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| Location | Advantages | Considerations |
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| Colorado Springs Airport (COS) |
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| Downtown Colorado Springs |
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| North Colorado Springs |
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On average, car rentals in Colorado Springs cost around $84 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $26 per day.
Compare pick-up spots: Airport counters add about 11 % in surcharges. Already downtown or up north? Grab the car there and keep that money for tacos.
Lock in peak-season wheels early, then keep stalking the price: Summer and holiday weeks spike in Colorado Springs. Book 3–4 weeks out, choose a free-cancellation deal, and rebook if rates drop.
Peek at weekly rates: A 7-day "week" price can beat six individual days by 20-30 %, even if you bring the car back early.
Fill up before you roll in: Stations on Academy Blvd. or just off I-25 are way cheaper than the rental counter's $8+ per gallon hit.
One-way to Denver? Some companies cut or waive the $50–$150 fee in winter for northbound returns. Compare before committing to the round-trip miles.
Join the free loyalty program: At COS it often means skipping the line and scoring a surprise upgrade without spending a dime.
| Area | Parking Options | Regulations |
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| Downtown Colorado Springs |
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| Garden of the Gods |
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| Manitou Springs |
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| Shopping Centers |
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Local Driving Rules:
Rent a car to easily:
Garden of the Gods – sandstone formations
Pikes Peak – summit drive
Royal Gorge – canyon bridge
Manitou Springs – downtown district
Denver – city day trip
United States Air Force Academy – campus tour

Do I need a 4WD or AWD vehicle in Colorado Springs?
For driving in the city and on highways, a standard car works just fine most of the year. However, if you plan to explore mountain roads or visit in the winter, we recommend you get a 4WD or AWD vehicle that has snow or all-weather tires. This is especially true for trips to higher elevations or when Colorado's winter traction law is active on certain highways.
Are there toll roads around Colorado Springs?
You won't find any toll roads in Colorado Springs itself, but E-470 and the Northwest Parkway go around much of the Denver metro area to the north. Most rental companies let you rent a toll transponder for an extra daily fee, usually about $4-7 per day plus the cost of tolls. If you drive on a toll road without a transponder, the rental company gets the bill and will likely charge you for the toll plus its own service fees.
Can I return my rental car in a different city?
Yes. Most companies offer one-way rentals, so you can pick up a car in Colorado Springs and drop it off in Denver or other Colorado locations. One-way fees usually range from $50-150, depending on the company, the type of vehicle and the specific locations.
What documentation do I need to rent a car in Colorado Springs?
You will need a valid driver's license and a major credit card in your name. You don't always need to show proof of your personal car insurance, but some companies might ask for it if you decide not to buy their coverage. International visitors need a valid passport and a driver's license from their home country. You may also need an International Driving Permit if your license is not in English.
Is it easy to find parking around tourist attractions?
Most major attractions have their own parking lots, but they can fill up quickly during the busy summer months and on weekends. For popular places like Garden of the Gods and Manitou Springs, you should arrive early and be prepared to pay for parking in some areas.