The Fort Stanton Historic Site is a must-see attraction when visiting Lincoln County.  Nestled on Highway 220 that bisects the Billy the Kid Scenic Byway, New Mexico’s newest historic site features over 155 years of southwestern history ranging from its initial creation as a military garrison to its significance as the first tuberculosis hospital in the state, to an internment camp for German seaman during World War II.

This 150-year-old pre-Civil War fort (1855) was home at one time to Kit Carson, the Buffalo Soldiers, 'Black Jack' Pershing, German prisoners, Geronimo, and Billy the Kid.

Annual events: 'Ft. Stanton Live!' mid-July (call to confirm).

Location: N.M. 220 between N.M. 48 and U.S. 380 (northeast of Ruidoso). Hours: 10-4 Daily.