Located along historic U.S. Route 66 on the Navajo Nation in northeastern Arizona,  7 miles from the Arizona/ New Mexico border, Chee’s Indian Store is a longtime family-owned destination celebrating Diné (Navajo) culture and craftsmanship. Established in 1948 by the Chee family—whose name means “red” in the Navajo language—the store began as an outdoor stand showcasing handwoven rugs and jewelry created by Diné artisans.

OUR STORY

The Chee family (Chee meaning “red” in Navajo) established Chee’s Indian Store on old Route 66 in 1948. Eva Chee, built a outdoor covered stand to display Navajo woven rugs and jewelry. Chee family maternal clan is Honágháanii.

In 1970 with the construction of Interstate 40, and the original store now under the west bound lane of I-40. Chee’s relocated to its current location at exit 351. The Chee family built a permanent building selling local products as well as a Rock Shop. Today, Chee’s Indian Store is still family owned and operated and is continuing to provide authentic products to the public while supporting local artisans.

NAVAJO NATION

Chee’s Indian Store is located on I-40, on the Navajo Reservation. The Navajo Nation gained sovereignty in 1868. The Reservation is a self-governed nation with a President and 24 delegates representing the 110 Chapters,and a population of 300,048, as of July 2011. If you want to hear the Native language tune into the reservation local radio stations that devote programs all in the Navajo. 

The Navajo Reservation is the largest Native American reservation in the United States. 

FAMILY

Chee’s Indian Store has been Navajo owned an operated for four generations and is committed to preserving authentic Navajo art.
 
With four generations of experience Chee’s Indian Store has cultivated relationships with local artists and provides direct access to Navajo and Zuni arts and crafts.

Today, Chee’s Indian Store continues that legacy offering a wide selection of authentic Native American items including handmade jewelry, pottery, rugs and traditional crafts made by local and regional artists, such as: jewelry, t-shirts, blankets, aprons, handmade Navajo dolls, ornaments, beaded items and Navajo rugs.

Visitors can browse beautifully crafted work that expresses cultural identity through design, technique and material, while enjoying a welcoming atmosphere rooted in community pride. A small rock shop adds to the experience, reflecting the enduring connection between land, art and story.

A stop at Chee’s Indian Store offers more than a retail visit. It is an opportunity to connect with the living culture of the Navajo Nation, learn about artistic traditions passed down through generations, and take home a piece of craftsmanship that reflects both heritage and creativity along Route 66.

UNIQUE ROUTE 66 NAVAJO NATION STAMP

Make sure you get the Chee's Route 66 stamp when you arrive! 
This historic, indigenous-owned trading post has been a staple since 1948 and is a recognized site for the Route 66 Passport.

HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday — Saturday (MST/DST, time changes to Daylight Savings in March)
 9:00am to 5:00pm 

Frybread Stand Open from 9:00am - 4:00pm

Closed — Sunday

Eva Chee in front of her stand on Old Route 66. Her hand woven rugs can be seen hanging behind her.