Farmington is one of the top places to obtain Navajo rugs and other arts and crafts of the Navajo. There are several reputable dealers in town as well as, unfortunately, several others ranging from schlocky to downright misleading, largely clustered in the downtown district or along US 64 west toward Kirtland. The Foutz galleries and posts, distributed through several communities in the region, have a long history of offering quality goods. The main Foutz frontage is at 301 W. Main Street downtown +1 505 325-9413, with others on the way to Kirtland and in Shiprock. Hogback Trading Post, in Waterflow 15 miles west of downtown on US 64, is another outfit with a good reputation. If you encounter another dealer offering good work, add it here.
Keep an eye open for Navajo rug auctions, which can be an excellent way of acquiring a rug at prices below those found at the dealers. The Crownpoint rug auctions (http://www.crownpointruga...), at a tiny town in Navajo Nation and covered further in that article, offer a superbly diverse inventory of rugs and frequently excellent value for dollar, as well as a fascinating cultural experience. Lodging in Crownpoint is nonexistent, and if you go to an auction, you'll do well to secure lodging in Farmington first. Auctions are occasionally held in Farmington proper as well, although they usually aren't as extensive as those at Crownpoint.
