Travels

The railroad station in Palmer, MA was opened in 1884 and at one time served seven railroads. Trains haven't stopped here since sometime in the 1960s, but there is quite a bit of train traffic to see every day.

Amtrak's Lake Shore Limited passes within 20 feet of the station twice a day. It took only about fifteen seconds from the time its headlights were visible down the track until it disappeared heading for Albany. A sign outside the station shows the times the scheduled trains pass by.

Expect to see some local freight here. It is the junction of the CSX and the New England Railroad. The 1915 Porter locomotive and tender, with a few of its parts missing, will always be here. In fact, you can sit at a picnic table next to it and enjoy some ice cream. They also have a passenger car of newer vintage next to the restaurant.

	The interior of the station has been nicely restored and has plenty of atmosphere. The Steaming Tender Restaurant serves sandwiches, soup, and salads for lunch. Definitely worth a visit.
I would also suggest visiting the Day and Night Diner on Main Street, not far from the railroad station. This is an old-fashioned family run diner (built by the Worcester Lunch Car Company in 1941). Great atmosphere for breakfast and lunch. They serve good diner food at reasonable prices.

The railroad station is on Depot Street, off Main St. in downtown Palmer, MA. The Steaming Tender restaurant that now occupies the station is open Wednesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner. See their web page for menu.