Posted in Georgia Attractions, Explore, Sights & Landmarks, Small Towns, Trips January 17, 2023 by Lisa Sammons

Explore A President’s Hometown On This Train Ride In Georgia

One of the most famous people born in Georgia is undoubtedly our nation’s 39th president, Jimmy Carter. Carter was born and raised in the small town of Plains, joined the Navy, then served as a Georgia state senator before being elected governor of the state. He served as the country’s president from 1977 to 1981, and has had a busy life in retirement. He is active in many humanitarian projects and was even awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. His name is practically synonymous with the town of Plains, and he still lives there today with his wife. There are many sites in Plains related to Carter, and one great way to explore this charming small town is to enjoy a ride on the SAM Shortline’s Presidential Flyer train.

The SAM Shortline railroad offers up some of the best train rides in Georgia. You can catch a variety of special excursions throughout the year, like holiday rides and trips based on special events, but one of the most popular rides is the Presidential Flyer train.

The Presidential Flyer train rides are offered on select Saturdays throughout the year. You'll enjoy the ride on a vintage train car from 1949.

You'll start the trip at Georgia Veterans State Park, a 1,308-acre park in Cordele featuring a Veteran's Museum as well as recreational opportunities.

You'll head to Plains and have a layover of two hours, giving you time to explore this adorable community. Check out the local shops, or visit some of the historic sites that focus on President Carter.

The train then heads to the nearby town of Archery, where you can visit the Jimmy Carter Boyhood Farm, which has been set up to look as it did in his youth here.

This train ride in Georgia is a wonderful way to have a fun afternoon while learning about the history of one of our state's favorite sons.

For more information about the SAM Shortline Railroad and to see a schedule of upcoming Presidential Flyer rides, check out the SAM website. You can learn more about the historical attractions in Plains on the Plains section of Jimmy Carter’s website.

Address: Americus, GA, USA

Address: Georgia Veterans State Park, 2459 US-280 w, Cordele, GA 31015, USA

Address: The Plains Depot, 100 Main St, Plains, GA 31780, USA

Address: Jimmy Carter Boyhood Farm, 402 Old Plains Hwy, Plains, GA 31780, USA

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