Car Hire Spokane Airport — Your Gateway to the Inland Northwest
Landing at Spokane International Airport (GEG) puts you right on the doorstep of some of the most stunning landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. While the city itself has plenty to offer, the real magic of this region lies just beyond the city limits—from the rolling hills of the Palouse to the sparkling waters of Lake Coeur d’Alene. Renting a car here isn’t just a convenience; it’s the difference between being stuck on a rigid schedule and having the freedom to explore the ‘Inland Empire’ at your own pace. Public transit in Spokane is decent for getting around downtown, but if you want to chase waterfalls, hit the ski slopes, or cross the border into Idaho, you are going to need your own set of wheels.
Spokane is often overshadowed by Seattle, but locals know it offers a much more relaxed, accessible version of Washington life. It’s a city where you can walk through Riverfront Park in the morning and be driving through a national forest by lunchtime. Hiring a car directly from the airport saves you the hassle of expensive taxi rides or waiting for ride-shares during peak travel times. Whether you are in town for business, visiting Gonzaga University, or planning a scenic road trip, picking up your vehicle right when you land gets your trip started on the right foot.
Picking Up Your Rental Car in Spokane Airport
Spokane International Airport is refreshingly easy to navigate compared to major metropolitan hubs, which makes picking up your rental car a breeze. The Rental Car facility is conveniently located just across the street from the main terminal. Once you exit the baggage claim area, simply follow the signs for Ground Transportation and cross the skybridge. You’ll find the counters for all major rental agencies—including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National—located on the ground floor of the parking garage. Because everything is consolidated in one spot, you won’t need to take a shuttle bus to a remote lot, which is a huge plus when you are traveling with luggage or kids.
Before you arrive, make sure you have your valid driver’s license, a credit card in the driver’s name, and your booking confirmation email handy. If you booked through a third-party site, it’s always a good idea to have the reservation number ready. One thing to keep in mind for Washington State: if you are visiting from outside the US, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended alongside your home country license, though some agencies will accept a foreign license alone. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Also, check your fuel policy—most rentals in Spokane operate on a ‘full-to-full’ basis, so you’ll want to fill up before you return the car. There are several gas stations just a few minutes from the airport exit on Highway 2.
Where to Go with Your Rental Car in Spokane Airport
Once you have the keys, the hardest part is deciding which direction to head first. A short 15-minute drive will get you to Riverfront Park, the site of the 1974 World’s Fair. It’s a great place to stretch your legs after a flight, featuring the iconic Spokane Falls and the historic Looff Carrousel. If you have a larger SUV or a vehicle with good traction, drive about 40 minutes northeast to Mount Spokane State Park. In the winter, it’s a prime spot for skiing and snowboarding; in the summer, the drive up to the summit offers incredible views of the valley below.
For a classic Pacific Northwest road trip, take I-90 east for about 30 minutes to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. The drive itself is scenic, winding through pine forests and along the lakefront. Once there, you can park and walk the famous floating boardwalk or enjoy a meal by the water. If you are looking for something truly unique, drive south on US-195 toward the Palouse Scenic Byway. This region looks like something out of a painting, with endless, rolling green hills that are perfect for photography, especially during the golden hour. Finally, history buffs should take the hour-long drive west to Grand Coulee Dam, one of the largest concrete structures in the world—it’s a massive sight that really puts the scale of Washington’s engineering into perspective.
Tips for Driving in Washington
Driving in Washington is generally a relaxed experience, but there are a few rules to keep in mind. Speed limits on interstate highways like I-90 are typically 70 mph (110 km/h) outside of urban areas, but they drop quickly as you approach cities, so keep an eye on signage. Washington has a ‘Move Over’ law, meaning you must change lanes or slow down when passing emergency vehicles or tow trucks stopped on the roadside. Unlike some other states, Washington does not have a massive network of toll roads, so you likely won’t need to worry about electronic toll passes unless you drive all the way west to the Seattle area. However, be aware that many mountain passes, including Snoqualmie Pass if you drive west, require vehicles to carry tire chains during winter conditions—check your rental agreement to see if chains are provided or allowed.
Regarding fuel, you’ll find gas prices in Washington can be a bit higher than the national average, so factor that into your budget. It’s also worth noting that Washington law requires headlights to be on whenever your windshield wipers are in use, which happens often during the rainy season. As for the driving side, you’ll be driving on the right-hand side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers, and the blood alcohol limit is strict at 0.08% for standard drivers. Just drive defensively, watch for wildlife on rural roads—especially deer at dusk—and you’ll have a safe and memorable trip.
Ready to hit the road? Use our search widget above to compare prices from all the top suppliers at Spokane Airport and lock in your rental car today.