Ruidoso for History Buffs

 

Step into Ruidoso’s rich past, where Native American heritage, historic forts, and cowboy folklore come to life. Explore museums, cultural landmarks, and legendary sites that tell the story of the region’s deep history and time-honored traditions.

Discover Ruidoso’s top historical and cultural attractions today!

 
Featured
Wingfield Heritage House Museum: A Journey Through Ruidoso’s History
Wingfield Heritage House Museum: A Journey Through Ruidoso’s History

Discover Ruidoso’s rich history at the Wingfield Heritage House Museum, a beautifully restored 1920s home. Once a family residence and business hub, it now features curated exhibits on early settlers, Native cultures, and the town’s evolution. Explore preserved rooms, uncover local traditions, and connect with the stories that shaped Ruidoso’s past and present.

Lincoln State Historic Site
Lincoln State Historic Site

Lincoln, the most widely visited historic site in New Mexico, is part of a community frozen in time—the 1870s and 1880s. The historic site includes 17 structures and outbuildings, four of which are open year-round and two more seasonally as museums.

Lincoln County History and Heritage: An immersive 3-Day Ruidoso trip itinerary
Lincoln County History and Heritage: An immersive 3-Day Ruidoso trip itinerary

Discover Lincoln County, New Mexico – a region steeped in rich history and vibrant heritage. Embark on a captivating three-day trip itinerary based in Ruidoso, where the spirit of the American West comes alive.

Fort Stanton State Historic Site
Fort Stanton State Historic Site

The Fort Stanton State Historic Site is a must-see historic attraction when visiting Lincoln County.  Few sites in the nation encompass the breadth of history seen at the Fort.

Mescalero Apache Tribe
Mescalero Apache Tribe

Established in 1873 by presidential order, the Mescalero Apache reservation covers 720 square miles of land adjacent to the Village of Ruidoso. The Mescalero Apache Tribe owns and operates both Ski Apache Ski Resort and the Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino as well as other Reservation-based enterprises. 

Billy The Kid National Scenic Byway
Billy The Kid National Scenic Byway

Visit historic Lincoln, once home to outlaw Billy the Kid and lawman Pat Garrett. on this scenic drive through the rugged beauty of the million-acre Lincoln National Forest.

White Oaks Ghost Town
White Oaks Ghost Town

White Oaks is a Lincoln County ghost town just north of Carrizozo that became a boomtown in 1879 following the discovery of gold and coal in the nearby Jicarilla Mountains. Today, there's a small historic museum, a legendary saloon, and the White Oaks Pottery art studio. 

No Scum Allowed Saloon
No Scum Allowed Saloon

Located in White Oaks, once a booming gold mining town, the No Scum Allowed Saloon is one of the best cowboy bars in America. The saloon atmosphere is good old-fashioned country: open and friendly, with good music and cold beer at the ready.

New Mexico Museum of Space History
New Mexico Museum of Space History

The New Mexico Museum of Space History in Alamogordo, New Mexico celebrates the significant role the state of New Mexico has played in the development of the U.S. Space Program.

Smokey Bear Historical Park
Smokey Bear Historical Park

In 1950, Smokey was an orphaned little bear cub with burned paws, found in the aftermath of the Capitan Gap wildfire. Smokey Bear rose to fame as an icon for forest fire prevention and he lived in Washington, D.C.'s National Zoo for 26 years.  When he passed away, the famous black bear was laid to rest in his hometown of Capitan, NM.  

IN THE PRESS: White Oaks - The Liveliest Town in the Territory
IN THE PRESS: White Oaks - The Liveliest Town in the Territory

"Before White Oaks became known as the liveliest town in New Mexico Territory the area was first roamed by the Piros Indians before they were forced out by the fierce Apache. Though the region is arid and dotted with lava rock, the Indians found it abundant with game and made it one of their hunting grounds." - Legends of America

DISCOVER UPCOMING HISTORY EVENTS IN AND AROUND RUIDOSO

Featured
Lincoln After Dark
Mar 29
Lincoln After Dark

Don't miss your chance to step back in time and experience the Old West as it comes alive at "Lincoln After Dark.” Witness history after hours, where the legends of Billy the Kid and the Lincoln County War await to share their stories with those brave enough to listen. Enjoy an evening of adventure, history, and intrigue in the heart of New Mexico's most legendary town. Buy Tickets >>

Guided Hike at Fort Stanton Historic Site & Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area
Apr 5
Guided Hike at Fort Stanton Historic Site & Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area

Explore Fort Stanton Historic Site and Snowy River Cave NCA on Saturday, April 5, from 10:00 AM – Noon. Enjoy a scenic 2.5 to 3-mile hike with stunning mountain views and rich historical insights. Easy level, limited to 8 people (no dogs). Free, with a $7 museum fee. Register by April 1 at www.riograndesierraclub.org/calendar.

Lincoln Forest Renaissance Faire at Wingfield Park
May 16
Lincoln Forest Renaissance Faire at Wingfield Park

Immerse yourself in the magic of the medieval era right in the heart of Ruidoso, New Mexico. Featuring talented jesters, minstrels, and troubadours, a bustling marketplace with medieval wares, delicious Renaissance fare, and enchanting children's activities. Encounter mystical characters, fortune tellers, and more surprises throughout the weekend. Don your finest medieval attire and join event host Oso Productions for a day of history, fantasy, and fun at the Lincoln Forest Renaissance Faire. Tickets are available online or at the gate with special discounts for children and seniors.

Billy the Kid Pageant and Old Lincoln Days
Aug 1
Billy the Kid Pageant and Old Lincoln Days

The 2025 Billy the Kid Pageant brings history to life in Lincoln, NM, with performances on August 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. This folk play, first staged in 1940, reenacts key moments of the Lincoln County War, including Billy the Kid’s daring escape. Featuring local volunteer actors, many of whom are descendants of past participants, the event offers an authentic Old West experience. Tickets are available only at the gate.