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SUV rental near Des Moines International Airport

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Rental cars in Des Moines International Airport

Average daily prices for a 3-day trip

Des Moines International Airport, EN

SUV rental near Des Moines International Airport

Des Moines offers a perfect blend of Midwestern charm and modern attractions, from its vibrant downtown district to the scenic trails along the Des Moines River. The city combines rich cultural heritage with contemporary amenities, making it an ideal destination for both business and leisure travelers. Booking an SUV enhances your Iowa experience by providing the elevated seating position and spacious interior needed to comfortably navigate both urban streets and rural landscapes, ensuring you can explore everything from the bustling East Village to the rolling countryside with confidence and style.

Recent reviews

Kia Telluride 2022

Think a newer car for the price is recommended and a car that allows full Apple Car Play incl Google Maps and Waze

Maarten
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Michael
Tesla Model Y 2024

All aspects of this rental were smooth and easy. Thanks Zach!

Michael
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Robin
BMW X5 2023

This is the best out of all my turos. The response time is 10 seconds. That’s crazy!! Every time I come to Iowa I try to get this X5. 11/10 best!!

Robin
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Kevin
Nissan Murano 2015

David is a great guy, super helpful. DES is kinda a mess with Turo right now. David worked around their issues and made it super convenient for me. The car was comfy and really clean. I’d definitely rent from David again!

Kevin
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Valerie Paul & Molly
Ford Escape 2017

Very easy to use and very clean. No issues in changing dates and times. I would rent again. VERY VERY FLEXIBLE.

Valerie Paul & Molly
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Loren
Subaru Forester 2020

This one was the best yet. Easy instructions, easy access, great communication and the car was the bonus! Car was great, perfectly clean., and ready to go!. Highly recommend for anyone traveling onto Des Moines.

Loren
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Jeff
Tesla Model X 2020

Loved my trip! Was not long enough Sam was a great host great car great experience!!

Jeff
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Ford Escape 2017

Great experience! Definitely would recommend and rent again from them.

Gabrielle
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Kyle
Mazda CX-9 2013

Great communication and was as expected. Easy rental!

Kyle
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eveline
Kia Sorento 2026

Loved everything about the car . He is the best host ever . I highly recommend and thank you so much for everything and I love how he is very understanding.

eveline
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Kara
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid 2026

Great car, fast responses! Will rent again when in IA

Kara
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Andrew
Subaru Outback 2023

The car was super clean, easy to find, and comfortable to drive. It was really affordable and easy to rent. Would definitely use it again.

Andrew
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Bernard
Nissan Murano 2020

Car was great - clean, ran well, came with nice touches, including a tissue box, and phone mount. More importantly, Abraham was very clear in his communications, and was flexible when an issue (mine) came up. Rent this car when you’re in Des Moines or the nearby area!

Bernard
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Honda CR-V Hybrid 2024

This was my first Turo rental experience. Brad was helpful and very prompt in answering questions. The vehicle was like new.

Gary
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Tesla Model X 2020

This was a wonderful rental. The host maintains the car well and is extremely curtious. I used this as a real world test of EVs and was not disappointed. Thank you Sam for allowing me this opportunity. Would highly recommend to anyone.

Evan
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Cadillac XT5 2019

John was a great host, The trip was smooth, i had no issues with the vehicle.

Jill
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Jocelyn
Chevrolet Equinox 2026

Great communication, car was nice and tidy would definitely book again!

Jocelyn
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Alena
Chevrolet Bolt EUV 2023

Pickup was easy - car is clean and fun to drive. Way cheaper than gas!

Alena
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Brett
Nissan Rogue 2016

Very easy to pick up and return at DSM airport. Abraham was great!

Brett
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Stephen
Hyundai Tucson 2023

The car was great and helped us with all of our needs would recommend booking again!

Stephen
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Discover Iowa's capital attractions from Des Moines International Airport

Des Moines International Airport serves as your gateway to Iowa's dynamic capital city, where modern urban amenities meet traditional Midwestern hospitality. You'll find easy access to the historic East Village, the impressive Iowa State Capitol building, and the renowned Pappajohn Sculpture Park. The city's well-maintained road network makes exploring these diverse attractions straightforward, while an SUV provides the comfort and visibility needed to fully appreciate the scenic drives through downtown and surrounding neighborhoods.


Experience the vibrant East Village district

The East Village stands as Des Moines' cultural heart, featuring locally-owned boutiques, artisan coffee shops, and innovative restaurants housed in beautifully restored historic buildings. This walkable neighborhood showcases the city's commitment to preserving its architectural heritage while embracing contemporary culture. Parking is readily available throughout the district, and the elevated seating position of an SUV allows you to appreciate the unique blend of vintage brick facades and modern street art that defines this dynamic area.


