If you’ve ever wanted to visit a place that’s reminiscent of the Old West, you’ve probably heard of Gallup, New Mexico. This little city sits on historic Route 66 and offers a number of exciting attractions. Red Rock Park is a fascinating historical site where you can explore Anasazi cultural artifacts. The Red Rock Museum focuses on this heritage and displays pottery and silver. Native American crafts are also a popular attraction at the Gallup Cultural Center, while the Rex Museum covers the local history.
There are also several Native American trading posts located in the town, and you can find much more variety and cheaper prices than in most other areas of the state. Several galleries and artists have found Gallup to be an ideal place to purchase materials and supplies. Here, you can learn about the history of Native American art in the area and purchase an authentic piece. The local arts community is vibrant and has something to offer for every taste. In addition to shopping, you can also take a guided tour of the city’s cultural landmarks.
The city’s history is a rich one. There were dozens of coal mines within walking distance of the city. The town is proud of its history and honors its veterans with a museum in their name. You’ll find items from early 20th century life on shelves and in cases. You’ll find vintage clothing, medical equipment and lunch boxes. Interestingly, the historic buildings have also been used as brothels, police substations, and hobby shops.
While the city is home to several large rodeos, it’s also the “Adventure Capital” of New Mexico. The city has hundreds of miles of outdoor trails, including the High Desert Trail System-First and Second Mesa. During summer, the weather can be very hot, so be sure to pack appropriate clothing. If you’re planning a trip to Gallup, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities to choose from, including hiking and horseback riding.
While visiting Gallup, consider taking a stroll along Route 66. You’ll be sure to see some historic buildings in this town, which once housed speakeasies. Additionally, Gallup is the heart of southwest Native American tribal arts, craft and culture. You’ll find plenty of authentic goods for sale in numerous shops and museums. When planning your vacation to this city, make sure to check out the museums and outdoor recreation opportunities that Gallup offers.
While the city of Gallup has a long history of patriotism and military service, it also boasts a rich history of social justice. In the 1940s, Gallup fought to stop racial discrimination, preventing some 800 Japanese-American residents from being thrown in internment camps during World War II. Since the 1970s, Gallup has been home to a significant Palestinian population. While a few locals might claim that Bob Dylan was raised in Gallup, the truth is that he was born in Duluth, Minnesota and raised in Hibbing.
There are several major transportation options available in the area, including Amtrak. The Southwest Chief, which runs along the main train line through the Southwest, has a station in Gallup. It arrives in Gallup at 7:08 PM on the westbound train and at 8:51AM on the eastbound train. Unfortunately, the station has neither a ticket office nor a Quik-Trak machine, so you will have to travel to another station for your tickets. If you have time, you can buy tickets on the internet.