Explore your retro hipster side in Normaltown, an up-and-coming stylish Athens neighborhood that is anything but normal. Normaltown is named for the former State Normal School for teacher education. The Normal School campus was used as a Navy Supply Corps School from 1954 - 2010 and is now the site of the Health Sciences Campus of the University of Georgia.  

From a classic cocktail or brew at The Old Pal, Hi-Lo Lounge, or Normal Bar to unique, delectable donuts at Ike & Jane and Mary Frances' chicken salad at Marti's at Midday, Normaltown can satisfy any sweet tooth or craving.  Take on a new project with old-fashioned help and supplies from Normal Hardware. Browse at Normal Books.

Normaltown is located at the intersection of Prince Avenue and Oglethorpe Avenue, just a bit farther down Prince Avenue past the Boulevard and Cobbham neighborhoods.

 Local Favorites & Eats

• Marti's at Midday

  A beloved Normaltown staple for over 18 years, Marti's offers gourmet Southern-style sandwiches, salads, and small bites in a cozy 86-year-old house with a cheerful sunroom and outdoor patio.

• Agua Linda Mexican Restaurant
  Family-owned and operated since 1999, Agua Linda serves authentic Mexican dishes including tacos, fajitas, enchiladas, and house-made salsas. Vegetarian options available.

• Ike & Jane Café and Bakery
  Known for their quirky and delicious donuts, pastries, and breakfast fare. A true Athens favorite for a quick treat or morning coffee.

• The Grit
  A legendary Athens vegetarian restaurant just a few blocks from Normaltown, The Grit offers hearty, creative, and delicious vegetarian and vegan meals in a cozy, eclectic setting. Even non-vegetarians love it!

Bars & Breweries

• Hi-Lo Lounge
  A laid-back neighborhood spot offering Cincinnati-style chili, hot dogs (vegan options available!), salchipapas, and classic bar snacks like homemade caramel corn.

• Normal Bar
  A cozy, dimly lit neighborhood bar offering craft beer, classic cocktails (try the American Mule!), and boiled peanuts instead of the usual bar snacks.

• The Old Pal
  A vintage-inspired bar with expertly crafted cocktails and a laid-back vibe perfect for a casual night out.

• Athentic Brewing Company
  A true microbrewery creating unique and approachable beers. Check out their regular calendar of live music, food trucks, trivia nights, and events. Athentic is also a stop on the Athens Beer Trail — pick up a Field Guide and start collecting stamps!

Things to Do

• Bishop Park
  A 33-acre park with athletic fields, a swimming pool, playgrounds, and the Athens Clarke Gymnastics Academy. Bishop Park is also home to the seasonal Athens Farmers Market on Saturday mornings, featuring local produce, crafts, live music, and food vendors.

• Normal Books
  A charming indie bookstore offering a thoughtfully curated collection of new books, gifts, and stationery. Perfect for a relaxing browse.

• Normal Hardware
  A neighborhood hardware store with old-fashioned service — ideal for finding supplies for your next DIY project.

Schools and Neighborhoods

Most of Normaltown is zoned for Chase Street Elementary School and Clarke Central High School. Popular nearby streets and neighborhoods include Boulevard, Sunset Drive, King Avenue, Pulaski Heights, Park Avenue, and the historic Cobbham District — all known strong sense of community, walkability, and classic architecture.