Enterprise Car Hire
Norfolk

Finding your hire car at Norfolk International Airport is very convenient. The Enterprise desk is located directly inside the arrivals terminal on the ground level. After you collect your luggage from the baggage carousels, simply walk across the main arrivals hall towards the rental car centre. The desks are clearly marked with overhead signs, making the process smooth and straightforward without needing a shuttle or leaving the building.

For a smooth late-night arrival, confirm your hire reservation includes your flight number so staff are aware of your timing. Once you have your vehicle, the drive to Virginia Beach is generally quiet with minimal traffic late at night. The most direct route is I-264 East, which is well lit and clearly signed for the Oceanfront. Before leaving the airport, take a moment to adjust your mirrors and connect your satnav to ensure you feel comfortable and prepared for the drive.

Arriving during peak travel times like a Friday afternoon or Sunday evening often means higher passenger volumes at the airport. It's sensible to allow an additional 30 to 45 minutes for the hire car collection process during these periods. This covers potential queues at the rental desk and a busier car park when selecting your vehicle. Planning this extra buffer helps ensure a relaxed start to your trip without feeling rushed to get on the road.

The most straightforward route to the Virginia Beach oceanfront is to take Interstate 264 East. From the airport, follow signs to I-64 and then quickly merge onto I-264 East, marked for Virginia Beach. This interstate takes you directly to the heart of the oceanfront resort area with minimal complex interchanges. Simply stay on I-264 until it ends, where it will feed you onto the local streets near the beach, making for a simple and direct drive.

When heading to downtown Norfolk on I-264 West from the airport area, the exits can come up quickly. The approach to the Waterside Drive exit (Exit 9) is one to watch, as it requires you to be in the correct lane well in advance. Similarly, the interchange where I-264 and I-464 split can be confusing if you're not prepared. It's best to have your satnav active and pay close attention to overhead signs as you get closer to the downtown area to avoid last-minute lane changes.

Driving through the Downtown and Midtown Tunnels is a common part of getting around Norfolk and Portsmouth. The experience is not difficult, but it's useful to be prepared for the transition from bright daylight to tunnel lighting. Keep a steady speed, maintain a safe following distance and stay centred in your lane, as they can feel narrow. Be aware that many local tunnels use electronic tolling, so it's a good idea to discuss tolling options for your hire vehicle when you collect it.

To visit Norfolk, Portsmouth and Chesapeake efficiently, plan your route as a loop to minimise backtracking through tunnels. A good strategy is to start in Norfolk, then take the Downtown Tunnel to Portsmouth. From Portsmouth, drive south to Chesapeake via routes like I-264 or local roads. To return to Norfolk, use the High-Rise Bridge on I-64, avoiding a second tunnel trip and giving you a different perspective of the region.

Ghent is a historic neighbourhood with attractive but sometimes narrow streets. The most direct way to arrive from ORF is typically via I-64 West to I-264 West, taking the Brambleton Avenue exit. Once in Ghent, be mindful that much parking is on-street and can be limited, especially in the evenings. It's best to check with your hotel beforehand about their dedicated parking options, as many offer car parks or garages for guests, which is the most convenient solution.

Downtown Norfolk has an extensive grid of one-way streets that can sometimes confuse satellite navigation, especially with real-time closures. Your satnav will generally be accurate, but it's wise to review your final turns before you arrive. Pay close attention to street signs, as a missed turn on a one-way street may require you to circle a few blocks to get back on track. This is particularly true when aiming for a specific hotel entrance or parking garage ramp.

As a civilian visitor to Naval Station Norfolk you must enter through designated gates and be prepared to present valid identification. Always observe the posted speed limits, which are strictly enforced, and yield to any military convoys or personnel directing traffic. Be aware that traffic can be very heavy during morning and afternoon shift changes. Plan your visit outside of these peak hours for a much smoother driving experience around the base.

For events like graduations at Naval Station Norfolk, traffic becomes extremely congested on the roads leading to the base. The primary choke points are Terminal Boulevard, Hampton Boulevard and the I-564 interchange. To minimise stress, plan to arrive much earlier than you think you need to, as gate processing can also be slow with high volume. Carpooling with other family members where possible is also a great strategy to reduce the number of vehicles.

To avoid the biggest traffic jams when driving to ODU during a major event, consider using surface streets as an alternative to the interstate. While I-64 to I-564 is the most direct route, it gets very backed up. A less stressful option can be taking Military Highway to Little Creek Road, then turning south on Hampton Boulevard. This route avoids the main interstate congestion near the naval base and brings you to the campus from the north.

For an event at the Scope Arena or Chrysler Hall, aim to arrive at least 45 to 60 minutes before the show's start time. The primary car park is the Scope Garage, which is very convenient but can fill quickly for popular events. Arriving early ensures you get a spot without the stress of circling downtown. It also gives you a cushion for potential traffic delays on I-264 or Brambleton Avenue on your way in.

