Minivan Hire
Norfolk

For most travellers, collecting your minivan at Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is the most convenient option. The rental car facilities are located right in the terminal, allowing you to collect your luggage and walk straight to the counter. This removes the need for a taxi or rideshare to an off‑site location, which is especially helpful when travelling with family. Airport locations also typically offer the widest selection of vehicles and have streamlined processes for getting you on the road and onto major routes like the I‑64.

The process at Norfolk International Airport is quite efficient and family‑friendly. The rental car counters are situated in the arrivals terminal, just a short walk from the baggage claim carousels. Once you complete the paperwork, the vehicles are located in an adjacent car park, also within easy walking distance. Even with children and luggage, you can generally expect to be at your minivan within 15 to 25 minutes of picking up your bags, depending on the length of the queue at the rental counter.

The most efficient method is for the designated driver to head to the rental car counter while the rest of the group waits in the arrivals hall or at a baggage carousel. Once the driver has the keys and knows the minivan's location in the car park, they can retrieve it. The driver can then circle back to the passenger pickup kerb at the arrivals level to load the rest of the group and their luggage. This avoids having the entire party navigate the rental process and keeps the pickup area clear.

During your vehicle inspection, pay special attention to features unique to a minivan. Test both the manual and automatic sliding doors to ensure they open and close smoothly without catching. Check the functionality of the rear liftgate and familiarise yourself with how the third‑row seats fold down and stow away. Also, give the interior a quick scan for cleanliness and note any pre‑existing cosmetic issues like scratches or dings on the exterior with the rental agent before you leave the lot.

This is a very realistic and common plan for visitors. The drive from Norfolk International Airport to the Virginia Beach oceanfront typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Factoring in roughly an hour to deplane, claim your luggage, and complete the rental car pickup process, you can easily be on your way. Picking up your minivan and arriving at your Virginia Beach destination with plenty of the afternoon left is entirely achievable.

The most straightforward and well‑signed route is to follow the airport exit signs to the I‑64 East. You will stay on the I‑64 for a few miles and then take the exit for the I‑264 East, which is clearly signed for the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. This motorway will lead you directly to the resort area. Once you exit the I‑264, your sat‑nav can guide you the final few blocks to your specific hotel or rental property.

To avoid the most significant delays at the Hampton Roads Bridge–Tunnel (HRBT), it's best to avoid typical weekday rush hours, from about 06:00 to 09:00 and 15:00 to 18:00. Mid‑day travel on weekdays or travelling earlier in the morning at weekends usually offers a smoother experience. It's always a good idea to check a live traffic app on your phone just before you depart, as accidents or roadworks can cause backups at any time.

A day trip to Williamsburg is an easy drive, typically taking about an hour from Norfolk via the I‑64 West. The best strategy for parking your minivan is to head straight to the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Centre. It has a very large car park designed to accommodate vehicles of all sizes, making it a stress‑free option. From there, you can take the complimentary shuttle service that runs continuously to the historic area, which is much easier than navigating the narrow streets downtown.

For a seamless day, drive downtown and park your minivan once in a central garage, such as Town Point Garage or Main Street Garage. Both are a very short walk to the Nauticus museum and the adjacent Battleship Wisconsin. After your visit, you can explore the waterfront and then walk to the Waterside District or up Granby Street for numerous dinner options. This strategy allows you to enjoy multiple attractions and a meal without the hassle of moving your large vehicle.

Most hotels in and around the Waterside District have their own dedicated parking solutions for guests, which is the most convenient option. This is often in an attached or nearby public garage with which the hotel has an arrangement. When you book your stay, it's a good idea to confirm their parking details, including whether they can accommodate the height of a minivan and if there are any associated overnight fees. Using hotel‑provided parking is typically the most secure choice.

The majority of modern public parking garages in downtown Norfolk, especially those near major attractions like MacArthur Center and Waterside, are built to accommodate standard‑sized minivans. Always check the posted height clearance at the entrance before you drive in, but you generally won't have an issue. While turns can be tight, they are manageable if you take them slowly. Surface lots are also available and can be a good alternative if you prefer more open space.

To best enjoy both cities, dedicate separate days to each one rather than trying to split a single day. Spend one full day exploring Norfolk's attractions, such as the downtown waterfront or the Virginia Zoo. On another day, make the 30–40 minute drive to Virginia Beach to enjoy the oceanfront, boardwalk, and aquarium. This approach minimises driving back and forth and allows your family to immerse themselves in each location without feeling rushed.

