Come to New Mexico for the Bucket List Experience, Stay for the Culture

National Geographic recently named the stretch of Route 66 that winds through picturesque New Mexico as one of the 20 Coolest Travel Adventures for 2024 for their yearly “Best of the World” roundup, and the reason why is no mystery to locals and tourists alike. Ranking at number 7 on the list, this is an exemplary destination for travelers looking to hit the road and explore the idyllic expanse of Southwestern America. Scenic, historic, and exploding with life and culture, you will be sure to fall in love with all New Mexico has to offer.

For nature lovers, sites like Petroglyph National Monument in Albuquerque, Santa Rosa Lake State Park (home to the 81-foot natural swimming hole known as Blue Hole, complete with caves and crystal clear water) and Rio Grande Nature Center State Park are outright dream destinations. This region is chock-full of Native American culture, artwork, and cuisine, being home to Navajo, Zuni, and Pueblo tribes to name a few.

Head to Gallup to see nightly tribal dances in Courthouse Square, or shop at The Gallup 9th Street Flea Market every Saturday, the largest Native American flea market in the United States boasting an impressive 10,000 weekly visitors. Gallup 9th is overflowing with an abundance of handmade jewelry, rugs, paintings, metalwork, live music, and delicious mutton and fry breads. While in Gallup, you can be sure to get some hiking in at Red Rock Park, home to the breathtaking Church Rock, whose spires reach up towards the sky with awe-inspiring authority. You can also pop into the Red Rock Museum to learn about the Native history of the area and deepen your understanding of the rich cultural traditions and heritage of the Hopi, Navajo, and Zuni tribes. If you’re lucky enough to be there in December, be sure to check out the Red Rock Balloon Rally to see the horizon decorated with a plethora of vibrant hot air balloons. 

This range of Route 66 is sure to be a vacation to remember with something to offer to anyone seeking the simple pleasures of nature and a welcoming, historied culture.