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Georgia Christmas Train Rides In Cordele

Published: November 26, 2025

By: Adam Burns

If you’re looking for a holiday outing that blends small-town charm, living history, and pure family fun, south Georgia’s SAM Shortline Railroad and its Cordele Holiday Train deliver in spades.

The SAM Shortline is an excursion railroad - hosted by freight carrier Heart of Georgia Railroad (a Genesee & Wyoming subsidiary) - based around Cordele and Georgia Veterans State Park at Lake Blackshear. Its vintage railcars and relaxed pace make every ride feel like a step back in time.

During the holiday season, the Cordele Holiday Train adds twinkling lights, festive music, and the kind of memories that stick with kids (and parents) long after the last carol fades.

Heart of Georgia Railroad GP40 #1740 - which powers the SAM Shortline excursions - has the westbound "River Runner" at New Point, Georgia on December 12, 2008. Doug Kroll photo.

What is the SAM Shortline?

SAM stands for Savannah, Americus and Montgomery Railway, the 19th‑century railroad that once connected east and west across Georgia.  Completed between Montgomery and Savannah by 1896 it would go on to join the much larger Seaboard Air Line in 1900.

Portions of that historic route are now the domain of the SAM Shortline Excursion Train, operated in partnership with Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites. Rather than hauling freight or commuters, SAM carries stories: of depots and depots-turned-museums, of rural communities, and of the era when rail travel was the heart of American mobility.

Today, SAM’s excursions typically roll between Cordele, Georgia Veterans State Park, Americus, Leslie, Archery, and Plains—Jimmy Carter’s hometown—on track maintained for modern use. The train itself is part of the attraction.

Restored, climate-controlled cars from the mid-20th century offer a comfortable ride, big windows for soaking up the scenery, and a tangible connection to railroading’s golden age.

On many excursions you’ll find a snack car, friendly crew members who love to talk trains, and layovers that invite you to explore small-town main streets, museums, and historic sites like the Windsor Hotel or the Rural Telephone Museum.

Introducing the Cordele Holiday Train

Every year, when the calendar flips to late November and December, SAM Shortline shifts into celebration mode with the Cordele Holiday Train. It’s a shorter (one hour), festive ride designed specifically for the season—perfect for families with younger children or anyone who wants a dash of holiday cheer without committing to a full-day excursion.

Departing from the Cordele depot guests step onto a railcar decked out for the holidays, and enjoy an evening run accompanied by seasonal music and old-fashioned merriment. Expect a relaxed, out‑and‑back journey that emphasizes atmosphere over distance—enough time to settle in, sip a warm drink, and soak up the glow.

What to expect on board

Festive ambiance: Cars are trimmed with holiday decorations and filled with the sound of familiar carols. The evening departures make the lights feel extra cozy, and the train’s gentle sway adds to the magic.

Family-friendly fun: Children are front and center. Staff and volunteers keep the mood bright, and many seasons feature visits from Santa or his helpers. Kids often leave with big smiles and bigger stories.

Comfortable seating: Cars are climate-controlled with comfortable seats arranged for conversation and views. You won’t be roughing it, even if the weather outside turns nippy.  The railroad offers four levels of seating; standard coach, deluxe, premium, and Chairman's.  Please visit this page for complete information.

A window on south Georgia: The route offers glimpses of small-town lights, pine forests, and the quiet landscapes that define the region. It’s a reminder that the holidays shine brightest in simple moments shared.

When and How Long

In 2025 the Cordele Holiday Train runs on just two weekends before Christmas - December 12-13 and December 19-20 - with multiple departures per evening. The ride itself is designed to be easy on attention spans—typically around an hour, give or take.

That’s enough time to enjoy the full experience without pushing bedtime too far, even for very young riders. Because schedules can shift, it’s best to check the official SAM Shortline website for exact dates, times, and availability each season.

Tips To Make The Most Of It

Book early:  Nearly every Polar Express or general Christmas train offered by any heritage railroad sells out very quickly. sometimes as soon as they go on sale.  Be on the lookout for when the tickets become available.

Dress in layers: Cars are heated, but the platform can feel brisk on December evenings. Layers make everyone comfortable.

Plan for photos: The depot and the decorated cars create great backdrops. If Santa is scheduled, there’s usually a moment for a quick snap.

Why it resonates

Part of the Cordele Holiday Train’s appeal is that it’s authentic. It’s not a theme park overlay—it’s a real train on a historic line, operated by people who care about preservation and community.

That authenticity gives the experience a grounded warmth that’s hard to manufacture. You’ll likely meet crew members who can tell you when a car was built or how the line once tied communities together.

You’ll see multi‑generational families making the ride part of their annual tradition. And you’ll feel, for an hour or so, like you’ve been welcomed into a local celebration that’s bigger than any one event.

The Bigger Picture

Excursion railroads like SAM Shortline do more than entertain. They keep history moving—literally—by maintaining equipment, teaching new generations of railfans and travelers, and channeling tourism dollars into small towns that benefit from seasonal visitors.

When you buy a ticket, you’re helping fund preservation work that ensures these cars and this line don’t become static museum pieces. You’re also supporting local jobs, vendors, and nonprofits that often partner on holiday events.

A Final Word

The Cordele Holiday Train is the kind of simple joy that becomes a family ritual. It’s manageable, affordable, and meaningful—a rare combination during a season that can easily tip toward frenzy.

Wrap up warm, arrive a little early, and let the soft glow of a vintage railcar carry you into the holidays. With SAM Shortline steering the journey, you’ll get a timeless memory and a tangible connection to Georgia’s railroading past—all in one festive ride.