National Car Rental
Norfolk

After collecting your luggage from the baggage claim carousels, look for the prominent overhead signs directing you to "Rental Cars." The National Car Rental counter is conveniently located within the arrivals terminal building, alongside other rental agencies. Once you complete your paperwork at the counter, you will be directed to the adjacent multi-level parking garage where the vehicles are staged. The entire process is contained within the main airport complex, requiring just a short walk to get you on your way.

The most reliable way to handle a late arrival is to ensure your flight number is included in your rental reservation. This allows the local staff to track your flight status and anticipate potential delays. You can also check the specific operating hours for the Norfolk Airport location directly on the National Car Rental website. If your flight is significantly delayed, calling the local branch number upon landing can provide extra peace of mind and confirm staff availability for your arrival.

The process of returning your vehicle at Norfolk International Airport is designed to be efficient. The rental car return is located in the parking garage directly across from the departures terminal. From the moment you drop off your keys, it is typically a very short walk of just a few minutes to get to the airline check-in counters. To be safe, it's always wise to budget about 15 to 20 minutes total for the return process, including gathering your belongings and walking to the terminal.

For the most straightforward drive to Downtown Norfolk, exit the airport and follow the signs for I-64 West toward Hampton and Richmond. After a few miles on I-64, you will take exit 284 for I-264 West toward Downtown Norfolk. This interstate route keeps you off complex surface streets and provides clear signage for the downtown exits, such as City Hall Avenue. Using a GPS will help, but this primary highway route is the most direct and least confusing for visitors.

The most direct and simplest route to Virginia Beach is to follow the airport exit signs for I-64 East. This interstate will take you a short distance before it merges directly into I-264 East, which is the main expressway leading all the way to the Virginia Beach oceanfront. The signage is very clear for this major tourist destination, making it an easy drive even for those unfamiliar with the area. This route avoids local roads and minimizes the number of turns you need to make.

When driving to Naval Station Norfolk, especially during morning or afternoon rush hours, it is crucial to plan for significant delays near the base gates. The most direct route is typically I-564 West, but traffic can back up considerably. It is highly advisable to check a real-time traffic app like Google Maps or Waze before you depart from the airport. As a general rule, add at least 20 to 30 minutes to the estimated travel time to account for potential gate congestion.

While many roads around Naval Station Norfolk are public, it's critical to pay close attention to all posted signs indicating restricted areas or checkpoints. Do not attempt to enter any gate or access road that is marked for military personnel only. Your GPS may not always distinguish between public roads and secure entry points, so be vigilant. If you accidentally approach a checkpoint, follow the instructions of the security personnel calmly and precisely.

The most convenient method is to use your hotel's main entrance and designated passenger loading zone. Pull up to the front, and the hotel's valet or bell staff can typically assist you with your luggage. This allows you to quickly unload your bags and check in without the pressure of finding immediate parking. Once your luggage is handled, you can then proceed to the hotel's recommended parking garage or a nearby public lot without having to carry your bags a long distance.

Downtown Norfolk features a grid system with a significant number of one-way streets, which can be tricky for first-time visitors. It's essential to use a reliable GPS navigation app and pay close attention to street signs indicating traffic flow and turning restrictions. Driving cautiously and anticipating your turns well in advance will help you navigate the area smoothly. While it may seem complex at first, the grid is logical once you get a feel for it.

Driving to the Waterside District is straightforward, as it's a major landmark with good signage from I-264. On busy weekend evenings, traffic in the immediate area can be heavy, but parking is generally manageable. There are several large, clearly marked public parking garages located within a one- or two-block walk of the district. Arriving a little before your planned time is a good strategy to secure a spot without feeling rushed.

On game nights, the most direct route to Harbor Park is typically via I-264, using either the City Hall Avenue or Waterside Drive exits. Expect increased traffic volume on all surrounding streets as the start time approaches. Event parking signs will guide you to the designated lots around the stadium. To avoid the worst of the congestion, plan to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before the game begins, giving you ample time to park and walk to the entrance.

The primary challenge when driving to Chrysler Hall for an event is the convergence of traffic on St. Paul's Boulevard and Monticello Avenue. Police often direct traffic, which can alter normal patterns and lane availability, causing confusion for unfamiliar drivers. The parking garage attached to Scope Arena is the most convenient, but the entrance can get backed up. To avoid stress, consider using a city garage a few blocks away and enjoying a short walk to the venue.

For first-time visitors, driving through the Downtown or Midtown tunnels can feel narrow and enclosed. The key is to maintain a steady speed, stay centered in your lane, and avoid sudden braking. Be aware that traffic often slows down or stops completely at the tunnel entrances during peak travel times. Keep a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you and be prepared for the transition from bright daylight to the tunnel's artificial lighting.

