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.
Lincoln, NM Courthouse and Jail, where Billy the Kid was held.
Day 1: Arrival and Local Exploration
Morning
Arrive in Ruidoso, check in at your chosen accommodation, and freshen up.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of these cozy Ruidoso breakfast spots.
Begin your historical journey by visiting the Fort Stanton Historic Site. Learn about its role in the Apache Wars and its significance as an internment camp during World War II.
Afternoon:
Order a picnic lunch from The Village Buttery or Mario’s Market and head out of town for Smokey Bear Historical Park in nearby Capitan. Explore the history of Smokey Bear, the iconic symbol of wildfire prevention, and visit the final resting place of the original Smokey Bear.
Evening:
Return to Ruidoso and discover authentic, mouth-watering Ruidoso eateries to suit any budget and appetite.
Day 2: Lincoln Historic Site and Ruidoso Activities
Morning:
After breakfast, make your way along the Billy The Kid Scenic Byway to Lincoln Historic Site, a community frozen in time—the 1870s and 1880s. The monument preserves several historic buildings, including the Old Lincoln County Courthouse, the Tunstall Store, and the Wortley Hotel, all of which played significant roles in the town's tumultuous past. A friendly Lincoln coffee stop is Annie's Little Sure Shot in Historic Lincoln.
Afternoon:
Elect a designated driver, and enjoy a homebrew at Bonito Valley Brewing Company before moving on to Carrizozo and a visit to the Carrizozo Heritage Museum, offering a glimpse into the region's railroad history, art, and local culture.
In the afternoon, explore the nearby Valley of Fires Recreation Area, a vast lava flow field that stretches across the landscape, and learn about the geological significance of this natural wonder formed approximately 5,000 years ago, when Little Black Peak erupted and flowed 44 miles into the Tularosa Basin, filling the basin with molten rock.
Evening:
Return to Ruidoso and relax at one of the local spas or take a scenic stroll around one of Ruidoso’s alpine lakes.
Day 3: White Oaks Ghost Town and Mescalero Apache Attractions
Morning:
Start your day with a scenic drive to White Oaks, a historic mining town known for its Wild West past. Explore the town's well-preserved buildings and learn about its mining history. Be sure to include a visit to the historic No Scum Allowed Saloon, named one of American Cowboy Magazine's "Best Cowboy Bars in the West."
Afternoon:
Enjoy lunch at a local eatery in Carrizozo. Check out popular sights like Honey Girl’s Cafe, Malkerson Gallery 408, and the Tularosa Basin Gallery of Photography as you discover the local area in Carrizozo.
Take some time this afternoon to explore the Mescalero Apache Reservation. Learn about the Mescalero Apache Tribe's culture and history at the Mescalero Apache Cultural Center and Museum. The museum of the Apache people offers vivid pictures of the Mescalero, Chiricahua, and Lipan Apache People. You will see ancient stone Apache Tools, Weapons, Clothing, and a great collection of beautiful baskets.
Be sure to check out St. Joseph's Apache Mission, a National Historic Landmark.
Evening:
For your final evening, consider one of several dining options at Mescalero’s Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort Casino or enjoy Ruidoso's vibrant live music scene, with venues featuring everything from country singers to big-band crooners and edgy newcomers.