Supporting Local Artists, Shops, and Small Businesses
Gallup, New Mexico is one of the most underrated places in the Southwest, especially if you love Native American jewelry, meaningful travel, and shopping directly from artists. If you’re looking for a weekend that blends culture, great food, and intentional shopping, here’s exactly how to spend two days in Gallup.
Day 1: Downtown Gallup + Sunset Hike
Morning: Downtown Gallup Shopping
Spend your morning walking downtown Gallup and visiting some of the area’s most well-known trading posts and galleries. This is where Gallup really shines — family-owned shops, knowledgeable staff, and an incredible selection of Native-made jewelry.
- Richardson’s Trading Company – 223 W Historic Hwy 66, Gallup, NM
- Perry Null Trading Company – 1710 S 2nd St, Gallup, NM
- Nugget Gallery – 1302 S 2nd St, Gallup, NM
Lunch
- Jerry’s Cafe – 406 W Coal Ave, Gallup, NM
A longtime local favorite known for classic comfort food and friendly service. It’s casual, filling, and the perfect midday stop between shops.
Afternoon: Check-in + Relax
- Hotel El Rancho – 1000 E Hwy 66, Gallup, NM
An iconic Route 66 hotel with Old Hollywood charm. Each room has its own personality, and the property itself is worth exploring.
Sunset Hike
- Church Rock at Red Rock Park – 5757 Red Rock Park Dr., Church Rock, NM
End your first day with a sunset walk or hike near Church Rock. The landscape is beautiful and peaceful, especially as the light changes.
Dinner
- Earl’s Restaurant – 1400 E Hwy 66, Gallup, NM
A Gallup institution known for Navajo tacos, green chile, and classic New Mexican flavors.
Day 2: Artists, Trading Posts, and Zuni Pueblo
Morning: Meet the Artists
One of the most meaningful parts of visiting Gallup is the opportunity to connect directly with Native artists and silversmiths.
Tomás and Co
Tomás and Co is a Navajo husband-and-wife silversmith team based out of Gallup. Visiting their shop and seeing their work firsthand offers a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind handmade Native jewelry. Each piece reflects skill, tradition, and intention and buying directly from artists like Tomás and Co ensures your purchase supports the people who create it. This kind of experience is what makes Gallup so special.
Late Morning: Trading Posts
Richardson’s Trading Company
Richardson’s is one of the most well-known trading posts in Gallup and for good reason. The selection is vast, the staff is incredibly knowledgeable, and the quality of the jewelry is outstanding. Whether you’re looking for classic turquoise pieces or something more unique, Richardson’s is a must-visit stop.
Perry Null Trading Company
Perry Null offers an impressive collection of Native American jewelry and art, curated with a strong emphasis on quality and authenticity. Shopping here feels intentional and educational, and it’s a great place to learn more about the artists behind the work.
Nugget Gallery
Nugget Gallery is beautifully curated with an incredible eye for detail. The collection includes unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that feel elevated and thoughtfully selected. If you’re looking for something a little different, this gallery is absolutely worth your time.
Afternoon: Zuni Pueblo
A visit to Zuni Pueblo adds an important cultural layer to your Gallup itinerary. Exploring the pueblo and shopping at a local store on the reservation offers the opportunity to purchase jewelry and art directly from Zuni artists. It’s a powerful reminder that Gallup isn’t just a shopping destination — it’s a gateway to living cultures, traditions, and communities.
Where to Stay
- Hotel El Rancho – 1000 E Hwy 66, Gallup, NM
Historic, charming, and centrally located, Hotel El Rancho is the perfect home base for a weekend in Gallup.
Why Gallup
Gallup offers something many other Southwest destinations don’t: access. Access to artists. Access to authentic work. And access to meaningful experiences that go beyond shopping. If you’re looking to support Native artists while enjoying a relaxed, welcoming town, Gallup deserves a spot on your list.
Thank you to Visit Gallup for hosting us. All opinions are my own.
