car on Turo?
Cheap Traverse City, MI car rental
Find deals on all kinds of drives in Traverse City, MI and throughout the US - from the everyday to the extraordinary. Rent the perfect vehicle for your budget.
Convenient Traverse City, MI car rental pick up options
Get your car delivered right to you or wherever you’re going. Many hosts offer delivery to custom locations or popular points of interest in Traverse City, MI, like airports, train stations, and hotels.
Relax with support & damage protection
24/7 support and roadside assistance mean help is just a call away, plus you can choose from a range of protection plans.
Traverse City car rentals for any occasion
Winery tour car rental
Traverse City is well known for its breathtaking vineyards and award-winning wines, and the best way to experience it for yourself is with a comfortable rental car. A midsize sport luxury sedan or SUV lets you cruise along Old Mission Peninsula or Leelanau Peninsula with ease. On Turo, you can find car rentals that let you explore at your own pace, snap plenty of lakefront vineyard views, and bring home a few bottles without worrying about space.
Wedding car rental
Planning a wedding or attending one in Traverse City's lakefront venues, vineyards, or rustic barns? A premium luxury sedan or a premium luxury SUV makes sure you arrive in style and comfort. Whether you're the bride, groom, or part of the wedding party, a premium rental ensures a smooth ride to your destination. Need a passenger van for out-of-town guests? A spacious Ford Transit or Chevy Express is perfect for shuttling family and friends between venues.
Long-term car rental
If you're staying for an extended work project, a uni semester, or a seasonal getaway, a long-term car rental gives you the convenience of your own vehicle without the commitment of car ownership. Whether you need a fuel-efficient sedan for daily commutes, an SUV for Michigan's unpredictable seasons, or a pickup truck for outdoor adventuring, a long-term rental keeps you covered for weeks or months at a time — and often at better car rental rates than short-term options.
Turo vs. Traditional car rental
Turo
App-based experience
No waiting in line
Get the exact car you choose
Delivery options & thousands of pickup locations
Contactless pickup and dropoff available
Traditional car rental
Standard rental counter experience
Waiting in line
Get one type of car “or similar”
Pickup at retail locations
Requires in-person handoff
Rental car pickup locations throughout Traverse City
Get your car delivered right to you or wherever you’re going in Traverse City, MI, including Traverse City, MI airport. Many hosts offer delivery to custom locations or popular points of interest, like airports, train stations, and hotels. Popular Traverse City, MI pickup locations include:
Cherry Capital Airport (TVC)
If you're flying in, skip the usual rental counter wait and pick up your car rental directly from the Cherry Capital Airport parking lot when booking on Turo. Your host will provide exact pickup details via the Turo app, with vehicles typically located in the Short Term Lot — just grab the exit ticket left in the car and hit the road. If you're meeting in person, head to the Ground Transportation Lane and follow the signs for Commercial Lane Parking across from the terminal. With Cherry Capital Airport car rental on Turo, you'll be off the plane and into your car rental in no time — ready to explore Traverse City and beyond.
Grand Traverse Mall area
Need to stock up on supplies before your trip? On Turo, you can pick up your rental car near the Grand Traverse Mall. This means you can grab road trip essentials, shop for last-minute items, or fuel up before heading out onto the open road. With big-name brands like Macy's, Target, and Bath & Body Works, it's easy to knock any last-minute errands off your list. This location also offers quick highway access, making it a great starting point whether you're staying in town or venturing into Michigan's scenic backcountry.
Downtown Traverse City
For a pickup location that puts you right in the heart of the action, choose Downtown Traverse City. Located near local boutiques like Cali's, cafés like Traverse Bay Café, and scenic boardwalks, it's the perfect place to grab a coffee, stroll the waterfront, and start your journey with ease. If you need to adjust your drop-off location, downtown's simple grid layout makes navigation a breeze — ensuring a stress-free rental experience from start to finish.
