Avis Car Hire
Kentucky

At Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport the process is intended to be straightforward for travellers. After collecting your luggage at baggage reclaim, simply follow the overhead signs to the Rental Car Centre. These signs are prominent throughout the terminal and will direct you to a dedicated shuttle bus service. The shuttle runs frequently and will take you directly to the facility where the Avis desk is located, ensuring a smooth transition from your flight to your hire vehicle.

Arriving late at CVG generally means a quieter airport experience, which can make the car-hire process quicker. The rental car facility is typically well lit and staffed to accommodate late arrivals. Once you have your vehicle, the exit roads are clearly signed for major interstates such as I-275, which circles the airport. With minimal traffic at that hour, following your sat-nav or airport signage to I-71/I-75 for Cincinnati or Covington, or I-275 for other destinations, is usually direct and stress-free.

For a 6:00 a.m. flight, planning is key to a low-stress morning. It is sensible to arrive at the rental-car return at least two and a half hours before departure. This provides a comfortable buffer to complete the vehicle return process, which is typically quick. You will then need to take the shuttle back to the main terminal, check your bags with the airline and pass through security, which can be busy even in the early hours.

To reach downtown Cincinnati from CVG, the most direct route is usually I-275 East to I-71/I-75 North. During afternoon traffic this corridor can be congested, particularly around the Brent Spence Bridge. A good strategy is to use a real-time traffic app as you leave the airport to check for major delays. Staying in the middle lanes as you approach the bridge can help you avoid last-minute merges for downtown exits such as 2nd Street or 5th Street once you cross the Ohio River.

For first-time visitors heading to Covington, the route from CVG is quite simple and avoids the most complex interchanges. You will take I-275 East and then merge onto I-71/I-75 North. Rather than crossing the river into Ohio, take one of the early Covington exits, for example the 5th Street exit (Exit 192). This keeps you on the Kentucky side of the river and leads you directly into Covington, minimising confusion with bridge traffic into Cincinnati.

The drive from CVG to Lexington is one of the simplest routes in the state, making it ideal for unfamiliar drivers. From the airport take I-275 to I-75 South. You will remain on I-75 South for the bulk of the journey, roughly 80 miles. The interstate is well maintained and clearly signed for Lexington exits such as Newtown Pike or Man o' War Boulevard, depending on your final destination in the city.

The drive to Louisville is an enjoyable trip of about 100 miles, mainly on I-71 South. After leaving CVG and merging onto I-71 from I-275, the route runs through rolling Kentucky countryside. A good halfway point for a break is the rest area near the Kentucky Speedway at exit 57. This allows you to stretch your legs and get a snack before continuing into Louisville, arriving refreshed and ready to explore.

This is very achievable with sensible planning. If your flight lands by late morning you can be on the road by noon. Many of the northernmost distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail are within a 60–90 minute drive from CVG. To avoid feeling rushed, book a tour for mid-afternoon (around 14:30 or 15:00) at a distillery near Lexington or Louisville. That gives you ample time for the drive, a quick lunch and a relaxed arrival.

Several excellent distilleries are conveniently located off major highways, allowing you to bypass dense city traffic. From CVG you can easily drive south on I-75 to reach distilleries around Lexington, or take I-71 south towards Louisville for others. For example, distilleries in Versailles or Lawrenceburg are accessible via scenic but well-travelled state roads just off the interstate. This approach lets you experience bourbon country without navigating complex urban grids.

Navigating the bridges between Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky is routine for locals but can be tricky for visitors. The key is to know which bridge best serves your route and get into the correct lane well in advance, as exits can come up quickly. The historic Roebling Suspension Bridge is useful for accessing Covington, while the I-471 bridge connects smoothly to Newport and downtown. Using a sat-nav is highly recommended, as it will help you anticipate lane changes for your specific destination.

A good one-day loop is to take I-71 South from CVG directly to Louisville in the morning, which takes about 90 minutes. Spend the day visiting attractions such as Churchill Downs or the Muhammad Ali Center. For the return journey consider a more scenic route by taking US-60 East out of Louisville toward Frankfort, then linking to I-64 East and I-75 North back to the CVG area. The loop offers efficient motorway driving and a glimpse of Kentucky's capital and horse country.

A logical weekend route is to drive from CVG down I-75 to the Lexington area first. Spend day one exploring the iconic horse farms and possibly Keeneland. On day two use Lexington as a base to visit nearby distilleries in Versailles, Lawrenceburg and Frankfort, which form a convenient cluster. On the final day you can take a scenic route like US-60 or the Bluegrass Parkway west toward Louisville for a last stop before heading north on I-71 back to CVG, creating an efficient, enjoyable loop.

The most straightforward route to Keeneland Race Course is to take I-75 South from the CVG area to Lexington. Then take Exit 115 for Newtown Pike and follow it south, eventually turning right onto US-60 (Versailles Road), which leads directly to the entrance. On race days or during major sales events expect significant traffic on Versailles Road. It's sensible to arrive at least an hour early; Keeneland offers extensive, well-organised grass parking with staff directing cars to available spots.