To minimize delays when traveling between Norfolk and Portsmouth, it's best to avoid crossing through the Downtown or Midtown tunnels during weekday commuter rush hours, typically from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The lightest traffic is usually found during mid-day, between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, or later in the evening. Always check a real-time traffic app before you depart to see the current conditions at the tunnel approaches.

The most direct route from Norfolk to Olde Towne Portsmouth is by taking I-264 West through the Downtown Tunnel. Once you exit the tunnel, follow the signs for the historic waterfront area. Visitors will find several convenient public parking garages, particularly along County Street and Middle Street, which offer easy walking access to the shops, restaurants, and attractions on High Street. On-street parking is also available but can be more limited.

Driving to the Peninsula cities of Hampton or Newport News requires crossing a major bridge-tunnel, most commonly the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT) on I-64. This crossing is notorious for heavy congestion, especially during rush hour and on summer weekends. Always check a traffic app before you go. If the HRBT is backed up, your primary alternate route is the Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge-Tunnel (MMMBT) on I-664, which often has lighter traffic.

Your choice depends on your itinerary's focus. Staying in Norfolk provides a central base for exploring the entire Hampton Roads region, including Portsmouth and the Peninsula, but requires a drive to get to the beach. Staying in Virginia Beach is ideal if the oceanfront is your main destination, as it minimizes beach-day traffic. However, it can lead to longer drives and potential tunnel traffic if you plan frequent trips back to Norfolk or other cities.

The Virginia Beach Oceanfront is organized on a simple grid, with Atlantic Avenue running one-way northbound and Pacific Avenue running one-way southbound. Most hotel access is from Pacific Avenue, which is less congested than the beachfront Atlantic Avenue. U-turns are generally not permitted, so it's best to plan your route to approach your destination from the correct direction. During the busy season, expect heavy pedestrian traffic crossing the main roads.

The main challenges during summer weekends are the sheer volume of vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The I-264 expressway leading into the oceanfront can back up for miles, and finding parking becomes a significant time commitment. Atlantic Avenue gets very congested with people cruising and looking for spots. The best strategy is to arrive early in the day, park your car in a hotel or municipal garage, and plan to walk or use local trolleys for the rest of the day.

The main entrance to First Landing State Park is located on Shore Drive (US-60). Once inside, you'll find several large parking lots near the trailheads, picnic areas, and the Chesapeake Bay beachfront. On nice weekends, especially during the summer, these lots can fill up quickly. To ensure you get a parking spot, it is highly recommended to arrive before 10:00 AM.

The most straightforward route is to take I-64 West from Norfolk directly to the Williamsburg area. For a scenic and historic connection between sites, exit I-64 and follow signs for the Colonial Parkway. This dedicated park road links Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown with clear signage and no commercial traffic. Using your GPS is always helpful, but this primary route is well-marked for tourists.

A day trip to the Outer Banks requires an early start to maximize your time. The primary route is VA-168 South, which becomes US-158 in North Carolina. The biggest bottleneck is often the Wright Memorial Bridge, especially on summer weekends. To avoid the worst traffic, plan to leave Norfolk before 7:00 AM. A weekday trip will almost always be less congested than a Saturday or Sunday.

The Cape Henry Lighthouse is located on the active Joint Expeditionary Base Fort Story, so you cannot simply drive up to it. Civilian visitors must enter through a security gate and present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, to obtain a temporary pass. It is essential to check the base's official website or call ahead for the most current visitor access policies, hours, and requirements before you make the trip.

Several major tunnels and express lanes in the Hampton Roads area utilize all-electronic tolling systems like E-ZPass. Most rental vehicles are equipped with a tolling transponder or a similar service that records any tolls you incur during your trip. To understand how this service works and how you will be billed for the tolls, it's a good practice to ask the rental agent for a brief explanation when you pick up your car at the counter.

The most important rule is to never stop, back up, or swerve suddenly if you find yourself in a toll lane by mistake. For your safety and the safety of others, continue driving forward through the tolling gantry. The electronic system will automatically capture the vehicle's information. The rental company's tolling program is designed to manage these occurrences, ensuring the toll is paid and processed correctly without any unsafe action on your part.

During weekday afternoon rush hour, typically from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, the drive from the Virginia Beach Oceanfront to Norfolk International Airport can be unpredictable. Traffic on I-264 West can become very heavy, easily turning a 30-minute drive into an hour or more. To be safe, it is wise to allow at least 90 minutes for the drive itself, in addition to the time you'll need to refuel the car and complete the return process at the airport.

The most efficient strategy is to first drive to the main terminal's upper-level departures curb. There, you can drop off all your passengers and luggage, allowing them to proceed directly to the airline check-in counter. After they are safely on their way, the driver can then proceed alone to the rental car return garage. This approach saves time and eliminates the hassle of managing multiple people and bags in the return area.

