This Enchanting and Historic Town in Kansas Is the Perfect Day Trip Destination

Kansas doesn’t always get the attention it deserves, but it’s an excellent state for a road trip—especially if you’re drawn to historic routes and small-town stops. Few roads are as iconic as Route 66, which passes through the far southeastern corner of Kansas, where a short but memorable stretch connects a handful of towns. Among them is Riverton, a small community with deep ties to the Mother Road.

Riverton is unincorporated and home to fewer than 1,000 residents, yet it remains an important stop along Kansas’ portion of Route 66. It’s a fitting destination for travelers looking to slow down, explore local history, and get a feel for classic roadside America—think neon signs, vintage gas pumps, and a nostalgic charm that makes you want to roll down your windows and enjoy the drive like the good ol' days. Below, I'm highlighting what makes Riverton worth the stop.

Established in 1926 as part of the original U.S. Numbered Highway System, Route 66 once spanned nearly 2,500 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles. Its popularity soared in the mid-20th century, fueled by appearances in movies, TV, and the famous 1946 hit song “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66,” which cemented the highway’s place in American culture. Over time, the road came to symbolize mobility, opportunity, and long-distance travel across the United States before being officially decommissioned in 1985.

Kansas’ portion of Route 66 is brief, covering roughly 13 miles through an agricultural and sparsely populated region. Today, only three towns remain on the original alignment: Baxter Springs, Galena, and Riverton. Each offers a unique glimpse into what life along the Mother Road once looked like.

Despite its size, Riverton offers a few standout landmarks. The Old Riverton Store is one of the most recognizable stops along this stretch of Route 66. Opened before the highway itself, the store continues to serve travelers with everyday goods, Route 66-themed souvenirs, and a deli that makes it a convenient—and quintessentially Americana—place to stop and refuel. Here, you can grab a sandwich, chat with locals, and almost hear the echoes of road-trippers from decades past.

Nearby, the Rainbow Bridge adds another layer of history to the drive. Built in 1923, it’s the only remaining Marsh arch bridge associated with Route 66 in Kansas and stands as a preserved example of early 20th-century bridge design.

For those who want to linger a little longer, Riverton offers lodging that reflects its past. The Old Riverton Post Bed & Breakfast is housed in a historic building that once served as both a post office and general store, giving visitors a chance to spend the night in a piece of local history.

Have you visited Riverton or traveled Kansas’ stretch of Route 66? We’d love to hear about your stop in this historic town in Kansas. Share your favorite small towns on our nomination page for a chance to see them featured in a future story. And before hitting the road, don’t forget to check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List.