Housed in the historic Santa Fe Depot, the Gallup Cultural Center in Gallup, New Mexico offers programming, exhibits, and arts that celebrate Gallup’s history and the neighboring Native American cultures.
The Gallup Cultural Center is housed in a two-story, stucco building that originally served as the local headquarters for the Santa Fe Railway. The building was constructed in 1918 and expanded in 1923 when an adjoining structure was added on to become a Fred Harvey hotel and restaurant complex, “El Navajo.” Sadly, much of that original hotel was demolished when Route 66 was widened in 1957.
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In 1996 the city of Gallup renovated the property to turn it into the Gallup Cultural Center. Operated by the Southwest Indian Foundation, it was set to be a town square where the local community and visitors could gather to learn about and celebrate the rich traditions of the area.
Exhibits here are spread across two wings and two floors of the depot. Explore the Storyteller Museum with displays dedicated to Navajo Code Talkers, southwestern art treasures, Route 66, and the Fred Harvey Girls. Find artwork, artifacts, sand paintings, photographs, and more that explore these topics close to the area. There’s even Kiva Cinema, a tiny theater that screens films about Chaco and the Four Corners region.
Outside of the center be sure to look for the popular sculptures that serve as landmarks for Gallup. One is a statue of Navajo Chief Manuelito made by Tim Washburn. The other is a 12-foot bronze statue called “Navajo Code Talker” by Navajo/Ute sculptor Oreland Joe.
If you’ve worked up an appetite exploring the museum, visit the on-site restaurant, Angela’s Cafe, for a hand-crafted sandwich, fresh salad, bowl of soup, or cup of coffee. Or, if you just want a sweet treat to top off your stay, Juniper Bakery on the first floor specializes in gourmet cookies and other bakery items.
This historic train station even still serves as the current Gallup train station, serving the Southwest Chief Amtrak line. So whether you are traveling Route 66 by car or crossing the country by train, add this must-stop attraction to your travel itinerary.
Visiting Gallup, New Mexico on your Route 66 road trip? Check out these other nearby roadside attractions: the Big Kachina Statue, the Dude Man Cowboy Muffler Man; the Giant Pottery, Rug Sculpture, and Turquoise Jewelry Sculpture at Perry Null Trading Company; and Wild Horses on Route 66.
Spending the night in town? Book a room at the historic El Rancho Hotel!
Gallup Cultural Center
Address: 201 E Hwy 66, Gallup, NM 87301
Cost: Free to See, Donations Accepted
Hours: 10:00am – 4:00pm, Monday-Friday; Closed Saturday-Sunday
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