As you approach the airport's parking garage, look for large overhead signs that clearly direct traffic for "Rental Car Return." Once you enter the designated return area, each rental company, including National, has its own clearly marked lanes and stalls. Follow the specific signs for National Car Rental to ensure you are in the correct lane. The flow of traffic is designed to be straightforward, even during busy periods.

Before you drive away from the rental lot, take a minute for a final sweep of the vehicle's interior. Check the glove compartment, center console, door pockets, and under the seats for personal items like smartphones, wallets, sunglasses, or charging cords. It's also a good idea to quickly glance at your rental agreement to ensure you have it with you. This simple check can prevent the major inconvenience of having to return for a forgotten item.

A frequent mistake for visitors is taking the wrong ramp onto I-64. The signage can appear quickly after you leave the airport property. Before you start driving, confirm whether your destination requires I-64 East (for Virginia Beach and Chesapeake) or I-64 West (for Hampton, Richmond, and Downtown Norfolk via I-264). Having your GPS destination set before you leave the rental lot will help you confidently choose the correct lane for the on-ramp.

Parking in these neighborhoods requires careful attention to signage. Much of Ghent's on-street parking is restricted to residents with permits, especially in the evenings. Similarly, areas around the EVMS medical complex and Old Dominion University have strict parking enforcement. For overnight stays, the most reliable and stress-free option is to use a designated hotel lot or a public parking garage rather than searching for a valid on-street spot.

Old Dominion University provides designated parking areas for visitors to avoid ticketing in student or faculty lots. Look for signs directing you to visitor parking garages, which are typically pay-by-the-hour or for a daily flat rate. Before your visit, it's a great idea to check the university's official website for a campus map that clearly marks the locations of these visitor garages, ensuring a smooth arrival.

During concerts, sporting events, or performances, the streets immediately surrounding the Norfolk Scope Arena, like St. Paul's Boulevard, become very congested. The primary parking option is the large, multi-level garage directly connected to the venue, with several other city garages located within a few blocks. To avoid the worst traffic, plan to arrive at least 45 minutes early and follow the guidance of traffic police and electronic signs directing you to available parking.

The Norfolk Botanical Garden is conveniently located just a few minutes' drive from the airport. The simplest route is to take Norview Avenue east to Azalea Garden Road and then follow the well-marked signs to the garden's entrance. Once you arrive, you will find a large, dedicated visitor parking lot situated directly in front of the main visitor center, making access extremely easy and convenient.

Norfolk is a low-lying coastal city, and heavy rainfall can lead to significant street flooding, particularly in areas like Ghent, near the Hague, and on roads approaching the tunnels. It is crucial to never drive through standing water, as its depth can be deceptive and cause serious damage to your vehicle. Be prepared for road closures and allow extra travel time during and after intense rainstorms, and always choose an alternate route if a road appears flooded.

During hurricane season, which runs from June through November, it's vital to stay informed about the latest weather forecasts. A key preparation is to keep your rental car's fuel tank at least half full at all times in case of evacuation advisories. Be aware of your location's evacuation route and understand that bridges and tunnels may be closed to traffic if wind speeds become too high. Always prioritize safety and follow the guidance of local authorities.

The area along North Military Highway, just a minute or two from the airport exit, is the perfect place to make a preparatory stop. This commercial corridor is lined with numerous gas stations, fast-food restaurants, and convenience stores. You can safely pull into a parking lot here to program your GPS, adjust your seats, and purchase any drinks or snacks you need for your journey before merging onto the interstate.

For travelers with bulky recreational gear, renting an SUV or a minivan is the most practical choice. These vehicle types offer significantly more cargo space and versatility than a standard sedan. The ability to fold down rear seats creates a large, flat area that is ideal for loading and unloading surfboards, coolers, and fishing equipment. This makes your beach and outdoor excursions much more convenient and hassle-free.

To minimize driving stress, schedule your travel between cities to avoid peak rush hours. The drive from Norfolk to Richmond and then on to Washington, D.C., primarily uses I-64 and I-95, which see heavy commuter traffic in the mornings and late afternoons. Plan your long-distance driving for the middle of the day, roughly between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. This strategy helps ensure a smoother, more predictable, and more enjoyable road trip.

The most reliable tool for checking real-time road conditions is the Virginia Department of Transportation's 511 service. It is available as a free mobile app, a website (511virginia.org), or a phone service you can dial. This service provides up-to-the-minute information on traffic congestion, accidents, bridge openings, and construction-related closures. Making it a habit to check 511 before you begin your drive is the best way to avoid unexpected delays.