Payless Car Hire
Richmond

After you deplane and collect your luggage at baggage reclaim, look for the overhead airport signs directing you to "Ground Transportation" and "Rental Cars." The car hire counters at RIC are grouped together in a dedicated area within the main terminal building. Following the clear airport signage is the most straightforward way to locate the Payless desk and start the pick-up process.

At Richmond International Airport the rental car pick-up and return areas are located in a car park (parking garage) directly opposite the terminal building. Once you have completed your paperwork at the rental counter inside the terminal, you can walk across the covered pedestrian walkway to the car park. Clear signage will guide you to the designated level and bays for Payless vehicles, making it a quick and convenient transfer.

It’s important to check the opening hours for the Payless location at RIC before you travel, as counter hours can vary. If your flight is due in late, be sure to include your flight number in your reservation details. That helps staff anticipate delays, though service is not guaranteed after closing time. If you arrive after the counter has closed you’ll need to arrange alternative transport and collect your vehicle the following day.

To ensure a smooth and efficient pick-up, it’s best to have all necessary items ready before you reach the counter. This typically includes your valid driving licence and your reservation confirmation number, which you may have on your phone or as a print‑out. Having these documents to hand allows the rental agent to process your hire quickly so you can be on your way with minimal delay.

After collecting your vehicle from the rental garage, a good place to get settled is the airport’s cell‑phone waiting lot. It’s located just a minute or two from the main terminal area and provides a safe, out‑of‑the‑way spot to park for a few minutes. There you can programme your destination into the GPS, pair your phone with the car’s Bluetooth system and adjust mirrors and seat before joining the main roads.

When leaving RIC for the city centre the primary route is I‑64 West, which quickly leads to a major interchange with I‑95. A common error is not getting into the correct lane early enough for the I‑95 South exit towards Downtown/Petersburg. To avoid this, use a GPS navigation app and watch the overhead highway signs as you approach the city; they provide ample warning of the upcoming split.

During weekday rush hour periods, generally between 4:00pm and 6:30pm, the drive from Richmond International Airport to the Carytown neighbourhood can take significantly longer than usual. A trip that might be 20 minutes in light traffic can easily extend to 40–50 minutes. The main sources of congestion are on I‑64 West and the Downtown Expressway (I‑195), so it’s sensible to allow extra time for your journey during these peak periods.

To get to Short Pump from RIC, your main route will be I‑64 West for the bulk of the drive. Once you leave the interstate you’ll mainly use West Broad Street (Route 250). Visitors are often surprised by the volume of traffic and the number of traffic lights on Broad Street, especially around the Short Pump Town Center mall. This area is a major retail hub, so expect heavy stop‑and‑go traffic, particularly at weekends and on weekday afternoons.

For a less stressful drive to the Fan District, take I‑64 West from the airport to I‑195 South (signs will say Downtown Expressway/Powhite Parkway). Exit at Hamilton Street or Thompson Street to enter the neighbourhood from its western edge. This route lets you bypass the more complex I‑95/I‑64 interchange nearer downtown and puts you directly onto the Fan’s grid‑like streets, which are easier to navigate.

Downtown Richmond and the area around Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) are known for an extensive network of one‑way streets, notably Franklin and Grace Streets which run parallel to each other. Additionally, the junction of Belvidere Street and Leigh Street can be confusing because of multiple lanes and turning options. Using a GPS is highly recommended and it’s wise to be extra alert when driving in these areas for the first time.

Driving on I‑95 through Richmond during the morning commute, typically from 7:00am to 9:00am, requires patience. This corridor is a major route for both local commuters and long‑distance travellers, leading to significant congestion and slow‑downs. The interchanges with I‑64 and the Downtown Expressway are particular choke points. If possible, plan your arrival outside this peak window for a much smoother start to your visit.

Weekend traffic on I‑64 through Richmond can be deceptively heavy, especially on Saturdays. While you won’t face the usual commuter rush, the corridor is busy with shoppers heading to areas like Short Pump and travellers en route to Williamsburg or Virginia Beach. The downtown interchanges where I‑64 meets I‑95 and I‑195 can still experience backups, so it’s best not to assume the roads will be completely clear.

The most straightforward route to Kings Dominion is to bypass downtown Richmond entirely. From the airport area take I‑295 North. This beltway loops you around the east and north sides of the city with minimal traffic and complexity. You will then merge onto I‑95 North, and the exit for Kings Dominion in Doswell is only a few miles ahead and clearly signed for the theme park.

