Avis Car Rental Introduce
For Pennsylvania residents, commuters, and travelers seeking dependable vehicle rentals right in the heart of Center City, the Avis Car Rental location at 201 N 17th St in Philadelphia stands out as a highly recommended neighborhood choice. Operating as both a full-service Car Rental Agency and a Van Rental Agency, this location provides a convenient alternative to the busy airport counters, proving particularly valuable for those who need a vehicle for local business, weekend trips, or extended stays across the state.
What sets this Avis branch apart is its dedication to exceptional, consistent customer service—a quality frequently highlighted in local user reviews. One long-term customer, returning after a decade, was greeted by the same manager, emphasizing the team's longevity, loyalty, and commitment to personal recognition. This level of consistency ensures renters receive attentive, professional, and familiar service, turning a routine transaction into a positive experience.
Strategically situated within the Philadelphia 201 Hotel (formerly the Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown), this branch offers great accessibility, including features like a Wheelchair accessible entrance and Wheelchair accessible parking lot, ensuring a comfortable experience for all customers. Furthermore, the location is a practical solution for one-way rentals, allowing customers to easily pick up a car downtown and drop it off elsewhere—saving them a trip to Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) or another far-flung suburban branch. A customer review specifically praised this option, noting the staff’s helpfulness in securing a one-way reservation.
The fleet available at this downtown location is extensive, covering everything from economy cars for city navigation to larger Passenger Van Rentals and Full-Size SUVs necessary for family excursions to the Poconos or extended moving projects. This variety, combined with the convenience of a Center City pickup, makes the 201 N 17th St Avis a vital resource for driving in and around Pennsylvania.
Location and Accessibility
The Avis Car Rental office is situated inside the lobby of the Philadelphia 201 Hotel (at the intersection of 17th and Race Streets), providing a sheltered and convenient pickup point right in the central business district of Philadelphia. This prime location is easily reachable by public transportation and major roadways, serving users across the greater Philadelphia metropolitan area.
- Address: 201 N 17th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA
- Hours of Operation (Note: Subject to change, it is always recommended to confirm):
- Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
For driving directions, customers can easily access the location via I-676 from Central Philadelphia. Vehicles are conveniently parked on-site in the hotel's parking garage, and returns are generally handled at the same central location. It is important to note that the location offers a Pick-up Service, which may require a direct call to the branch number listed on your reservation for specific details.
Services Offered
This Avis location provides comprehensive rental services catering to both personal and business travel needs across Pennsylvania and beyond.
- Full-Service Car Rental Agency: Offering a wide spectrum of vehicles from economical compacts and full-size sedans (like the Toyota Camry or similar) to Premium and Luxury models.
- Van Rental Agency Services: Specializing in larger vehicle options, including Minivans (such as the Chrysler Pacifica or similar) and Passenger Vans (like the Ford Transit 12-Passenger Van or similar) for groups or large cargo needs.
- One-Way Rentals: Facilitating travel flexibility by allowing renters to pick up a vehicle at this downtown location and drop it off at another Avis destination across the state or country, saving time and simplifying logistics.
- In-Person Customer Service: Highly-rated, personal service at the rental counter, with professional staff prepared to assist with requests and reservation modifications.
- Free Pick-Up Service: Available to assist customers in getting from a local area to the rental counter, a service that requires calling the location directly.
- Flexible Payment Options: Accepts all major Credit Cards and Debit Cards for booking and payment.
- Accessibility Features: The location is equipped with a Wheelchair accessible entrance and Wheelchair accessible parking lot to accommodate all patrons.
Features / Highlights
The downtown Philadelphia Avis location is distinguished by several key advantages that make it a compelling choice for local users.
- Active Military Discounts: Avis proudly supports U.S. active military, veterans, National Guard, Reservists, and their immediate families, offering substantial savings—up to 35% off PAY NOW rates—through partnerships like WeSalute+ (Veterans Advantage).
- Outstanding Customer Loyalty and Consistency: Exemplified by long-tenured staff and management who provide personalized recognition and reliable service, creating a welcoming return experience for repeat renters.
- Convenient Downtown Pickup: Allows local renters to avoid the traffic and logistical challenges of the airport, providing a fast track to the major roads heading out of the city toward Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, or the New Jersey shore.
