6 Best Shopping in Farmington, Northwestern New Mexico

In a town with two super-sized Wal-Marts and a Target, a shopping round-up would not be complete without mentioning the gargantuan Animas Valley Mall. Expect the usual chain suspects, plus a multiplex movie theater.

To break free from the chains, step out to Dad's Diner; it's fun, open on Sunday—not much else is in town—and a certain cut above mall food.

Emerson Gallery highlights the modern, appealing paintings and prints of Anthony Chee Emerson. His bright yet harmonious palette is decidedly nontraditional, yet his themes speak to Native American history and contemporary issues—sometimes in the same piece.

Detour one block south to Fifth Generation Trading Co., an old trading post run by the Tanner family since 1875. Big and distinctly tourist-driven these days, it has a wealth of Native American wares and is known for sand paintings.

About a half-hour drive west of town, in Waterflow, are a number of old-time posts, including the Hogback Trading Co. A fourth-generation operation in business since 1871, it is especially known for fine, handwoven Navajo rugs.

Shiprock Trading Post established in 1894, came to Farmington in 2007. What sets this location off from its gallery in Santa Fe is its direct connection to the Navajo artisans who come here to buy the richly dyed skeins of wool that collectors will eventually see in their finished rugs. Stop here to view a good selection of topical books, outstanding rugs and jewelry from Indian artists creating contemporary designs from traditional materials, an excellent selection of modern Ganado and Wide Ruins rugs, rare vintage Chiefs blankets, and almost as rare Zuni and Navajo pawn.