Driving a minivan in downtown Norfolk requires a bit more awareness due to the prevalence of one‑way streets and compact junctions. It's highly recommended to use a GPS navigation app, which will help you anticipate turns and lane changes. Allow for a wider turning radius than you would in a smaller car, especially when entering parking garages. Staying alert and planning your route a few blocks ahead will make navigating the downtown grid much easier.

The interchanges connecting I‑264 and I‑64 are major hubs and can be busy, with lanes that merge and split frequently. The key to navigating them safely in a minivan is to know your exit number well in advance and get into the correct lane early. Avoid making sudden, last‑minute lane changes. Local commuters are accustomed to these interchanges and may move quickly, so maintaining a safe following distance is crucial for a stress‑free drive.

For a campus visit to ODU, the most straightforward approach is to park in one of the designated visitor parking garages, such as the one located on 43rd Street. These garages are centrally located and provide easy walking access to most parts of the campus. For quick drop‑offs, you can use the passenger loading zones along main roads like Hampton Boulevard, but be sure not to linger to avoid disrupting traffic flow.

To ensure a relaxed journey for a morning tour in the Historic Triangle, plan to leave Norfolk by 08:00 at the latest. The drive on the I‑64 West typically takes about an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes. This departure time provides a comfortable buffer to account for potential morning traffic congestion, especially around the Hampton Roads Bridge‑Tunnel, and gives you ample time to park and check in for your tour.

The most direct and common route is to take VA‑168 South from the Norfolk area, which connects directly to US‑158 East once you cross into North Carolina. This highway, often called the Caratoke Highway, will lead you straight to the bridge that crosses over to the Outer Banks. Be prepared for heavy traffic, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays during the summer, as this is the primary route for most visitors.

Before you drive away, take a moment to test the rear entertainment system. Power it on to ensure the screens are working correctly. If it's a DVD‑based system, it's a good idea to have a disc with you to test its functionality. Also, check for any included accessories like remote controls or wireless headphones and confirm they are present and operational, which can prevent disappointment once you're on the road.

A standard minivan offers a surprising amount of cargo space, even with all seats occupied. Most models feature a deep storage well behind the third row that can comfortably accommodate several suitcases and duffel bags. To fit bulkier items like beach chairs and a large stroller, you may need to fold down one side of the split‑folding third‑row seat. This flexibility is one of the key advantages of hiring a minivan for a family beach trip.

The easiest approach is to install your car seats securely once and leave them in place for the duration of your trip. Minivans are ideal for this, as their spacious interiors and sliding doors provide excellent access for getting children in and out without difficulty. Most models have LATCH anchor points in the second‑row captain's chairs and often in the third row as well, making for a straightforward and secure installation process.

The Norfolk Botanical Garden and the Virginia Zoo are both excellent choices for a minivan outing. Both attractions feature large, free surface car parks located directly adjacent to their main entrances, which significantly minimises walking distance. This is especially convenient when you're managing pushchairs, nappy bags, and young children. You can easily access your vehicle if you need to retrieve anything during your visit.

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is very well suited for a visit with a minivan. It has its own large, dedicated surface car park situated directly in front of the main building. This setup ensures a very short and easy walk from your vehicle to the entrance, ideal for families with small children or those with mobility concerns. Arriving earlier in the day can help you secure one of the closest spots.

A great plan is to start your morning at the Virginia Zoo, which has easy parking and opens early. After a few hours there, you can take a short drive to Ghent for lunch and a visit to a playground like the one at Stockley Gardens. This itinerary keeps you away from the most congested downtown areas and interstate interchanges during peak hours. It combines a major attraction with relaxed downtime, making for a well‑paced day for children.

A good way to organise this is to dedicate one day to the calmer, more residential Chesapeake Bay beaches, such as those in Ocean View or Chic's Beach. Parking in these areas is often on‑street and more relaxed. On your second day, focus on the bustling Virginia Beach oceanfront. Plan to arrive early to secure a spot in a municipal garage near the boardwalk and make a full day of it to get the most value from your parking.

During weekday rush hours, typically from 06:30 to 09:00 and 15:30 to 18:00, the tunnels and bridges in the Norfolk area experience significant congestion. Traffic often slows to a crawl, and the lanes can feel narrow in a larger vehicle like a minivan. Merging at the tunnel entrances requires patience and assertiveness. If your schedule allows, it's highly advisable to plan your travel through these choke points during off‑peak, mid‑day hours for a much less stressful drive.

This is a very manageable first step for your trip. After picking up your minivan, load your luggage into the deep cargo well behind the third row. There are several large grocery stores located on Military Highway, just a few minutes from the airport exit. You can easily make a quick stop for supplies, and the grocery bags will fit comfortably alongside your luggage in the spacious cargo area before you head to your final destination.

