Roll The Windows Down And Take A Drive Down Route 66 In Kansas
By Nikki Rhoades|Published May 21, 2020
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
Craving a scenic drive in Kansas? You can’t go wrong with a classic ride down Route 66. Though there isn’t a whole lot of this designated route in our state, the stretch of Route 66 in Kansas is overflowing with culture and local landmarks. Gas up the car and roll your windows down, because nothing beats an early morning drive in The Sunflower State!
U.S. Route 66, also known as the Main Street of America, has evolved into an iconic part of pop culture.
From 1926 to 1985, this route offered Americans easy access from Chicago to Southern California. Though it was retired from the United States Highway System in 1985, the route still exists and is still traversed by many today.
A mere 13.2 miles of the original Route 66 are in Kansas, but boy are they beautiful.
Like many states, Kansas absorbed part of the old route into their state highway system. Now largely following the course of K-66, you can still travel the historic course of the most famous route in America.
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This route cuts through Baxter Springs, Galena, and Riverton, passing quaint local shops and historic places of interest.
Of these communities, Baxter Springs is the largest with circa 4,000 residents. The community was incorporated in 1868, and as a result many local buildings predate this historic route.
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During your drive, you'll come near Brush Creek Bridge, or Rainbow Bridge... which is located on a county road that was formerly part of Route 66.
Remember Radiator Springs in Pixar's Cars? This pretty place was inspired by Galena, Kansas. You might even spot the likenesses of the movie's characters during your visit to the town.
All in all, if you see something interesting on this route, don't be afraid to stop and explore.
There is so much to see and do along the entirety of Route 66, and the Kansas stretch is no exception. The Kansas stretch of Route 66 was the first in the nation to be paved, and many of the interesting places that it connected people to are still standing.
Ever heard of Cafe on the Route? This landmark has attracted visitors from all over the world, it seems. If you haven't visited this landmark, the building is still standing, and their Facebook page still occasionally shares their famous recipes.
Prepare for adventure along the Kansas stretch of Route 66.
There is so much to adore about this gorgeous stretch of road.
The modest stretch of Route 66 in Kansas may only span a few communities, but its cultural significance has inspired songs, movie settings, books, and more. What is your favorite landmark on this scenic drive in Kansas? Are there any dining spots along the way that you recommend? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Craving more of The Sunflower State? You won’t want to pass up the opportunity to check out the Wetlands & Wildlife Scenic Byway.
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