To minimise stress when visiting Churchill Downs, especially on a race day, aim to arrive well before the first post time. The drive from CVG to Louisville via I-71 South is about 90 minutes without traffic. Plan to be in the vicinity of the track at least 90 minutes before you want to be inside. This allows you to navigate local road closures and find parking in one of the official lots or reputable private lots nearby without feeling rushed by peak crowds.

Both attractions are conveniently located right off the interstate. For the Creation Museum take I-275 West from the airport for a few miles to Exit 11. For the Ark Encounter head south on I-75 for about 40 minutes to Exit 154 in Williamstown. The routes are extremely direct and well signed. On busy weekends, particularly in summer, expect heavy traffic at the exit ramps and long lines for onsite parking shuttles, so it's best to arrive early in the day.

The main challenge for drivers new to CVG is navigating the I-275 loop that encircles the airport. When leaving the rental facility pay attention to whether you need I-275 East (toward Cincinnati and I-71/75) or I-275 West (toward Indiana). The signage is clear but the decision comes up quickly. Another point to watch is ensuring you are in the correct lane for the main terminal versus the rental-car return when you come back, as the split can be abrupt.

A good strategy for large groups is to designate one or two drivers to take the shuttle to the rental-car centre to collect the vehicle. The rest of the group can wait with the luggage at the designated passenger pickup area outside baggage reclaim. Once the drivers have the car they can circle back to the terminal to collect everyone. This prevents the whole group and all their bags from crowding the rental counter and vehicle pickup stalls.

The rental-car pickup areas at CVG are covered and well lit, which helps with vehicle inspections in poor weather or at night. Use your smartphone torch to get a closer look at the car's lower body and wheels. When taking photos, switch on your camera flash to clearly capture any pre-existing scratches or dents. It's worth taking a few extra minutes to walk around the entire vehicle to ensure you have a clear record of its condition before you drive away.

When travelling with bulky equipment like golf clubs or skis, vehicle size and boot/cargo capacity are the top priorities. An intermediate or full-size SUV is often the best choice, as it provides ample space without cramming items into the passenger area. Many SUVs also feature split-folding rear seats, offering flexibility for both passengers and gear. Consider the number of people in your party to ensure everyone has a comfortable seat as well as space for your equipment.

For extensive motorway driving between cities like Lexington and Louisville, comfort is paramount. A mid-size or full-size saloon is an excellent option, offering a smooth ride, stable handling and supportive seats for long hours behind the wheel. If you prefer a higher driving position and more interior space a standard or mid-size SUV would also be very comfortable. Both options provide the power and stability needed for confident driving on Kentucky's interstates.

Winter driving in Kentucky can be unpredictable, with conditions ranging from clear and cold to snow or ice. Main interstates like I-75 and I-71 are top priorities for gritting and clearance, so they are often in the best condition. However, be prepared for the possibility of sudden snow squalls or freezing rain which can make roads slick. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before you depart and allow for extra travel time during active winter weather.

Fog can be a significant factor in Kentucky, especially during spring and autumn in low-lying areas and near the Ohio River. It is most common during the early morning hours. If your plans require an early start from CVG be prepared for potentially dense fog that can severely limit visibility. In such conditions reduce your speed, use your dipped headlights and increase the following distance between your vehicle and the one ahead.

Driving on rural Kentucky roads at night can be very different from the well-lit interstates. Many two-lane highways between smaller towns have limited lighting so it's important to be alert for wildlife, especially deer. Fuel stations can be sparse and may close early in these areas. A good rule of thumb is to ensure your tank is at least half full before leaving a larger town or the interstate so you won't need to worry about finding fuel late at night.

For an immediate taste of Kentucky's scenery take a short detour off the main interstate. A great option is to head south from CVG and exit onto US-25, the old Dixie Highway, which often runs parallel to I-75. This route takes you through charming small towns and rolling landscapes at a more relaxed pace. Another beautiful drive is along US-68, especially around the Lexington area, famous for its picturesque horse farms bordered by historic stone fences.

Parking in downtown Cincinnati typically involves more car parks and higher rates, especially near major venues. Across the river in Covington and Newport you'll find a mix of on-street parking, surface lots and garages that are often more readily available and slightly less expensive. Many entertainment districts, like Newport on the Levee, have their own dedicated parking structures. Regardless of where you park always be mindful of posted time limits and payment requirements to avoid a ticket.

A good first stop to get your bearings is the Devou Park Overlook in Covington, Kentucky, which is a very short drive from the interstate after leaving CVG. It offers a stunning panoramic view of the Cincinnati skyline and the Ohio River, helping you visualise the layout of the city and the bridges. This scenic, low-stress stop allows you to take a moment, set your sat-nav for your hotel and mentally prepare for navigating the downtown streets before you dive into city traffic.

When heading to an event at Paycor Stadium, Great American Ball Park or a concert venue traffic planning is essential. Check the event start time and plan to arrive in the area at least 60–90 minutes beforehand. The exits off I-71/I-75 into downtown and near the riverfront will be heavily congested. It's often wise to pre-purchase parking online to have a guaranteed spot, and use a navigation app with real-time traffic to find the best route to your specific garage or lot.

