The One Of A Kind Store You’ll Only Find In New Mexico

Many who make the pilgrimage along Route 66 discover the town of Tucumcari, where murals, neon signs, and kitsch abound. Regardless of whether or not you’re interested in the Mother Road, you should definitely stop here to visit a Tucumcari store that is like no other.

Tucumcari Ranch Supply doesn’t sound like an exciting destination but, although this store does sell feed and hardware, there’s so much more hidden inside.

This is the home of Watson’s BBQ, where "every butt gets a good rub!"

How can you resist a slogan like that, or the opportunity to meet the people with such a great sense of humor?

Everyone who stops by raves about the hospitality here. Jimmy and Stella Watson have run this place since 1980 and they’re almost as famous for the warm welcome they give to patrons as they are for their BBQ.

When you arrive, the scent of BBQ lures you inside.

Whether you opt for ribs, brisket or pulled pork, you won’t be disappointed.

Dress in comfy clothes because, by the time you finish digging in to the down home cuisine, you’ll be as stuffed as the store’s giant bear.

Speaking of the bear, this mascot is a star attraction, posing with friends, families…

…And even dogs!

Admit it. Now that you’ve seen the bear, you want your own version of this shot.

If you’re still – miraculously – hungry, check out the donut menu.

Yep, there’s an entire menu listing the yeast and cake donuts, apple fritters, and cinnamon rolls that the bakery makes.

The taxidermied bear probably gave away the fact that Tucumcari Ranch Supply is bursting with kitsch, both outside…

…And inside.

This makes browsing through the store a fascinating experience.

You’ll find everything from saddles to Western-inspired clothing for sale.

Most businesses are pretty unhappy if you graffiti their property. Not so here. Leave your mark at Watson’s. Everyone else has.

After all, this one-of-a-kind store is sure to make a lasting impression on you.

Tucumcari Ranch Supply is located at 502 S Lake Street. To learn more, check out the store's website.

When you've finished exploring the shop, there's plenty more fun to be had in the small town of Tucumcari. See why you might want to turn a day trip into an overnight stay here.