Norfolk International Airport

Welcome

Nestled just 7 miles northeast of downtown Norfolk, Norfolk International Airport (ORF) presents itself as much more than a typical small-city airport. Channeling a local Tidewater essence, many travelers find spots like The Local @ ORF, Town Center Cold Pressed, and Back Bay Bistro embody a strong regional identity, fostering an easy-going feel often missed in busier hubs. While the airport is praised for its straightforward navigation, knowing when and where to eat and shop—considering shops closing early in the evening—makes all the difference.

At a glance

Handling about 3.6 million passengers each year with just one Main Terminal, ORF balances commerce with comfort. The airport’s layout, consolidated under one roof, enhances its reputation for smooth transit. Despite lacking airline hubs, it still serves major carriers like Allegiant Air, American Airlines, and Breeze Airways. For those flying early or late, the 24-hour Faber on the Fly and self-serve eateries like Fresh Attractions keep travelers fueled.

Terminals & layout

The Main Terminal at ORF accommodates all passengers and airlines. It optimizes simplicity, with everything from dining to boarding gates accessible without undue hassle. With its two concourses (A and B), ORF offers a mix of local flavor and conventional fast food, spread in a way that timing and gate could make a crucial connection more than a simple hallway stroll.

Getting to and from the city

Navigating to and from ORF should be straightforward. Taxicab fares typically range from $40 to $50, and rideshare options hover between $20 and $25. Options abound: hotel shuttles make the journey in roughly 10-20 minutes, and public transit clocks over an hour for a mere $2-$5. For those renting a vehicle, the airport's rental car center requires a 20-25 minute commitment.

Traveller essentials

As you enter ORF, essentials like the USO Lounge on the second floor of the Arrivals Terminal cater specifically to military visitors. Parking is priced economically too, with hourly parking capped at $25 per day and longer-term solutions like Daily Parking at $12. The terminal has a few shops, such as Tech On The Go and Hudson, catering to last-minute buys.

Dining & shopping highlights

For a touch of local Norfolk in your travel menu, try Town Center Cold Pressed in Concourse A, known for its fresh juices and unique breakfast plates—a rarity among airports of this size. Concourse B houses the sports narrative of Bruce Smith’s 200 Sack Club Sports Bar, blurring lines with local fandom. And if kids’ entertainment's a priority, head to FAO Schwarz, an unexpected find in Concourse B, lined with toys and gifts.

Lounges

The only designated lounge at ORF is the USO Lounge, accessible to military travelers arriving on the landside of the Main Terminal. Despite its lack of a broader lounge offering, frequent flyers may find ad-hoc lounges in eateries by seizing tables next to outlets and settling in with Wi-Fi, especially since there’s no Priority Pass or airline lounge.

Insider tips

• Insider: Head to Concourse B for a full meal as early as 4:30 a.m. at Back Bay Bistro—ideal for early departures.
• Local: Try The Local @ ORF in the Main Terminal lobby before security for a taste of Virginian culture.
• Money: Save on water by using the bottle fill stations past TSA in both concourses instead of buying bottled water.
• Time: The USO Lounge in the Arrivals Terminal provides free snacks and games—a respite from the busyness of the terminal.
• Quiet: Early morning or late at night, leverage 24-hour eateries like La Tapenade in Concourse B for hassle-free bites.
• Tech: For gadget needs, rely on Tech On The Go in Concourse A for last-minute electronics.