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Top tips for renting a car in Traverse City
With its laid-back beaches, orchard-studded peninsulas, and small-town charm, Traverse City is best explored at your own pace. Whether you're chasing sunsets, wine-hopping, or headed to Sleeping Bear Dunes, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore without the hassle. Here's what you'll need to know before hitting the road to ensure a smooth car rental experience in Traverse City.
What are the road rules and driving conditions in Traverse City?
It's mostly smooth sailing in Traverse City, but it pays to know what to expect. City speed limits usually hover between 25–35 miles per hour (mph) in residential areas, while highways like the US-31 let you cruise between 55–75 mph.
In summer, traffic picks up near beaches and state parks, so plan for extra time to find parking and navigate the crowds. In winter, things get a bit trickier — snow and ice can make roads slick, so keep an eye on weather reports, allow extra braking distance, and be ready for the occasional road closure.
What is parking like in Traverse City?
There are plenty of options for parking downtown, from metered spots to city-run lots and garages. Some notable ones to look out for are the parking lots around Milliken Drive or the public parking area close to the Sara Hardy Farmers Market.
It's important to pay attention to time limits and posted rates as popular spots near the waterfront and shopping districts fill up fast during peak season. Want to avoid the competition? Arrive earlier or park a little further out from the action and you might score some free parking or a scenic walk.
Are there toll roads in Traverse City?
Nope! Michigan keeps it simple without any toll roads. You can cruise through Traverse City and the surrounding areas without stopping for toll plazas or worrying about extra costs. However, if you're heading out of state, especially toward Ohio or Illinois, be ready for toll roads.
Are there gas stations and EV chargers in Traverse City?
Need to refuel? There are plenty of gas stations scattered along major routes like US-31 and the M-37, so you'll never be far from a fill-up.
If you're driving an EV like an electric luxury sedan or an electric luxury SUV, then look out for one of the many chargers along US-31, S Garfield Avenue, or E Front Street. It's always a great idea to check apps like PlugShare for more charging points, but don't worry too much — in a city like this, there'll always be one close by.
Do I need to rent a car in Traverse City?
Unless you plan on sticking to the downtown area and simply walking everywhere, having a rental car is your best bet in Traverse City. Public transport is limited and ridesharing can get pricey, especially if you're heading out to wineries, state parks, or the beach. Having your own car means total flexibility, as well as a trunk to stash all your farmers market finds, beach gear, or bottles of locally made wine.
Whether you're here for lazy lake days or action-packed adventures, a rental car makes it way easier to soak up everything this city has to offer.
Frequently asked questions about Traverse City car rentals
What documents and paperwork do you need to rent a car on Turo?
What documents and paperwork do you need to rent a car on Turo?
To rent a car on Turo, you must create a Turo account, have a valid driver’s license, get approved to drive on Turo, and be 18 years old or older in the US, 21 years old or older in Australia, or 23 years old or older in Canada.
In the UK, you must be 21 years old or older and have held a UK or EU license for at least one year, or another driver’s license for at least two years. In France you must be 18 years old or older and have held a driver’s license for at least 2 years, longer for certain makes and models of vehicles.
When you’re booking your first trip, you’ll go through a quick approval process by entering your driver’s license and some other information. In most cases, you’ll get approved immediately, and you’ll be set for all future road trips, day trips, and business trips!
What kind of license do I need to rent a car on Turo?
What kind of license do I need to rent a car on Turo?
Turo accepts valid licenses (not expired, suspended, or revoked) that allow for full driving privileges; this includes driver’s licenses issued outside of the US. Licenses that Turo doesn’t accept in the US include any that have expired, have been altered, are conditional, probational, provisional, or restricted. Learner’s permit/instruction permits are not accepted.
Do I need to be a certain age to rent a car on Turo?
Do I need to be a certain age to rent a car on Turo?
To rent a car on Turo in the US, you must be 18 years old or older.
How does car rental insurance work on Turo?
How does car rental insurance work on Turo?
No, you don’t need personal insurance coverage to rent a car on Turo.
