7 Stops Along Route 66 in Kansas

The Sunflower State features several amazing Route 66 attractions to see with a unique story at each stop. Did you know that a service station in Kansas inspired a character in a famous Pixar movie? If you love all things history, be sure to check out these historic locations next time you drive U.S. Route 66 through Kansas!

Cars on the Route

At the end of Main Street in Galena, KS you will find the old Kan-O-Tex service station that is now known as, Cars on the Route. This service station is home to Tow Tater, who was the inspiration for the character Tow Mater in the movie Cars. This stop celebrates the connection between Route 66 and the movie Cars. They sell sandwiches, snacks, antiques, and memorabilia.

Eisler Brothers Old Riverton Store

The Eisler Brothers Old Riverton Store has been in operation since 1925. It is well-known around the world as one of the most authentic, working 75-year-old stores of its kind along U.S. Highway 66. Inside, the old-time deli that serves sandwiches is a must-stop for lunch! They also carry a selection of groceries, products, Route 66 memorabilia, and locally handmade items.

Sugar Creek Diner & Bakery

The owners of the Sugar Creek Diner & Bakery originally were the operators of the now-closed Angels on the Route restaurant in Baxter Springs, KS. This new restaurant is also on Route 66 in Galena, KS. Sugar Creek offers a full menu, catering, baked goods, and gourmet coffee. Make sure to stop by for lunch or to grab some delicious bakery items!

Brush Creek Bridge

The Brush Creek Bridge in Baxter Springs is the sole surviving bridge of its type on the entire length of Route 66. It was built in 1923 and has been repainted multiple times in a beautiful shade of white. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983 which ensures that it will always be preserved and enjoyed by many motorists and pedestrians.

Baxter Springs Independent Oil and Gas Service Station

After the Great Depression, many surviving oil companies rebranded their properties to make them more identifiable to customers. One of the strategies was to make their properties blend in with the local community to give them a homey feel. The Baxter Springs Independent Oil and Gas Service Station was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2003 and is now used as the Kansas Route 66 Visitors Center.

Galena Mining & Historical Museum

As you leave Gelena heading west, keep your eyes peeled to the right and notice an old Missouri-Kansas-Texas railroad station. You wouldn’t know it from the outside, but this building is home to the Galena Mining & Historical Museum. It is full of mineral samples, mining equipment, and oil paintings.

Baxter Springs Heritage Center & Museum

The Baxter Springs Heritage Center and Museum is built up of 20,000 square feet of exhibits celebrating the history of the city. The exhibits include Native American, The Civil War, 1870s Boardwalk, World War I, World War II, Historic Route 66, and more.

Best Guides to Buy on Amazon for RVers

The days of complicated adventure planning are over. Check out these RV travel guides we found on Amazon that are sure to make your next trip a breeze. From the best routes through national parks to tips on how to cook in your RV, you will be ready to add these helpful RVing resources to your cart today.

1. Guide to National Parks of the United States

The National Parks are some of the biggest inspirations for people to hop into their RVs. Road trips are the perfect way to see North America’s beautiful landscapes including the various National Parks. This guide has over 200 photos and several colorful maps of each of the 59 national parks in North America. The content within this guide is useful for planning trips, itineraries, tips for the parks, and more. 

2. National Geographic Road Atlas

Sometimes technology fails us and our GPS stops functioning perfectly. Whether it fails from bad phone service, dead batteries, or just an overall malfunction, you need a backup plan. Every person who owns an RV should also own a quality Atlas they keep on board. This atlas has detailed maps and recommendations like you would find in a typical tourist guide. Don’t get lost, buy an atlas!

3. Where Should We Camp Next?

If you are planning a family-friendly and budget-conscious trip for this year’s camping season then this guide is the one for you. More than 300 of the best camping locations in each of the 50 states. This guide is the best resource for finding different glamping and camping sites near your travel destination.

4. 50 States, 5,000 Ideas

This book is also written by National Geographic and is a must-have for all adventurers. This guide is perfect for creating a loose or heavily detailed itinerary. Many details are included within the pages including where to go, when to leave, what to do, and what you should see. The suggestions range from dude ranches, far-out museums, national parks, beaches, and even the oldest street in New York City.

5. Fodor's Best Road Trips in the USA

Do you need road trip inspiration? Check out Fodor’s Best Road Trips in the USA guidebook! This guide is packed full of curated recommendations for different states, maps, and everything you might need to better plan your dream road trip. It’s time to hit the road and explore a new state or several! 

6. Fodor's Bucket List USA

The USA has several amazing sights that might be on your bucket list. Whether you want to eat an authentic Philly cheesesteak or twirl in a field of sunflowers in the heart of Kansas, Fodor’s Bucket List USA will give you inspiration! This guidebook is full of perfectly curated must-sees across the 50 states. What destination is next on your bucket list? 

 

7. the Next EXIT 2022

Sometimes you are driving through an area that has little to no cell service or signal and you need to find the nearest exit for gas, food, or the restroom. The Next EXIT is the most complete USA Interstate Highway directory you can find! This guide lists exits for lodging, food, shopping, gas and so much more. The days of worrying about finding the nearest exit are over!

8. RV Camping

The freedom that comes with owning an RV is nearly indescribable but sometimes you don’t know where to start. The RV Camping guide is geared towards both beginners who want to introduce themselves to the world of RVing and experts who want to improve their outdoor experience. Whether you are a full-time RVer or just want to go on a weekend getaway, this guide is for you!