Kansas
Kansas Video Playlist
Howdy, folks! Big Mike here, and let me tell ya, Route 66 in Kansas is a hidden gem you don’t wanna miss. It might be the shortest stretch of the Mother Road, but it’s packed with history, charm, and some surprises you wouldn’t believe. We’re talkin’ the real-life inspiration for Tow Mater, murals galore, and even a bridge that Brad Paisley himself played on! So, fire up those engines and get ready for an adventure – Kansas style! I’ll fill you in on all the details later, but trust me, this is one Route 66 experience you won’t forget.
Discover a hidden gem of Route 66 in Kansas! While it may be the shortest stretch of the Mother Road, it’s packed with history and small-town charm. Explore historic towns like Galena and Riverton, where you’ll find remnants of the route’s golden age and friendly locals eager to share their stories.
Galena, Kansas, a charming town along Route 66, proudly boasts a brand new mural celebrating the Mother Road and its connection to renowned author Michael Wallis! This vibrant artwork pays homage to Wallis, a celebrated Route 66 historian and author of the iconic book “Route 66: The Mother Road.” The mural captures the spirit of both the highway and the writer, showcasing iconic Route 66 imagery alongside elements inspired by Wallis’s work. Located in the heart of Galena, this mural serves as a must-see attraction for Route 66 enthusiasts and a testament to the town’s rich history and literary connection.
Hey folks, if you’re cruisin’ Route 66 in Kansas, make sure to stop in Galena. It’s where the “Cars” movie magic happened! Yep, the Pixar crew rolled through town and found their inspiration for Tow Mater – a rusty old wrecker named Tow Tater! He’s parked right there at the Kan-O-Tex Service Station, along with a fire truck and a restored 1934 gas station. Grab your camera and snap a photo with these movie stars!
Ka-chow! Buckle up, because when you cruise into Galena, Kansas, it’s like you’ve driven straight into the “Cars” movie! You’ll meet our version of the whole gang – Tow Tater (the real-life inspiration for Mater!), the fire truck, and the very same vintage gas station that got those Pixar folks revved up. It’s like Radiator Springs came to life, right here in Kansas! Get ready for a rootin’ tootin’ good time and feel the movie magic come alive.
Galena, Kansas is a mural hunter’s paradise! All over town, you’ll discover vibrant, larger-than-life artworks celebrating Route 66 and its history. They showcase classic cars, Historic Route 66 symbols, and even some familiar faces from the “Cars” movie. So grab your camera and get ready to strike a pose – these murals make the perfect backdrop for your Route 66 adventure!
Gearhead Curios in Galena, Kansas is a must-see stop for any Route 66 enthusiast. Owned by the passionate Aaron Perry, this restored Texaco station is a treasure trove of Route 66 memorabilia and automotive history. Aaron is not only a knowledgeable guide but also a warm and welcoming host, eager to share stories about the Mother Road. And hey, you might even bump into Doc Hudson himself parked right outside! Don’t miss the chance to explore the quirky and creative restroom, a unique attraction in itself. And keep an eye out for the newest addition to the Gearhead Curios family: a towering Muffler Man, a truly iconic sight along Route 66.
Just west of Riverton, Kansas, you’ll find a true Route 66 treasure: the Rainbow Bridge. This historic Marsh arch bridge, built in 1923, is the last of its kind still standing on the Mother Road. Once a vital link on Route 66, it now stands as a proud reminder of the highway’s past. Though a new bridge has been built for modern traffic, you can still take a detour and cross the Rainbow Bridge, experiencing a piece of history firsthand. It’s even been graced by country music star Brad Paisley, who performed on it for a Route 66 TV special! So, slow down, take a detour, and walk (or drive!) in the footsteps of history on the Rainbow Bridge.
Roll into Baxter Springs, Kansas, and you’ll find a Route 66 experience that’ll take you back in time! First up, check out the beautifully restored gas station that’s now the Baxter Springs Visitor Center. It’s the perfect spot to grab some info, snag a souvenir, and soak up the history of the Mother Road. And keep your eyes peeled as you cruise Route 66 through town – you might just spot a cool old vintage police car! This classic cruiser adds a touch of nostalgia to your Route 66 adventure. Don’t forget your camera, because this town is picture-perfect!
