Located along the historic Route 66 section of I-40, Gallup (pop 19,000), nicknamed "the gateway to Indian country," serves as the northwestern gateway town for travelers to New Mexico. Founded upon the railroad and coal mines of this corner of New Mexico and continuing to be a busy trade venue for the Navajo & Pueblo Indian reservations, Gallup is located within a short drive of several important Native American cultural sites and a handful of recreational opportunities. All and all, Gallup is a good jumping off point for exploration of the northwest corner of the state.
Gallup's main drag is studded with economical accommodations with choices ranging from local motels to bigger chain hotel options. There is no shortage of chain restaurants in Gallup, though visitors will find several local eateries to choose from for some dining variety, with all establishments here catering to road weary travelers. To learn more about Gallup, select a topic of interest from the left-hand navigation bar.