Hertz Car Hire
Norfolk

Finding your rental car at Norfolk International Airport, even late at night, is intended to be straightforward. After collecting your luggage, simply follow the prominent overhead signs for "Rental Cars" or "Ground Transportation", which will direct you to the rental counters in the arrivals concourse. Once you’ve completed the paperwork, you’ll be shown to the adjacent parking garage where the vehicles are kept. The well-lit, clearly marked walkways ensure a simple and secure route to your car.

When travelling with a group and checked luggage, it’s sensible to allow roughly 60 to 90 minutes from the time your plane touches down to when you’re driving away. This buffer covers disembarking, walking to baggage claim, waiting for all bags to appear, and then heading to the rental desk. Coordinating several people and their belongings can add steps, so this timescale permits a comfortable, unhurried start to your visit to Norfolk.

If I-64 is heavily congested, a reliable alternative is to use surface streets. From the airport, take Norview Avenue westbound, which eventually becomes Lafayette Boulevard. Continue on that road until you can turn onto Tidewater Drive south, which leads directly into the downtown area. Although this route has traffic lights, it often flows more consistently than a backed-up interstate, making it less stressful during peak traffic periods.

The interchange where I-64 splits to I-264 is a common point of confusion for visitors heading to the waterfront. The main challenge is getting into the correct lane for I-264 West towards Downtown Norfolk well in advance. Drivers unfamiliar with the layout can easily find themselves in lanes heading toward Virginia Beach or Chesapeake by mistake. Pay close attention to the large overhead signs as you approach the interchange and be prepared for merging traffic.

For a first-time visitor to the Ghent neighbourhood, sticking to main thoroughfares like Colley Avenue or Colonial Avenue is the simplest approach. These streets are wider and more direct, helping with orientation. When you’re ready to unload, look for a temporary spot on a slightly less busy cross-street, such as Olney Road or Mowbray Arch. This will give you more space and time to manage your luggage before finding a more permanent parking space.

Driving in the Waterside District during busy evening hours requires planning, as the area becomes very busy with vehicles and pedestrians. Street parking is scarce, so your best move is to head straight to one of the large public car parks, such as the Waterside Garage or the Main Street Garage. Arriving a bit early not only secures you a space but also saves you the frustration of circling in traffic, allowing for a more relaxed start to your evening.

Navigating the roads around Naval Station Norfolk can be challenging for visitors due to the high volume of traffic, particularly during morning and afternoon commute times. The main artery, Hampton Boulevard, frequently experiences significant delays near the base gates. If you’re not visiting the base itself, it’s best to use alternative routes to bypass this area during peak hours. If you do have official business on base, be prepared for security checks and have all required identification readily accessible.

To enjoy a less stressful drive between Norfolk and Virginia Beach, aim to travel on I-264 during off-peak hours. The most reliable windows are typically mid-morning, between 10:00 and 14:00, or later in the evening after 19:00. Travelling at these times helps you avoid the heavy morning and evening commuter rush, as well as the peak beach-bound traffic that builds on sunny weekend afternoons.

To visit both Virginia Beach and Norfolk’s waterfronts efficiently, timing is key. A good strategy is to go to Virginia Beach’s oceanfront in the morning to enjoy the beach before the biggest crowds arrive. Then plan to head back towards Norfolk in the early to mid-afternoon, which allows you to miss the worst of the returning beach traffic. This schedule positions you well to explore Nauticus and the downtown Norfolk waterfront in the late afternoon and evening.

Overnight parking experiences in Downtown Norfolk and Ghent differ notably. Downtown primarily relies on paid public and private parking garages, which offer a secure and predictable option, especially if your hotel lacks its own lot. By contrast, the historic Ghent neighbourhood is characterised by on-street parking, which can be competitive. When parking in Ghent, it’s important to read all posted signs carefully for residential permit restrictions or time limits.

For first-time visitors, both the Midtown and Downtown tunnels can be intimidating, but the Downtown Tunnel (I-264) is often considered more straightforward. The Midtown Tunnel (US-58) has a noticeable curve and steeper grades that can be disorienting. Both are major commuter routes and experience significant backups during typical rush hours, generally from 07:00–09:00 heading towards Norfolk and from 16:00–18:00 heading towards Portsmouth. Always allow extra time for any tunnel crossing during these periods.

For a smooth drive to Portsmouth, the best strategy is to use your GPS and choose your lane well before you approach the tunnel entrance. Whether you take the Downtown or Midtown Tunnel, the approaches involve complex merges and lane splits. Following your navigation app closely and watching the overhead signs for Portsmouth will help you stay in the correct lane. Avoid last-minute manoeuvres to ensure a stress-free crossing.

To drive a loop through Norfolk, Chesapeake and Suffolk while avoiding major bottlenecks, travel outside peak commute times and consider a counter-clockwise route. For instance, starting mid-morning from Norfolk and taking I-464 south into Chesapeake is usually a smooth ride. From there, using routes like US-58 west to Suffolk and then returning to Norfolk via US-13 North can help you bypass the heavy congestion that often affects I-64 and I-664 bridge–tunnel approaches during rush hour.

