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| Location Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Stratford City (Lordship Blvd) | • Lower rates (no airport fees) • Convenient to local businesses • Less waiting time |
• Limited hours (often 8AM-6PM) • Smaller vehicle selection • May be closed on Sundays |
| Sikorsky Memorial Airport | • Convenient for private aviation • On-site pickup • Less crowded than major airports |
• Limited commercial flights • Fewer rental providers • Limited hours of operation |
| Nearby HVN/Bridgeport | • More vehicle options • Multiple providers for comparison • Extended hours at some locations |
• Transportation needed to reach rental location • Potential airport fees at HVN • Distance from Stratford (15-20 min) |
Transportation to Rental Depots: Local taxis and rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) are readily available in Stratford. Some rental companies offer complimentary pickup from local hotels, the train station or Sikorsky Airport for customers who have reservations.
On average, car rentals in Stratford (CT) cost around $89 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $43 per day.
Compare city vs airport pickup: Stratford city depots usually run about 18 % cheaper than HVN or Sikorsky Airport because there are no airport surcharges. Factor in a quick $15 Uber ride from the terminal and you're still ahead.
Lock early for summer, watch-and-rebook in winter: June-August and holiday weekends sell out fast, so grab a car 2-3 weeks out. January-March is quiet, so book a flexible rate and keep checking—if prices dip, rebook and cancel the old reservation for free.
Check both Stratford and Bridgeport in the search: It's a 15-minute drive between the towns but rates and vehicle stock can differ a lot day-to-day. A wider radius = more chances to snag a deal.
Aim for a weekly rate on 5-7-day trips: A "pay-for-6-get-7" weekly price often beats six separate daily charges. Do the math before you click.
Where to Park:
Local Driving Rules:
Helpful Tips: During summer months, beach spots can be restricted to residents or require day passes. The Stratford train station garage offers convenient access to downtown and is rarely full on weekends.

What's the best way to travel from Stratford to New York City?
For a day trip, many people drive to the Stratford train station and take the Metro-North train. The ride to Grand Central takes about 95–110 minutes. If you want more freedom in NYC, you can also drive the whole way, which takes 1.5–2 hours depending on traffic. Just know that parking in Manhattan costs a lot.
Is it better to rent a car in Stratford or at an airport?
You can usually save about 18% if you rent a car in Stratford instead of at the airport. But if you're flying in, getting your car right at the airport might be more convenient and worth the extra money.
Can I take the ferry to Long Island with a rental car?
Yes, the Bridgeport-Port Jefferson Ferry lets you bring rental cars on board. You should check your rental agreement for any rules and book a spot for your car ahead of time. Space can fill up fast, especially in the summer.
What type of car is best for visiting Stratford and the surrounding area?
Most people find that a compact or mid-size car is all they need. If you visit in the winter (December–March), you might want a car that has all-wheel drive in case it snows.
Where are the best places to visit by car from Stratford?
From Stratford, you can easily drive to popular spots like Yale University in New Haven (25 minutes), Mystic Seaport and Aquarium (1 hour), the scenic Litchfield Hills region (1 hour) and many beaches along Connecticut's coast (5–30 minutes).