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Car rental in Waukee, IA

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Rental cars in Waukee, IA

Average daily prices for a 3-day trip

Waukee, EN

Car rental options in Waukee for city adventures

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Waukee offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. This rapidly growing suburb of Des Moines boasts picturesque parks, vibrant community events, and a thriving local economy. With its convenient location and diverse attractions, booking a rental car in Waukee opens up a world of possibilities for exploring the city and its surrounding areas. Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, having your own wheels allows you to make the most of your stay in this welcoming Midwestern gem.

Recent reviews

Renault TWINGO II 2014

Eric and Valerie have made it impossible for me to ever rent from one of the big international car rental companies again. This was my third rental with them and they are everything the big guys are not. They are friendly, efficient, customer focused are most importantly really easy to deal with. Their cars are great as well.

Sally
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Kia K5 2021

The host, the car, and the whole Turo experience was 10/10. The price was fantastic and the whole experience was seamless. We had weird hours we wanted to leave and return the car that would not have worked with a car rental agency, but Angel and Turo made the whole process easy and seamless. I’m a bigger guy so I was worried about how comfortable the car would be and it was perfect. The great ride made our whole vacation possible and comfortable. I really appreciated the vehicles safety features too!

Daniel Alexander
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Nissan Altima 2025

The Nissan Altima was great. Good mpg, clean, lots of power, great response time. The car needed to be picked up at an off site location called, economy car rental at 2367 India street. A proximity 2 1/2 miles from the airport. You will need to find a ride to their location. The price of taxi will be $30, however we took the free shuttle to the car rental center then walked 20 minutes the rest of the way. The team at this location did a great job, fast, friendly, polite, and after returning they able to offer a ride back to the airport. We would rent this Altima again, and I would recommend this vehicle.

Cori
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Megan
Nissan LEAF 2016

Easy pick up and drop off. Car was very clean inside. A/C blows super cold even when it's 100 degrees out!! The windows are not tinted so I suggest bringing your own sun shades if you are going to be parked anywhere but the shade in the summer. Luckily I had those and that made my trip much better. The flip down visors do have the extenders to help block sun while driving thankfully. Charging prices are comparable to current gas prices - about $45 to get 250 miles of charge over a few sessions which is the same as I get from a full tank in my Toyota Yaris. This car DOES have the CHAdeMO fast charge input so it's 30-50 seconds per mile to charge depending on the fast charger & whether you're running the car (AC/radio) or it's fully off. Radio speakers were a little blown out so I had to adjust some settings to listen to my audiobooks but it was easy to do. I had no problem driving from the pickup spot to Kyle, then to the airport, and back into town without needing a charge which was about 90 miles, mostly highway. Just like any Turo rental make sure to take your own photos at pickup and drop off since scratches and such aren't usually documented after every drive by the car owners which seems standard in my experience. Overall a great deal, best price in town especially for a last minute rental. I requested the rental at 9pm on a Tuesday after my personal car died and was able to get this the next morning with no issue. Will definitely keep them in mind when I need a rental near by. Thanks again!

Megan
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Cary F.
Honda Civic 2012

First, I contemplated leaving a 4 star review for a few reasons. However, the prompt response to the issue with the original vehicle reserved, partly due to luck that someone happened to be onsite with the car, and the flexibility with returning the vehicle without requiring washing and vacuuming is deserving of some grace. The price for 5 day/4 night rental was fantastic, around $150 total. I certainly didn't expect a car in pristine shape for the cost. This car is a part of a Turo "rental company" fleet. It seems like a company that buys cheap, used cars to rent out. There are 12-15 cars parked behind a strip mall 8-10ish minutes from the airport in an area I was glad we were picking up and dropping off midday rather than the evening. The hybrid we originally reserved had stained seats and a lot of cosmetic wear. One tire looked like it was on a spare wheel and didn't have a lot of life left, honestly. A lot of the roads in San Diego aren't exactly in great shape, I was concerned about getting a flat. When we turned the car on to leave we immediately got check engine lights and a "pull over immediately" message. Fortunately, someone with the "rental company" was on site and qas able to quickly switched cars for us. It wasn't a hybrid, though. We didn't plan on a lot of driving, but originally opted for a hybrid to save money since we had two days of freeway driving. We definitely spent more on gas then originally planned. If there wasn't someone available onsite to help, it could have been a much longer ordeal which is a terrible way to start a vacation. Communication day of pick up felt slow with the owner. I didn't think to look back to the 2 month old message about how to find the car. I received a message from Turo saying we'd be sent details the day before the trip. I never got that confirmation text or measage the day before or day of pick up from the actual rental owner. When I first reached out to the rental company through the turo app to find the car at pick up time, I didn't get a response. I finally found a way to text someone about 20 minutes later. We did get a pretty quick response that way, but it's frustrating to be in a random parking lot messaging through an app and not get a response. The Honda interior is definitely cleaner than the hybrid we reserved, but the exterior, not so much. Its been side swiped and has a lot of sun damage. The TPMS light was on the whole time, but the actual tire pressure was fine. There was also a rattle and grinding noise when accelerating from a stop or on a hill, but it didn't cause an issue. The car drives fine for a 14-15 year old car, it's just a little noisy and you feel all the bumps on the road. I understand with the cheaper cost of renting through Turo amd choosing a 12-15 year old car, I'm not getting a newer car like I would with a standard rental company or paying more for a newer car. That said, with my last few Turo rentals, it feels a lot of these Turo "rental companies" aren't checking their cars or doing much more than standard maintenance as frequently as they should when they have over 150,000 miles on them. The confirmation message also suggested the cars are kept in great shape. These cars were not in great shape by any stretch of the imagination. No one wants to be on vacation and have their car break down or even be worried that the car they're driving is gonna get a flat or break down.

Cary F.
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Toyota Camry Hybrid 2025

Kush was flexible and kind. Making the pickup and last minute car rental process easy!

Dayo
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Mireille
Mitsubishi Mirage G4 2023

I love the rental cars from Mohammed. He and his staff is friendly and helpful. The cars are small and good at gas. I would suggest anyone to rent a car with Mohammed.

Mireille
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Eliasmanuel
Subaru Impreza 2014

I had an excellent experience renting from this host and would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable and smooth car rental experience. The vehicle was extremely clean, well-maintained, and exactly as described in the listing. Communication was outstanding from start to finish. The host was friendly, professional, responsive, and made both pickup and drop-off incredibly easy and convenient. The car drove perfectly and made my trip stress-free and enjoyable. It’s clear the host takes great care of both their vehicles and their customers. I truly appreciated the attention to detail and overall professionalism throughout the rental process. I would absolutely rent from this host again in the future and highly recommend them to others looking for a top-quality rental experience.

Eliasmanuel
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Joseph
Audi S3 2015

The host was excellent throughout the whole process. Communication was very good, he was friendly and easy to deal with, and he made the whole car rental process simple and stress-free. Everything was straightforward from start to finish, and I would definitely rent from him again.

Joseph
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Ella
Mitsubishi Mirage 2023

Easy pickup and drop off, saved us when the car rental companies ran out of cars at the airport.

Ella
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Jennifer
Ford Fiesta 2017

Solid rental experience. Car was as described. Had no issues and the host was communicative when I needed to change the reservation by a few days or hours. Super convenient location near the airport. Best price for the amount of time I needed it which was about 2 weeks. Will definitely rent again when I'm in town.

Jennifer
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Jennifer M.
Subaru Outback 2013

