The history and culture of Gallup, New Mexico will come to life as you make your way through the city’s historic district to the Gallup Cultural Center. Located in the Old Santa Fe Depot on Route 66, the Gallup Cultural Center houses the City of Gallup Visitor Center, the Storyteller Museum, the Master’s Gallery, a gift shop and Angela’s Café.
Gallup Historic District Highlights
Route 66 runs straight through downtown Gallup’s historic district lined with renovated light-red sandstone buildings. Throughout Gallup’s historic district are around 20 structures of historic and architectural interest constructed in the 19th and 20th centuries. Among them is the Gallup Historical Museum in the renovated turn-of-the-19th century Rex Hotel, the city’s beautifully restored El Morro Theater, originally built in 1926 as the city’s showcase theatrical house and the Gallup Cultural Center. Detailed brochures from the Visitor Center provide more information about the historic and architectural sights of Gallup.
Gallup Cultural Center
Housed in the Old Santa Fe Depot on Route 66, the Gallup Cultural Center was opened in 1996 by the Southwest Indian Foundation. Stop by the Center to explore the rich heritage and history of the region. Decorated with photos, furniture and trim reminiscent of the “El Navajo” era, the Center houses the City of Gallup Visitor Center, the Storyteller Museum, the Master’s Gallery, a gift shop and Angela’s Café. In the City of Gallup Visitor Center you can pick up detailed brochures to learn more about what Gallup and Northwest New Mexico offers. The Storyteller Museum is a cultural and historic exhibit of the Gallup area with something for every interest: trains, weaving, sandpainting, Historic Route 66, silversmithing and more come to life in the Storyteller Museum. In the Center’s Master’s Gallery, modern Native American art adorns the walls. Be sure to visit the Center’s Gift Shop featuring Native American arts and crafts for sale.
Shopping in Gallup Historic District
Gallup is a major trading center for the Navajo and Zuni peoples and is arguably one of the best places in New Mexico to shop for top-quality goods at descent prices. Along the streets of downtown Gallup’s historic district, trading posts and arts and crafts galleries sell Native American wares from turquoise stones to Navajo CDs to rare art.
- The Gallup Cultural Center houses Angela’s Café featuring a variety of culinary delights to satisfy every palate. Stop to enjoy the best coffee in town, a gourmet sandwich, or a mega burger.
- From rodeo events in the spring and summer to the Red Rock Balloon Rally in December, one of the world’s largest balloon rallies, Gallup offers a full slate of thrilling events throughout the year. Visit the official Gallup website to find out more about events taking place during your visit.