The musical publishing organization BMI presented certifications to the songwriters for over 2 million plays of the song in 2013, as part of the band's 40th anniversary celebration at a concert in Pittsburgh.

[2] Cash Box said that it contains "an ideal balance of pop and progressive elements, highlighted by the depth of vocal harmony that characterized ['Carry On Wayward Son']" and also has "tasteful use of rhythmic accents and Yes-inspired organ licks.

"[4] Ultimate Classic Rock critic Eduardo Rivadavia rated "Point of Know Return" as Kansas' 2nd greatest song, saying it "distills the group’s adventurous sound into three compact minutes.

"[5] Classic Rock History critic Brian Kachejian rated it as Kansas' 4th greatest song, calling it "a great track that at the time, crossed the line between commercialism and substance.

[7] I Love Classic Rock rated as one of the "Top 10 Kansas Songs Everyone Should Hear At Least Once In Their Lives" and said that it "forms around the playful and inventive violin showmanship" and "packs the intensity and substance that was evident in Leftoverture.