Choosing a Philadelphia rental car that's right for you

Aside from being the nation's first capital, and arguably one of the most important historic cities in the United States, Philadelphia is also a fantastic place to explore in a rental car! Whether you are looking for an educational adventure, or simply trying to find the best cheese steak in the country, Philadelphia has something for everyone. Most Philadelphia adventures begin at the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), where you can choose from more than seven rental car companies. From luxury SUVs to compact hybrids, you are guaranteed to find a rental car that fits your vacation needs and budget.

Exploring Downtown Philadelphia in a Rental Car

From the airport, you are a 15-minute drive in your rental car from downtown Philadelphia. The heart of Philadelphia, commonly known as "Center City," is a cultural hub overflowing with museums, restaurants, and parks. On a nice day, park your rental car in one of the many reasonably priced lots, and enjoy a picnic in JFK Plaza, commonly known as "Love Park" named after Robert Indian's sculptural centerpiece. Not many people know that Philadelphia is actually home to 63 parks spanning a total of 9,200 acres which makes up roughly 10% of the entire city. Drive your rental car to any one of these parks and enjoy the rare pleasure of taking in the sights of a big city while sitting under a tree! If you visit in the winter, do not despair as there are just as many adventures to be had indoors!

Travel back to the 1700s in a rental car

Let your rental car take you back to the 1700s. Close to City Center, and a mere 15- to 20-minute drive in your rental car from the airport, is Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were both signed. Although the Liberty Bell used to sit high atop Independence Hall, it is now on display across the street at the Liberty Bell Center. If you are looking for additional indoor adventures, the Franklin Institute, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art are a 5- to 10-minute drive away via rental car.

Philadelphia rental car day trips

If exploring urban Philadelphia in your rental car for a few days leaves you craving a simpler time, you are in luck! Lancaster County, a mere hour outside of Philadelphia via rental car, is Amish Country. The Amish people are known for living a simple, peaceful life, and welcome you to experience their culture. From horse drawn carriage rides, and tours of covered bridges to farmers markets and quilt shops, Amish Country provides a stark contrast from the hustle and bustle of downtown Philadelphia.

Returning your Philadelphia rental car

No matter where in Philadelphia your rental car takes you, make sure to return it early --and with a full tank of gas. If you do not return your rental car with a full tank of gas, many car rental companies will charge you more than pump price. To avoid surprises, and to ensure a smooth ride through your Philadelphia vacation, familiarize yourself with your rental car companies' policies prior to picking up your rental car.

Philadelphia Rental Car Locations

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Finding a car rental location has never been easier. Pick any destination in the United States, Europe or the rest of the world, and RentalCars.net can help you pinpoint a pick-up location that's most convenient for you: airport, city or suburbs. Fill in your desired pick-up and drop-off locations in the search fields on the right, or browse airport rental car locations, international rental car locations or city rental car locations. On our locations page you'll find Airport Rental Car locations, International Rental Car locations and City Rental Car locations like below.

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