Find cheap car rental deals in Modesto, California

Modesto is a city that will forever be associated with cars, thanks to its starring role in the cruising film American Graffiti. You’ll still spot vintage vehicle models in its charming downtown area, which retains its wonderful old school atmosphere. Pick up a rental car with Orbitz, and you can drive around these storied streets.

Renting a car in Modesto also means that some of California’s most famous sights are on your doorstep. Hop in your rental car to visit Yosemite, San Francisco, Sacramento and Monterey with ease. California is a state that rewards the explorer, so start driving.

Modesto and beyond: Cool California

Modesto is perfectly placed between the mountains of eastern California and the trendy cities and beaches of the west. We’ve picked three of the most exciting destinations to visit with your rental car.

Downtown Modesto

Downtown Modesto is a blast of charming, nostalgic Americana. Historic buildings like the State Theater sit alongside modern wineries and arts centers. Catch the Farmers’ Market to experience some of the freshest local produce, or visit in June to marvel at ‘Graffiti Summer’. This annual tradition celebrates the film American Graffiti, which was made here by Modesto’s own George Lucas, most famous for Star Wars.

Yosemite National Park

You can visit one of the most spectacular areas of natural beauty in California in a day trip from Modesto. Follow the roads through the expansive national park to find thundering waterfalls, hiking trails that wind beneath soaring sequoias, and views from the top of the iconic Half Dome peak.

Journey time: Around 2 hours 30 minutes

Distance: Approximately 110 miles

San Francisco

Just a short drive to the west of Modesto lies the glorious City by the Bay, a self-contained marvel that hosts such iconic sights as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and more within its compact peninsula. Spend your days visiting radical bookshops, exploring its artsy outer neighborhoods, or museum-hopping in the city center.

Journey time: Around 1 hour 30 minutes

Distance: Approximately 90 miles