A Nostalgic Journey at Cars on the Route
Discover the charm of vintage Americana at Cars on the Route in Galena, Kansas, where classic cars and local cuisine meet nostalgia.
Cars on the Route is a delightful tourist attraction in Galena, Kansas, renowned for its vintage Americana charm. Visitors can explore classic cars, indulge in local cuisine, and shop for unique souvenirs, all while soaking in the nostalgic ambiance of a historic service station.
A brief summary to Cars on the Route
- Kan-O-Tex Service Station, 119 N Main St, Galena, Kansas, 66739, US
- +1620-202-1615
- Visit website
- Thursday 10 am-3 pm
- Friday 10 am-3 pm
- Saturday 10 am-3 pm
- Sunday 10 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy a more personal experience with the exhibits.
- Don't forget to take plenty of photos with the vintage cars as your backdrop.
- Try the local specialties at the restaurant; they often feature unique regional flavors.
- Check the opening hours ahead of your visit, as they are limited to certain days.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, the most straightforward route to Cars on the Route, located at 119 N Main St, Galena, KS 66739, is as follows: From Kansas City, take I-70 E towards Topeka. Merge onto I-470 S, and then take exit 13A to merge onto I-635 S towards the Kansas Turnpike. Continue on I-635 for approximately 10 miles, then take I-70 E towards St. Louis. From I-70 E, take exit 13A to merge onto US-69 S towards Fort Scott. Follow US-69 S until you reach Galena, KS. Once in Galena, turn onto Main St, and the Cars on the Route will be on your left. There is no cost for the drive aside from potential fuel expenses.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus to Joplin, MO, which is the nearest major city. From Joplin, you will need to take a local taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to reach Cars on the Route in Galena, KS. The taxi ride will take about 30 minutes and may cost around $30-40. Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance as services may be limited.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous, you can bike to Cars on the Route. The safest route would be to follow the back roads from nearby towns such as Riverton or Baxter Springs. Make sure to use a map app to navigate and plan for a longer travel time, as biking can take several hours depending on your starting point. Ensure you have a helmet and sufficient water for the ride. There are no direct costs involved aside from the usual bike maintenance.
Discover more about Cars on the Route
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Kansas Welcome Sign
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OK-KS-MO Tri-State Marker
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The Miracle of The Human Spirit
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Ft. Blair Historic Site
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Rial A. Niles House
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Landmark Route 66
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Baxter Springs, Kansas Route 66 Visitors Center
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Murphysburg National Historic District
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Route 66 Landmark
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Spiva Center for the Arts
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Visit Joplin (Convention & Visitors Bureau)
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Main and Eighth Streets Historic District
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Pennington Station
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Explore Joplin
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Unmissable attractions to see
Gearhead Curios
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Joplin History & Mineral Museum
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Schifferdecker Park
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Rainbow Bridge
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Northeastermost Point of Oklahoma
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McClelland Park
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Cunningham Aquatic Center
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Cunningham Park
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Mercy Park
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On the Wings of Butterflies Mural
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Grand Falls
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Artist Alley (mural)
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Celebrating the Performing Arts in Joplin Mural
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I Am Joplin Mural
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Rise of the Phoenix.
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Essential places to dine
Joplin Café
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Woody's Wood-Fire Pizza Bar & Oven
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Del Rio Grill & Cantina
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Trackside Burgers
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Bacon me Krazy
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Crabby's
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Joplin Waffle Co
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Blackthorn Pizza & Pub
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Wilder's Steakhouse
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M&M Bistro
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Hungry Monkey Island Style Eats
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Ghetto Tacos Food Truck
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Fred & Red's
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530 Somewhere
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Club 609 | Restaurant & Bar
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Judy's Hallmark Shop
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The babe cave
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Gypsy's Daughter
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Lennon’s Boutique
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Hurley's Heroes Games & Hobbies
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Royalty at Best
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Haelyn + Co
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Buxton Boutique LLC
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Blue Moon Boutique
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Christene's Curiosities
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The Kings Emporium LLC
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Changing Hands Book Shoppe
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Guitars Rock N' Country Bar
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Xscape Bar
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Whiskey Dick's
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JBs Downtown
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Pub Bar
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The Living Room
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Frank's Lounge
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Brew Pub & Parlor
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Old Broadway Club
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Redings Mill Inn
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The Social Sip LLC
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Applebee's Grill + Bar
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