The most direct route from CVG to the Red River Gorge is to take I-75 South to Lexington, then connect to I-64 East towards Winchester. From there take the Bert T. Combs Mountain Parkway. The parkway is a modern four-lane highway for much of the way, making the drive easy. As you leave the parkway for the Gorge itself roads become narrower, two-lane and winding, especially the scenic loop through Nada Tunnel, so be prepared to drive more slowly and cautiously.

To make a day trip to Mammoth Cave from CVG feel comfortable an early start is crucial. The drive itself is about three hours one-way. Plan to leave the CVG area no later than 07:00. This should get you to the park around 10:00 a.m. Central Time (remember the time zone change), giving you plenty of time for a pre-booked mid-day cave tour. This schedule allows for a relaxed visit and gets you back on the road by late afternoon.

A well-paced itinerary would be to drive from CVG to Mammoth Cave National Park first (about three hours) and spend the afternoon and night there. The next day drive north to Louisville (about 90 minutes) to explore the city. On day three travel east from Louisville to the Lexington area (about 75 minutes) to experience horse country and bourbon distilleries. On the final day it's an easy 90-minute drive from Lexington back to CVG, completing a scenic and efficient loop of Kentucky's highlights.

Crossing into Indiana from the CVG area is exceedingly easy. You can take the I-275 bridge west directly from the airport vicinity. The driving experience is very similar to Kentucky and Ohio, with no major rule changes to worry about. One thing to note is that some smaller towns in Indiana may have different traffic patterns or more roundabouts than you might be used to. It's a simple and enjoyable way to add another state to your itinerary.

To break up the approximately 4.5-hour drive to Nashville plan for a substantial midday stop. A good option is to drive from CVG to Louisville first, which takes about 90 minutes. Spend a few hours there visiting a museum or having a leisurely lunch. Alternatively you could stop in Bowling Green to see the National Corvette Museum, which is right off I-65. This splits the drive into manageable segments and turns a travel day into part of the trip.

For international visitors a key rule in Kentucky, as in most of the USA, is that you may turn right at a red light after coming to a complete stop unless a sign specifically prohibits it. On motorways drivers are expected to merge smoothly and match the speed of traffic; do not stop at the end of a slip road. It's also customary for slower traffic to keep to the right-hand lane, allowing faster vehicles to overtake on the left. These practices will help you drive confidently from the moment you leave the airport.

If a delay means you're collecting your car much later than planned, the safest decision is to minimise driving on the first night. Rather than attempting a long drive to Lexington or Louisville consider booking a hotel near the airport or in nearby Florence or Covington. This allows you to get a full night's rest and start your longer journey fresh and alert the next morning. Driving while fatigued is a significant risk so adjusting your plan for safety is always the best choice.

Just a few minutes' drive from the CVG rental-car facility you'll find numerous options in Florence, Kentucky. By taking I-275 to the I-71/I-75 South interchange you can quickly access Mall Road. That area is packed with a wide variety of fast-food and sit-down restaurants, as well as large stores like Target or Meijer. It's an ideal spot to stock up on snacks, drinks and any other supplies you need before starting your Kentucky road trip.

When planning a multi-distillery day it's crucial to account for more than just the tour times. Driving between distilleries, especially on the Bourbon Trail, often involves scenic but slower two-lane rural roads rather than motorways. Always add at least 15–20 extra minutes to the sat-nav travel estimate as a buffer. Parking is generally well organised at the distilleries but lots can fill up, so arriving a little early for your scheduled tour is a good strategy to avoid a last-minute rush.

For drivers new to the area the most challenging parts are often the complex motorway interchanges, particularly the I-71/I-75/I-275 interchange near CVG and the I-64/I-65/I-71 junction in downtown Louisville, known as 'Spaghetti Junction.' These require quick decisions and confident lane changes. While rural routes have less traffic they can be narrow and winding and demand constant attention. Downtown grids in Cincinnati or Louisville can also be stressful in peak hours due to one-way streets and pedestrian activity.

The most reliable strategy for navigating areas with poor cell service is to prepare in advance. Before you leave the CVG area use your preferred navigation app to download offline maps for the whole of Kentucky. This allows your phone's GPS to continue providing turn-by-turn directions even without a data connection. Having a vehicle fitted with a built-in navigation system can also serve as an excellent and dependable backup in these situations.

As you approach the airport on I-275 begin looking for the large green signs for 'Rental Car Return'. The airport provides dedicated signage well in advance of the actual exit. It's important to stay in the designated lanes as you get closer to the terminals, as the entrance for rental returns is separate from the main departures and arrivals roadways. Programming your sat-nav specifically for the 'CVG Rental Car Return' address, not just the airport, can also provide precise turn-by-turn guidance directly to the entrance.

In the event of severe weather your primary focus should be safety. During heavy rain or thunderstorms reduce your speed significantly, switch on your headlights and increase your following distance to allow for slippery roads and reduced visibility. If conditions become too dangerous, such as hail or extreme high winds, the safest action is to pull off the motorway at the next exit and wait for the worst of the storm to pass at a petrol station or rest area. It's always better to arrive late than to risk an accident.