Things to Do in Gallup, New Mexico

It's summertime and the perfect time of year for family travel. Pack up the kids and take a drive down the historic Route 66. While seeing the sites on this piece of American history, make sure you add the town of Gallup, New Mexico to the list. There are many things to see and do in this Native American mecca, so you may want to look into Gallup hotels for your stay.

The first people to discover the rich Native American culture were the Spanish Conquistadors in 1540, lead by Coronado. They were looking for "The Seven Cities of Gold" but found instead found a very sophisticated settlement proficient in farming, building, and craft work. More recently, in 1880, a paymaster for the railroad named David Gallup established a small company headquarters where modern Gallup is located, which is where the town gets its name.

Today, Gallup is home to 110 trading posts, shops, and galleries. This makes the town the undisputed Southwestern center of Native American art. The trading post experience is unique to Gallup. While single posts exist elsewhere, this is the biggest collection of trading posts in the Southwest. Another reason you may consider finding Gallup, New Mexico hotels is so you can park your car and walk down Route 66. It is the best way to experience the galleries and trading post activities.

As is fitting for the center of Indian America, Gallup hosts the largest gathering of Native Americans every August: the Inter-Tribal. It is held four miles east of town, in the beautiful Red Rock State Park. There are permanent grandstands built against the towering red rock, creating the amphitheater for the event.

Held Thursday through Sunday, the Inter-Tribal starts at night with the entrance of a Navajo and his sons. He starts a sacred fire, from which ceremonial torches are lit. Flags of the Navajo nation, the United States, and the State of New Mexico are planted at the summit of the cliffs surrounding the ceremonial grounds. Find yourself a Gallup hotel to put your family up in and head out to see this beautiful ceremony.

Downtown Gallup is 12-blocks of turn-of-the-century architecture, trading posts, and galleries. Be sure to visit the Rex Hotel, now known as the Rex Museum, as well as the pueblo revival McKinley County Court House and the historic El Morro Theater. The Gallup Film Festival is held here every year.

Finally, visit the new Gallup Cultural Center, located in a historic railroad station on Route 66. The center consists of the Ceremonial Gallery, the Storyteller Museum, a Visitor Center, and the Kiva Cinema. All attractions are free and open to the public. There is also the Museum Shop and El Navajo Cafe to visit as well. So, plan a trip to Gallup. Find Gallup, New Mexico hotels in your price range, walk down the historic Route 66, and take in all the Native American culture.

 

Top 10 Free Things to Do in the Lake District

 

1. Lake District walking
From gentle Windermere walks to gruelling hikes up Helvellyn, there is no better way to explore the Lake District than on foot. Different grades of walks, from easy to difficult, start and finish in most of the major towns and villages, and whatever your age and fitness levels, you will find a walk to suit you.

2. Cycling Lake District
Cycling in the Lake District is one of the best ways to explore this beautiful region, and allows you to see so much more than you would in a car. There are challenging routes and also trails to suit all ages and fitness levels. You can also hire a cycle to make the most of this beautiful part of England.

3. Explore Grizedale Forest
Take your time to explore Grizedale Forest, and meet some of the local wildlife, including red deer, barn owls, buzzards and badgers. The Grizedale Sculpture Trail also provides great fun for all the family.

4. Haig Colliery Mining Museum Whitehaven
This intriguing coal mining museum attracts visitors from all over the UK, and is Cumbria's last deep coal mine. Free entry, children are welcome, and disabled facilities make this accessible to all.

5. Holehird Gardens in Windermere
Holehird Gardens at Windermere offers visitors scenic walks, stunning views and some of the best examples of Hydrangea and Polystichum. A great day out for all the family and absolutely free.

6.Gincase Craft Barn at Silloth
The Gincase Craft Barn at Silloth consists of a gallery, a farm park and tea rooms, and includes an enclosed bird flight and a rabbit and guinea pig pen, which is popular attraction amongst the younger visitors.

7. Jesus Church, Troutbeck
The Jesus Church at Troutbeck dates back to at least 1506, and is one of the prettiest churches in the Lakes. The Jesus Church was completely rebuilt in 1736, and restored again in 1861. The East Window was designed by Sir Edward Burne-Jones, and features coloured glass.

8. Spa facilities
If you are lucky enough to be staying at a spa hotel in Windermere or elsewhere in the lakes, take advantage of as many free treatments, or use the free jacuzzi and pool as often as you like during your stay.

9. Skateboard Windermere
Whether you are staying in Windermere or simply visiting for the day, the Windermere Skate Park provides a great place for the kids to let off steam, and it won't cost you a penny.

10. Ospreys in Bassenthwaite
Incredibly, the Bassenthwaite Ospreys return to the Lakes from Africa every year, and can usually be seen from April, nearing the end of their journey. Viewing stations around the lake allow visitors to see the birds flying home after a long winter away.

Whether you are staying at a spa hotel in Windermere, a boutique hotel in Bowness or a guest house in Grasmere, you will find plenty of things to see and do in the Lake District that is absolutely free of charge. Explore the beautiful lakes and countryside and make the most of your stay in this scenic part of the world.