National Car Rental
Alabama

Upon arriving at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, you will find the National Car Rental counter conveniently located within the airport's main parking deck. This facility is directly attached to the terminal, eliminating the need for a shuttle bus. After collecting your luggage, simply follow the overhead signs for "Rental Cars" which will guide you across a covered walkway into the deck. The rental counters are situated on the ground level, making for a quick and seamless transition from your flight to your vehicle.

Navigating to the National counter after a late-night arrival at BHM is very straightforward. The airport is well-signed, and the path is entirely indoors or covered. From the baggage claim area on the lower level, look for the prominent signs directing you to "Ground Transportation" and "Rental Cars." You will proceed a short distance to the attached parking deck where all the rental car counters are consolidated. The walk is brief and well-lit, ensuring a safe and easy journey to pick up your vehicle, even late at night.

The most direct path to downtown Birmingham from the airport is designed to be simple for visitors. As you exit the rental car facility, follow the signs for I-20 West / I-59 South. This will lead you onto the main airport access road, which merges directly onto the interstate. Within just a few miles, you will see clearly marked exits for the downtown business district, such as the 22nd Street exit. This route allows you to get your bearings on a major highway before navigating any complex city streets.

For an early-morning flight, it's wise to build in a comfortable time cushion for your car return. A good rule of thumb is to arrive at the airport rental car facility at least two hours before your scheduled departure. This typically allows about 15-20 minutes for the vehicle return process and the short walk to the terminal. The remaining time should be ample for checking your bags, clearing security, and getting to your gate without feeling rushed during a busy travel period.

The best place to get acquainted with your rental car is in its designated parking spot before you even leave the garage. This provides a calm, low-traffic environment to make all your necessary adjustments. Take a few minutes to set your side and rearview mirrors, pair your phone with the car's Bluetooth system, and enter your first destination into the navigation. You can also arrange your luggage in the trunk and familiarize yourself with the vehicle's basic controls, ensuring you are comfortable and ready to drive before merging into traffic.

To reach the over-the-mountain suburbs of Homewood or Mountain Brook, the most efficient and least stressful route is typically US-280 East, also known as the Elton B. Stephens Expressway. From the airport, you can take I-20/59 to the US-31/US-280 exit and head south. This major artery bypasses much of the downtown congestion and provides direct access to these communities. It's a multi-lane highway that is generally easier to navigate than weaving through downtown surface streets.

Weekday rush hours in Birmingham, generally from 7:00 to 9:00 AM and 4:00 to 6:00 PM, bring significant traffic increases on key routes. The most congested corridors are I-65, especially through downtown, and US-280 heading to and from the suburbs. The I-20/59 and I-65 interchange, known locally as "Malfunction Junction," can also experience major backups. If you must travel during these times, it is essential to plan for extra travel time to avoid being late for your appointments.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) campus and hospital area have numerous public parking decks specifically for visitors. These are well-marked and are the most convenient option. The most congested streets in this district are University Boulevard and 20th Street South, which are the main thoroughfares through campus. Traffic is heaviest during class change times and weekday business hours, so allow a little extra time when navigating directly to the hospital or a specific campus building.

To visit the Birmingham Civil Rights District, the most reliable parking strategy is to aim for a public parking garage rather than searching for limited street parking. The Birmingham Parking Authority operates a large deck on 18th Street North, which is centrally located and just a short walk from key landmarks like the 16th Street Baptist Church and Kelly Ingram Park. Arriving earlier in the day, particularly on weekdays, generally makes it easier to find a spot and explore the area on foot.

The Birmingham Zoo and Botanical Gardens share a large parking area, which can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. For the easiest parking experience, plan to arrive right when they open in the morning. This allows you to secure a spot close to the entrance before the midday crowds arrive. Alternatively, visiting on a weekday or arriving later in the afternoon, around 2:00 PM, can also be a good strategy as early visitors may have already started to depart.

Driving in Five Points South can be a bit challenging for first-time visitors due to its unique layout. The area is known for its central five-way intersection, a mix of one-way streets, and frequent pedestrian traffic. The best approach is to drive slowly, be prepared to yield, and pay close attention to street signs. Using a GPS can be very helpful, but it's also wise to anticipate making a loop around the block if you miss a turn in this bustling and historic entertainment district.

For a visit to Railroad Park and Regions Field, a great strategy is to park once and explore the area on foot. There are several large surface lots located along 1st Avenue South, situated between the park and the ballpark, that offer convenient access to both. Another excellent option is the parking deck for the Pizitz Food Hall, which is just a few blocks away. Parking in this central area allows you to easily walk to the park, the game, and numerous nearby restaurants and breweries.

The Summit is a popular upscale outdoor shopping center, and driving there during peak times requires some patience. On weekends and during the holiday season, traffic on US-280 leading to the shopping center can be heavy. While there is ample free parking in both surface lots and garages, the most desirable spots fill up quickly. Be prepared to park a little farther from your intended stores and enjoy a short walk, or try to arrive before the main shopping rush begins late in the morning.