Visitors should be aware that Virginia, including the highways around Richmond, has a reputation for strict speed limit enforcement. State and local police actively patrol major corridors like I‑95, I‑64 and I‑295. It’s advisable to pay close attention to the posted speed limits and use cruise control to maintain a steady speed. Driving cautiously and adhering to traffic laws is the best way to ensure a pleasant journey.

Yes. A primary area for sudden slow‑downs is the I‑95 bridge crossing the James River just south of downtown, which often acts as a bottleneck. Additionally, the complex interchange where I‑95 and I‑64 merge north of the city can be confusing, with lanes splitting for different directions. The Downtown Expressway (VA‑195) also has toll plazas and exits that can cause traffic to back up unexpectedly, so stay alert in these zones.

During a rainstorm Richmond’s historic neighbourhoods with cobblestone or brick streets, such as Shockoe Bottom and parts of Church Hill, can become particularly slick. At night heavy rain can reduce visibility on the city’s many tree‑lined residential streets, like those in the Fan District. It’s sensible to reduce your speed, increase following distance and exercise extra caution when driving in wet conditions, especially on unfamiliar roads.

For a sunrise at Libby Hill Park you can usually find street parking directly alongside the park on North 29th Street, offering immediate access to the well‑known view. For Belle Isle the closest parking is the large lot on Tredegar Street near the American Civil War Museum. Arriving very early normally secures a spot right by the pedestrian bridge entrance, minimising your walk before the crowds arrive.

The most convenient option for visiting the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) is its on‑site car park, accessible from Arthur Ashe Boulevard. This large garage offers direct access to the museum entrance. At weekends, especially during popular special exhibitions or in good weather, the deck can fill by late morning. Some on‑street parking is available in the surrounding neighbourhood, but be sure to read signs for any restrictions.

For a family visit to Maymont the most practical parking is at the Hampton Street Entrance or the Robins Nature Center Entrance. Both car parks offer more direct access to popular attractions like the Children’s Farm and the nature exhibits, with relatively flat pathways that are easier for pushchairs. Arriving earlier in the day, especially at weekends, will help you secure a spot closer to the entrance gates.

Street parking immediately surrounding Capitol Square is metered and highly regulated, often with a strict two‑hour time limit during business hours. That makes it difficult to visit multiple sites at a relaxed pace. For a more relaxed experience it’s advisable to use one of the public car parks in the area, such as those near 8th & Cary Street, which allow longer‑term parking.

On a Saturday afternoon finding a parking space directly on Cary Street is extremely challenging. When the main strip is full the usual strategy is to drive one or two blocks north or south into the adjacent residential streets. Those side streets offer free on‑street parking, but you may need some patience to find an open spot. Always check for posted parking restrictions.

If your downtown hotel is on a busy street the most efficient plan is to use the designated passenger drop‑off zone at the hotel’s entrance first. This allows you to check in and unload luggage with the help of hotel staff without blocking traffic. Afterwards you can either use the hotel’s valet service or ask the front desk for directions to their recommended self‑parking garage.

When parking in historic neighbourhoods like The Fan or Church Hill be mindful of the narrow streets and tight spaces. Most important are signs indicating residential permit parking zones, as parking in these areas without a permit can result in a fine. Also be careful not to block driveways or alleys, and check for any posted street‑cleaning schedules that may require you to move your car.

On nights with popular shows the streets immediately surrounding downtown venues like The National become very congested with traffic and pedestrians. Nearby public car parks and surface lots are the best option, but they fill quickly and may have special event pricing. It’s a good idea to arrive well before the show starts to secure a spot and expect a short walk to the venue.

During an event at VCU’s Siegel Center expect heavy traffic congestion on West Broad Street, Harrison Street and Belvidere Street. Street parking becomes nearly impossible to find. The most reliable option for visitors is to use one of the designated VCU car parks, such as the West Broad Street Deck or the Bowe Street Deck, which are open to the public for event parking.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden provides a large free car park for its visitors, which is a major convenience. However, during peak seasons like spring and autumn, or for special weekend events, the lot can reach capacity by late morning. To ensure you get a good spot and avoid a long walk, it’s best to plan your arrival shortly after they open or consider visiting later in the afternoon as the morning crowds begin to leave.

