Route 66 Centennial: A Classic American Road Trip

0:00It's April 29th. This is Kansas News Today, driven by AI. Thousands of travelers from around the world are hitting the road for Route 66's 100th anniversary, zeroing in on southeast Kansas. This is the shortest stretch in any state, winding through Galena, Riverton, and Baxter Springs. Folks are coming from everywhere to soak up that classic American vibe on this historic highway. We've got stories like a guy from Vermont who flew to Los Angeles, snagged a 1962 Buick Skylark with no air conditioning or power, steering, and drove it back east. Then there's an Australian family blending a Route 66 road trip with family visits, plus a retired couple from Illinois who've planned this for years, snapping pics with an old school camera. These road trippers love how it feels like peeking into the heart of America, the quirky towns, unexpected stops, and patchwork of small communities that make the country special. They call it romantic, fun, and a true slice of history you won't find anywhere else.

1:02Local spots are buzzing too. Owners of roadside joints like gear head curios, cars on the route, and Nelson's old Riverton store are opening early way ahead of the usual spring. Kick off. They're banking on the Route 66 Centennial, America's 250th birthday, and even nearby World Cup games to Pacaman. With bridges like the 1923 Rainbow Bridge, still standing strong and delis drawing crowds, this corner of Kansas is alive with the spirit of the Mother Road, reminding everyone why it still pulls people in after a full century.