What it is: A restored Kan-O-Tex gas station now turned into a fun, family-friendly stop featuring real-life inspiration for Pixar’s Cars characters.
Why it’s great for families: Kids will love meeting Tow Tater (the inspiration for Mater), and families can enjoy snacks, souvenirs, and fun photo ops.
Bonus: Friendly staff love telling stories about Cars and Route 66!

What it is: A local museum housed in an old train depot filled with artifacts from Galena's mining past and Route 66 memorabilia.
Why it’s great for families: Educational and interactive exhibits help kids learn about the area’s lead mining history and early life in Kansas.
Bonus: Train cars outside are fun to explore!

What it is: A beautiful single-span concrete arch bridge built in 1923—one of the last of its kind.
Why it’s great for families: A perfect place for a quick stop and picnic. Kids can explore and take photos at a historic Route 66 site with a safe roadside pull-off.
Fun Tip: Bring bubbles or a kite for a quick fun break with the kids.

What it is: A nostalgic general store from 1925 still operating today, filled with Route 66 souvenirs, snacks, and vintage goodies.
Why it’s great for families: Grab cold sodas and candies, browse quirky memorabilia, and chat with friendly locals.
Bonus: A great place to pick up road trip snacks or a Route 66 puzzle or game.

What it is: A large museum covering everything from Native American history to the Civil War to Route 66 culture.
Why it’s great for families: It’s well-organized and interactive, with exhibits that can capture the attention of both kids and adults.
Highlights: Civil War room, Route 66 exhibit, and vintage toys section!

What it is: A charming café with great sandwiches, homemade desserts, and ice cream.
Why it’s great for families: A comfy place for a sit-down break, and kids will love the retro vibe and milkshakes.

What it is: Murals, sculptures, and vintage signs line the route through Galena, Riverton, and Baxter Springs.
Why it’s great for families: Turn it into a photo scavenger hunt! See who can find the funniest sign, the most colorful mural, or the oldest building.

Why it’s great for families: Let each kid pick one souvenir—maybe a Route 66 magnet, a toy car, or a mini license plate. It's a fun tradition for family trips!

All three towns are walkable, and Route 66 runs right through their historic hearts. Short walking tours are ideal for stretching legs and finding hidden gems like:
- Vintage filling stations
- Historic plaques
- Roadside dinosaurs or quirky art

Where: The Brush Creek Bridge, Riverton roadside parks, or even the grounds outside the museums.
Why: Plenty of grassy, quiet places to enjoy a meal together before hitting the road again.

📸 Make it a photo journal: Hand each kid a disposable camera or use phones to capture their favorite moment.
🕵️‍♂️ Scavenger Hunt Game: Create a simple list like "find a red truck," "spot a mural," or "take a photo with a vintage sign."
📚 Storytime on the road: Bring a book or audiobook about Route 66 or the Cars movie to keep the kids engaged between stops.
💰 Budget-friendly: Most attractions are free or very low cost, making this stretch great for families looking to save.

Wandering Souls