Things To Do
in Gallup
Gallup is a city located in the state of New Mexico, USA. It is known for its Native American culture and vibrant arts scene. The city is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the red rock formations of Red Rock State Park.
Gallup is also a popular stop for travelers along Route 66, with a variety of restaurants, shops, and museums to explore.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Red Rock Park, where you can hike and enjoy breathtaking views. The fresh morning air is perfect for capturing stunning photographs.
Visit the Gallup Cultural Center to explore the rich Native American history. You can browse local art and crafts, making it a perfect spot for souvenirs.
Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local diner that offers traditional Southwestern cuisine. Stroll through downtown Gallup to experience the vibrant atmosphere and local music.
Head to El Malpais National Monument for a morning filled with breathtaking landscapes. The unique lava formations and diverse wildlife make for a memorable hike.
Have lunch in town and then take a scenic drive along Route 66. Stop at iconic diners and roadside attractions for a taste of classic Americana.
Wind down with a sunset at the La Ventana Natural Arch. It’s an incredible spot to reflect on the day amidst beautiful surroundings.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong sense of community and local culture
- Beautiful natural surroundings and landscapes
- Rich history and significant Native American heritage
- Access to outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and skiing
- Reasonably low cost of living compared to larger urban areas
- Friendly and welcoming residents
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields
- Harsh winter weather conditions
- Dependent on tourism, which can fluctuate
- Limited access to healthcare facilities compared to larger cities
- Higher rates of poverty and unemployment compared to national averages
- Fewer entertainment and dining options than urban centers
Best Activities in Gallup
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy scenic trails and stunning rock formations in this beautiful state park.
Explore the rugged terrain and diverse trails for an exciting biking adventure.
Experience the serene beauty of the outdoors while camping at this picturesque campground.
Places to Visit in Gallup
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of red rock formations and the surrounding landscape, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Provides picturesque views of expansive landscapes, ancient petroglyphs, and a historic inscripted rock, making it a perfect spot for photography.
Known for its beautiful canyon vistas and opportunities to capture the natural beauty of the area, particularly during sunrise and sunset.
Food in Gallup
Gallup Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delectable dish featuring frybread topped with seasoned ground beef, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and salsa. A must-try at local diners such as Jerry's Cafe and Camille's Sidewalk Cafe.
Must-Try!
A hearty stew with chunks of pork, green chilies, potatoes, and various spices. Can be savored at landmark eateries like Earl's Restaurant and The El Rancho Hotel.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide array of local fare, including grilled corn on the cob, Navajo frybread, and traditional Native American dishes. Open on weekends, it's a feast for the senses.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Gallup, it is important to respect people's personal space and avoid standing too close or touching others without permission.
Gallup is a diverse city, so it's important to be open-minded and respectful of different cultural backgrounds and perspectives.
It's important to observe and respect local customs and traditions, including greetings, dining etiquette, and other social norms.
Safety
Tipping in Gallup
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Gallup, United States, particularly in the service industry. It is customary to tip 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, bars, and for other services such as hairdressing and taxi rides.
Payment in Gallup, United States, is primarily done using credit or debit cards, but cash is also widely accepted. Mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are becoming increasingly popular, and contactless payments are widely available in most establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May is a great time to visit Gallup as the weather is mild and the city comes to life with blooming flowers and cultural events such as the Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial.
June to August brings warm weather ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the nearby landscapes including the Red Rock Park and Canyon de Chelly.
September to November is a beautiful time to visit Gallup when the temperatures are pleasant and the fall foliage creates stunning scenery, perfect for outdoor photography and cultural festivals.
December to February is the off-peak season with cooler temperatures, making it a quieter time to explore and experience the local culture, art, and history without the crowds.
Gallup at Night
Hiking in Gallup
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located just outside Gallup, Red Rock Park offers picturesque scenery with red sandstone formations and various trails suitable for all skill levels.
A short drive from Gallup, this area features unique volcanic landscapes, hiking trails, and opportunities to explore lava tubes.
Offering a variety of trails, the Zuni Mountains provide beautiful forests and mountain views; a great spot for those looking for a more challenging hike.
Around an hour's journey from Gallup, this park features trails along the lake and in the surrounding area, ideal for both hiking and fishing.
Located at the edge of the Zuni Mountains, this area offers trails with breathtaking views of sandstone bluffs and the surrounding terrain.
Aiports
How to reach Gallup by plane.
The largest airport in New Mexico, located approximately 140 miles south of Gallup.
Located about 200 miles south of Gallup, it serves the El Paso, Texas area and surrounding regions.
Located around 340 miles west of Gallup, it is a major hub in Arizona.
Situated about 400 miles west of Gallup, it serves the Las Vegas area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly non-Hispanic white population.
Includes individuals of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, or other Spanish culture or origin.
Refers to individuals with origins in Africa or those of African descent.
Includes individuals with origins in the Far East, Southeast Asia, or the Indian subcontinent.
Includes individuals with origins in the original peoples of North America.
Refers to individuals who identify with two or more racial groups.
Includes individuals who do not fall into the standard racial or ethnic categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in Gallup, often played in schools and local leagues, with strong community support.
High school football games attract significant attendance, reflecting community pride and support for local teams.
Growing in popularity, especially among youth, with local leagues and tournaments taking place throughout the year.
A recognized sport in schools, particularly at the high school level, with students often participating in state competitions.
Various running events and marathons are hosted, promoting fitness and community engagement.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gallup.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries provide vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Restaurants like Camille's Sidewalk Cafe and Coal Street Pub are known for their vegan-friendly dishes and extensive vegetarian choices.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can savor gluten-free variations of regional favorites at restaurants such as The Cracker Barrel Deli and Grandpa's Grill.