Check out this A Day in Gallup: Art, Culture & Shopping trip by Steller on Steller!

A Day in Gallup: Art, Culture & ShoppingPlanning a trip along historic Route 66 trip in New Mexico? Here's how to spend a day in Gallup experiencing Native American culture and shopping for authentic art, jewelry, and pottery at 110 trading posts, shops, and galleries! And don't leave without trying the area's unique fusion cuisines. AuthorsSteller
DestinationsGallupItinerary

Places to See & Things to Do

Gallup Cultural Center
Stop in here to learn more about Gallup's mining and coal history and Native American culture. Situated in a historic Santa Fe Railway depot, the center is home to several interesting exhibits and collections. The Storyteller Museum includes a Navajo Code Talker exhibit, Route 66 history, and Southwestern art. The Gallery of Masters shows off one-of-a-kind pieces honoring the Navajo Code Talkers. The Exclusive Curtis Southwest Collection displays historic photographs of Native Americans and the American West by celebrated photographer and ethnologist Edward S. Curtis (1868-1952). The center is open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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Gallup MainStreet Arts & Cultural District
Take a walking tour of Gallup's many murals—there are more than 20 to see across the downtown area. Most of these unique murals were inspired by the region's history and culture. Look for scenes depicting the mining days, Wild West rodeos, the Long Walk, Native American arts, and more. Head to visitgallup.com for an interactive map.
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McKinley County Courthouse Square
This square is home to the Gallup Summer Indian Dances & Art Market, where you can watch (and join in) the nightly traditional dances and musicians, snap photos, and shop for authentic Native American art and jewelry. The annual event begins on June 3 and runs through August 6 every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
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Red Rock Museum
The Ancestral Puebloans farmed this region from 300 to 1200 CE. Discover their culture through fascinating displays featuring pottery, turquoise, silver, and art. You will also learn more about the present-day Zuni, Hopi, and Navajo cultures. 🏜️
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Navajo Code Talkers Museum
Discover the fascinating story of the Navajo Code Talkers who perplexed the German and Japanese troops with their language and codes during World War II at this museum filled with memorabilia and historical exhibits.
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Where to Shop

Ellis Tanner Trading Company
Want to see an old-fashioned trading post in action? You can at The Ellis Tanner Trading Company... well, a modern-day version, at least. Here, people can bring in jewelry and goods to sell, and then buy groceries and other items in the general store. Stop in to shop for quality handmade Navajo art, jewelry, and more. Owned by one family for four generations, the Ellis Tanner Trading Company has been in business continuously since 1967.
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Richardson Trading Co.
Famous for its collection of Navajo rugs and silver jewelry, this spot has been in business since 1913 and is known as the premier source of authentic, handmade Native American goods. The iconic exterior, glowing with a neon sign and notable window displays, along with its prime location on historic Route 66, make this a must-stop when in Gallup.
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Silver Dust Trading Company
This is where to go for jewelry-making and beading supplies, Indigenous art, clothing, and stunning finished jewelry, as well.
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Zimmerman's Western Wear
Need some Western gear? This is the spot to shop for boots, hats, and overalls—basically everything you need for an adventure in the Wild West! 🤠
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Nizhoni Trading Co
With access to wholesale pricing, this shop features unique, handcrafted Native American and Southwestern jewelry at affordable prices.
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Gallup Trading Co
The Gallup Trading Company is where to go for handmade high-end and contemporary jewelry by local Southwestern Native American artists. Located just off historic Route 66, it is a great stop for unique finds and natural stones.
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Perry Null Trading
In addition to one-of-a-kind jewelry by Native American artists, this historic trading post sells Kachinas, sand paintings, folk art, and more.
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Gallup Flea Market
The 9th Street Gallup Flea Market is one of the largest Native American markets in the United States! Browse over 500 vendors to find good deals on Indigenous wares, such as pottery, rugs, jewelry, and more. Stop by one of the food stalls for traditional Navajo, Zuni, Acoma Pueblo, and Mexican food and drinks like tacos, roasted corn, and fry bread! The market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission and parking are free.
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Where to Eat

Gallup Coffee Company
Just look for the colorful sign to find this café in the heart of downtown. They roast their own beans, make everything on-site, and have unique drink flavors to try. Start your day with a red chile mocha!
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Earl's Family Restaurant
Earl's has been in Gallup for decades. This family-owned and operated diner serves up American and New Mexican dishes like the popular Navajo Taco and fry bread in huge portions. Come hungry!
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