Get Lost In The Past At These 5 New Mexico Old Fashioned Trading Posts
Trading posts in New Mexico have been around longer than we have been a state. Today, amid the touristy roadside attractions, some old-fashioned trading posts still exist. Though they have updated (a bit) with the times, these shops still sell traditional native goods, some even still taking items in trade. Offering a little of everything, authentic trading posts are well worth browsing. You can find work from emerging and established native artists, and treasures from the past.
1. Ellis Tanner Trading Company (Gallup)
Ellis Tanner Trading Company, 1980 NM-602, Gallup, NM 87301, USA
Ellis Tanner, a fourth-generation trader, calls his shop a "modern-day old fashioned" trading post. It's a mix of trading company, jewelry store, pawn shop, and check cashing service. Head to Ellis Tanner Trading when you want to do some shopping in New Mexico. Look for local, handcrafted items amid books, buckles, saddles, and gadgets. Find them at 1980 Highway 602, in Gallup.
2. Original Trading Post (Santa Fe)
Original Trading Post, 201 W San Francisco St, Santa Fe, NM 87501, USA
The name of this business isn't just a gimmick. This trading post is one of the historic places in New Mexico. They claim to be the oldest trading post in the U.S., dating back to 1603 when they operated out of a tent. Today they sell gifts, Native American arts and crafts, women's clothing and Native American jewelry. They are in Santa Fe at 201 West San Francisco Street. Look for the ox cart on the roof.
3. Perry Null Trading Company (Gallup)
Perry Null Trading, 1710 S 2nd St, Gallup, NM 87301, USA
Perry Null started in the native jewelry business in 1970. Since then, his trading company has grown to include blankets, baskets, fetishes, pottery and a lot more. This is one of the authentic trading posts in New Mexico offering handmade Navajo, Hopi, and Zuni arts & crafts. Be sure to browse and look for art by recognized artists. Find Perry Null Trading Company at 1710 South 2nd Street, in Gallup.
4. Richardson's Trading Company (Gallup)
Richardson Trading Co., 223 W Historic Highway 66, Gallup, NM 87301, USA
Richardson's is another one of the historic places in New Mexico. Find everything from kachina dolls and headdresses to Navajo wool rugs, buckskins, and pottery from several tribes and pueblos. Also a long-standing pawn shop, this is a good place to pick up decades-old treasures. Find Richardson's Trading at 222 W 66th Avenue, in Gallup.
5. Toadlena Trading Post (Newcomb)
Toadlena Trading Post, Highway 491, Newcomb, NM 87455, USA
The Toadlena Trading Post is the place for great shopping in New Mexico, a combination grocery store, bank, post office, and cultural center. This is also the place for Navajo rugs by the noted Two Grey Hills weavers. These distinctive textiles with black, gray, cream, and brown designs are created from un-dyed, homespun, native wool. The Toadlena Trading Post is located about an hour north of Gallup, on Highway 491.
Ready to visit more trading posts in New Mexico? Head to the Casa Grande Trading Post where you’ll find a museum, a petting zoo, and Cerrillos Turquoise.
Anyone a trading post fan? Which ones are your favorites?
Address: Original Trading Post, 201 W San Francisco St, Santa Fe, NM 87501, USA
Address: Perry Null Trading, 1710 S 2nd St, Gallup, NM 87301, USA
Address: Richardson Trading Co., 223 W Historic Highway 66, Gallup, NM 87301, USA
Address: Toadlena Trading Post, Highway 491, Newcomb, NM 87455, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Trading Posts In New Mexico
June 22, 2022
Libby Monson
Where can I find the best antique shopping in New Mexico?
Antique shopping in New Mexico is like going on a treasure hunt! You never know what you’ll find, but you are always guaranteed a great time. Madrid is a tiny town in the Ortiz Mountains that is perfect for a day trip antique expedition. The drive to Madrid along the Turquoise Trail is scenic, with beautiful mountain views. The colorful town is full of trading posts, curio shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Spend the day wandering the shops, searching for the perfect souvenir. If Madrid looks familiar to you, you may have seen it in the movies! Ask the locals to tell you about the moves filmed in town.
Are there any historic places in New Mexico I can visit?
Yes! New Mexico is full of rich history that includes the oldest capital city in the United States (Santa Fe) and a Pueblo city inhabited between 850 and 1250 AD. You can visit historic places in New Mexico wherever you are in the state. Be sure to check out the Palace of the Governors in Santa Fe, the oldest government building in the country. Or the Acoma Pueblo west of Albuquerque. Have fun learning about the history of the Land of Enchantment!
Where are the best Main Streets in New Mexico?
If you love to spend the day strolling down Main Street, checking out New Mexico trading posts, and enjoying tasty treats, our state has plenty of options. Red River’s Main Street has an old-west vibe. Gallup’s main drag is the Mother Road, Route 66, which has a vintage feel. Silver City’s Bullard Street has interesting architecture. And Albuquerque’s Central Avenue is a fun and funky spot. Enjoy your adventures!