A visit to the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is very car-friendly, as it is located within a large park with extensive on-site parking. The lots situated directly in front of the museum's main entrance are the most convenient and, therefore, the first to fill up. On regular weekdays, finding a close spot is usually not an issue. However, if you are visiting during a major race weekend or special event, arriving early is highly recommended to secure prime parking.

To minimize traffic stress when heading to a concert at Oak Mountain Amphitheatre, plan your arrival well in advance. The venue is located in Pelham, just off I-65 South, and the exit and local roads can become very congested on event nights. It is best to aim to arrive at least 90 minutes before the show's start time. This allows you to navigate the final stretch of roads, find a parking spot in the large lots, and get into the venue without feeling rushed by last-minute backups.

On event days, the area around Protective Stadium and Legacy Arena, part of the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex (BJCC), becomes very busy. Traffic on the surrounding sections of I-59/20 and downtown streets increases significantly. The BJCC has multiple parking lots and decks, and it's often possible to pre-purchase parking online, which is highly recommended. Arriving at least an hour early is a smart strategy to navigate the traffic and find your designated parking area with ease.

When checking into a downtown Birmingham hotel, the best strategy is to use the hotel's designated passenger loading zone or porte-cochère. Pull in briefly to unload your luggage onto the curb with the help of a bellman if one is available. If the hotel lacks a dedicated zone, it's often best for one person to stay with the vehicle with the hazard lights on while the other person quickly checks in. After unloading, you can then proceed to the hotel's recommended parking garage.

Yes, visitors should be particularly mindful of parking regulations in downtown Birmingham and vibrant neighborhoods like Five Points South. On many streets, parking rules can change based on the time of day, shifting from metered parking to a no-parking or loading zone during rush hour. Always read all posted signs carefully to check for time limits and specific restrictions. This simple step can help you avoid an unexpected parking ticket while you explore the city.

The drive from Birmingham to Tuscaloosa is very straightforward, making for an easy day trip. The most direct route is to take I-20 West/I-59 South for about an hour. The primary traffic bottleneck as you approach Tuscaloosa is often on McFarland Boulevard, especially near the I-359 interchange and the bridge over the Black Warrior River. During peak travel times or on game days, this area can experience significant slowdowns, so it's wise to budget a little extra time.

To avoid the intense game-day gridlock around Bryant-Denny Stadium, a great strategy is to park further from campus and utilize shuttles or walk. Many visitors park at large commercial lots, such as University Mall, which often offer shuttle services to the stadium for a small fee. Another option is to find paid parking in lots downtown and enjoy the walk to campus. This approach allows for a much easier exit after the game, bypassing the immediate post-game traffic jam.

A day trip to Huntsville is quite manageable and involves mostly smooth highway driving. The best route is to take I-65 North from Birmingham for approximately 90 minutes until you reach the I-565 East exit for Huntsville. The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is conveniently located right off of I-565, with clear signage directing you to the exit. By avoiding Birmingham's morning and evening rush hours, you can typically enjoy a trip with very little stop-and-go traffic.

The drive to Montgomery is simple for first-time visitors; just take I-65 South for about 90 minutes. This interstate leads you directly to the city. Once you arrive downtown to see landmarks like the State Capitol or the Legacy Museum, the simplest parking solution is to use one of the many public parking decks. These are generally well-signed and located within easy walking distance of the main historic and cultural sites, saving you the trouble of searching for street parking.

While a long day trip, driving to the Gulf Shores area is a popular excursion. The route primarily follows I-65 South. To avoid the worst traffic, especially on a Friday or Saturday, it is crucial to leave Birmingham very early in the morning, aiming to be south of Montgomery before 8:00 AM. The biggest bottleneck is the final stretch on Highway 59 through Foley, which gets extremely congested with beach-bound traffic during the typical afternoon check-in times.

The drive from Birmingham to Mobile is almost entirely on I-65 South. Potential slowdowns can occur when passing through Montgomery and as you approach the I-10 interchange just north of Mobile, especially during holiday weekends. For a comfortable break, the cities of Prattville (just north of Montgomery) and Greenville (about halfway) offer numerous options for fuel, food, and restrooms right off the interstate. These towns are convenient and well-equipped for travelers making the journey.

The most convenient and scenic route to Lake Martin from Birmingham is US-280 East. You'll follow this highway for about an hour before taking smaller state and county roads to your specific destination on the lake. The last stretch of the drive will be on two-lane roads that can be winding and hilly. It's important to drive attentively and watch for local traffic and wildlife as you navigate these quieter roads leading to the shoreline.

