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Compare car rentals from leading providers in Fresno, California with Road Genius. From compact cars to premium SUVs and minivans, you'll find vehicles at great prices in convenient locations. Pick up at Fresno Yosemite International Airport, downtown or River Park and hop on Highway 41 to Yosemite or Highway 180 to Kings Canyon within minutes.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
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| Fresno Yosemite Airport (FAT) |
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| Downtown Fresno |
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| North Fresno/River Park |
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Additional Notes: Fresno is served by Amtrak and bus lines, and rental locations are often available near these transportation hubs. Most major rental companies like Enterprise, Hertz and Avis have multiple locations throughout the city. Some agencies offer pickup service from hotels or transportation centers if arranged in advance.
On average, car rentals in Fresno cost around $95 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $26 per day.
Compare pick-up spots: Downtown or River Park locations avoid the ~11% airport surcharge. A $15 rideshare from FAT can still leave you ahead.
Summer park rush? Book then re-check: Reserve a cancelable rate a few weeks out for May–Sep, then monitor prices—extra fleet arrivals in Fresno often push rates down.
Leverage weekly pricing: In Fresno a 7-day booking can be 15-25% cheaper than five separate days, even if you return the car early.
Choose the smallest car that fits: Compacts handle Hwy 41 to Yosemite and save $15-20 per day versus SUVs.
Show your discounts: AAA, AARP, Fresno State or ag-industry IDs often unlock local rate cuts that stack with online promo codes.
Refuel in town: Top off at stations along Hwy 99 or 41 instead of airport pumps and skip the prepaid fuel add-on.
Where to Park:
Local Driving Rules:
Get a car rental so you can visit:
Yosemite National Park – cliffs, waterfalls
Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks – sequoias, canyon
Sierra National Forest – lakes, trails
Blossom Trail (seasonal) – orchards, blossoms
Paso Robles Wine Country – wineries, vineyards
Old Town Clovis – shops, dining
What type of vehicle is best for visiting the national parks from Fresno?
A standard sedan will work for most of the year. If you plan to visit in winter (late October to April), an SUV that sits higher off the ground is a good idea. Be aware that you may need to use tire chains during winter storms. Many rental companies don't allow you to use chains or will hold you responsible for any damage they cause.
How does Tule fog affect driving in Fresno?
Tule fog is common in the winter (December to February), especially in the early mornings. This thick ground fog can make it very hard to see. If you can, wait to drive until mid-morning when the fog usually clears. You should also use your low-beam headlights and drive slower.
What's the best time to visit Yosemite from Fresno?
You'll find the best driving conditions from late spring through fall. Summer (June-August) is the busiest time and all park areas are usually open, but you will need to plan ahead. May and September have good weather and fewer crowds. If you visit in winter, you need to plan carefully because roads can close or you might need chains.
Are there any toll roads around Fresno?
No, you won't find any toll roads in the Fresno area or on the routes to the national parks. If you drive to the Bay Area, you may have to pay tolls on bridges as you get to San Francisco or Oakland.
Do I need a parking permit for downtown Fresno?
Downtown Fresno has street parking that you pay for at meters as well as public garages. You usually need to pay for street parking from Monday to Friday during business hours. You can also find several public garages that charge hourly and daily rates. If you're staying for a longer time, you should ask your hotel about its parking.
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