Normal Heights - San Diego, CA Area Guide

Named after the State Normal School, a predecessor to San Diego University, the area remained largely undeveloped until the turn of the 20th century. After a reservoir was built in 1905, and over 40 buildings quickly sprang up before the end of 1906. At that time it was still independent from the rest of the San Diego area, but a trolley system connected it to the city by 1913, along with paved roads and sidewalks. The neighborhood was finally annexed to San Diego in 1925. A large fire broke out in 1985, destroying nearly 70 homes, some of which were built that first year of development in 1906.

Normal Heights does not have any museums, but the San Diego Natural History Museum, San Diego Air and Space Museum and San Diego Museum of Art all sit near Balboa Park, just to the southeast of the neighborhood. The Andrea Rushing Academy of Art, located off of Adams Avenue, offers classes in oil painting, pastels and drawing, as well as art shows on the first Saturday of every month. The arts scene expands to the annual Art Around Adams event, featuring two miles of live music and art, stretching along Adams Avenue from Normal Heights into Kensington.

International and American fare collide in Normal Heights. Find barbecue and burger joints next to Greek and Mexican establishments as you stroll down the main thoroughfare. The nightlife in Normal Heights includes lots of bar and clubs, so residents can always find a way to spend the evening. Most restaurants in the neighborhood sit along Adams Avenue, from Bancroft Street to Wilson Avenue.

Get an authentic, home-cooked Mexican dinner at Super Cocina, located on University Avenue. This mom-and-pop eatery features caldo de res, lamb barria and the popular pozole, serving it fresh without emptying your pocketbook. Sample a few selections if you're having trouble deciding what to eat.

Walking remains a very popular option for getting around the neighborhood, thanks to the central location of the area’s shopping and dining establishments. Despite its walkability, bike riding remains a less attractive option since the neighborhood only has one bike lane or route, which runs along 35th Street.

Five bus routes pass through Normal Heights, including 1, 11, 170 and 215, and residents can also call a cab or book a ride through Uber. The neighborhood does not offer any public parking lots or garages, but three garages sit just over the boundary in North Park, when coming from the east side of University Avenue. CA-15 and I-805 run along the eastern and western boundaries of the neighborhood and meet I-8 to the north, making all three highways easily accessible to residents.

Parks in Normal Heights include Ward Canyon Park and Mountain View Mini Park, all free to visit and located in the northern portion of the neighborhood. You can also grow your own vegetables at the Vera House Community Garden off of 34th Street.

Ward Canyon Park, off of 39th Street on the east side of the neighborhood, houses a small amphitheater, a playground for the kids and a basketball court. Mountain View Mini Park, off of North Mountain View Drive, features a small space covered in foliage, which provides good views of the valley. Normal Heights does not have any off-leash dog parks, but Morley Field Dog Park lies to the west of the neighborhood, in Balboa Park.

Excited about making Normal Heights your new home? If a one-bedroom apartment catches your eye, you'll be pleased to discover that the average monthly rent is around $2,100. If you're envisioning more space, let's talk houses! Houses for rent in Normal Heights cost approximately $3,200 per month. And for those with dreams of homeownership, the average house price in Normal Heights is about $940,000. Whether you're seeking snug comfort or roomy elegance, Normal Heights presents various options tailored to different budgets and preferences.

The center of commerce in Normal Heights sits on Adams Avenue, especially between 35th Street and Wilson Avenue, including high-end and high-value specialty shops and boutiques. Back From Tomboctou Gallery & Imports, located on Adams Avenue, features Latin American folk art and antiques, with heavy inventory focusing on items to celebrate the Day of the Dead. Stuff Furniture Consignment Shop, also located on Adams Avenue, offers a unique selection of home furnishings, such as art and lamps. You can also find some patio and garden items to complete the outside of your home.

If you need a quick stop for groceries, North Park Produce, located on El Cajon Boulevard, carries a wide selection of produce and cheeses. You might even be able to sample a few before you buy. Normal Heights does not host a farmers' market, but North Park has one just across I-805 on North Park Way. It runs on Thursday afternoons in the CVS parking lot.