Location: Gallup
Top Things to do in Gallup
Countries
7 Things to Do in Gallup That You Shouldn't Miss
Located in the heart of Native America, Gallup is enriched by the cultures of numerous First Nations, including Zuni, Hopi, Acoma and Laguna Pueblo and Navajo people as well as Latin American communities. The city boasts vibrant native arts, ceremonies, jewelry and cuisine representing its blend of cultures. The land surrounding Gallup holds many mysteries and adventures as well, from the High Desert Trail System and the Mentmore Rock Climbing area to sacred Mt. Taylor and the Church Rock Trail.
Restaurants in Gallup
1. Bill Malone Trading Company
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 53 reviews
Reviewed By JRenfrew - Worthington, Massachusetts
We visited several stores in Gallup looking for Native American jewelry. Richardson's and Bill Malone's store are the only ones we found that represent true local artisans and quality authentic products. We met with Bill Malone and found him to be most genuine and very sincere. Great selection at fair prices.
2. The Gallup Cultural Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 57 reviews
Reviewed By greenjay1 - Williams, Arizona
The Cultural Center is across the parking lot from the Chamber of Commerce. Quick walk between them. Upstairs, are several galleries showcasing local artists and artisans. Some amazing work. (The elevator worked fine and did not stink when we were there.). Trains pass directly behind the building. Fun to watch from the second floor.
3. Gallup Flea Market
Overall Ratings
4 based on 76 reviews
Reviewed By mwc505 - Albuquerque
A good chance to meet the jeweler when shopping for Native American jewelry. Otherwise, lots of unsual stuff ("one man's junk...). Bring water in the summer and good walking shoes. You may have to park on the side of the street and walk to the market.
4. Navajo Code Talker Museum
Overall Ratings
4 based on 42 reviews
Reviewed By Claire D
We stopped in Gallup, NM for this Museum. There is a public restroom, which was essential after the time on the road and a 20+ minute wait for the train to get into town. No one moved so we could not back up and get around the train. The Visitor center has reprinted handouts about the Navajo Code Talkers, but that was it. The real Navajo Code Talker Museum is across the parking lot and inside a Burger King in Kayenta, NM. There are also two hogans there. The Museum in Kayenta was very interesting and well worth the trip. There were video clips of the Navajo Code Talkers telling of their experiences during the war, as well as photos and artifacts.
5. Rex Museum
Overall Ratings
4 based on 25 reviews
Reviewed By BobandJan66 - Albuquerque, New Mexico
Situated in what was once a bank, brothel, grocery store, or hobby shop, depending on who you ask, this appears to be the central display and archive location for Gallup area history. Much of their collection is on display, in a haphazard and somewhat sloppy fashion, but it makes for interesting browsing, in the same way that a disorganized used book store is interesting to visit. Lots of old photos on the walls, and many old artifacts to walk right up to and inspect (no touching, though!). Much coal mining history memorabilia. No fee, but donations encouraged.
6. Central New Mexico Visitor Information Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 9 reviews
MexicoReviewed By on_the_go_98765 - Tucson
Located about 2 1/2 hours west of Albuquerque (before exit 116), and 15 miles west of Gallup, a visitor can find this rest stop, mini-museum, and extensive info center (manned by very helpful staff). The bathrooms many rungs above the traditional road stop restrooms.
Not only is it a source of all the information anyone could possibly want, it is also a welcoming place to sit and relax and unwind from the rigors of driving. An indoor concession area, with tables and chairs, is as inviting as it is extensive in its vending machine offerings.
Many displays flesh out the Native American roots of the area: tribal pictures (all of the tribes) hang on the wall, depicting the chiefs. Another display shows a glass enclosed pueblo reconstruction in elaborate detail.
The walls are attractively hung with pictures and Native American decorations.
There is also a meeting room or theater room within the building so perhaps this building hosts various functions besides offering travelers a welcome respite. The ceiling over the circular info desk area looks so much like Santa Fe's capitol rotunda and everything feels so spacious and clean and is so well illuminated.
Outside there are a couple of historic markers and views of what looks like cliff dwellings in the distance.
There is so much to see and do in New Mexico and this visitor's center is both welcoming and informative.
7. Manuelito Visitor Center
Overall Ratings
4 based on 15 reviews
Reviewed By on_the_go_98765 - Tucson
Every visit to New Mexico includes a stop here; the museum pieces never get tiring and the films on historical aspects of Indian life and buildings (like the kivas) are always interesting and informative. The brochures, maps, guides, and other pieces help us better enjoy our New Mexico stay.
The sitting area for quick refreshments is by far the nicest in all the states through which we have traveled. The restroom facilities are a cut above the norm.
Staff personnel behind the counter are always helpful.
