🛣️ 1. Galena – Where Route 66 Comes Alive

  • Cars on the Route

    • Stop at this restored Kan-O-Tex gas station to see the vehicles that inspired characters from Pixar’s Cars (like Tow Mater!).

    • Chat with the super friendly locals—they love swapping stories with travelers, especially solo ones!

    • Great photo ops and small souvenirs.

  • Galena Mining & Historical Museum

    • Learn about the town’s mining history in this cozy museum located in an old train depot.

    • Cheap or donation-based entry, with lots of vintage charm.

  • Explore Historic Downtown

    • Walkable, colorful, and full of murals and restored buildings. A nice place to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, and snap some solo shots.

🚦 2. Riverton – Small Town Americana

  • Eisler Brothers Old Riverton Store

    • A must-see Route 66 stop. It's a general store turned nostalgic gift shop with original 1925 shelves and great snacks.

    • Grab a sandwich, chat with locals, and browse Route 66 memorabilia.

    • It’s a cozy spot perfect for solo travelers needing a break or a friendly conversation.

  • Rainbow Bridge (Brush Creek Bridge)

    • The last remaining Marsh Arch bridge on Route 66.

    • Super photogenic, peaceful, and usually quiet—great for a reflective walk or picnic.

    • Park nearby and walk the bridge—it’s a beautiful solo moment.

📸 3. Baxter Springs – Cowboys, Banks & Battlefield

  • Baxter Springs Heritage Center & Museum

    • Learn about Route 66, the Civil War, Native American history, and more. Great storytelling and a solid stop for history buffs.

  • Baxter Springs Independent Oil and Gas Station

    • A restored 1930s gas station turned visitor center. Classic Route 66 photo op and a good place to get tips from locals.

  • Historic Downtown Baxter Springs

    • Check out local shops, murals, and old brick buildings. The town was once considered the first “cow town” of Kansas, and you can feel that Old West vibe.

🧭 Solo Travel Perks

  • Easy to Navigate: The Kansas stretch is short and manageable—you can take your time, stop wherever you want, and meet some incredibly welcoming locals.

  • Safety: These small towns are generally very safe and easy to explore on foot.

  • Photo Heaven: Solo travelers will love the endless opportunities for selfies with retro gas stations, bridges, murals, and “Cars” movie landmarks.

☕ Bonus Tips for the Solo Route 66 Adventurer:

  • Pack a journal or sketchbook: There are lots of quiet moments perfect for reflection.

  • Use voice memos: Record your impressions and conversations with locals—it adds so much to your solo road trip memories.

  • Visit early in the morning for peace and golden hour photos, or late afternoon for that dreamy Route 66 light.