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Hertz car hire in Minnesota

Minnesota is the kind of state that feels easy to explore when you have the freedom to drive.

Minneapolis brings the city energy, St. Paul adds a more historic, laid-back feel, and Duluth gives you that Lake Superior scenery that feels like a real change of pace.

Each place has its own vibe, and the best experiences often sit a little outside the city center.

That’s why Hertz car hire in Minnesota can make the whole trip more enjoyable.

You can set your own schedule, fit in quick detours, and plan day trips without relying on fixed routes. Hertz helps keep car rental in Minnesota simple, with convenient pick-up options and a wide range of vehicles, from sedans for city driving to SUVs and larger models when you need more space.

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Everything you need to know about hiring a car in Minnesota

Parking in Minnesota

  • U.S. Bank Plaza is a handy option in downtown Minneapolis, right by Government Plaza and a short walk from Minneapolis City Hall. It’s an underground garage with about 550 spots, so it’s a good pick when you want a more reliable place to park in the city center.
  • Gateway Ramp is a reliable downtown Minneapolis option, especially if you want a big garage where finding a spot feels less stressful. It has around 1,386 spaces and sits close to key downtown buildings, so it works well for office visits, appointments, or a quick city stop. If you’re driving an EV, this garage is a strong pick since it offers electric car charging.
  • 425 Park Avenue is a convenient pick if you’re heading to the US Bank Stadium area in downtown Minneapolis. It’s an underground garage with around 452 spots, and it’s open 24/7 (Mon–Sun, all day), which makes it easy for early arrivals or late finishes.

Electric Car Hire

Minnesota is a great place to go electric, because a lot of trips naturally mix city driving with longer, scenic stretches. An EV feels quiet and easy around Minneapolis and St. Paul, and it stays smooth on the highway when you head out toward Duluth, the North Shore, or lake country for the day.

If you’re planning a longer drive, just build in a couple of charging stops along your route. It keeps the day moving and gives you a quick break without turning the trip into a big plan.

With Hertz, electric car hire in Minnesota is simple. Pick an EV that fits your route, choose a convenient pickup location, and enjoy a more eco-conscious drive.

Charging Points

Minnesota currently has about 2,900 public EV charging ports statewide, and the network keeps growing as more drivers switch to electric.

That extra coverage makes it much easier to plan charging stops while you travel, whether you’re driving around Minneapolis and St. Paul for the day or heading out on longer routes toward Duluth and the North Shore, lake towns, or weekend getaways.

Congestion Charges

Minnesota does not have a congestion charge zone where you pay a fee just to drive into downtown Minneapolis or St. Paul. What you may see instead is optional tolling on MnPASS express lanes in parts of the Twin Cities.

If you choose those faster lanes as a solo driver, the price can change based on traffic. If you stay in the regular lanes, you don’t pay that toll.

Key Roads

  • I-94 (East–West backbone): This is the main route that links Minneapolis–St. Paul with St. Cloud and Fargo to the west, and heads east toward Wisconsin. It’s the go-to highway for airport-to-city drives and longer cross-state trips.
  • I-35 (North–South route through the Twin Cities): I-35 runs from southern Minnesota up through the Twin Cities and continues north toward Duluth. Around Minneapolis–St. Paul it splits into I-35W and I-35E, which helps you reach different parts of the metro depending on where you’re staying.
  • MN-61 (Scenic North Shore drive): If you’re doing the classic Minnesota road trip, MN-61 is the one. It runs along Lake Superior from the Duluth area up the North Shore, with easy access to viewpoints, small towns, and parks along the way.

Toll Roads

  • I-394 E-ZPass Express Lanes (Wayzata → Minneapolis): A popular option if you’re heading toward downtown Minneapolis and want to skip heavy traffic.
  • I-35W E-ZPass Express Lanes (Burnsville → Minneapolis): Useful for commuting into the city from the south metro. Tolls apply for solo drivers during certain hours.
  • I-35E E-ZPass Express Lanes (St. Paul → White Bear Lake): A helpful north–south route through the St. Paul side of the metro, with tolling for solo drivers during posted operating times.

Driving Tips: When you are in Minnesota

Driving in Minnesota is usually pretty smooth, but a few local rules and weather habits make a big difference, especially around the Twin Cities and in winter.

  • Follow posted speed limits (they change often). Minnesota’s standard limits can range from 30 mph on city streets to 70 mph on rural interstates, unless signs say otherwise.
  • Go hands-free with your phone. In Minnesota, you can’t hold your phone while driving. Use voice commands or a hands-free setup instead.
  • Turn on your headlights in snow or sleet. This is a simple one, but important for visibility and staying legal in winter conditions.
  • Move over for flashing lights (and slow down). If you see emergency or service vehicles stopped with lights on, move over a lane when it’s safe and reduce speed.
  • Skip cruise control on icy or snowy roads. Minnesota safety guidance recommends avoiding cruise control in slippery conditions so you keep better control if traction drops.

A Quick Guide to Minnesota

Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis

245 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis

If you want a modern, high-comfort stay right in the middle of downtown, this is a strong pick. You’re close to major venues and the river, and the hotel has a dedicated wellness focus with indoor and outdoor pools plus a full spa.

The Saint Paul Hotel

350 Market St, St Paul

This one is for you if you like a more classic, historic hotel feel. It’s a landmark property in downtown St. Paul with an elegant, old-world vibe, but it still feels comfortable and current for a city stay.

Pier B Resort

800 W Railroad St, Duluth

This is a great stay when you want a lake-escape without giving up convenience. It sits right on the Duluth harbor with views toward Lake Superior, and you’re just a few minutes from Canal Park, so it’s easy to mix relaxing time with sightseeing.

Owamni by The Sioux Chef

420 S 1st St, Minneapolis

If you want a meal that feels truly “Minnesota,” this is a great pick. The menu is centered on Indigenous ingredients and it’s been nationally recognized, including winning the James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant.

Myriel

470 Cleveland Ave S, St Paul

This is an easy choice for a special dinner in St. Paul. It’s thoughtful, seasonal, and very polished without feeling stiff. The chef, Karyn Tomlinson, won the 2025 James Beard Award for Best Chef: Midwest, which tells you the level you can expect.

Lake Avenue

394 S Lake Ave, Duluth

Perfect if you’re up by Lake Superior and want something local and relaxed. The restaurant focuses on locavore-style cooking with dishes prepped using locally-sourced ingredients for the freshest taste and quality.

Voyageurs National Park

Near International Falls

This is Minnesota’s “water world” national park. Think big lakes, forest shoreline, and quiet views that feel miles away from city life. It’s great if you want a day that’s mostly nature, with short trails and plenty of scenic stops.

Split Rock Lighthouse

North Shore, Lake Superior

One of the most iconic landmarks in the state. You drive up along the lake, stop for the views, and explore the lighthouse and visitor areas. It’s an easy, memorable stop that feels very Minnesota.

Mall of America

Bloomington

If you want something easy and all-in-one, this is the go-to. It’s not just shopping, it’s also packed with entertainment and attractions, so it works well for a half-day plan or a weather-proof day.

FAQs about car hire

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EV Car Hire

Rent an electric car in Minnesota

Looking for a greener way to explore Minnesota? Hertz offers electric car hire at Minnesota, making sustainable travel easy and convenient. Choose from the latest EV models and enjoy a smooth, quiet, eco-friendly drive with zero emissions. Experience the future of driving.

Plan your road trip now!