Laguna, NM
Route 66 always has gone through the Laguna Pueblo, in both the pre-and post-1937 alignments.
Ancestors of the current residents of Laguna have been there since at least 1300, and people have inhabited this area since 3000 BC.
The current Pueblo was founded in 1699, which remarkably, makes it the newest of the New Mexican pueblos. There are six villages: Laguna, Mesita, Paraje, Encinal, Seama and Paguate.
The big attraction is the 1699 St Joseph of the Lake Mission Church, which dominates the skyline. This mission has been redone over the years but maintains the original adobe floor, beam ceiling and other vintage features.
Like the other villages in the Pueblo, Laguna has restrictions concerning taking photographs, but those restrictions appear to be limited to photos of religious activities. Taking photos of the Church is permitted. Also, there are vendors and artists that sell their wares around the Church.
From Laguna, follow Hwy 124 to New Laguna
From Laguna, follow Hwy 124 across the Rio San Jose River (often dry) - Get in the left lane and go left at the Laguna School/ Historic 66 sign - Follow Route 66 to the Stop sign at Mesita Rd - Go right and get on I-40 toward Alburquerque
View Route66mc.com - Laguna to Mesita in a larger map
