Payless Car Rental
Norfolk

Upon arriving at Norfolk International Airport and collecting your luggage, you can find the rental car counters conveniently located within the arrivals terminal. Simply follow the overhead signs for "Rental Cars" or "Ground Transportation." The desks are typically grouped together in a dedicated area, making it a straightforward walk from the baggage claim carousels. Once you complete your paperwork at the counter, an agent will direct you to the adjacent parking garage where the vehicles are staged for pickup.

For a smooth late-night pickup at Norfolk International Airport, it's always best to have your reservation confirmed in advance with your flight details included. This helps the rental staff anticipate your arrival. After landing, proceed directly from baggage claim to the rental car center located in the arrivals terminal. The area is well-lit and signed, so you won't need to navigate outside the terminal building until you have your keys and are ready to head to the designated parking garage to collect your vehicle.

If your flight lands at ORF during the morning rush, it's wise to add a little extra buffer time for your car rental pickup. While the airport itself is efficient, the rental counters can experience higher volume as business and leisure travelers arrive simultaneously. Planning for an additional 20 to 30 minutes beyond the usual pickup time is a good precaution. This allows for potential lines at the counter and gives you a relaxed start before heading out into Norfolk's morning traffic.

For the most straightforward drive to the Virginia Beach oceanfront from ORF, the best route is to follow the signs for I-64 East. Shortly after, you will take the exit for I-264 East, which is clearly marked for Virginia Beach. This interstate, also known as the Norfolk-Virginia Beach Expressway, will take you directly to the heart of the oceanfront area. It's a major thoroughfare designed for visitors, minimizing complex interchanges and allowing you to settle into your drive with ease.

When staying in downtown Norfolk, most visitors find that using their hotel's parking garage is the most convenient option for overnight parking. Many hotels offer dedicated facilities for their guests. Before committing, it's a good idea to check if the garage has in-and-out privileges, which allows you to come and go as you please without incurring new charges each time. Also, consider the garage's accessibility and clearance if you are renting a larger vehicle like an SUV.

Driving in Norfolk's historic Ghent neighborhood can be lively, especially during evening restaurant hours. The streets are a mix of residential and commercial, so be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists. Parking is typically a combination of on-street spots and small public lots. During peak times, finding a space can require a bit of patience and you may need to park a few blocks away from your destination. Arriving a little early for your dinner reservation is a great strategy to secure a spot without feeling rushed.

For a simple and direct drive to Williamsburg from Norfolk, your best option is to take Interstate 64 West. This route is the primary artery connecting the two cities and completely avoids any major water crossings like the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel. The drive is almost entirely on the interstate, with clear signage for the Colonial Williamsburg exits. It's a predictable and relatively calm journey, making it ideal for visitors unfamiliar with the region's complex waterways.

The most direct and generally calmest route from Norfolk to Richmond is via Interstate 64 West. This major highway provides a consistent, multi-lane driving experience for the entire journey. While it is a primary corridor, it is typically less complex than alternative back roads. To further minimize stress from merges and lane changes, consider traveling outside of peak morning and evening commute times, which will result in a much smoother and more relaxed drive between the two cities.

Driving through the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT) for the first time is a unique experience, transitioning from a long bridge over the water directly into an underwater tunnel. It's important to maintain a consistent speed and be aware of the traffic around you. During summer weekends, especially on Fridays and Sundays, expect significant delays as it's a major chokepoint for beach traffic. Always check a real-time traffic app before you depart and consider traveling during off-peak hours if your schedule allows.

When driving from Norfolk to the Outer Banks on a summer Saturday, the primary bottlenecks occur on Route 168 and US-158 in Chesapeake and Currituck County. Traffic often slows considerably leading up to and crossing the Wright Memorial Bridge onto the barrier islands. To mitigate delays, the best strategies are to leave Norfolk very early in the morning, ideally before 7 a.m., or to wait until late afternoon after the peak check-in rush has subsided. Packing snacks and water is always a good idea for this popular travel day.

