Just east of Birmingham along the Interstate 20 corridor, the former mining and railroad town of Irondale is now a thriving and diverse suburban community. The railroads that cross through the town link the past to the present, showcasing the area's historic legacy. The railroad observation deck is the focal point of the Annual Whistle Stop Festival in downtown Irondale, while the historic district displays railroad cars. An old red caboose has been given a new life as the home to the Greater Irondale Chamber of Commerce. Across the tracks, visitors will find the original Whistle Stop Cafe featuring, of course, fried green tomatoes. Newcomers to Irondale are charmed by a town that captures and preserved the spirit of days gone by, when communities were family oriented and civic leaders were responsive and caring toward residents and local businesses.