In the US, any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host’s vehicle would kick in before your Turo protection plan. When booking a car in the US, you’ll choose between three protection plans — Premier (eligibility requirements apply), Standard, or Minimum — to get the level of protection that’s right for you. On each trip, you’re covered with third-party automobile liability insurance provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company.*
In New York state, you’ll also choose between Premier (if available), Standard, or Minimum. With each plan, you’re covered with liability insurance of $1,250,000.* Protection plans for New York trips also include access to roadside assistance, priority phone support, and 24/7 customer assistance.
Can I get car rental discounts on Turo?
Can I get car rental discounts on Turo?
You can get discounts and low cost car rental on Turo.
On your Account page, make sure you’ve checked the box to receive email notifications, and enable push notifications from the Turo app in your phone settings — we’ll send you occasional promo codes, discounts, and deals.
Additionally, frequent travelers on Turo can get rewarded with the loyalty bonus — earn a promo code for one bonus day when you take trips totaling 10 days in a 90-day period.
Learn how the loyalty bonus worksIs there long term car rental on Turo?
Is there long term car rental on Turo?
Yes there is - whether you want to rent a car for three days, three months, or even longer, you can on Turo. You’ll find discounted prices on bookings lasting 3+, 7+, or 30+ days, so you can get the best deals and lowest rates possible by booking longer trips.
See more about promotions & discountsIs there unlimited mileage car rental on Turo?
Is there unlimited mileage car rental on Turo?
Some hosts offer unlimited distance for a trip; others set a daily distance limit — you’ll need to check on each rental car individually to see if this service is provided. On the vehicle pages, you’ll see the total miles or kilometres you’re allowed to drive under the heading “Distance included.” You can find cars offering unlimited mileage with every trip by using the “Unlimited distance” filter.
Can other people drive the car that I rented?
Can other people drive the car that I rented?
Yes, multiple guests can drive the car you rent on Turo, as long as they are all approved to drive. The primary driver (whoever rented the car) can add additional drivers with no fees or additional charges. Only the primary driver can request to add drivers; Turo hosts cannot do it for you. We encourage you to request to add additional drivers before your trip starts, though guests can request to add a driver while a trip is in progress.
To speed up the process, have your additional driver create a Turo account and get approved to drive before you request to add them. All drivers must have a valid driver’s license and meet the age requirements for the car you’ve booked. You can request to add drivers via the “Trips” tab in the Turo app without additional driver charges or extra costs.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Traverse City?
How much does it cost to rent a car in Traverse City?
The cost of car rental in Traverse City can vary depending on car type, booking length, extras, and delivery. For cheap car rental in Traverse City, look out for discounts on longer-duration bookings and early bookings.
What rental car types are there in Traverse City?
What rental car types are there in Traverse City?
Types of available car rentals on Turo in Traverse City range from economy runabouts to plush SUVs. Whether you're exploring downtown, or just cruising along Old Mission Peninsula, here are some popular vehicle choices available:
- Economy and compact cars: Light on fuel and easy to park, these are perfect for city driving and quick getaways. Consider the Toyota Corolla or Honda Fit for a nimble, budget-friendly ride.
- Sport luxury sedans: A balance of sporty performance and high-end comfort, ideal for date nights or business events. Models like the BMW 3 Series or Audi A4 offer a sleek, refined drive.
- Premium cars: For those who want an elevated ride, whether for business trips or weekend escapes. Choose from the Cadillac CT5 or Mercedes-Benz E-Class for top-tier comfort.
- Electric vehicles: Go green with an eco-friendly ride that doesn’t compromise on style. A Tesla Model 3 or Ford Mustang Mach-E brings futuristic flair with zero emissions.
- Standard SUVs: Reliable for year-round travel, whether you’re skiing in winter or visiting vineyards in summer. The Jeep Grand Cherokee or Chevrolet Tahoe provides versatility and comfort.
- Pickup trucks: Whether you need hauling power for gear or just a rugged vehicle for backroad adventures, a Ford F-150 or Chevrolet Silverado 1500 can handle it all.
* 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 that is included in protection plans, 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.