To avoid a frustrating search for parking on a day trip to the Virginia Beach boardwalk, timing is everything. The most effective strategy is to arrive early, preferably before 10 a.m., especially on a sunny summer day. This allows you to secure a spot in one of the municipal lots or garages closest to the oceanfront before they fill up. Alternatively, arriving in the late afternoon, around 3 or 4 p.m., can also work well as many early beachgoers begin to head home, opening up prime parking spaces.

On a beautiful warm-weather weekend, the parking lots at First Landing State Park can fill up surprisingly fast. To ensure you get a spot, especially at the popular Chesapeake Bay side entrance off Shore Drive, it's highly recommended to arrive before 10 a.m. By late morning, it's common for the lots to reach capacity, leading to closures until spaces become available later in the afternoon. An early start not only guarantees parking but also lets you enjoy the trails and beach before the biggest crowds arrive.

Combining a visit to the Norfolk Botanical Garden with errands near the airport is very efficient due to their close proximity. The garden is located right next to Norfolk International Airport (ORF). The best plan is to visit the garden first, then complete your errands at the nearby shopping centers, such as the Norfolk Premium Outlets or other stores along Military Highway. This approach allows you to work your way from the garden back toward the main roads, preventing any unnecessary backtracking and saving you valuable time.

For a visit to Nauticus and the USS Wisconsin in downtown Norfolk, the most convenient parking is available in the dedicated city-owned garages located right next to the museum. The Plume Street Garage and the Main Street Garage are both just a short walk away. Following the prominent signs for "Nauticus" or "Waterside" as you drive into downtown will lead you directly to these well-maintained and accessible parking structures. This eliminates the need to search for street parking and puts you right at the entrance to the attractions.

For a hassle-free evening at the Waterside District, the most common strategy is to use one of the large, adjacent parking garages, such as the Waterside Garage or the Town Point Garage. These are specifically designed to serve the venue and surrounding downtown attractions. To make it even smoother, consider arriving a little before your planned dinner or event time, especially on a weekend. This helps you avoid the peak rush of cars all trying to park at once and lets you start your evening on a relaxed note.

Driving to the Norfolk Premium Outlets during peak times, like weekends or holidays, requires a bit of patience as the access roads can get congested. The outlets have extensive surface parking lots surrounding the stores. The best advice is to arrive early in the day to find a spot closer to the main entrances. If you arrive mid-day, be prepared to park further out and enjoy a short walk. Following the directional signs within the parking lot will help you navigate the area efficiently.

To avoid traffic congestion when attending an event at Scope Arena, plan to arrive downtown about 45 to 60 minutes before the event starts. This gives you ample time to park in the dedicated Scope Garage or a nearby city garage without feeling rushed. For a smoother exit, consider waiting 15 to 20 minutes after the event concludes before heading to your car. Alternatively, parking in a garage a few blocks away can sometimes allow for a quicker departure as you'll be away from the immediate post-event gridlock.

When visiting a student at either Norfolk State University (NSU) or Old Dominion University (ODU), the most predictable parking option is to use the designated visitor parking garages or lots on campus. Before your trip, check the university's website for a campus map and specific visitor parking information. It's often helpful to coordinate with the student you are visiting, as they may have insights on the best places to park based on the day and time of your visit. Arriving outside of class change times can also make finding a spot easier.

A split stay between Norfolk and Virginia Beach is very manageable with a rental car and a great way to experience both cities. The drive between them is straightforward via I-264 and typically takes about 25-35 minutes. To avoid traffic headaches when moving hotels, simply plan your check-out and check-in to avoid peak commute hours (7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m.). A mid-day hotel change is usually a smooth and stress-free process, allowing you to easily transition from Norfolk's urban attractions to the coastal vibe of Virginia Beach.

For a simple drive from Norfolk to Portsmouth that avoids the main downtown tunnel, taking I-264 West is your best bet. This route will lead you to the Jordan Bridge, which is a modern, high-rise bridge offering great views and a less confined feeling than a tunnel. It provides easy access to Portsmouth's historic Olde Towne and waterfront areas. Using a GPS will make the drive even more seamless, but this bridge route is generally well-marked and a comfortable choice for first-time visitors.

