Photos of the Ranch Kitchen Turquoise Horses in Gallup, New Mexico
Know Before You Go
To make the most of your visit to the Ranch Kitchen Turquoise Horses in Gallup, New Mexico, here are some things to know before you go.
What are the Ranch Kitchen Turquoise Horses in Gallup?
The Ranch Kitchen Turquoise Horses are a pair of oversized turquoise horse statues that stand along Historic Route 66 in Gallup, New Mexico. The colorful roadside attraction marks the former site of The Ranch Kitchen, a popular restaurant that once served travelers on the Mother Road.
Where are the Ranch Kitchen Turquoise Horses located on Route 66?
The horses are located at 3001 W. Historic Route 66 in Gallup, New Mexico, on the west side of Gallup along the city’s historic Route 66 corridor. The business is closed and the lot may not be well-maintained. You can pull in and park next to it but proceed with caution.
What was The Ranch Kitchen?
The Ranch Kitchen opened in 1954 and served as the restaurant for the nearby Thunderbird Lodge, a popular Route 66 motel known for its heated pool and welcoming accommodations. The restaurant offered everything from steaks and Italian dishes to American comfort food and New Mexican favorites.
The Thunderbird Lodge was demolished in 2007, and The Ranch Kitchen eventually closed as well. While the buildings are gone, the turquoise horses and portions of the vintage roadside signage remain as reminders of the property’s Route 66 history.
Where to Stay Near the Ranch Kitchen Turquoise Horses
Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest with a stay at one of these Route 66 hotels in or near Gallup, New Mexico.
Historic El Rancho Hotel
One of the best motels on Route 66, Historic El Rancho Hotel is located close to this Route 66 roadside attraction. Sleep where the stars have at this 1940s hotel that has hosted some of Hollywood’s biggest movie stars and makers, including Robert Mitchum, Elia Kazan, Spencer Tracy, Katherine Hepburn, William Holden, Billy Wilder, Kirk Douglas, Gregory Peck, Troy Donahue, and more. Photos of the stars are peppered throughout the intricately designed property and each room is themed with a star’s photo and information.
Sands Motel
Sands Motel is a budget-friendly classic Route 66 motel in Grants, New Mexico. The vintage motel has carpeted floors, cable TV, microwaves, mini refrigerators, and WiFi.
Related Tours
Gallup, New Mexico is just a short drive to Arizona Route 66 and the Petrified Forest National Park. Enhance your visit to the area with a tour!
Attractions Near the Ranch Kitchen Turquoise Horses on Route 66
“Dude Man” Cowboy Muffler Man in Gallup, New Mexico
Native American Trading Mural in Gallup, New Mexico
Rex Museum Murals in Gallup, New Mexico
Turquoise Jewelry Sculpture in Gallup, New Mexico
Cute roadside attraction that makes a fun photo op! Hope they revamp that building to something new someday!