Route 66 passes through many historic communities, but few places are older than the road itself. While Laguna Village, the capital of the Pueblo of Laguna, is located approximately 45 miles west of Albuquerque, the Pueblo of Laguna spans nearly 36 miles of Historic Route 66, with its eastern boundary beginning just 15 miles west of the city.

Along this remarkable stretch of the Mother Road, visitors can experience a living Native American community whose history predates Route 66 by centuries, where historic villages, cultural traditions, striking landscapes, and modern attractions come together to create one of New Mexico's most distinctive Route 66 destinations.

Please Note: Photography, videography, and drone use are restricted in portions of Laguna Pueblo. Visitors are asked to respect all posted signage and obtain permission before photographing.

Route 66 Casino Hotel

Traveling west from Albuquerque, visitors are welcomed by the iconic Route 66 Casino Hotel, home to the impressive Route 66 Centennial Monument at Exit 140.

Conveniently located along Historic Route 66 and visible from Interstate 40, the property features 154 modern guest rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, and a casino with 1,100 slots along with a variety of table games, including blackjack, craps, and roulette. Guests can also enjoy on-site sports wagering.

Opened in 2003, the property is owned and operated by Laguna Development Corporation on behalf of the Pueblo of Laguna. Dining options include Thunder Road Steakhouse & Cantina, Stadium 66 Sports Bar & Grill, Laguna Burger, and a snack bar.

The state-of-the-art Legends Theater hosts nationally and internationally recognized performers and entertainment events.

For more information, visit www.rt66casino.com(opens in new tab).

A Living Pueblo

The six villages of Laguna Pueblo, Laguna, Encinal, Mesita, Paguate, Paraje, and Seama, provide one of the few opportunities along Route 66 to experience a thriving, living pueblo community rather than a reconstructed historic site.

The people of Laguna Pueblo refer to themselves as Kawaika, meaning "Lake People," a reference to a lake that once existed near the village. Their heritage spans countless generations, with archaeological evidence indicating human presence in the region dating back thousands of years.

Laguna Pueblo is renowned for its rich artistic traditions, particularly pottery, jewelry, and other handcrafted works. Visitors may purchase authentic pieces directly from local artists or during public feast day celebrations and community events.

Historic Mission San José

The striking whitewashed Mission San José de la Laguna has welcomed travelers and worshippers since its dedication to Saint Joseph in 1701. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the mission remains one of New Mexico's most recognizable adobe churches and stands at the heart of Old Laguna.

Visible from both Historic Route 66 and Interstate 40, the church continues to serve as an active parish. A convent stands just south of the mission, while each of Laguna Pueblo's six villages maintains its own church dedicated to a different patron saint.

Yet the story of Laguna is not defined by Catholic traditions alone. The Pueblo continues to preserve and celebrate its Laguna customs and traditions, ceremonies, songs, and dances.

As long-time resident Charlene Riley explains:

"We're so intertwined. We still practice our traditional religion here, along with the Catholic religion. We have traditional songs and dances during Christmas in the church."

This blending of traditions is especially visible during the public St. Joseph celebrations held annually on March 19 and September 19, when visitors may experience traditional dances, music, local foods, and Native artistry.

The church interior is currently closed while repairs and renovations are being made, however visitors can still admire its historic exterior.

As Riley notes:

"You can see it from Route 66. We only ask visitors to be respectful because we try to take care of our land."

For additional visitor information, call San Jose Mission at 505-552-9330.

Dead Man's Curve

Just east of Laguna, Old Route 66 follows one of New Mexico's most scenic and historic alignments. Near Owl Rock, approximately three miles east of the village, travelers can still experience the famous bend known as Dead Man's Curve, a sharp turn that surprised many motorists during Route 66's early years.

In 1932, the highway was realigned to bypass the dangerous curve, but the original roadway remains accessible today, offering a glimpse into the driving experience of Route 66's golden era.

Please Note: Visitors are welcome to stop; however, they are asked to remain on the roadway and respect surrounding Pueblo lands.

Modern Laguna and the World-Famous Laguna Burger

While Mission San José reflects Laguna's rich history, Dancing Eagle Casino (www.dancingeaglecasino.com(opens in new tab)) showcases its vibrant present. Opened in 2000 and operated by Laguna Development Corporation, the property serves travelers and residents alike with gaming, dining, convenience services, fuel facilities, retail shopping, and an RV park at Exit 108.

Another must-visit destination is Laguna Burger (www.thelagunaburger.com(opens in new tab)), located at Exit 114 and widely regarded as one of New Mexico's premier burger experiences.

Founded in 2005, Laguna Burger grew from a simple green chile cheeseburger served in Old Laguna. Inspired by the "Feast Burgers" traditionally prepared during Pueblo celebrations, the signature half-pound burger topped with authentic New Mexico roasted green chile quickly became a Route 66 favorite.

Over the years, Laguna Burger has earned statewide recognition, including honors as one of New Mexico's best green chile cheeseburgers. Although the brand has expanded to several locations throughout the state, this remains the original home of Laguna Burger.

As Laguna Development Corporation's Ryan Riley noted:

"Indigenous communities are not simply part of America's past. We are active participants in its present and future."

Plan Your Visit

For an unforgettable experience, consider planning your trip around the public St. Joseph celebrations on March 19 or September 19.

For visitor information, feast day schedules, travel guidance, and cultural protocols, contact:

Pueblo of Laguna Administration
Phone: (505) 552-6654
Website: www.lagunapueblo-nsn.gov(opens in new tab)

Come experience the history, culture, hospitality, and enduring traditions of the Pueblo of Laguna, where the spirit of Route 66 meets a living community that has called this landscape home for centuries.