🏙️ 1. Galena – Small Town, Big Flavor

Galena is the first stop as you cross into Kansas from Missouri, and it’s bursting with charm and good eats.

🍔 Cars on the Route

  • Must Try: Classic American burgers, chili dogs, and root beer floats.

  • Why It's Cool: This restored Kan-O-Tex gas station is themed after Disney’s Cars, and you can snap a selfie with the real-life “Tow Mater” while you wait for your food.

🍞 Sweet Creek Diner & Bakery

  • Must Try: Homemade pies (especially coconut cream or cherry), cinnamon rolls, and hearty daily specials like meatloaf or chicken fried steak.

  • Why It’s Special: Local, from-scratch comfort food made with love—true Midwestern charm.

☕ Gearhead Curios (Snack & Soda Stop)

  • Must Try: Retro bottled sodas and vintage candy.

  • Why It’s Fun: It’s part roadside attraction, part snack stop—perfect for snapping pics and grabbing road fuel.

🚙 2. Riverton – A Hidden Deli Gem

A blink-and-you’ll-miss-it town with one of the best surprises on all of Route 66.

🥪 Eisler Brothers Old Riverton Store

  • Must Try: The deli’s cold cut sandwiches made fresh to order—simple, satisfying, and made with care.

  • Why It’s a Must-Stop: This 1925 general store is an original Route 66 business. Enjoy your sandwich at the picnic table out front, and browse the nostalgic shelves for foodie souvenirs like jams, Route 66 hot sauce, or BBQ rubs.

🛣️ 3. Baxter Springs – BBQ & More

End your Kansas stretch with one last great bite.

🍖 Baxter Springs Smokehouse

  • Must Try: Kansas-style BBQ brisket, pulled pork, baked beans, and peach cobbler.

  • Pro Tip: Get it to-go and eat at one of the nearby historic parks or Route 66 markers.

🧁 Angels on the Route (when open)

  • Must Try: If it’s open during your visit, try their cupcakes, paninis, and coffee.

  • Why It’s Worth a Stop: Cozy café vibes and charming décor.

🛍️ Foodie Extras & Souvenirs

  • Eisler Bros. Store: Grab some Route 66-themed food merch—hot sauces, jellies, salsas, and local treats.

  • Local Farmers Markets (Seasonal): Sometimes pop up in Galena or Baxter Springs—check if you’re passing through in summer or early fall.

📸 Must-Do for Foodies:

  • Snap a photo of your sandwich or pie with a vintage gas station or mural in the background—Kansas Route 66 has a lot of Instagrammable charm!