Photos of the Rainbow Bridge in Baxter Springs, Kansas
Know Before You Go
To make the most of your visit to Rainbow Bridge in Baxter Springs, Kansas, here are some things to know before you go.
What is the Rainbow Bridge?
The Rainbow Bridge, also officially called the Brush Creek Bridge, is a historic single-span concrete “Marsh arch” or “rainbow arch” bridge built in 1923. It’s the only remaining Marsh arch bridge along Route 66.
Where is the Route 66 Rainbow Bridge located, and how do you get there?
The bridge is located near Baxter Springs, Kansas, over Brush Creek, roughly 3.5 miles north of Baxter Springs along old Route 66. Since a newer bridge was built for traffic, a small one-way access road is used to approach the Rainbow Bridge for walking or driving. Turn off of Route 66 on SE 50th Street to access the bridge. After you cross the bridge there is a small area on Beasley Road where you can park your car to take photos.
Can you drive over the Rainbow Bridge on Route 66?
Yes, the bridge can still be driven across, though it is fairly narrow. The bridge also has a weight limit of 10 tons, so be sure your vehicle fits this requirement before proceeding. Watch for traffic while exploring the bridge. You can both drive and walk across this bridge, so if you hop out of the car to take photos, keep a lookout for oncoming vehicles.
Are there fees or restricted hours to visit?
No entry fee is required. The bridge and surrounding grounds are freely accessible and visible 24/7.
Is this a popular Route 66 attraction?
Yes! Do to its unique design, accessibility, and photogenic appeal, the Kansas Route 66 Rainbow Bridge is a very popular Route 66 attraction. It is one our picks for the Top 10 Kansas Route 66 Roadside Attractions, 66 Most Instagrammable Spots on Route 66, and 66 Route 66 Attractions Worth Pulling Over For.
Where to Stay Near Rainbow Bridge
Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest with a stay at one of these hotels near this Kansas Route 66 roadside attraction.
Boots Court Motel
The Boots Court Motel in Carthage, Missouri opened in 1939. This historic Route 66 motor hotel hosted actor Clark Gable numerous times.
Stay on 66
With only 13 miles of road, there aren’t too many motels on Kansas Route 66. Stay on 66 fills a need with boutique B&B experiences. With properties like the The Old Riverton Post B&B in Riverton and The Mollie Retreat on Route 66 in Galena, you have warm options if you want to spend the night in Kansas.
Attractions Near the Rainbow Bridge on Route 66
FFA Route 66 Sign in Riverton, Kansas
A must see on Kansas Route 66. This bridge is unique and very well maintained. Drive over it then pull over for pictures!