The easiest and most direct route for a day trip to Williamsburg is to take I‑64 East from Richmond. The drive typically takes about one hour without significant traffic. For a convenient rest stop there is a state‑run rest area near New Kent, about halfway through the drive. If you prefer a quick bite there are several fast‑food options at the Lightfoot exit (exit 234) just before you arrive in Williamsburg.

To avoid the heaviest traffic when driving to Virginia Beach, especially during the summer, try to travel outside peak windows. The worst times are typically Friday afternoons and Saturday mornings heading east, and Sunday afternoons heading west. The stretch of I‑64 near the Hampton Roads Bridge‑Tunnel is the most significant bottleneck. Leaving Richmond very early in the morning or mid‑day during the week often results in a much smoother drive.

A day trip from Richmond to Shenandoah National Park is very realistic and popular. The drive to the southern entrance of Skyline Drive via I‑64 West takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. To make the most of your day and avoid long lines at the entrance station, especially on a fine autumn weekend, it’s best to leave Richmond by 7:30am at the latest. That gets you to the park ahead of the peak crowds.

The most direct route to Charlottesville is to take I‑64 West from Richmond. The drive is scenic and typically takes just over an hour, making it an easy day trip. This route will take you directly to the exits for the University of Virginia, the historic downtown mall and the surrounding countryside where many of the region’s most popular wineries are located. The exits are clearly marked, making navigation simple.

When driving west on I‑64 from Richmond towards I‑81, the towns of Charlottesville and Staunton are your best bets for easy stops. Both cities have multiple exits with a wide variety of petrol stations, fast‑food chains and casual restaurants located just off the highway. These service hubs are designed for traveller convenience, allowing for a quick and easy break before you get back on the road.

For those staying in the West End or Short Pump, the Wegmans and Kroger stores right off I‑64 have large, easily accessible car parks. If you are staying closer to downtown or the Museum District, the Kroger on Lombardy Street is a popular and convenient choice. While its car park can be busy, it is designed for high turnover and is relatively easy to navigate when stocking up on supplies.

You’ll find several petrol stations conveniently located within a few minutes of the airport, making it easy to refuel before your return. Look for options along Airport Drive, the main road leading to the terminal, as well as on South Laburnum Avenue, a major cross‑street nearby. These stations are accustomed to serving airport travellers and provide quick, easy access for a final fill‑up.

As you drive towards Richmond International Airport, pay close attention to the large overhead highway signs. There will be specific signs that read "Rental Car Return", which direct you into a dedicated lane. This lane is separate from those for Departures and Arrivals, so it’s important to follow the correct signage to avoid having to circle the airport loop again. The entrance is well signed and leads you directly to the return garage.

For an early‑morning flight a safe plan is to arrive at the rental car return garage at least two hours before your scheduled departure. The return process itself is usually quick, and the walk from the garage to the terminal is just a few minutes. This two‑hour buffer provides ample time to drop off the car, check your bags and get through security without feeling rushed.

The most efficient strategy is to drive first to the Departures kerb for your airline and drop off all passengers and luggage there so they can proceed to check‑in. This leaves one person to drive the empty car to the rental return garage without the hassle of managing multiple bags. It streamlines the process and makes the experience much smoother for everyone in your group.

The drive on I‑95 North from Richmond to DC is known for its challenging traffic. The most frustrating times are weekday mornings from about 6:00am to 10:00am and weekday afternoons from about 3:00pm to 7:00pm, when commuter traffic is at its peak. Additionally, Friday and Sunday afternoons are often heavily congested with weekend travellers, so planning your drive for mid‑day or later in the evening is recommended.

A frequent navigation mistake occurs at the complex interchange where I‑95 and I‑64 split and I‑295 begins, just north of downtown. It’s easy to find yourself on the wrong interstate if you’re not in the correct lane early. To reach Mechanicsville you’ll typically need Route 360 (Mechanicsville Turnpike), so using a GPS and paying close attention to the route numbers on signs is crucial to avoid a wrong turn.

Carytown is ideal for a 'park once and walk' day, offering a mile of unique shops, restaurants and theatres all on one street. The Fan District is another excellent choice, where you can park on a residential street and spend hours strolling through its beautiful historic avenues. For history and dining, securing a space in a car park near Shockoe Slip allows you to easily explore that area and the nearby Canal Walk on foot.