Planning a car trip to Cheaha State Park, Alabama's highest point, is a great family outing. The easiest route is I-20 East from Birmingham toward Atlanta, then following the signs from the Lincoln or Oxford exits. The final approach to the park involves driving up Cheaha Mountain on the scenic parkway. This road includes curves and changes in elevation, so it's best to maintain a moderate speed and use lower gears on steep descents if needed.

For a trip to Talladega Superspeedway on race day, the key is to go very early. Take I-20 East from Birmingham, but be prepared for major traffic backups starting miles before the speedway exit. Plan to leave Birmingham at least three to four hours before the race begins. After the event, expect even longer delays as everyone leaves at once; many fans plan to tailgate for a while to let the worst of the traffic clear out before heading home.

As with driving in any new state, the best practice is to be mindful of and strictly adhere to all posted speed limits. On the major interstates surrounding Birmingham, such as I-65, I-20/59, and the I-459 bypass, speed limits are clearly marked. Law enforcement can be present at any time, so maintaining a safe and legal speed is the most effective way to ensure a smooth and uneventful journey. Pay special attention to reduced speed limits in construction zones.

For drivers unaccustomed to them, Birmingham's multi-lane interstates can feel intense, particularly during peak hours. The most challenging area is the I-65 and I-20/59 interchange downtown, which involves multiple lanes merging and exiting in close proximity. To navigate it safely, it's best to know your exit in advance, get into the correct lane early, and avoid last-minute lane changes. Outside of this central interchange, the highway system is generally manageable.

During heavy rainstorms in Birmingham, visibility can be significantly reduced on all high-speed interstates, making it crucial to slow down and increase your following distance. Some major surface roads, like parts of US-280 and lower-lying urban streets, can be prone to standing water or temporary flooding in the outer lanes. It's always safest to avoid driving through deep water and to be extra cautious on unfamiliar roads during a downpour.

While significant snowfall is uncommon in Birmingham, the primary winter driving hazard is ice, especially black ice. Bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas can freeze quickly, even when the road surface appears clear, so exercise extreme caution during cold snaps. Additionally, dense morning fog can occur in low-lying areas, severely limiting visibility. In either condition, reducing your speed and allowing extra travel time is essential for safety.

For safe night driving in Birmingham, it's best to stick to well-lit, major thoroughfares and interstates whenever possible. When leaving a concert or sporting event after dark, be especially vigilant for pedestrians who may be walking through parking lots and crossing streets. On rural highways outside the city, reduce your speed and be alert for wildlife, particularly deer, which can be more active along roadsides at night.

The availability of EV charging stations in the Birmingham area is steadily growing, making EV road trips more feasible. You'll find the highest concentration of chargers in the downtown core, along the busy US-280 corridor, and at major suburban shopping centers like The Summit and the Riverchase Galleria. For the best experience, plan your itinerary using a dedicated EV charging app to locate stations and confirm their availability before you arrive.

After picking up your rental car, a convenient place to organize bulky gear is at one of the nearby shopping centers just a few minutes from the airport. The retail areas along Messer Airport Highway offer large, open parking lots where you can pull over safely. This gives you plenty of space and time to arrange your golf bags, luggage, or other equipment in the trunk without the pressure of being in the busy airport rental facility.

A great approach is to dedicate separate days to city and outdoor exploration. Spend one day focused on downtown Birmingham's museums and historical sites, which are relatively close to each other. On another day, plan a trip to a nearby natural attraction like Oak Mountain State Park or Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve. Both are less than a 30-minute drive from the city center, allowing you to enjoy hiking or outdoor activities without a long travel time.

The most direct route from BHM to the Hoover/Galleria area is to take I-20/59 West to I-65 South. From there, you can exit onto US-31 South or continue to I-459 to reach your hotel. During the evening rush hour, from about 4:00 to 6:00 PM, I-65 South can become very congested. The area on US-31 immediately surrounding the Riverchase Galleria is also a traffic hotspot, especially on weekends, so be sure to allow for extra travel time.

Neighborhoods like Homewood or the Lakeview district are excellent choices for a home base. Homewood offers charming, walkable streets with shops and restaurants, plus easy access to US-31 and US-280 for driving excursions. Lakeview is adjacent to downtown and has a vibrant dining scene, making it easy to walk to local spots while still being positioned for quick car access to the main interstates for exploring the broader metropolitan area.

While navigation apps like Google Maps and Apple Maps are invaluable for getting around Birmingham, it's important to remain alert for real-time conditions. Downtown Birmingham frequently has ongoing construction projects that can lead to sudden lane closures or detours not yet reflected in the app. Always pay attention to physical road signs and be prepared for your navigation to reroute you. Trust the app, but verify with your surroundings.

The process at BHM is designed to be very efficient. First, follow the airport signs for "Departures" to access the upper-level roadway. You can pull up to the curb in front of your airline to drop off passengers and their luggage. After they are safely on their way, simply continue following the airport loop road. Clear signage will then direct you to the "Rental Car Return" entrance in the parking deck, a maneuver that requires no backtracking.