Using a rental car for a day trip to Suffolk and the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is highly practical and the best way to explore the area. The drive from Norfolk is relatively easy via US-58 West. For your visit, especially to the swamp, be sure to have a full tank of gas, as services are sparse within the refuge. It's also wise to pack water, snacks, and insect repellent. A rental car gives you the freedom to explore different trailheads and access points at your own pace.

For the most relaxed and scenic drive across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, aim for a mid-morning or mid-afternoon trip on a weekday. This helps you avoid both commuter traffic and the peak weekend travel rushes. The lighting during these times is excellent for photography at the scenic overlook and fishing pier located on the southern island. Driving during clear weather will maximize your enjoyment of the stunning panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay, making the journey as memorable as the destination.

To reach the Military Circle area from the airport with minimal hassle, take Military Highway (US-13) directly. This major road offers straightforward access to the shopping centers. If you are coming from downtown Norfolk or Virginia Beach via I-264, use the dedicated exit for Military Highway. Once on the highway, stay in the right lanes as you approach the shopping district, as most of the major stores and restaurants will have direct, easy-to-navigate entrances from the main road, reducing the need for complex turns.

After picking up your rental car at ORF, a very convenient place to stop for supplies is along North Military Highway, just a few minutes from the airport exit. This road is lined with numerous grocery stores, pharmacies, and large retail stores where you can easily find snacks, drinks, sunscreen, and any other last-minute items. This allows you to get fully organized and stocked up for your trip before you even merge onto the interstate, making for a well-prepared and relaxed start to your Norfolk adventure.

The most direct route to the secluded Sandbridge area from Norfolk is to take I-264 East toward the Virginia Beach oceanfront, then transition to local roads like General Booth Boulevard. The drive can slow down significantly on summer weekends, particularly on Saturday afternoons during vacation rental check-in times. The final stretch involves two-lane roads, so traffic can back up easily. Using a GPS is highly recommended to navigate the final local turns, and planning your arrival for outside of peak check-in hours will ensure a much smoother journey.

A one-day trip to both Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens from Norfolk is ambitious but possible with a good plan. Start your day very early, aiming to be on I-64 West before 8 a.m. to beat traffic and arrive at one of the parks by opening time. The two attractions are located just a few miles from each other, making the transfer between them quick. Expect a full day of activity and plan to leave the Williamsburg area after the evening rush hour to ensure a smoother drive back to Norfolk.

As a visitor driving near Naval Station Norfolk, the world's largest naval base, be prepared for significant traffic, especially during morning and afternoon shift changes. Main roads like Hampton Boulevard and Terminal Boulevard can become very congested. It is crucial to follow all posted signs and not attempt to enter any restricted gates or roadways, which are clearly marked. Using a real-time traffic app is essential for navigating around the area and finding alternative routes during peak congestion periods.

Parking at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk is generally straightforward, as they have a large, free parking lot directly in front of the main entrance. However, on beautiful weekends, holidays, or special event days, this lot can fill up. To ensure a stress-free experience and a good parking spot, it's best to arrive either right when the zoo opens in the morning or later in the afternoon, after 1 p.m., when the initial morning crowds may have started to depart.

For families with kids and strollers, several Norfolk attractions offer very convenient parking. The Virginia Zoo has a large, free surface lot right at its entrance, making access incredibly easy. Similarly, the Norfolk Botanical Garden provides ample parking close to its visitor center. Downtown, the garages for Nauticus and the USS Wisconsin are located right next to the attraction, with elevators for easy stroller access. These locations minimize long walks from the car to the entrance, which is a huge plus for families.

If you're staying near The Tide light rail and only need a car for specific day trips, a great strategy is to plan your rental for just the days you need it. You can use the light rail for easy travel within downtown Norfolk and then pick up your rental car for excursions to Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, or other regional destinations. This approach can be very efficient, allowing you to avoid daily parking hassles and expenses when you're exploring the local downtown area on foot or by public transit.

