History has left is mark on Ruidoso and Lincoln County and it is apparent even today in the streets of the communities. With such rich culture, there are many museums preserving the artifacts, the stories and the legends of the Wild West!

Explore where Billy The Kid fought and played.
Learn about the real Smokey Bear.
Discover the culture of the Mescalero Apache Native Americans.

Enjoy the many exceptional museums dedicated to providing you with an unforgettable journey through time.

FORT STANTON MUSEUM & VISITOR CENTER

Learn about the role that Fort Stanton played in the settling of the West! Located off Airport Road (Hwy 220). Hours are 10 AM to 4 PM Thursday through Monday (Seasonal). Fort Stanton LIVE! Re-enactment during Lincoln Days in August. Call 575-630-0044 for more information.

HUBBARD MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN WEST 

The Hubbard Museum of the American West is one of the most respected museums in the state, housing an extensive permanent collection and ever-changing schedule of shows and activities. The Hubbard Museum houses the Museum of the Horse and the Anne C. Stradling Collection and is affiliated with the Smithsonian in Washington D.C. Featuring a magnificent collection of carriages, wagons, saddles, fine art and Indian artifacts, the role of the horse in the American West is highlighted in great detail. "Free Spirits at Noisy Water" a landmark Dave McGary bronze installation of seven larger-than-life horses graces the entrance to the Museum. 575-378-4142.

HISTORIC LINCOLN

The old West is more than a distant memory for Lincoln County and the surrounding area. Just down the valley from Ruidoso is the historic town of Lincoln. During 1878 and 1879, the citizens of this town experienced a full fledged war between two opposing merchants. Known as the Lincoln County War, this hard fought conflict brought notoriety to a young gun slinger called Billy the Kid. Today, old Lincoln, through careful preservation and restoration, has emerged as a visible reminder of the past. Within the town’s limits are 11 state monuments, including four museums. The museums pay tribute to the Lincoln County War, Mescalero Apache Indians, the Buffalo Soldiers, and of course, Billy the Kid.

MESCALERO APACHE CULTURAL CENTER

Located in Mescalero, this center features photo exhibits, basketry and clothing of the three Apache tribes indigenous to this area.

RUIDOSO RIVER MUSEUM

In additional to offering visitors a wide collection of treasures, oddities and collectables from all around the world, the Ruidoso River Museum presents a most extensive collection of Lincoln County Wars memorabilia to be found anywhere. The Museum’s entire lower level is dedicated to presenting this tumultuous period in Lincoln County’s history. Here, you’ll find Pat Garrett’s original Colt Model 1877 Thunderer Revolver and his solid gold Sheriff’s badge set amidst a solid collection of historical documents, original letters and photographs and period artifacts from all the great names inhabiting Lincoln County during that period … Alexander and Susan McSween, James Tunstall, Dolan and Murphy, Sheriff Brady amongst items from many other period notables.

We are also, with our various other museum displays (like Elvis memorabilia!), here to entertain, amuse and create a sense of wonder in our visitors ... the endeavor to have something of interest for everyone. The Ruidoso River Museum is committed to providing a family friendly environment where history comes alive. 101 Mechem Drive, 575-257-0296.

SMOKEY BEAR HISTORICAL PARK

The exhibits inside the park building include displays on the history of Smokey Bear and the Cooperative Forest Fire Prevention program. Exhibits include articles and photos of the Capitan Gap Fire where Smokey Bear was found and displays of some of the earliest fire prevention posters. Exhibits about firefighting personnel, equipment and methods explain the natural role of fire in the environment. The outside exhibit area features a walking tour through six vegetative life zones and indigenous New Mexico plant life. Call 575-354-2748 for hours of operation.

SMOKEY BEAR MUSEUM/GIFT SHOP

Located on the grounds of the Park is a log cabin building constructed by volunteers as a tribute to Smokey Bear. The project was started by the local Women's Club in the late 50's and eventually donated to the Village of Capitan which now operates the Museum. The Museum contains exhibits and memorabilia of Smokey Bear as his legend developed over the years. Appropriate souvenirs and gifts are available in the Gift Shop. 102 Smokey Bear Blvd. (575) 354-2298.

WHITE OAKS SCHOOL MUSEUM

Built in 1895, the school has four large rooms in the two story building. The White Oaks Historical Society is restoring this building and has established a museum in it. The school was closed in 1947. The "big classroom" is now used as a meeting place. It is still heated by a pot-bellied stove and still has the old blackboards. The original school desks are also still in the building, many bearing the autographs of former students. Museum hours are 10 am to 4 pm weekends.