Indian Arts Center in Laguna, New Mexico

Just outside Albuquerque along historic Route 66, sits an unassuming, albeit colorful little building. Adorned with paintings of Native women and traditional pottery, the Indian Arts Center offers an array of local pottery, textiles, jewelry, and other handcrafted goods from Laguna Pueblo artists. For a taste of traditional Native American fare, ask owner Dominick Quiroz to serve up a freshly made Indian taco or an order of fluffy Fry Bread with a choice of sugary toppings. The center was established in 1999 by Quiroz’s father with a mission to preserve and celebrate the rich culture of the Laguna Pueblo people, a federally recognized Native American tribe. Long before Spanish colonizers gave the pueblo the name “Laguna”, meaning “little lake,” the natives called themselves the Kawaika, or “lake people.” In 2023, the center received a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition, a testament to its longstanding commitment to preserving Laguna Pueblo culture and sharing its traditions to visitors near and far. Route 66 travelers may spot signs near Exit 114 advertising “FRY BREAD”. Take the exit and follow the signs along the roundabout until you reach the welcome flag and signs that read “LOCAL POTTERY and “FRY BREAD”.

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