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Road Genius makes it easy to find great car rental deals at Lexington Blue Grass Airport (LEX). Compare rates and make reservations in one place. Pick up your ride from on-airport counters for Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz and National and reach downtown Lexington in less than 15 minutes. A rental car gives you the freedom to roam Kentucky horse country, tour nearby bourbon distilleries and tackle drives like Red River Gorge on your own schedule.

Car Rental Locations & Options

Map of campervan rental depots near 537474

LEX Airport offers a streamlined car rental experience:

Location Pros Cons
Blue Grass Airport (LEX)
  • On-site rental facility adjacent to terminal
  • Covered pick-up/drop-off garage
  • All major rental companies available
  • Counters located in baggage claim area
  • Higher rates than off-airport locations
  • Limited selection during peak periods
Downtown Lexington
  • Lower rates possible
  • No airport surcharges
  • Requires transportation from airport
  • More limited hours
  • Smaller vehicle selection

Available Companies: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz and National maintain counters in the baggage claim area.

Car Rental Prices

How much does it cost to rent a car at Lexington Airport?

On average, car rentals at Lexington Airport cost around $76 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $33 per day.

How to save?
  • Compare pickup spots: check LEX airport vs downtown Lexington. Downtown often skips airport surcharges, even after a quick rideshare ride.

  • Avoid surge dates: Keeneland races (April & October) and big UK events inflate prices. Shifting your rental by a day can cut the rate.

  • Test weekly quotes: trips of 5+ days often price lower on a weekly plan than the same days at the daily rate.

  • Grab the free loyalty membership for the brand with the best quote; it can unlock upgrades and faster pick-ups at no cost.

  • Refuel on Versailles Rd before returning to keep the cheaper "full-to-full" option really cheap.

Local Parking and Driving

Airport Parking:

  • Short-term parking: Located in front of the terminal
  • Long-term parking: Long-term lot available
  • Cell phone waiting lot: Available for free short-term waiting when picking up arriving passengers

Local Driving Rules:

  • Right turn on red is permitted after a complete stop, unless signed otherwise
  • University of Kentucky campus area has specific restrictions; watch for permit-only areas
  • Bluegrass Parkway and Mountain Parkway are no longer toll roads because the tolls have been removed
  • Downtown Lexington features some one-way streets; pay attention to signage

Lexington Parking:

  • Downtown garages: Hourly rates and daily maximums
  • Street parking: Metered in most downtown areas
  • University area: Strictly enforced permit areas; avoid leaving your car on campus without proper authorization
Why rent a car in Lexington

Get a car so you can get to:

  • Kentucky Horse Park

  • Bourbon distilleries – Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace

  • Red River Gorge

  • Keeneland Race Course

  • Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

  • Louisville

Driving Distances from Lexington Airport

FAQs

How far is Blue Grass Airport from downtown Lexington?

Blue Grass Airport is about 4 miles (around 6 km) from downtown Lexington. The drive usually takes 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic.

What documents do I need to rent a car at LEX?

You need a valid driver's license from your home country. If your license is not in English, you should also have an International Driving Permit. Rental companies usually require you to be at least 21 years old and have a credit card in your name. They charge an extra fee if you are under 25. Some companies accept debit cards, but they have extra rules.

What type of vehicle is best for exploring the Lexington area?

A compact or midsize car is a good choice for driving in the city and on scenic country roads. If you visit during the winter or plan to explore rougher areas like Red River Gorge, consider an SUV because it's higher off the ground. Families and groups will be more comfortable in a midsize SUV or minivan when they tour horse farms and distilleries.

Are there any toll roads around Lexington?

No, there are no toll roads around Lexington. The Bluegrass Parkway and Mountain Parkway used to charge tolls, but those roads are now free.

What are the must-visit attractions within easy driving distance of LEX Airport?

Here are some places you can drive to in about 30 minutes: Kentucky Horse Park, Keeneland Race Course, University of Kentucky campus, Woodford Reserve Distillery and historic downtown Lexington.
And here are some that are about an hour away: Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Red River Gorge, Fort Boonesborough State Park and Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill.