Lincoln Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Lincoln, New Mexico with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, stay, and shop.


Introduction to Lincoln

Lincoln, a charming town located in southeastern New Mexico, is known for its rich history and natural beauty. This quaint town is home to a plethora of cultural and natural attractions, making it an ideal destination for history buffs, adventure seekers, and nature lovers alike.

List of Places to Visit in Lincoln

Below are some of the must-visit places in Lincoln:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lincoln State Monument: This state monument is home to 17 historic buildings, including the Torreon, where Billy the Kid made his famous escape.
  • Billy the Kid Museum: Learn about the life and legacy of one of America’s most notorious outlaws, Billy the Kid, at this fascinating museum.
  • Old Lincoln County Courthouse: This iconic building served as the seat of government during the Lincoln County War.

Natural Attractions of Lincoln: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area: This conservation area offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning subterranean world of Snowy River Cave.
  • Smokey Bear Historical Park: Learn about the history of America’s most famous mascot, Smokey Bear, and explore the beautiful park grounds.
  • Rio Bonito Preserve: This nature preserve offers hikers and bird-watchers a chance to explore the riparian habitat of the Rio Bonito.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lincoln

Lincoln offers visitors a chance to explore its stunning natural beauty on foot or on bike. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in Lincoln include:

  • Bonito Creek Trail: This 4.6-mile trail offers stunning views of the Bonito Creek and the surrounding forests.
  • Smokey Bear Trail: This 2.3-mile trail takes visitors through the beautiful Smokey Bear Historical Park.
  • Fort Stanton Cave Trail: This 2.9-mile trail takes visitors through the Snowy River Cave.

Best Things to Do in Lincoln: Activities and Tours

Lincoln offers visitors a plethora of exciting activities and tours. Some of the best things to do in Lincoln include:

  • Ghost Tour of Lincoln: This spooky tour takes visitors through the dark history and legends of Lincoln.
  • Horseback Riding: Enjoy a scenic horseback ride through the beautiful backcountry of Lincoln.
  • Stargazing: With its clear night skies, Lincoln is an ideal destination for stargazing and astronomy tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lincoln

If you have a week to spend in Lincoln, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Lincoln State Monument and Billy the Kid Museum
Day 2 Hike Bonito Creek Trail and explore Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area
Day 3 Take a horseback ride and visit Smokey Bear Historical Park
Day 4 Visit White Oaks Ghost Town and enjoy a ghost tour of Lincoln
Day 5 Hike Fort Stanton Cave Trail and explore Rio Bonito Preserve
Day 6 Visit Old Lincoln County Courthouse and enjoy a scenic drive along the Billy the Kid Scenic Byway
Day 7 Stargaze in the beautiful backcountry of Lincoln

Food and Drink Scene of Lincoln

Lincoln offers visitors a chance to sample its unique cuisine and local beverages. Below are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Green Chile Cheeseburger: New Mexico’s official state burger is a must-try when in Lincoln.
  • Carne Adovada: This traditional New Mexican pork stew is a must-try when in Lincoln.
  • Sopapillas: These fluffy fried pastries are a New Mexican staple and can be enjoyed with honey or as a savory dish.

Local Beverages

  • New Mexican Wine: Lincoln is home to several wineries that produce unique and flavorful New Mexican wines.
  • Chile Beer: This spicy beer is brewed with New Mexico’s famous green chilies and is a must-try for beer enthusiasts.
  • Margarita: Made with fresh lime juice and tequila, the margarita is a classic cocktail that can be found in most Lincoln restaurants and bars.

Where to Stay in Lincoln: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lincoln offers visitors a range of accommodation options, from cozy guesthouses to modern hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Lincoln:

  • The Wortley Hotel: This elegant hotel is located in the heart of Lincoln and offers luxurious rooms and modern amenities.
  • White Oaks Cozy Cottage: This charming guesthouse is located in the historic mining town of White Oaks, just a short drive from Lincoln.
  • Ruidoso River Resort & Inn: This beautiful resort is located in nearby Ruidoso and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

What to Buy in Lincoln: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home from Lincoln, here are some must-buy items:

  • Native American Jewelry and Art: Lincoln is located near several Native American communities that produce beautiful jewelry and art.
  • New Mexican Chile Powder: This spicy powder is a staple in New Mexican cuisine and can be found at most local markets.
  • Billy the Kid Memorabilia: No visit to Lincoln is complete without a souvenir from the infamous outlaw.

Local Culture and Customs of Lincoln

Lincoln is home to a rich and vibrant culture that is shaped by its history and natural beauty. Here are some local customs and traditions to keep in mind:

  • Respect for Native American Cultures: Lincoln is located near several Native American communities, and visitors are encouraged to show respect for their cultures and customs.
  • Celebration of Western Heritage: Lincoln celebrates its western heritage with annual events such as the Old Lincoln Days festival and the Wild West Shootout.
  • Love of New Mexican Cuisine: New Mexican cuisine is a central part of the local culture, and visitors are encouraged to try local dishes and sample local beverages.

Best Time to Visit Lincoln

The best time to visit Lincoln is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lincoln

Here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Lincoln:

Do:

  • Respect Local Cultures and Customs
  • Try New Mexican Cuisine
  • Explore the Natural Beauty of Lincoln

Don’t:

  • Disrespect Native American Cultures
  • Leave Trash in Natural Areas
  • Engage in Vandalism or Graffiti

Safety and Health

Safety in Lincoln

Lincoln is a relatively safe destination, but visitors should take common-sense precautions to stay safe. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Lincoln

Lincoln is located in a high-altitude desert environment, and visitors should take precautions to avoid dehydration and sunburn. Drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen when exploring Lincoln’s natural areas.

Getting to Lincoln: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lincoln is located in southeastern New Mexico and is easily accessible by car or bus. Here are some of the transportation options available:

Airports Near Lincoln

  • Roswell International Air Center: Located approximately 60 miles from Lincoln, Roswell International Air Center offers domestic flights to several major cities.

Bus Stations Near Lincoln

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in Roswell, approximately 60 miles from Lincoln, Greyhound offers bus service to several major cities.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Lincoln is located near several major highways, making it easy to explore the surrounding area by car.
  • Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in the area.

How to Get Around in Lincoln

The best way to get around in Lincoln is by car or by foot. Most of Lincoln’s attractions are located within walking distance of each other, but a car is necessary to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Lincoln: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time to explore the surrounding area, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Located approximately 90 miles from Lincoln, Carlsbad Caverns National Park offers visitors a chance to explore one of the world’s largest cave systems.
  • White Sands National Park: Located approximately 120 miles from Lincoln, White Sands National Park is home to stunning white sand dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see.
  • Ruidoso: This charming mountain town is located approximately 50 miles from Lincoln and offers a range of outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and fishing.

Conclusion

Lincoln, New Mexico is a hidden gem in the Southwest, offering visitors a chance to explore its rich history and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, adventure seeker, or nature lover, Lincoln has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover why Lincoln is one of New Mexico’s best-kept secrets.