The most direct route from Norfolk International Airport to the cruise terminal is to take I-64 West to I-264 West, following signs for Downtown Norfolk. You then take the Waterside Drive exit, which puts you right on the waterfront. The Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center is prominently located and well signed from there. This motorway-heavy route is generally the quickest and easiest way to navigate from the airport to the port.

For a seamless hand-off at the Norfolk cruise terminal, use the designated passenger drop-off zone located directly in front of the terminal entrance. The driver can pull up to the kerb while other members of the party unload luggage for the porters. Once everyone and everything is out of the vehicle, the driver can then return the rental car or move to a long-stay car park. This approach prevents the whole group from getting stuck in drop-off lane congestion.

Navigating downtown Norfolk requires attention due to the prevalence of one-way streets. Using a GPS is essential for accurate turn-by-turn directions to your specific destination. It’s also sensible to drive at a moderate speed and be vigilant for one-way and "Do Not Enter" signs, as it’s easy to make a wrong turn. Planning your final few turns before you arrive can help prevent the frustration of circling blocks to find your entrance.

For visitors to Old Dominion University, the stretch of Hampton Boulevard alongside the campus can be the most challenging area to navigate. This busy road features multiple turn lanes, heavy traffic and numerous pedestrian crossings. The internal campus road network can also be confusing for first-timers. To avoid getting lost, it’s best to identify the specific car park you need in advance and enter its address directly into your GPS.

The best plan for attending an event at Chartway Arena is to arrive early and know your parking options beforehand. Primary parking is located in the car parks on 43rd and 45th streets, adjacent to the arena on the ODU campus. Aim to arrive at least 45 to 60 minutes before the event’s start time to secure a spot without stress. Heading directly to one of these car parks will save you from getting caught in last-minute traffic circling the venue.

When visiting the Virginia Zoo with a rental car, especially at weekends, plan to arrive shortly after it opens. This helps you secure a space in the main car park directly in front of the entrance, which is the first to fill. An early arrival not only guarantees convenient parking but also lets you enjoy the animals when they’re often more active and crowds are smaller. Overflow parking is available but requires a longer walk to the entrance.

The most direct route to Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin is to take I-264 West towards Downtown Norfolk and use the Waterside Drive exit. The most common mistake visitors make is missing the crucial right turn from Waterside Drive onto Main Street, which leads to the dedicated car parks. As you approach, keep the large battleship in sight on your right and be prepared to make that turn to access the most convenient parking.

The Chrysler Museum of Art provides a free and spacious car park for visitors, located conveniently behind the building, which should be your primary option. If that lot is full, on-street parking is available on the side streets of the surrounding Ghent neighbourhood. However, it’s essential to read all posted signs carefully, as many streets have time limits or require a residential permit, and enforcement is common.

Visiting the Norfolk Botanical Garden immediately after leaving ORF is particularly easy and relaxing due to its location adjacent to the airport. After exiting the airport, follow the signs for Azalea Garden Road; the garden entrance is just a minute or two away. Its proximity makes it an ideal first stop to decompress and enjoy some natural beauty after your flight before you continue to your hotel or other destinations.

To avoid the worst traffic on a day trip to Colonial Williamsburg, timing through the Hampton Roads Bridge–Tunnel (HRBT) on I-64 West is critical. Plan to leave Norfolk either before 07:00 or after 09:30 to miss the peak morning commute. For your return journey, aim to be back through the tunnel before 15:30 or wait until after 18:30. Travelling in these off-peak windows can save you a significant amount of time.

For a straightforward day to the Historic Triangle, it’s best to create a logical loop. A good plan is to drive from Norfolk to the Jamestown Settlement first via I-64 West. After your visit, take the scenic and historic Colonial Parkway, which directly connects Jamestown to the Yorktown Battlefield. From Yorktown, you have an easy drive back onto I-64 East for a direct return to Norfolk, completing a simple and enjoyable circuit.

The most direct route to Busch Gardens from Norfolk is I-64 West, but its predictability depends on the Hampton Roads Bridge–Tunnel (HRBT). Delays at the HRBT typically build during the morning commute and on weekend mornings, especially in summer, as many people head to the peninsula. To ensure a smoother trip, check a real-time traffic app before you depart and consider leaving early to get ahead of the main wave of traffic.

To realistically visit both Norfolk and Richmond, plan your drive on I-64 between the two cities for midday. The trip takes about 90 minutes in good conditions. By leaving Norfolk around 10:00 and planning your return from Richmond after 19:00, you can effectively bypass the heavy morning and evening rush hour traffic that builds up around both metropolitan areas. This schedule maximises your time in each city and minimises your time on the road.

