Welcome to the shortest part of Route 66, going through only 11 miles of Kansas. But while your visit to the Sunflower State will be a short one, it can still be a fun one! Let’s get right to it.
Galena, KS
The first of the three towns on the old Mother Road in Kansas is probably the most interesting one. Make a pit stop at Cars on the Route, an old Kan-O-Tex service station, which is also home to “Tow Tater,” who inspired the character of “Tow Mater” on Pixar’s Cars.
On your way out of Galena, you’ll see an old Missouri-Kansas-Texas railroad depot, the home of the Galena Mining & Historical Museum. It’s a rather cool stop along the way, with plenty of awesome photo ops!
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Riverton, KS
The Eisler Brothers Old Riverton Store, which serves as the Route 66 Association of Kansas, has been there since 1925, a year before Route 66 was even designated. It is one of the most authentic, still operating 75-year-old stores of its kind. Buy some groceries or grab a sandwich at the old-time deli, and even buy some Route 66 memorabilia.
Baxter Springs, KS
On your way into Baxter Spring, you’ll be driving on the Brush Creek Bridge, also known as the Rainbow Bridge. It is the last bridge of its type on Route 66, and its been there since 1923.
Feeling peckish? It must be time for lunch! Make a stop at Angels on the Route, a building that has gone through many reincarnations, from a dry goods store to a drug store, treasure shop and a donut shop. Now it’s a restaurant with some awesome food. If you find yourself there on Friday or Saturday, you’re in luck! They offer live music.
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After you filled your belly, fill your tank at the Baxter Springs Independent Oil and Gas Service Station.
Finally, learn something new at the Baxter Springs Heritage Center and Museum, with 20,000 square feet on exhibits on the history of the city – from Native Americans through the Civil War, both World Wars, the history of Route 66 and more.