Venues like the Virginia Beach Sports Center or Princess Anne Athletic Complex are designed for large crowds and have ample surface car parks. The best strategy is to arrive early to secure a parking spot closer to the entrance, which minimises walking with gear. For drop‑offs, be sure to follow the designated traffic flow signs and use the specific passenger drop‑off zones to ensure safety and keep traffic moving smoothly for everyone.

A convenient and popular place for a break is in the Newport News area, right off Interstate 64. The exits for Jefferson Avenue (Exit 255) or Oyster Point Road (Exit 256) offer a wide variety of fast‑food restaurants, casual eateries, petrol stations, and clean restrooms. These commercial areas are designed for easy on‑and‑off highway access, making it a perfect low‑stress pit stop for families travelling in a minivan.

If you plan to take a car ferry, such as the Jamestown‑Scotland Ferry, it's wise to check the operator's website beforehand for any vehicle size guidelines. When you arrive at the ferry terminal, attendants will direct you into a designated waiting lane. Follow their instructions carefully when it's time to board, driving slowly and paying close attention to their signals for positioning your minivan on the vessel, as space is precisely allocated.

This is an ambitious but rewarding day trip, so an early start is essential. Plan to leave Norfolk by 07:00 to make the approximately two‑hour drive and arrive on the island ahead of the crowds. Parking at the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, which provides access to the beach on Assateague, is limited and can fill up by mid‑morning on busy summer days. Arriving early is the key to securing a convenient parking spot for your minivan.

The historic Ghent neighbourhood primarily uses on‑street parking, which can be competitive during peak dinner hours. For a less stressful experience, try arriving for an earlier dinner, around 17:30, to have a better selection of spots. Instead of focusing on the main commercial street of Colley Avenue, look for parking on the adjacent residential side streets, which are often quieter and have more availability just a short walk from the restaurants.

When driving in heavy rain, which is common in the region, significantly reduce your speed and increase your following distance. Be particularly cautious of localised street flooding, and never attempt to drive through deep standing water. A minivan's higher profile can be more susceptible to strong crosswinds on bridges and overpasses, so maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel during gusty conditions. Using your headlights is also essential for visibility.

One of the most frequent mistakes is navigating the complex interchange where the I‑64 and I‑264 split, just moments after leaving the airport. Visitors heading to downtown Norfolk need to be in the correct lane for I‑264 West. It's easy to miss the signs if you're not prepared. Using a sat‑nav and reviewing the first few steps of the route before you start driving can help you confidently get into the proper lane well in advance.

For an early flight, a safe plan is to arrive at the airport's rental car return area a full two hours before your scheduled departure. This allows ample time to refuel the minivan at a nearby petrol station, complete the vehicle return process, and walk over to the terminal. This two‑hour buffer provides peace of mind, accounting for any potential delays with the car return or unexpectedly long queues at the airline check‑in and security screening.

The most direct route is to take the I‑264 West from the oceanfront and follow the signs for Norfolk International Airport (Exit 15, Norview Avenue). To avoid the heaviest commuter traffic, try to make the drive before 07:00 or after 09:30 on weekdays. This route is generally more reliable than trying to connect with the I‑64, as it keeps you on one main road for the majority of the trip back to the airport.

Before committing to a minivan, it is crucial to confirm the parking situation at your rental property. Many older beach neighbourhoods, like the Virginia Beach North End or parts of Ocean View, have very narrow streets and small or shared driveways. Ask the property owner or rental agency if the provided parking spot can comfortably accommodate a larger vehicle. If parking is on‑street only, be aware that finding a spot large enough for a minivan can be a significant challenge.

To maximise your time in Richmond, plan to leave Norfolk after the morning rush hour, around 09:00. The drive on the I‑64 West typically takes about an hour and a half to two hours. This schedule will have you arriving in Richmond by mid‑morning, giving you the entire afternoon to explore attractions like the Museum District or the Canal Walk. You can enjoy a full day of activities before checking into your hotel in the evening.

You'll find several convenient petrol stations just a minute or two from the airport entrance, making the refuelling process very easy. The main clusters of stations are located along N. Norview Avenue and Military Highway (US‑13), both of which you will likely use to access the airport. Planning to stop at one of these locations as you head toward the rental car return will ensure a quick and stress‑free end to your trip.

A great strategy is to use the minivan as a comfortable base. Drive to a central location like Town Point Garage on the downtown waterfront and park for a few hours. This allows you to easily explore Nauticus, the Battleship Wisconsin, and the Waterside District on foot. Afterwards, you can take a short, comfortable drive to another attraction with its own dedicated parking, like the Chrysler Museum of Art, minimising the number of times everyone has to get in and out of the vehicle.