
Yes, you can rent a car at or very near the St. Paul Union Depot. The most convenient option is the Enterprise Rent-A-Car location situated inside the depot's main concourse. For a wider selection of companies like Hertz, Avis, or Budget, you'll find multiple rental offices within a short driving distance, primarily at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), which is about a 15-minute drive away. Rideshare services or a quick taxi from the depot can easily get you to these off-site locations.
The in-house Enterprise location offers significant convenience, especially if you're arriving by train (Amtrak) or bus. However, its hours might be more limited than the 24/7 airport counters. It's highly recommended to reserve your vehicle in advance online or by , as on-site availability can be unpredictable. Comparing prices and vehicle options between the depot's Enterprise and the airport agencies is a smart way to ensure you get the best deal for your trip.
Here is a comparison of the primary rental options:
| Rental Company | Location / Proximity to Union Depot | Travel Time from Depot | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enterprise | Inside the main concourse | 0 minutes (on-site) | Ultimate convenience; no transfer needed |
| Hertz | Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport (MSP) | ~15 minutes by car | Wide vehicle selection; often 24-hour service |
| Avis | Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport (MSP) | ~15 minutes by car | Competitive pricing; frequent loyalty rewards |
| Budget | Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport (MSP) | ~15 minutes by car | Good for budget-conscious travelers |
| National | Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport (MSP) | ~15 minutes by car | Focus on business travelers; Emerald Aisle |

Absolutely. Your easiest bet is the Enterprise desk right inside the train station. Just off your Amtrak train and you can pick up your car. If they don't have what you need, remember that the Minneapolis airport is super close. An Uber or Lyft from the depot to the airport rental car center takes less than 20 minutes and opens up all the big-name companies. Always book ahead to avoid disappointment.

As someone who uses the depot often, I always tell people to check Enterprise first because it's just steps from the platform. But if you're looking for a specific type of vehicle or a better weekend rate, the airport is the way to go. A quick rideshare trip is a small price to pay for more choices. The key is to compare prices online for both locations before you commit. The on-site option is great, but it's not your only one.

For visitors, the St. Paul Union Depot is a great starting point. You can definitely get a rental car there. The in-station Enterprise is perfect for hitting the ground running. However, if you're flying out of MSP later, it might be smarter to rent from the airport directly and take the light rail to the depot for your St. Paul exploration. It saves you from dealing with two rental car transactions. Plan your itinerary backwards to see what makes the most logistical sense.

Yes, the option exists directly at the Union Depot with Enterprise. The more important consideration is your overall travel plan. The depot is a multi-modal hub, so think about how a car fits into your journey. If you're only spending time in downtown St. Paul, you might not even need one. But if you're exploring the Twin Cities or heading up north, the convenience of picking up a car right where you get off the train is a major advantage. Weigh the necessity against the cost and parking logistics.


