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!
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, 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
"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
Step into New Mexico’s rich past at Fort Stanton Historic Site’s Living History Day on June 14. Enjoy a guided cemetery walk with Ranger Javier, uncover stories of early residents and Lincoln County War veterans, and learn about the Fort Stanton–Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area with Conservation Manager Warren Kasper. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | $7 adults | Free for eligible guests.
Explore Fort Stanton Historic Site and Snowy River Cave NCA on Saturday, June 28, 2025, 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 June 25 at www.riograndesierraclub.org/calendar.
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. Learn More »
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.
Experience history at Fort Stanton's annual event on August 23, featuring Civil War and Indian War re-enactors, demonstrations, live music, and vendors. Enjoy performances by Mescalero Apache dancers and Indian tacos and explore new exhibits in the Nurse's Quarters. Kids can enjoy themed activities, and a blood drive honors the nurses who served. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Free entry is available for qualifying groups. Buy Tickets >>
The town of White Oaks celebrates its Wild West past with a parade at 10 AM, a play at the schoolhouse, gold panning, a chuckwagon demonstration, food, and vendors. Music from noon to 4:00 pm at the No Scum Allowed Saloon, then again from 6:00- 11:00 pm.
Smokey Bear Historical Park in Capitan, NM, near Ruidoso, honors the legacy of Smokey Bear, the iconic symbol of wildfire prevention. The park features indoor and outdoor exhibits on forest health, fire safety, and black bears. Visitors can explore Smokey’s tranquil grave, enjoy a family-friendly playground, and take a stroll through climate zone replicas. Day-use only; service dogs allowed.