- Variety of Vehicle Classes: Ensures customers can find the perfect fit for any trip, from small, fuel-efficient models ideal for city parking to large SUVs and vans for group travel.
- One-Way Rental Availability: Makes complex trips, like moving or traveling interstate, significantly easier by eliminating the need to circle back to the original pickup location.
Contact Information
For reservations, questions about vehicle availability, or to utilize the free local pick-up service, customers can reach the branch directly:
- Physical Address (Inside Philadelphia 201 Hotel): 201 N 17th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA
- Main Phone Number: (215) 814-9078
- Mobile Phone / Alternative Contact: +1 215-814-9078
What is Worth Choosing
Choosing the Avis Car Rental location at 201 N 17th St is the smart choice for Pennsylvania residents who prioritize exceptional customer service and convenience over the often-rushed atmosphere of major airport locations. This downtown branch is particularly worth choosing if:
- You are an Active Military member, veteran, or family member who can take advantage of the significant discounts offered.
- You require a specialized vehicle, such as a large van, that is easier to pick up in a convenient, central city location.
- Your travel plans necessitate a one-way rental, and you want to bypass the airport terminal crowds and fees. The staff here has been specifically commended for their professionalism and assistance with such requests.
- You value loyalty and consistency in service; the long-standing management team and friendly staff create a welcoming, reliable rental experience that will "look after" you and ensure your requests are met professionally.
By offering a complete fleet, a personal touch, military benefits, and a focus on accessibility, this Avis location serves as a premier, local hub for all your travel needs throughout Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic region.
Avis Car Rental Details
Highlights
- Active military discounts
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Avis Car Rental Photos


Avis Car Rental Location
Avis Car Rental
201 N 17th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA
Avis Car Rental Reviews
pickuppricegaragehotelPHLcardfloorcall centerparkingdoor
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1I started renting at this location, almost monthly, in 2010. My needs changed in 2020 and today was the first time I've been back since then. I walked in and the same manager (let's hear it for consistency and longevity!) looked up and said "Hi! I haven't seen you in years, welcome back!" This tells you everything you need to know. They always looked after me, customer service and vehicles. They've got my loyalty. Highly recommend.
September 09 · Marella ConsoliniGreat experience at this local Avis location. Needed a one way rental and the staff was wonderful. I cannot recall the customer service agent's name - began with a "T" but she was very kind, professional and helpful with a few requests I had. Overall a great location with great customer service - saved me the trip out to the airport to pickup a car. Thanks!
May 25 · Albrecht Powell"I love this car rental place! I've been a customer for a long time, and the staff is always helpful and understanding. Their excellent service keeps me coming back. Highly recommend!"
September 12 · Khristina MarshallHard to find from the outside and the signage in the Sheraton is very small in the back. Also made a reservation for pick up at 8am and they still weren’t open even 20 minutes later before we decided to go another route. Another individual waiting before me indicated they had an 8am pick up the prior day and no one showed up until 9am (and commented that the vehicle they picked up had no air in the tires and low gas). Also could not talk to anyone to make sure they arrived, and Sheraton staff were unable to assist in tracking anyone down.
May 22 · Nikki SouthwellPick up went ok. They had the vehicle I’d reserved. Car was dirty but had a full tank. Drop off was another story. No signs telling you to go down the parking garage ramp at the Sheraton. It’s narrow and looks one-way against you going down. I confirmed it was right with the valet. The parking gate did not go up when I pulled close. No signs at the kiosk for car return procedures. Hit the help button and was told to take a ticket. I did and got in. No signs telling you where or how to return a car. I just left it in a space (all unmarked) and went to the office in the lobby. It’s supposed to open at 8am and it was dark and the door locked at 8:15. Another angry customer was waiting. I went outside to check on my ride and the valet indicated that a woman across the driveway smoking was the Avis agent. She came in with no apology and lots of excuses. No apology to the woman who had been waiting. They got into it a bit. When it was my turn she complained about the previous customer. Again no apology. It took forever.TIPS: park on the second floor down. Bring the parking lot ticket and turn it in to Avis.
April 19 · Jane Whittaker
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