When visiting Nauticus and the USS Wisconsin with family, the most convenient parking is in the City of Norfolk's Town Point Garage on Main Street. It's just a short, easy walk across the road to the museum entrance, minimising the distance you have to manage with children and buggies. Avoid trying to find on-street parking, as it is scarce and often has strict time limits, making the garage the most stress-free option for a relaxed visit.

For a Norfolk Tides game, the simplest parking is in the large, dedicated lots surrounding Harbor Park. The main lots are located on the south and east sides of the stadium, directly accessible from Park Avenue. Entering from this side provides a very short and straightforward walk to the main gates. Arriving about 30–45 minutes before the first pitch usually ensures you can find a good spot without hassle.

Weekend evenings, especially on Friday and Saturday, bring significant traffic to the Waterside District. Primary roads like Waterside Drive and Boush Street become very congested with people heading to restaurants and events. Plan to add extra travel time and consider parking in a car park slightly further away, such as the Town Point Garage or Main Street Garage, and enjoying a short walk. This can often be quicker than trying to park in the garage directly adjacent to Waterside.

For a day trip to Sandbridge, the key is to beat the traffic. Plan to arrive before 10.00 am to secure a spot in the municipal car park, as it fills up quickly on sunny days. When it's time to leave, departing either before 4.00 pm or after 6.00 pm can help you avoid the worst of the traffic heading back inland. The two-lane roads leading to and from Sandbridge can get very backed up as everyone tries to leave at the same time.

Visitors often get confused by the one-way service lanes that run parallel to Atlantic Avenue at the Virginia Beach oceanfront. These lanes provide access to hotel drop-off zones and garage entrances, but they can be easy to miss from the main road. It's helpful to know your hotel's cross street and be prepared to make your turn well in advance. Satnav can sometimes be slightly off, so watch for your hotel's sign as your primary guide.

On a summer Saturday, I-264 East heading toward the Virginia Beach Oceanfront can become heavily congested, especially from mid-morning to early afternoon. If you encounter a major backup, a viable alternative is taking the Northampton Boulevard exit and using surface streets like Virginia Beach Boulevard. While this route has traffic lights, it keeps you moving and can often be less stressful than sitting in a standstill on the interstate.

Driving the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel is a unique experience with expansive views of the bay. Be prepared for potential crosswinds, especially on the elevated bridge sections, and it's wise to keep both hands on the wheel. The lanes are of standard width, but the low walls and open water can feel unnerving to some drivers. The two-mile-long tunnel sections provide a brief break from the open air before you ascend back onto the bridge, making for a memorable journey.

A day trip from Norfolk to the Outer Banks is realistic, but timing is crucial. The drive to towns like Kitty Hawk or Kill Devil Hills takes about 90 minutes without traffic. To avoid major backups, especially on weekends, leave Norfolk very early in the morning, aiming to be on the road by 7.00 am. Similarly, plan your return trip for later in the evening to miss the afternoon rush of beachgoers heading home.

For a simple drive to Colonial Williamsburg, the most direct route is Interstate 64 West. From Norfolk, you'll stay on I-64 for the majority of the trip, which takes about an hour without traffic. The merges are generally well spaced and clearly signed. You will take Exit 238 for Colonial Williamsburg, and the signs from there are very clear, leading you directly to the visitor centre with minimal complex navigation.

To tour the Historic Triangle efficiently, a good plan is to drive to the furthest point first and work your way back. Start by driving from Norfolk to Yorktown to see the battlefield. From there, take the scenic Colonial Parkway to Williamsburg for your next stop. Finally, continue on the parkway to Historic Jamestowne and the Jamestown Settlement. This route allows you to enjoy the scenic drive and logically connects the sites without unnecessary backtracking.

The Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT) is a notorious traffic spot. On weekdays, the heaviest congestion is during morning and evening commutes, typically heading toward Norfolk in the morning and away in the afternoon. On weekends, especially in summer, traffic can be heavy in both directions for much of the day as people head to and from the beaches. Always check a live traffic app before you go and consider using the Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge-Tunnel as an alternative route.

The most reliable and straightforward way to get to Busch Gardens from Norfolk is to take Interstate 64 West. Follow I-64 for about 45 miles and take Exit 243A, which is specifically signed for Busch Gardens. This exit leads you directly to the park's entrance road. Sticking to the interstate is the best way to avoid being rerouted by satnav onto slower, more complex local roads like Route 60.

The Norfolk Botanical Garden is conveniently located right next to the airport, making it an excellent first stop. The drive from the hire car lot to the garden's entrance on Azalea Garden Road takes less than five minutes. There is ample free parking available in a large, dedicated lot directly in front of the visitor centre. This makes it a very easy and relaxing attraction to visit immediately upon arrival.