Driving in Norfolk during heavy rain requires extra caution, as the low-lying coastal geography can lead to localized flooding and standing water. Areas around the Hague in Ghent, parts of Hampton Boulevard near the naval base, and some low spots near the waterfront are known to be problematic. Traffic generally slows down everywhere as visibility decreases. It's important to reduce your speed, increase your following distance, and never attempt to drive through deep, standing water on the roadway.

If a serious storm is forecast for the Hampton Roads area, the most critical driving decision is to follow the guidance of local authorities. They may issue evacuation orders for certain zones, and designated evacuation routes will be activated. It's essential to have a full tank of gas and to leave well ahead of the storm's arrival, as traffic on major arteries like I-64 West can become extremely heavy. Staying informed via local news and emergency alerts is paramount for making safe travel decisions.

During peak summer weekends, expect a significant increase in traffic volume throughout Norfolk, especially on the interstates leading toward Virginia Beach, like I-264. The Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT) will also see major delays. In contrast, a normal weekday outside of commute hours is much calmer. On a summer weekend, plan for longer travel times for any trip, allow for extra patience, and use a traffic app to check your route before you leave.

For a sunrise photography trip from Norfolk, the drive to Virginia Beach or Chic's Beach in the pre-dawn hours is typically traffic-free and very peaceful. Driving east on I-264 to the Virginia Beach oceanfront is simple, and you'll find ample street parking or open lots at that early hour. For a quieter scene, taking Shore Drive to the Chesapeake Bay side offers numerous access points with small parking areas that are usually empty before sunrise, providing a perfect, tranquil setup for your photos.

A common mistake for first-time drivers in Norfolk is underestimating the complexity of the I-64 and I-264 interchange, especially near downtown. Exits can come up quickly, and some lanes are exit-only. Another point of confusion can be navigating the various bridge-tunnels. The best way to avoid these issues is to use a GPS navigation app and review your route before you start driving. Paying close attention to overhead signs well in advance of your exit will help ensure you are in the correct lane.

When returning your rental car at ORF for an early flight, a safe timeline is crucial. From downtown Norfolk, allow about 20-30 minutes for the drive itself, as pre-commute traffic is usually light. Budget another 15-20 minutes for the car return process, including inspection and paperwork. From there, it's a short walk to the terminal. To be safe, plan to leave your downtown hotel at least two hours before your flight's departure time to account for all steps without feeling rushed.

A day trip to Cape Charles from Norfolk is a fantastic journey across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. Plan to make the drive in the morning to have a full day to explore the town. The bridge-tunnel itself is a scenic attraction, so consider a stop at the overlook on the southern island for photos. The drive takes about an hour without stops. To avoid potential weekend traffic backups at the tunnel, try to make your trip on a weekday or get an early start on Saturday or Sunday.

When visiting Norfolk during a major event like Harborfest, the best strategy is to park once and explore on foot or with public transit. Arrive early in the day and secure a spot in a city garage that is slightly away from the main event area, such as the York Street Garage or MacArthur Center. From there, you can easily walk to the waterfront or use The Tide light rail to get around downtown. This approach saves you the immense frustration of trying to find parking near crowded festival grounds.

If you're picking up a rental at ORF before a cruise, the drive to the Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center is very direct. It's located in downtown Norfolk, and you can follow signs for downtown and then for the cruise terminal. The terminal has a dedicated parking garage directly across the street, offering convenient and secure parking for the duration of your cruise. Arriving at the designated time suggested by your cruise line will help ensure a smooth drop-off and parking experience.

To minimize tunnel delays when exploring Norfolk, Hampton, and Newport News, strategic planning is key. Try to group your activities by city to avoid multiple daily water crossings. When you do need to cross the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel or the Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge-Tunnel, plan to do so during off-peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Always check a real-time traffic app before you leave, as this will help you choose the least congested route for your cross-harbor journey.