Gallup, New Mexico is a city shaped by layers of culture, history, and community. Nestled at the crossroads of Native American lands and historic trade routes, Gallup is home to museums that go beyond artifacts—they serve as living reflections of the people, traditions, and stories that define the region. From ancient civilizations to railroad roots, here’s why you should visit these three standout museums when exploring Gallup.

Credit: George Galanis Multicultural Center (Visit Gallup, New Mexico)

George Galanis Multicultural Center

Located in the historic Santa Fe Depot, the George Galanis Multicultural Center offers a unique window into the cultural richness of the Southwest. Since its opening in 1996, the center has curated exhibits and programming that celebrate the traditions of neighboring Native

American communities, including Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi, as well as Gallup’s own diverse immigrant and trading history.

Why visit?

The center hosts rotating exhibits, art shows, cultural performances, and educational events that foster cross-cultural understanding. It’s not just a museum—it’s a place where community and culture come together in dialogue and celebration.

Credit: Red Rock Park Museum (Visit Gallup, New Mexico)

Red Rock Park Museum

Set amidst the dramatic cliffs of Red Rock Park, this museum dives into the region’s deep archaeological and cultural roots. Exhibits highlight the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans and explore the continuing traditions of the Navajo, Hopi, and Zuni peoples who still call this land home.

Why visit?

Beyond the museum walls, the setting itself is breathtaking. Combine a visit with a hike or scenic drive through Red Rock Park for a powerful immersion into the natural and human history of the area. It’s a chance to connect with ancient stories in the very landscape where they unfolded.

Credit: The Rex Museum (Visit Gallup, New Mexico)

The Rex Museum

If you love quirky history with a dose of local flavor, the Rex Museum is a must-see. Housed in a historic building that once operated as a brothel and later a grocery store, this small but mighty museum offers rotating exhibits on everything from Gallup’s role in Route 66 to local legends and artifacts.

Why visit?

It’s a museum with personality. The Rex Museum showcases the unique, sometimes surprising threads that make up Gallup’s identity—inviting visitors to experience history through the lens of everyday life.