Andre was great, the car was somewhat still dirty, dust, dirt, what appeared to be cigarette ashes, animal hair, sticky spills around the cup holders in the center console and the door panels. Crumbs and dust/dirt left in the door handles and cubby's. In the center console cup holders and cubbys. On the top of the dashboard, around the steering column and gauges. Sticky dusty windows and stereo buttons. Rear view mirror had sticky smudges on it. All the windows inside were dusty and dirty with smudges and idk what really.. the car had a bad smell of animals like dogs, and faint cigarette smell.. however as I got further into my trip I got used to it and wasn't bothered by it anymore. A lot of these issues honestly didn't bother me very much. I was more worried of being blamed for them when I returned the car. Unfortunately I was put behind schedule due to a passenger side headlight and passenger side tail light being burned out. However upon informing andre, he was very quick with a solution to take the car to valvoline where they were able to repair the lights before I left for my trip. If I wasn't already running late It wouldn't of bothered me. Andre was also very quick to reimburse me the whole price of the repairs immediately upon me sending him the receipt of the work.. I very much appreciated that! I also appreciate that instead of canceling my trip Andre worked out a way to have the lights fixed with no trouble of my own. He was always quick to respond to all of my very long messages full of questions. This is my first time using turo and I did not know the ins and outs of the rental process. He was able to guide me threw every step all while being polite and keeping his patience with me! Hah. I ended up running behind schedule on my way back as well and was surprised how simple and easy it was to change the return time from noon to after 9 p.m. all without adding any fees to my bill! That was very helpful of andre to allow me to do. I also ended up being a little passed my return time due to vacuuming the car and dusting everything to my best ability. So that andre wouldn't have to deal with someone else's mess and the next person who rents the vehicle will not have to worry about it either. I had no issues with doing that for him after he was so helpful with me! The vehicle was a little different then what im used to. But in no time I settled in with the car and had a very enjoyable trip! I would forsure rent another vehicle from andre in the future due to how well he accommodated me on this trip. Even tho the car had the mess, that was not andre, But left over from previous renters. He even made sure to have a snow brush and ice scraper in the car for me. But unfortunately the previous renters also took that with them. Im sure there will be a new one for the next person who rents the car because thats how much andre cares about his customers !! 5 stars for andre !!! Whoever returned his vehicle like that should be ashamed and think about how it would feel if someone treated your things the same way! Once again THANK YOU andre! I will reach out to you next time I need to rent a car.. I appreciate all your help thru the process! I appreciate your professionalism and quick responses to all my questions and thank you for making sure the vehicle was 100% good to go for me before I left and wouldn't of been able to fix it. 5 of 5 stars for andre !!

Jennifer M.
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Azeema
Toyota Yaris 2012

My credit card wasn’t working for some odd reason and rental companies wouldn’t let me rent a car so I booked this Turo last minute and it was a reasonable price for five days. I will do it again when I come back to Vancouver in August.

Azeema
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Chevrolet Cruze Limited 2016

Excellent 1st experience using Turo. The host was very responsive and timely. The vehicle was in great condition and rode very well. The price was a good deal and would definitely use this again as opposed to a major car rental facility. It was a simple process overall and very straightforward.

Jaretta
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Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class 2015

Car was very clean and smelled good. Great condition. It was a good a smooth drive. Mo, was very responsive. I am very new to Turo and he was very patient with me. Thank you for giving these car rental companies a run for their money. It was an easy and pleasant experience!

Maryjacqueline
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Nissan Versa 2020

Highly recommend! First of all Rigid was very helpful from the beginning. I wasn’t exactly sure what days I would be arriving at GSO so I had to keep rescheduling the rental, but Rigid was very understanding and willing to work with me! Very well communicated from making the reservation to returning the car. Very easy pickup, the car was dropped off right outside the arrival level, so no long walk to the parking lot or rental car center etc. Clean car with good mpg! Will definitely rent again next time I coming through GSO airport!

Haojun
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Discover Waukee's hidden gems and local hotspots

Waukee is brimming with exciting attractions and activities that are best explored by car. From scenic parks to bustling shopping districts, there's something for everyone in this charming city. A rental car gives you the freedom to visit popular spots like Centennial Park, the Raccoon River Valley Trail, and the vibrant Downtown Waukee area at your own pace. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the local flavor and unique character of this growing community.


Unwind at Centennial Park's expansive green spaces

Centennial Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Waukee. This sprawling 33-acre park offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With your rental car, you can easily access the park's many amenities, including walking trails, sports fields, and a fishing pond. The park also features a splash pad for kids, making it an ideal spot for family outings. Ample parking is available, ensuring a stress-free visit to this local gem.