A day trip to the Outer Banks from Norfolk is a very manageable and scenic drive, taking about two hours each way. The route primarily follows VA-168 and US-158 south. To break up the journey, consider a quick stop in the Great Bridge area of Chesapeake for snacks or coffee. On your way back, the commercial areas in Currituck, NC, offer a good opportunity to stretch your legs before the final stretch back to Norfolk.

When using a rental car for beach trips, a little preparation can keep the car clean and make your day easier. Bring a large blanket or sheet to line the boot and protect it from sand. Pack a few large, empty bags to store wet towels and sandy toys separately. Before getting back in the car, use the public showers at the beach to rinse off as much sand as possible from yourselves and your gear.

First-time visitors to Hampton Roads are often surprised by the area’s unique transport infrastructure. Be prepared to drive through underwater tunnels to cross the harbour, which can be a novel experience. You may also encounter drawbridges that halt traffic for passing ships, so a patient mindset is helpful. The best way to plan for these local quirks is to allow extra travel time and remain alert to changing traffic patterns, especially near the water.

For a simpler and often less congested drive to Newport News or Hampton, consider using the I-664 Monitor–Merrimac Memorial Bridge–Tunnel. While I-64 with the Hampton Roads Bridge–Tunnel may seem more direct, it is notorious for heavy traffic and backups. The I-664 route is typically a smoother, more reliable drive that connects you to the western side of the peninsula, often with far less stress than its more famous counterpart.

Driving in Norfolk during military commute hours, roughly 06:00–08:30 and 15:30–17:30, can be very challenging due to heavy traffic. Key routes like I-64, I-564 and Hampton Boulevard become extremely congested with personnel travelling to and from the naval base and other installations. To avoid the worst of these delays, it’s best to plan your travel for mid-morning, midday, or later in the evening when traffic volumes are significantly lower.

Immediately after leaving ORF, one of the most convenient places for a quick stop is the Janaf Shopping Yard, located just a few minutes away on North Military Highway. This large, open-air shopping centre features several grocery stores, pharmacies and quick-service restaurants with spacious, easy-to-navigate car parks. It’s an ideal spot to stock up on supplies for your trip without dealing with a cramped or confusing layout.

After collecting your car, a great place to reorganise your luggage is at a large, less-crowded car park nearby. The Norfolk Premium Outlets, located just off I-64 a few minutes from the airport, are an excellent choice. Find a parking spot away from the main store entrances, and you’ll have plenty of space to sort out your pushchair, bags and car seats without feeling rushed or being in the way of other traffic.

When driving in the Hampton Roads region, be aware that several major tunnels and bridges, particularly those connecting to Portsmouth and Chesapeake, have tolls. Most of these tolls are collected electronically without cash lanes, so it’s important to be prepared. Rental car companies offer convenient tolling programmes that allow you to use these roads seamlessly, and it’s a good idea to ask about these options at the rental desk when you pick up your vehicle.

When a major event like Harborfest is happening, driving downtown requires extra planning. Expect significant road closures, detours and heavy pedestrian traffic, especially near the waterfront. Before you leave, check the city’s official website or local news outlets for traffic advisories and closure maps. The best strategy is often to park in a car park on the edge of the event footprint and walk the final few blocks to your destination.

For a pleasant half-day scenic drive, consider heading south from Norfolk towards the Sandbridge area of Virginia Beach. This route takes you away from the city and offers views of a more natural, less-developed coastline. Another excellent option is to drive across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge–Tunnel to the Eastern Shore and explore the charming small towns of Cape Charles or Onancock. Both drives provide a beautiful change of scenery without requiring a full day.

During a coastal storm in Norfolk, the first driving hazard to appear is almost always street flooding in low-lying areas. Neighbourhoods like Ghent and areas near The Hague are particularly susceptible, and roads can become impassable very quickly. Additionally, high winds can make driving over the region’s many bridges feel precarious. It’s crucial to follow local weather alerts, never drive through standing water, and avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather.

While your GPS is a vital tool, it’s important to use it with caution in Norfolk, a city known for its low-lying areas. Navigation apps do not typically account for tidal flooding or floodwater after heavy rain, which can make some streets impassable. If your GPS directs you down a street that has visible standing water, do not proceed. It’s always safer to trust your judgement and find an alternate, drier route to your destination.

For a stress-free early morning rental return at ORF, follow the airport road signs for "Rental Car Return" as soon as you approach the terminal area. The return entrance is clearly marked and directs you to a dedicated garage, separate from the departures and arrivals traffic. To be safe, build an extra 15 minutes into your schedule to allow for any potential wrong turns on the airport loop, ensuring a calm and timely drop-off.

When your return drive to ORF involves crossing a tunnel from Virginia Beach or another area, adding a generous time buffer is essential. It’s sensible to add at least 30 to 45 minutes to your estimated travel time to allow for unexpected traffic delays, which are common at the Hampton Roads Bridge–Tunnel and Downtown Tunnel. This extra time acts as a useful safety net to help ensure you don’t face a stressful rush to catch your flight.