Palmer’s role as a commuter hub continues into the present day
Palmer was a major railway crossroad in the 19th century, leading to the Massachusetts town's nickname of the "Town of Seven Railroads." It has continued to be a hub of transportation in modern-day New England due to its convenience to the Massachusetts Turnpike. "Palmer is a popular bedroom community for people who work in eastern and western Massachusetts, thanks to its easy access to the pike," says Karen King, a Realtor with RE/MAX Connections.
Classic New England architecture on suburban streets
The community has a variety of architectural designs, including brick ranch-style homes, vinyl-sided Cape Cods and stately colonial-style homes. Well-kept yards and sidewalks line the streets, making it easy for neighbors to take walks and visit one another. According to King, Palmer is home to quiet streets and a sense of small-town living. "We tend to have bigger lots in Palmer," King says. Homes in Palmer tend to range in price from around $300,000 up to $700,000.
Restaurant variety along Park Street
Depot Village is Palmer's downtown and commercial center. It is home to Union Station, a railway station-turned historic site, and the train-themed restaurant Steaming Tender. Park Street is lined with restaurants and shops, where patrons can catch a game at Tailgate Tavern, try the K.I.S.S. breakfast special at Girly's Grill or initiate tastebud takeoff at Apollo 1 restaurant with Italian, Greek and American dishes. The Big Y Supermarket fulfills grocery needs, while Walmart is less than 7 miles north.
College preparation at Palmer High School
Students in the area are part of the Palmer Public School District, which earns a C rating from Niche. Old Mill Pond Elementary School also has a C and spans kindergarten through fifth grade. Palmer High School enrolls grades six through 12. Palmer High receives a C-plus and offers college preparation via Advanced Placement and honors courses.
Music and outdoor fun at Pulaski Park
Several parks and recreation areas dot Palmer. Burleigh Park is home to a basketball court, several baseball diamonds, forested areas and trails. The Forest Lake Wildlife Management Area allows for hiking and hunting, while anglers can fish on Forest Lake itself. On the east side, Palmer Wildlife Management Area spans more than 1,000 acres. Pulaski Park is a popular outdoor spot known both for its green space and cultural value, earning the moniker of the "Polka Capital of New England" due to popularity with polka performers. Pulaski Park is common for both live music and community gatherings. "Palmer has a welcoming and friendly community," King says. Palmer Motorsports Park is a destination for local car clubs and racetrack enthusiasts.
Convenient commutes via the Massachusetts Turnpike and Interstate 90
The Massachusetts Turnpike runs concurrent with Interstate 90 through the community, serving as the most convenient highway. Springfield is about 20 miles west, while Boston is over 70 miles east. Pioneer Valley Transit Authority has the Palmer Village Bus, which stops along Park Street. Baystate Wing Hospital sits on the west side. Bradley International Airport is more than 30 miles away.
![David Ciolfi]()
Photography Contributed By
David Ciolfi