Explore the Raccoon River Valley Trail's scenic beauty

The Raccoon River Valley Trail is a testament to Iowa's natural beauty and a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. This 89-mile trail offers stunning views of the countryside and passes through charming small towns. With your rental car, you can easily access various trailheads and explore different sections of the trail. The Waukee trailhead provides convenient parking and is an excellent starting point for your adventure. Whether you're biking, hiking, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, this trail showcases the best of Iowa's landscapes.


Indulge in retail therapy at Jordan Creek Town Center

For those seeking a shopping adventure, Jordan Creek Town Center is a short drive from Waukee and offers a premier retail experience. This expansive mall features a wide array of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. With your rental car, you can easily navigate the spacious parking areas and transport your purchases back to your accommodation. The center also boasts a beautiful outdoor area with a lake, perfect for a relaxing stroll after a day of shopping. Don't forget to check out the nearby restaurants for a delicious meal to round out your visit.


Reaching Waukee with ease for your Iowa adventure

Getting to Waukee is convenient and straightforward:
• By plane: Fly into Des Moines International Airport, then rent a car to drive to Waukee.
• By train: The nearest Amtrak station is in Osceola, about an hour's drive from Waukee.
• By car: Waukee is easily accessible via Interstate 80 and other major highways.


Smart strategies for securing your ideal Waukee rental car

When booking a rental car in Waukee, consider these helpful tips: Reserve early on Turo to ensure the best selection and rates. Choose a vehicle that suits your planned activities, whether it's a compact car for city driving or an SUV for exploring rural areas. Look for extras like GPS navigation or a backup camera to enhance your driving experience. Consider seasonality when selecting your rental, as Iowa weather can vary throughout the year. Opting for a car with all-wheel drive might be beneficial during winter months. Remember to check for vehicles with convenient features like keyless entry or Apple CarPlay for added comfort during your Waukee adventure.

Frequently asked questions in Waukee, IA

What are some popular pickup locations for rental cars in Waukee, and are there any convenient options near the city center?

Waukee offers several convenient pickup locations for rental cars, including options near the city center. Guests can find a variety of vehicles available from Hosts on Turo throughout Waukee. The downtown area is a popular spot for car rentals, providing easy access to local attractions and businesses. Some Hosts on Turo offer delivery services, making it even more convenient for guests to start their Waukee adventures. Additionally, residential areas in Waukee serve as pickup points, allowing for a more personalized experience. Whether you're looking for a car, SUV, or van rental in Waukee, you'll find diverse options to suit your needs. Remember to communicate with your Host on Turo regarding specific pickup arrangements and any delivery options they may offer.

What are some pleasant driving routes near Waukee for a scenic road trip?

Waukee offers several charming driving routes for a scenic road trip. The Raccoon River Valley Trail provides a picturesque journey through Iowa's countryside, perfect for those seeking a peaceful drive. Another option is the Dallas County Conservation Board Trails, which showcase the area's natural beauty. For a more urban experience, consider a drive through West Des Moines, where you can enjoy the city's modern architecture and well-maintained streets. Remember to rent a comfortable car or SUV to make the most of your journey. These routes allow you to appreciate the diverse landscapes surrounding Waukee, from rolling hills to charming small towns.

How can I find reliable gas stations while exploring the Waukee area by car?

Finding reliable gas stations in the Waukee area is straightforward when you have a rental car. The city and its surroundings offer numerous options to fuel up your vehicle. Major intersections and highways often have well-maintained gas stations. Consider downloading a smartphone app that locates nearby gas stations and provides real-time pricing information. Waukee's main thoroughfares, such as Hickman Road and University Avenue, have several gas stations along their routes. It's advisable to keep your tank at least half full, especially when venturing into more rural areas around Waukee. This ensures you're always prepared for your journey, whether you're driving an SUV or a compact car.

Are there any tolls to be aware of when driving around Waukee or nearby cities?

