Overview & Suitability

The Hayes Street Parking Lot (880 Army Navy Dr Parking) is a specialized open-air, flat surface parking facility located directly across the street from the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City and Harris Teeter in Arlington, VA. While primarily utilized during business hours as a secure, permit-only lot for Department of Defense (DoD) employees, this lot transitions into a highly convenient public parking facility during evenings, weekends, and federal holidays. It is ideally suited for standard passenger cars, SUVs, and vans. Please note that while the eastern portion serves as a tour bus drop-off and pick-up zone, active public parking is restricted to cars, and overnight parking or idling is strictly prohibited.

Access, Dimensions & Clearance

Unlike nearby underground parking garages, this facility is a flat, outdoor surface lot. As a result, it does not have the strict overhead clearance limits of adjacent parking garages (which typically restrict vehicles to 6 feet 6 inches), making it an excellent choice for slightly taller passenger vehicles and SUVs. Access is straightforward and directly off Army Navy Drive. Navigation inside the lot is clear, with dedicated lanes and well-marked pedestrian walkways. To access the Pentagon and the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial, visitors can easily use the adjacent, weather-protected pedestrian tunnel that runs under I-395.

Parking Rates, Tariffs & Booking

Public parking is entirely free of charge during designated off-peak public hours. Pre-booking is not available, and spaces are claimed on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to its status as a restricted government lot during the day, the general public may only park during these times:

• Weekdays (Mon-Fri): 5:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
• Weekends & Federal Holidays: All day (Saturday and Sunday).

Cars must be removed prior to the start of normal business hours on weekdays. Any unauthorized vehicles left in the lot outside of public hours or overnight will be strictly enforced, ticketed, or towed by the Pentagon Force Protection Agency.

Security & Amenities

Because of its strategic location adjacent to the Pentagon Reservation, the lot boasts exceptionally high security. It is actively monitored and patrolled by the Pentagon Force Protection Agency (PFPA) and the Arlington County Police Department. The area is well-lit at night. Key convenience features include the pedestrian tunnel under I-395, which safely connects the lot directly to the Pentagon South Parking area, the Pentagon Memorial Gateway, and nearby transit options.

Strategic Alternative

The Hayes Street Parking Lot is one of the best-kept parking secrets in the Arlington and Washington D.C. area. It serves as an exceptional free alternative parking option on weekends for those visiting the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial, the DEA Museum, and the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City. Furthermore, since the lot is situated just a short walk (approximately 5 minutes) from the Pentagon City Metro Station, travelers can park here for free on weekends and take the Blue or Yellow lines directly into downtown Washington D.C., completely bypassing city traffic and expensive parking fees.