Explore

sam shortline

No stop in Cordele would be complete without a ride on the SAM Shortline Excursion Train, and that goes for locals, too! (Really, if you live here and you’ve not taken advantage of this incredible scenic voyage out to Plains and back, you’re missing out on one of Cordele’s true gems.) The air-conditioned vintage rail cars (c. 1949) present a charming vantage point to view the romantic and pastoral vistas of South Georgia, and you’ll have the opportunity to step off at depots in Georgia Veterans State Park, Leslie, Americus, Plains and Archery to explore the various historic sites, museums and downtowns. Purchase tickets and hop aboard at the depot in Downtown Cordele!

art about town

Better prep your Insta feed, because we’ve got some first-class photo-op stops in Downtown Cordele that we just know you’re going to love! Be sure to tag us @downtowncordele when you post on social, and be on the lookout for more installations coming soon.

Train Sculpture

South Bound Mural

The North Bound Mural

Train Mural

parks & outdoor spots

Nestled between our historic buildings and streets you’ll find several spots to sit, relax and take in the fresh air, including our three downtown parks. Enjoy a picnic, catch an event or watch the trains passing by from our all-new, state-of-the-art viewing platform.

Westbrook Park

Rail Way Park

Perlis Park

historic museum

Explore Cordele’s long and varied history through various artifacts and archives on display at the Cordele Historic Museum & Welcome Center. Nestled between the SAM Shortline Depot and the Rail History Museum, our museum and welcome center staff are happy to show you around and share the stories of Cordele’s people and places!

RAIL HISTORY MUSEUM

Cordele and the railroad are forever entwined. Originally founded as a junction between two major early railroads (and in fact named for the Savannah, Americus & Montgomery (SAM) Railroad president’s daughter, Cordelia), the town now serves as the point of origin for the highly popular SAM Shortline Excursion Train as well as one of the only places in the south for rail enthusiasts to view the unique diamond crossing which more than 80 trains pass over each day. Filled with artifacts and memorabilia from Cordele’s early days as a rail depot, the museum also serves as an art gallery and event venue.