We're flying into ORF July 5th (landing around 2:00) and making our first drive ever to OBX- Corolla. The simplest way that I've found is-
*Take I-64 east.
*Take Exit 291B to US-168 south, which becomes US-158 east.
*Turn left on NC-12 north and continue...

Is this the best route? Any "secrets" we should know about the drive? I understand traffic can be terrible, however our rental agent told us it should only take about 1 1/2 hours- that doesn't seem too bad!! Is that accurate?

Thanks!! We're excited

That's actually about the ONLY route realistically especially if you use the Chesapeake Expressway which will set you back $2.00 but you'll be able to avoid the traffic and lights along Battlefield Blvd.

PS..be careful re speeding along 168/158; speed limit drops to 45 in populated areas.

Also, as of 1 July, using a cell phone without a hands-free device (expect to summon emergency services) while driving is illegal in North Carolina and there will be no warnings.

I guess that's the route I'd take. You're probably at a slight advantage driving in the middle of the 4th of July weekend - but the traffic you'll hit in Virgina will be Saturday beach goers calling it a day.

Traffic on the Outer Banks can't be avoided. There are no other roads.

Great- thank you and thanks for the tips!!!
So you really think it will only take 1 1/2 hrs? I'm thrilled to hear that- I was expecting much worse!

I think they are underestimating the drive time - especially by the time you get all the way up to Corolla.

I just noticed google maps puts the trip at 2 hours 24 minutes (without traffic)...

I've driven from ORF to Corolla a number of times over past 10 years. 168/158 has been improved a lot over this time and traffic moves a lot faster than it used to. However, it will take longer than 1 1/2 hours to get to Corolla. The drive to Wright Memorial Bridge will be 90 minutes, plan on at lest another 30 minutes to get to Corolla. Taking into account the time it takes to get the rental car and getting out of the airport, you likely will not be at your house in Corolla at least until 5:00 pm, maybe 6:00.

On US158 you pass by the the home of the monster truck "Gravedigger". May be of interest to kids.