Neon signs and murals depicting the rich history of Rt 66 make a drive through this town worth the detour off the HWY
Mostly Doug Quarles beautiful art work and there is a Mural Map available at the Chamber of Commerce, the NM Route 66 Museum, and more.
Beautiful, interesting, and varied murals decorate the exterior walls of many old building in Tucumcari. Anyone with interest in Route 66 or southwestern art should absolutely deviate from the monotony of the interstate to check them out. Even more amazing is the fact that none of the murals were vandalized with graffiti.Unfortunately while in town I didn't see a map or checklist guide to the murals, making me wonder if I missed any.
hastily done and done by immature artists who seem to want to depict radical or unrealistic aims colors too harsh, themes not in keeping with history of area
I have no idea how the murals got started in Tucumcari, but I'm so glad they did. Without exception they are well executed and highly creative. They are totally worth a drive by.
Murals were within walking distance of our motel. They lend a nostalgic touch to a town that has seen better days. The vintage cars were also fun to see,
We were driving around town and saw the most beautiful murals on the buildings. Very real and detailed. We were told that a guy came into town and just started painting them and when he was done he left.
The painted murals are all over Tucumcari - from the restored gas stations, to sides of motels or inside the garages of the Blue Swallow or the booths of the Lizard Lounge to the extra long on the side of some buildings. All depict actual people from the town as well as its history. Definitely need to get out and observe close up. Murals by the Quarles are exceptional.
There are murals all through the town, depicting local history, the terrain and western themes. Not at all amateurish Very accomplished indeed and worth a cruise through the town.
Great murals, a hisotry of Rte 66. Wonderful stop! Tucumcari has such wonderful history of rte. 66 -- I wish a few more motor court or motels would get preserved.