For a half-day layover, focus on attractions close to the airport to maximise your time. You could visit the Norfolk Botanical Garden, which is minutes away, or drive about 15–20 minutes to the Ghent neighbourhood for a quick lunch and a walk. To ensure a smooth return, plan to be back in the airport vicinity at least two hours before your flight. This provides a comfortable buffer for returning the car and getting through security without any stress.

There are several convenient shopping centres just a short drive from Norfolk International Airport. Military Highway, which is a major road right by the airport, has numerous options including large supermarkets, pharmacies and big-box retailers. This makes it easy to stock up on snacks, drinks, sunscreen and any other supplies you need for your trip before you even get on the interstate to head to your final destination.

For travellers needing easier access, the downtown Norfolk waterfront offers several car parks, like the Town Point Garage, that provide lift access and short walks to attractions like Nauticus. The Ghent neighbourhood, while charming, relies more on on-street parking. For a low-stress outing, consider visiting attractions with their own dedicated lots, such as the Chrysler Museum of Art or the Norfolk Botanical Garden, which are designed for convenient, close-in parking.

During heavy rain, be aware that many low-lying roads in Norfolk and Virginia Beach are prone to flooding, a phenomenon known locally as tidal or nuisance flooding. Never drive through standing water, as it can be much deeper than it appears and can stall your vehicle. Reduce your speed significantly to avoid aquaplaning, increase your following distance, and allow for extra travel time. It's also wise to check local news or traffic apps for road closure announcements before you head out.

Military Highway and Virginia Beach Boulevard are two of the area's busiest commercial corridors, and they experience significant traffic during weekday rush hours, typically from 7–9 am and 4–6 pm. The combination of commuter traffic and shoppers can lead to major congestion and delays. For the quietest driving experience, it's best to travel on these roads during mid-day, between 10 am and 2 pm, or in the evening after 7 pm.

A great midpoint for a group split between Norfolk and Virginia Beach is the Town Center of Virginia Beach. It's located just off I-264, making it easily accessible from both directions. Town Center offers plenty of restaurants and shops, and most importantly, it has several large, free public car parks. This makes it a convenient and stress-free place for everyone to meet up without worrying about finding or paying for parking.

To catch a sunrise at Virginia Beach, you'll be driving well before the morning commute, so traffic is usually not a major issue. The drive on I-264 East should be clear and quick in the pre-dawn hours. The key is to check for any overnight roadworks or lane closures on the interstate or at the Downtown Tunnel before you leave. A quick look at a live traffic app will confirm your route is clear for a smooth and timely arrival.

Returning a hire car for an early morning flight at ORF is a straightforward process. Simply follow the airport signs for 'Rental Car Return' as you approach the terminal complex. These signs will direct you to the designated return lanes in the car park adjacent to the terminal. After parking, you can complete the return process and then walk directly into the terminal for your flight, making it a quick and efficient experience.

The most efficient sequence is to first follow the signs for 'Departures' to drop off your passenger and their luggage at the upper-level kerb. After they have exited the vehicle, simply stay in the lane and follow the signs that direct you back around to the 'Rental Car Return' area. This avoids having to exit the airport and loop back in, saving you time and making the process much smoother.

The Norfolk and Hampton Roads region has several tunnels and bridges that require tolls, which are collected electronically without cash lanes. Hire cars are typically outfitted with transponders or other systems to manage these tolls for you. The process is designed to be seamless for the driver. It is a good practice to ask the hire agent at the desk how their specific tolling programme works so you are fully aware of how payments are handled.

Yes, GPS signals can sometimes be unreliable in specific spots. You may experience a brief signal loss while driving through the Downtown Tunnel, Midtown Tunnel, or the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. Additionally, complex interchanges like the one connecting I-64 and I-264 can sometimes cause a slight lag in satnav updates. It's always a good idea to also pay attention to overhead road signs to confirm you're in the correct lane.

To minimise re-parking, you can cluster your visits by neighbourhood. A great strategy is to park once downtown in a central car park, like the MacArthur Center garage. From there, you can easily walk to Nauticus, the USS Wisconsin, the Waterside District and the Selden Market. Another cluster is the Ghent and NEON Arts District area, where you can park near the Chrysler Museum of Art and explore both neighbourhoods on foot.

The drive from ORF to Norfolk's Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center is quite direct, taking about 15–20 minutes via I-264 West. Follow the signs for downtown Norfolk and take the Waterside Drive exit. The most common delay occurs right near the terminal on embarkation day, as traffic can back up with many people arriving at once. Give yourself plenty of extra time for this final approach to the terminal entrance.