Kansas City is a lively city with a wide variety of exciting events. Whether you’re attending a Kansas City Chiefs football game, catching a concert at the T-Mobile Center, or enjoying a weekend festival, renting a car is one of the best ways to get around. In this guide, we’ll help you choose the right rental car, understand rental prices, and give you tips on how to make your experience seamless. Read on to learn how to make the most of your car rental during your Kansas City trip.
Choosing the Right Rental Car for Kansas City Events
When it comes to renting a car for a sporting event or concert in Kansas City, picking the right vehicle is crucial. The car you choose can affect your comfort, convenience, and overall experience. Below, we’ve broken down popular car types, their rental prices, and the types of events they are best suited for.
Car Types and Rental Prices for Kansas City Events
Detailed Breakdown of Car Types for Kansas City Events
1. Sedans (Toyota Camry, Honda Accord)
Best for: Individuals, Couples, Small Groups
Sedans like the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord are ideal if you’re traveling alone or with one other person. These cars offer excellent fuel efficiency and comfortable seating, making them great for attending a Kansas City Chiefs game or a concert at the T-Mobile Center.
- Rental Cost: Sedans typically range from $40–$70 per day or $5–$10 per hour for a short rental.
- Why Choose a Sedan: If you’re on a budget and don’t need a lot of space, a sedan is a practical and affordable option.
2. Compact SUVs (Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Escape)
Best for: Small Families, Small Groups, Longer Events
Compact SUVs like the Chevrolet Equinox or Ford Escape offer more space than a sedan, making them a great choice for a small family or group. These vehicles are perfect for attending events like a Kansas City Royals game or a family-friendly concert.
- Rental Cost: Expect to pay $60–$100 per day or around $10–$15 per hour.
- Why Choose a Compact SUV: They provide more passenger space and cargo room without being too large or difficult to drive around the city.
3. Full-Size SUVs (Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition)
Best for: Larger Groups, Tailgating, Long Trips
Full-size SUVs such as the Chevrolet Tahoe or Ford Expedition are perfect for larger groups. These vehicles offer spacious seating for 7-8 passengers and plenty of room for cargo, making them great for tailgating at Arrowhead Stadium or heading to a concert with a group of friends.
- Rental Cost: Full-size SUVs typically rent for $90–$150 per day or $15–$20 per hour.
- Why Choose a Full-Size SUV: If you’re traveling with a large group or need extra space, this is the way to go. Plus, they’re perfect for long drives and multiple stops.
4. Luxury Sedans (BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class)
Best for: VIP Events, Special Occasions
For a more luxurious experience, luxury sedans like the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class are an excellent choice. These cars combine sleek designs with high-end comfort and advanced technology, making them perfect for attending a VIP concert or special event.
- Rental Cost: These vehicles usually cost between $150–$250 per day or $20–$30 per hour.
- Why Choose a Luxury Sedan: If you want a classy, comfortable ride to a high-profile event, a luxury sedan adds elegance and style.
5. Luxury SUVs (Range Rover, Cadillac Escalade)
Best for: High-End Events, Spacious Comfort
Luxury SUVs like the Range Rover or Cadillac Escalade offer the best of both worlds—space and luxury. These vehicles are perfect for those who need plenty of room while enjoying top-tier comfort and performance.
- Rental Cost: Expect to pay $200–$350 per day or $30–$40 per hour for a luxury SUV.
- Why Choose a Luxury SUV: For those seeking a luxurious experience with ample room for family or friends, these SUVs deliver both comfort and style.
6. Minivans (Chrysler Pacifica, Toyota Sienna)
Best for: Family Outings, Group Events
If you’re traveling with a larger family or group, a minivan like the Chrysler Pacifica or Toyota Sienna offers a lot of space and comfort. These vehicles have 7-8 seats and ample cargo room, making them a perfect choice for attending a Kansas City Royals game or family-friendly concert.
- Rental Cost: Minivans typically cost between $80–$130 per day or $15–$20 per hour.
- Why Choose a Minivan: When you need extra room for passengers and gear, minivans provide the perfect combination of comfort and functionality.
7. Convertibles (Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro)
Best for: Summer Events, Outdoor Festivals
Convertibles like the Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro are perfect for those attending outdoor events or concerts during Kansas City’s warm summer months. The open roof provides an exciting driving experience as you cruise around the city.
- Rental Cost: Convertibles range from $80–$150 per day or $15–$25 per hour.
- Why Choose a Convertible: If you love open-air driving and want to experience Kansas City’s beautiful weather, renting a convertible adds extra fun to your trip.
8. Electric Vehicles (Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf)
Best for: Eco-Friendly Events, Tech-Savvy Travelers
Electric vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 or Nissan Leaf are ideal for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint while still enjoying a great driving experience. These vehicles offer smooth rides, modern features, and are perfect for those attending eco-conscious events or simply enjoying Kansas City’s progressive vibe.
- Rental Cost: Electric vehicles are usually priced between $90–$180 per day or $15–$25 per hour.
- Why Choose an Electric Vehicle: If you’re eco-conscious or looking to try out new technology, electric cars offer a sustainable and exciting ride.
Booking Your Rental Car in Advance
For popular events like a Kansas City Chiefs game or a concert at the Sprint Center, car rentals can quickly become unavailable or more expensive. Here’s how you can ensure you get the car you need:
When to Book for Big Events
Kansas City is home to many large events throughout the year. To get the best rates and availability, try to book your rental at least 2-3 weeks in advance. This is especially important for high-demand times, like during football or concert seasons.
How to Find Deals During Peak Season
Rental prices can be higher during peak events, but there are ways to save. Use online comparison sites, and keep an eye out for special deals, discounts, or loyalty program offers. Booking early and looking for deals can help you get the best price.
Navigating Traffic and Parking in Kansas City
Kansas City can experience heavy traffic, especially around major venues like Arrowhead Stadium or the T-Mobile Center. Here are some tips to help you get around:
Avoiding Traffic Around Event Venues
To avoid getting stuck in traffic, plan to arrive at least 1-2 hours early for major events. This will give you time to find parking and get to your venue without stress.
Best Parking Locations for Event Venues
Look for nearby parking lots or garages that are within walking distance of the venue. You can also use apps like ParkMobile or SpotHero to reserve a spot ahead of time. This can save you time and help you avoid expensive last-minute parking.
Most Commonly Asked Questions About Renting a Car in Kansas City for Events
1. Do I need to rent a car for events in Kansas City?
If you’re traveling to Kansas City for a major sporting event or concert, renting a car is often the best option. It gives you flexibility and makes it easier to get to your event, especially if public transportation is limited.
2. Can I rent a car for just a few hours?
Yes, many rental services offer hourly rentals. This can be a great option if you’re only going to an event for a few hours and don’t need a car for the entire day.
3. How early should I book my rental car for big events?
It’s best to book your rental car at least 2-3 weeks before big events. This helps ensure availability and can also help you secure a better price.
4. Can I park my rental car near the event venue?
Yes, most event venues in Kansas City have parking available. However, these spots can fill up quickly, so consider arriving early or reserving a parking spot ahead of time through parking apps like ParkMobile.
Conclusion
Renting a car for a Kansas City sporting event or concert offers comfort, flexibility, and convenience. By choosing the right vehicle, booking in advance, and following some simple traffic and parking tips, you can enjoy your time at events without any hassles. Whether you’re attending a Kansas City Chiefs game, a Royals baseball match, or a concert, having the right rental car will help make your trip more enjoyable. Happy travels!