Known as the "Sunflower State" Kansas is centrally located in the lower 48 states. It's almost fitting that Route 66, America's Main Street, would venture into this central, heart of the country. There's one big difference between Kansas' section of Route 66 and the other seven states. Through most states Route 66 more or less parallels an interstate. However, through this section of Kansas there is no interstate highway giving travelers a quiet and serene experience. Route 66 only travels through the very southeastern corner of the state. Just 13.2 miles in total, it tavels through three small towns: Galena, Riverton and Baxter Springs. The whole Route 66 section of the state can literally be driven in less than an hour. Just west of Riverton is an architectural classic that has been enjoyed by tens of thousands of Route 66 travelers over the years. The last remaining raninbow style, concrete-truss arch bridge on Route 66 spans Brush Creek and is a must see. The Kansas Route 66 Association went to great lengths to save this bridge when it was slated for demolition in the early 90's. There's actually quite a bit of civil war history through this section, especially in and around Baxter Springs where Quantrill's Raid took place in 1863. Located on the bank of the Spring River, Baxter Springs developed as one of the first "cow towns" in Kansas right after the Civil War. Thousands of head of Texas cattle were driven to market through the town as a stopping place on their way to northern markets. There are museums in both Galena and Baxter Springs that tell the story of both the area and the people of this Kansas section of Route 66.

Galena, KS

Riverton, KS

Baxter Springs, KS

We're proud members of the Kansas Historic Route 66 Association
and think you should be too! Click HERE for more info.

We're also proud members of the National Historic Route 66 Association
and believe you should join as well! Click HERE for more info.