Posted in Kansas Attractions, Explore February 28, 2023 by

This Enchanting And Historic Town In Kansas Is The Perfect Day Trip Destination

One thing we can all agree on is that the Sunflower State doesn’t get enough love. If you’re looking for a great road trip in Kansas, there’s really something for everyone. And when it comes to roads, few in the United States are more famous than the iconic Route 66, which used to pass right through Kansas. You’ll find a small handful of charming small towns all along the Route 66 route, and one of our favorites is historic Riverton. This little unincorporated community is small in size but big on charm and history. It makes for a wonderful day trip when you’re looking for a slow-paced adventure filled with classic Americana charm. Check out the best things to do in Riverton, KS.

Route 66 opened up in 1926. It was one of the original United States Numbered Highway System roads, and at one point, covered nearly 2,500 miles.
Nikhil Patel/Google Local
The highway's popularity grew with the 1946 hit song "(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66."
The road featured heavily in popular culture. Nicknames like the Mother Road signified how it represented a new beginning for many who traveled along the highway during the Dust Bowl and Great Depression.
thelaststraw/Tripadvisor
Route 66 was realigned several times during its lifetime, and was eventually decommissioned in 1985
Riverton FFA Route 66 Sign/Sculpture, 6494 U.S. Rt. 66, Riverton, KS 66770, USA
Route 66 once ran through about 13 miles of Kansas. The path was in the far southeast corner of the state, an extremely rural area. Today, only three towns exist in what once was Route 66 in Kansas: Baxter Springs, Galena, and Riverton.
Riverton Dam/Google Local
Riverton Dam, 7947 Federal-Aid Secondary Hwy 107, Riverton, KS 66770, USA
Riverton is a small town (technically, it's not even incorporated!) of around 700 people. You're not going to find a Walmart or Target here, but you will find good old-fashioned small town charm and the wonderful Old Riverton Store.
Noah Fargo/Google Local
Nelson's Old Riverton Store, 7109 KS-66, Riverton, KS 66770, USA
The store is an old-fashioned general store that actually opened up before Route 66 even existed. The store sells up goods and sundries, Route 66-themed souvenirs, and has a delicious deli inside.
Wander R/Google Local
Another famous landmark in the Riverton/Baxter Springs area is the Rainbow Bridge. Built in 1923, it's now the only surviving Marsh arch bridge on what was once Route 66.
Abe Ezekowitz/Wikimedia Commons
Rainbow Bridge, Southeast Beasley Road, Baxter Springs, KS, USA
If you feel like you can't get enough of this delightful area in Cherokee County and want to stay a little longer, Riverton has overnight lodging. The Old Riverton Post B&B is a charming step back in time. You can spend the night in this historic building that was once a post office and general store.
The Old Riverton Post B&B
The Old Riverton Post B&B and Event Center, 7378 SE 70th St, Riverton, KS 66770, USA

We love small town Kansas! There are so many great little places throughout the state that feel so homey and comfortable. What’s your favorite small town in Kansas? Share your suggestions on the Nomination page and maybe you’ll see your favorite spot featured in a future article!

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Address: Riverton, KS 66770, USA