When driving your rental car around Waukee and nearby cities in Iowa, you'll be pleased to know that there are currently no toll roads to worry about. Iowa's highway system is primarily funded through other means, allowing for toll-free travel throughout the state. This makes exploring Waukee and its surrounding areas by car or SUV more convenient and cost-effective. However, it's always a good idea to check for any recent changes or temporary toll implementations before your trip. Keep in mind that while there are no tolls, you may encounter parking fees in certain areas, especially if you venture into larger cities like Des Moines. Enjoy the freedom of toll-free driving as you explore all that Waukee and central Iowa have to offer.

What type of car is recommended for comfortable driving in Waukee and surrounding areas?

For comfortable driving in Waukee and the surrounding areas, a mid-size sedan or SUV is often recommended. These vehicles offer a good balance of comfort, fuel efficiency, and space for passengers and luggage. If you're planning to explore some of the more rural areas around Waukee, an SUV might be preferable for its higher ground clearance and better handling on varied road conditions. For city driving and short trips, a compact car could suffice, providing easy maneuverability and parking. Consider your specific needs, such as the number of passengers, amount of luggage, and planned activities when choosing your rental vehicle. Regardless of the type, ensure your car is equipped with good air conditioning for those warm Iowa summers.

Where can I find convenient parking facilities in downtown Waukee?

Downtown Waukee offers several convenient parking options for visitors with rental cars. The city provides free public parking lots scattered throughout the downtown area, making it easy to park your vehicle while you explore local shops and restaurants. Street parking is also available along many of the main thoroughfares, with clear signage indicating any time restrictions. For those driving larger vehicles like SUVs, there are designated areas that can accommodate bigger cars. During special events, Waukee may offer additional parking facilities, so it's worth checking the city's official website for up-to-date information. Remember to always follow local parking regulations to avoid any inconveniences during your visit to this charming Iowa city.

How should I prepare for driving in various weather conditions common to Iowa?

Preparing for Iowa's diverse weather conditions is crucial when renting a car in Waukee. For summer driving, ensure your vehicle's air conditioning is functioning well to combat the heat and humidity. In winter, consider renting an SUV or a car with all-wheel drive for better traction on snowy or icy roads. Always keep a windshield scraper and brush in your rental during colder months. Spring and fall can bring sudden rain showers, so check that your windshield wipers are in good condition. Regardless of the season, it's wise to have a basic emergency kit in your rental vehicle. Stay informed about weather forecasts and be prepared to adjust your driving plans accordingly to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience exploring Waukee and its surroundings.

What are some key differences between driving in Waukee and navigating nearby rural backroads?

Driving in Waukee differs significantly from navigating nearby rural backroads. In Waukee, you'll encounter more traffic lights, pedestrian crossings, and lower speed limits, typical of suburban areas. The roads are generally well-maintained and clearly marked. When venturing onto rural backroads, be prepared for narrower lanes, fewer streetlights, and potentially unpaved surfaces. Your rental car or SUV might encounter wildlife more frequently on these roads, so stay alert. Rural areas may have limited cell phone coverage, so consider downloading offline maps. Speed limits can change abruptly, and you'll need to watch for farm equipment sharing the road. Whether in Waukee or on backroads, always adhere to local traffic laws and drive cautiously to ensure a safe journey.

Can you suggest any rest stops or scenic areas for breaks while driving near Waukee?

While driving near Waukee, you'll find several pleasant spots to take a break and enjoy the scenery. The Raccoon River Valley Trail offers multiple access points where you can park your rental car and stretch your legs while enjoying nature. Centennial Park in Waukee is an excellent place to stop, featuring walking trails and picnic areas. For a scenic view, consider driving to Jester Park, located north of Des Moines, where you can enjoy views of Saylorville Lake. If you're heading west, the Middle Raccoon River Valley provides beautiful landscapes and potential rest areas. Remember to bring snacks and water in your vehicle, whether it's a compact car or an SUV, to make the most of these impromptu stops during your drive around Waukee.

Are weekend car rentals typically pricier than weekday rentals in Waukee?

Rates can vary between weekdays and weekends. Look out for savings on longer bookings and try adjusting your trip dates to find the best price for your schedule.

  1. * Est. daily price. Search for up to date price information.