We highly recommend renting a vehicle during the Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase. Having your own transportation provides unmatched flexibility, saves valuable time, and most importantly, offers a secure way to transport heavy minerals and bulk purchases between venues.
On this page, you will find comprehensive information on where to rent a car, our recommended rental agencies, a transportation comparison, and a step-by-step guide to picking up your vehicle at the airport.
Why Rent a Car?
The Tucson Gem Show is not confined to a single convention center; it is a city-wide event spanning over 50 different venues.
While the organizers provide the GemRide shuttle bus system, it does not cover every location. Furthermore, shuttles can experience significant delays due to heavy traffic and high passenger volume, which can be stressful when you are on a tight buying schedule.
With a rental car, you have the freedom to travel anywhere, at any time. It also serves as a crucial temporary storage space for your luggage and heavy stone purchases, making it the most efficient and practical transportation choice for serious buyers.
Where Can I Rent a Car?
You can rent a vehicle at the airport or at various neighborhood locations throughout the city.
The most convenient pickup location is Tucson International Airport (TUS), which houses major car rental companies including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, and National directly on-site.
Are There Parking Lots Near the Shows?
Yes, there are designated parking lots at or near almost every venue.
While many suburban shows offer free parking, premium venues closer to the downtown district—such as the 22nd Street Show, Pueblo Gem & Mineral Show, and the Main Show (TGMS)—charge daily parking fees.
Parking fees generally range from $5 to $15 per day. Please be aware that many lots operate on a Cash Only basis, so ensure you have small bills on hand.
Read more: Tucson Gem Show Shuttle and Parking Information
Rental Car vs. Uber vs. Shuttle Bus
What is truly the best way to move around the showcase? We compared the three primary methods of transportation based on the needs of professional buyers.
| Feature | Rental Car | Uber / Lyft | Shuttle Bus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Moderate to High | High (Surge Pricing) | Free |
| Flexibility | Excellent | Fair | Poor |
| Time Efficiency | Excellent | Poor (Long wait times) | Poor |
| Availability | Excellent (If booked early) | Moderate | Moderate |
| Storage Capacity | Excellent (Trunk space) | Poor (Must carry items) | None |
Recommended Car Rental Companies in Tucson
Due to the massive influx of visitors, rental cars sell out rapidly. We strongly advise booking your vehicle months in advance. Below are our recommended agencies.
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Reservations: 1-800-736-8222
Local: 1-844-370-9821
Hours: 5:00 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. daily
Enterprise has over 7 neighborhood offices throughout Tucson, often offering more competitive pricing than airport locations. They also feature a reliable loyalty program called “Enterprise Plus,” making it a great option if you wish to earn points for future travel.
Dollar Car Rental
Reservations: 1-800-800-4000
Local: (520) 434-3420
Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 12:00 midnight daily
Dollar is known for being a budget-friendly option. If you are a AAA member, you can often secure additional discounts. Please note that their primary location is at the Tucson International Airport.
Budget Car Rental
Reservations: 1-800-527-0700
Local: (520) 573-2025
Hours: 6:30 a.m. – 12:00 midnight daily
Budget is a highly reliable choice that frequently offers special discounts directly through their official website. We highly recommend checking their current promotions before finalizing your booking.
Photo Guide: How to Pick Up Your Rental Car at Tucson Airport (TUS)
Navigating an unfamiliar airport can be confusing. Follow this visual guide to reach the rental car center directly from the baggage claim at Tucson International Airport.
Step 1: After arriving on the 2nd floor, head down to the ground floor to the Baggage Claim area.
Step 2: Look for the overhead directional signs pointing toward “Rental Cars.”
Step 3: Follow the signs directing you down the main corridor.
Step 4: Keep walking straight along the designated path.
Step 5: Continue straight past the seating areas.
Step 6: Pass under the large “Welcome to Tucson” sign.
Step 7: You will reach the terminal exit. This is approximately a 3 to 5-minute walk from the baggage claim carousels.
Step 8: Step outside and continue straight across the crosswalk.
Step 9: Enter the dedicated Car Rental Center building.
Step 10: Locate your specific rental agency’s counter to complete your paperwork and obtain your keys.
Step 11: Proceed to the vehicle pickup area located just outside the office counters.
How to Exit the Airport in Your Rental Car
Once you have your vehicle, follow these simple directions to exit the airport property and head toward the city center.
Step 1: Drive out of the vehicle pickup garage.
Step 2: Follow the flow of traffic on the one-way exit road.
Step 3: Continue straight, obeying the speed limits.
Step 4: Turn left at the first STOP sign, and then make another left at the subsequent STOP sign.
Step 5: You are now on South Tucson Blvd (a one-way street heading north).
Step 6: Continue straight on South Tucson Blvd. This road will lead you directly toward I-10 and the center of the city.
Pro Tip: We highly recommend entering your destination into your smartphone’s GPS before driving away from the rental facility.
Read more: Directions to Tucson Venues