Irondale restores train platform at Whistle Stop Cafe [PHOTOS]

This will make Fannie Flagg smile.

The train viewing platform in front of the Irondale Cafe, The Original Whistle Stop Cafe — the iconic restaurant and place Flagg made famous in the novel and movie Fried Green Tomatoes, reopens in downtown Irondale on Saturday, June 1st.

Irondale is known for trains

Irondale has long been known for trains, with Norfolk Southern’s Norris Yard located in town. 

Unfortunately, the beloved viewing platform, which was a popular gathering spot for families and loved ones for years, was presenting some safety issues.

This spring, recognizing the problem, the city acted quickly to renovate the platform, receiving approval from the city council in April.  

In addition to fixing the structure for residents and visitors to enjoy the trains, the restored platform fits nicely into Irondale’s plans to revitalize their downtown area.

“We’re planning to redevelop Irondale’s downtown core into a ‘Gathering Spot’ for the community, similar to what others term an entertainment district. Plans are in motion and property has been purchased to shift our municipal buildings— police, admin, public works, and library, out of this area to pave the way for a commercial resurgence with restaurants, shopping, and more.”

Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr.

Train platform and Farmers Market – June 1st

Mayor Stewart will cut the ribbon for the newly renovated train viewing platform on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 9:00AM. 

Simultaneously, just across the tracks, the Irondale Farmers & Makers Market will be open for the fourth week of this season. The market is open every Saturday, from 8-11AM next to Irondale City Hall, and will continue into early fall. Vendors include; 

• Bald Rock Bees
• C&J Farms
• Hamm Farms
• Beehive Baking Company, and many others.

“What we’re doing now with renovating the train platform and hosting the market is giving citizens a preview of this area’s potential and what it can look like when it’s filled with people enjoying their day and fellowshipping with one another. It’s a combination that showcases our rich history with trains as well as our vibrant future.”

Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr.

Have you been to downtown Irondale and dined fried green tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe? Tell us your favorite Irondale memory on Instagram by tagging us at @bhamnow