Quick Summary
- Downtown returns are often allowed, but count as one‑ways.
- After‑hours drop boxes are not universal; check the exact branch hours.
- LAX returns are 24/7 and smoother for late flights.
Yes—many downtown branches near Union Station accept returns, but it’s usually priced as a one‑way. If your flight leaves late or your hotel sits near the airport, anchoring your search on car hire at LAX keeps things simple and fully 24/7.
How to plan a downtown hand‑off
Search Los Angeles and pick a branch labelled “Downtown” with hours that match your train. Expect one‑way fees to appear on some quotes. If you decide that late‑night certainty matters more, airport counters such as Avis at LAX, Enterprise at LAX and Alamo at LAX offer clear signage and frequent shuttles.
Know the route: budget 45–60 minutes from Union Station to the airport at peak times. Use US‑101 south to I‑10 or the 105 depending on your terminal. Photograph the fuel gauge and exterior at the garage, fold mirrors for tight ramps and remove all belongings from the boot before handing over keys.
Where to park near the station
If you’re meeting a train, short‑stay lots near Olvera Street fill quickly at weekends. Instead of kerbside juggling, drop passengers, loop to a signed garage and walk back. Downtown kerbs can be narrow; take ramps slowly and avoid blocking bus lanes when unloading.
After‑hours realities
Some downtown branches provide key drops, others don’t—always check the confirmation. Airport returns avoid that uncertainty. If you’re new to the facility layout, our short guide to returning a rental car at LAX explains the ramps, shuttle stops and what to expect at the consolidated centre.
Costs, cover and flexibility
One‑way returns can carry a fee, sometimes waived on selected itineraries. Hola Car Rentals keeps it transparent: All‑Inclusive+ rate with maximum coverage on selected itineraries, No additional fees on qualifying bookings and Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up so you can adjust if plans change.
FAQs
Is a Union Station return guaranteed? Only if your confirmation shows that specific location. Choose a “Downtown” depot during booking and check hours for your date.
What if my train leaves before branches open? Return at LAX instead—the airport facility operates 24/7.
Can rideshares collect me inside the return deck? Usually you’ll exit to the kerb outside the facility before calling a car.
Will traffic ruin my timing? Budget extra on game and concert days; if in doubt, head for LAX earlier and relax post‑drop at the terminal.
Either way, reserve with Hola Car Rentals for friendly support from first mile to final handshake.
Typical one‑way fee scenarios
Los Angeles pricing changes with season and fleet balance. A Union Station return may show a modest one‑way fee—often offset if it saves a taxi and an hour of freeway slog. If a late‑night change sends you airport‑side, desks like the Alamo counter at LAX keep operating when downtown shutters.
With Hola Car Rentals, All‑Inclusive+ protection and Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up make last‑minute pivots less stressful.
Return‑day checklist
Fill the tank a few miles before the facility, photograph the dash and exterior (including each corner) and keep the fuel receipt. Remove charges, cables and kids’ gear from door pockets and under seats—downtown garage lighting can hide small items.
Give yourself a cushion. LA traffic can swing wildly with lane closures and stadium events; arriving early removes stress. If you’ve added a second driver, make sure the same person returns the car if your agreement requires it.
Why airport sometimes wins even for locals
For very early flights or red‑eyes, the 24/7 nature of LAX returns trumps the convenience of a downtown hand‑off. Predictability matters most in a sprawling city—when in doubt, choose the option with the clearest signage and longest hours.
Avoid these common snags
Don’t rely on street parking right by Union Station at peak times—circling burns time and frays tempers. Skip last‑minute fuel inside airport perimeters where prices spike. And resist dropping the car at a different downtown branch without approval; it can trigger retrieval fees and delays in closing your contract.