Visit the majestic Iowa State Capitol

The Iowa State Capitol dominates Des Moines' skyline with its stunning gold dome and impressive architecture that reflects the state's rich political heritage. Free guided tours reveal the building's intricate interior details and historical significance. The capitol grounds offer ample parking and well-maintained pathways perfect for leisurely strolls. Your rental car provides convenient access to this iconic landmark while allowing you to explore the surrounding government district at your own pace.


Explore the renowned Pappajohn Sculpture Park

This four-acre outdoor museum in downtown Des Moines features more than 30 works by internationally acclaimed artists, creating an impressive collection of contemporary sculpture in an urban setting. The park's central location makes it easily accessible, with nearby parking structures accommodating visitors throughout the day. Walking paths wind between the installations, offering multiple perspectives on each piece. An SUV ensures comfortable transportation to this cultural gem while providing space for any art books or souvenirs you might acquire during your visit.


Discover the Historic Valley Junction

West Des Moines' Historic Valley Junction transports visitors back to the early 1900s with its charming antique shops, specialty stores, and restored train depot. This pedestrian-friendly district hosts seasonal festivals and maintains its small-town atmosphere despite being part of the greater metropolitan area. Street parking and nearby lots provide convenient access to the shops and restaurants that line the historic main street.


Enjoy the scenic Gray's Lake Park

Gray's Lake Park offers a peaceful retreat featuring a beautiful lake surrounded by walking and biking trails that provide stunning views of the downtown skyline. The park's recreational facilities include boat rentals and fishing opportunities, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Multiple parking areas serve different sections of the park, and the spacious interior of an SUV accommodates any outdoor gear or picnic supplies you might bring. The park's location provides easy access to both natural beauty and urban conveniences, perfectly capturing Des Moines' unique character.

Turo car rental vs. traditional rental

Turo

  • App-based experience

  • No waiting in line

  • 1,600+ unique makes & models

  • Get the exact car you choose

  • Delivery options & thousands of pickup locations

  • Cars rented out by local small businesses

  • Vehicles and hosts rated by guests

Traditional rental

  • Standard rental counter experience

  • Waiting in line

  • Limited selection

  • Get one type of car “or similar”

  • Pickup at retail locations

  • Owned by large corporations

  • No vehicle ratings

Frequently asked questions in Des Moines International Airport

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 kilometers 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.

How do I drive from Des Moines International Airport to downtown?

From Des Moines International Airport, head east on Army Post Road toward downtown Des Moines. The route takes you through central Iowa's urban landscape, passing several neighborhoods before reaching the heart of the city. Having your own rental car provides the flexibility to explore Des Moines at your own pace without relying on public transportation schedules.

What driving rules should I know before leaving Des Moines International Airport?

Iowa requires all passengers to wear seat belts, and you must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks throughout Des Moines. Speed limits are strictly enforced, with school zones requiring extra caution during designated hours. Right turns on red are permitted after a complete stop unless otherwise posted, making navigation through the city more efficient for visitors.

What documents and paperwork do I 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!

Should I rent a car from Des Moines International Airport?

Car rental at Des Moines International Airport gives you immediate access to explore Iowa's capital city and surrounding attractions. Des Moines features numerous parks, cultural districts, and dining areas that are best accessed with personal transportation. A rental car also allows you to venture beyond the city limits to experience Iowa's scenic countryside and nearby communities.

Are there toll roads near Des Moines International Airport?

Des Moines and the surrounding Iowa area do not have toll roads, making travel straightforward for visitors. All major highways and city streets around the airport operate as free roadways. This makes exploring central Iowa particularly convenient since you won't need to budget for toll expenses during your stay.

Where can I find gas stations and EV chargers near Des Moines International Airport?

Multiple gas stations are located along Army Post Road and nearby major intersections around Des Moines International Airport. Electric vehicle charging stations can be found at various shopping centers and hotels throughout the Des Moines area. Planning your fuel stops is easy with numerous options available throughout Iowa's capital city region.

What are the most popular road trip routes from Des Moines International Airport?

Popular routes from Des Moines include heading west toward Iowa's Great Lakes region or north to explore charming small towns throughout central Iowa. The scenic Loess Hills area offers beautiful landscapes for day trips, while routes toward Iowa City provide access to university towns and cultural attractions. Each direction from Des Moines reveals different aspects of Iowa's diverse geography and local communities.

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.

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.

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