Cars On The Route

A rusty tow truck outside this former Kan-O-Tex service station inspired the Tow Mater character in the Pixar film Cars. Inspect the original “Tow Tater” and other vehicles with personality before purchasing souvenirs, snacks, and burgers inside the restored gas station.

Gearhead Curios

At 23 feet tall, the new Big A statue (named for owner Aaron Perry) offers a gargantuan greeting to this former filling station. While you’re outside, admire Big Boy and Betty Boop figures, an American flag made of license plates, and a 1951 Hudson Hornet painted blue to resemble Doc Hudson from Cars.

Miners Park

Pose in front of the small park’s Greetings from Galena mural by Chris Auckerman and Jon White. It’s made of more than 400 satin-finished porcelain tiles and depicts local landmarks. A creative photo op with the adjacent Kansas 66 sculpture makes for the perfect Mother Road keepsake.

Nelson’s Old Riverton Store

This roadside market opened its doors in 1925, predating Route 66 by a year. The place brims to the top of its pressed-metal ceiling with groceries, souvenirs and made-to-order deli sandwiches. Grab a bottle of cold Coca-Cola to go from the vintage cooler.

Rainbow Bridge

This drivable Marsh Arch bridge (James Barney Marsh’s trademark design) is the last of its kind along Route 66. Built in the 1920s, the single-span bridge crossing Marsh Creek helped connect the towns of Galena, Riverton, and Baxter Springs.

Kansas Route 66 Visitors Center

The Tudor-style Independent Oil and Gas Service Station was built in 1930 on the north end of downtown. These days, the refurbished station’s volunteers will help you plan your next stop. Before you leave, you’re invited to sign your name on the interior wall.

Monarch Pharmacy And Soda Fountain

You don’t need a prescription to belly up to the sparkling, old-fashioned soda fountain inside this working pharmacy. Looking for a sugar rush? Choose a chocolate or vanilla base for the peanut-buttery Skye’s the Limit shake, served in a chocolate-drizzled glass.

Weston’s Route 66 Cafe

The homestyle recipes at this local favorite are sure to satisfy any hungry traveler. Feast on chicken-fried steak for lunch. Savor a slice of cream pie for dessert. Or opt for one of the all-day breakfast options before resuming your journey.

No need to rush through the route, especially when you have retro-cool overnight options like these. In Galena, The Mollie Retreat includes a suite decked out with midcentury modern decor, a marble-tile shower, and arcade games in the loft space. The Old Riverton Post, a former post office and mercantile, now houses a two-bedroom guesthouse with a covered balcony. Anyone stiff after a day of driving will benefit from a night at Little Brick Inn, where ultracomfy king beds are only steps away from downtown Baxter Springs attractions. Pop into the new Lion Rojo restaurant next door for fajitas and fried ice cream.