The Land of Enchantment is known for for its culture, scenery, jewelry, and of course, famous faces throughout history. When it comes down to what makes New Mexico iconic, we have a few state symbols that come to mind – especially when we think of Ruidoso’s long history and location. Keep reading and see what you think!

THE “RED OR GREEN?” TRADITION

“Red or Green?”… This Official State Question of New Mexico (Really… Look it up!) refers to chiles. If you can’t choose, just ask for “Christmas Style” for the best of both worlds.

BILLY THE KID & FRONTIER LEGENDS

Billy the Kid was a central figure in the Lincoln County War (1878), one of the most famous conflicts of the Old West. (Did you know that one of the previous owners of the Old Dowlin Mill on Sudderth in Ruidoso hid Billy the Kid in a flour barrel when he was on the run from lawmen?)

ART, TURQUOISE & CRAFTSMANSHIP

Native artisans have created turquoise jewelry and Southwestern-style paintings for centuries. These pieces of art are a cornerstone of the area’s culture.

MOUNTAINS & LANDSCAPE

Ruidoso sits in the Sacramento Mountains, which creates a rare pocket of cool, pine-covered forest in an otherwise desert-heavy state. It’s one of the few places in the U.S. where you can go from desert to alpine forest in about an hour’s drive.

NATIVE AMERICAN INFLUENCE

The Mescalero Apache Tribe has a reservation just outside of Ruidoso. Cultural traditions, including dances, ceremonies, and storytelling, are still actively practiced within the tribe today. You can experience the Mescalero Apache culture around July 4 each year when they have their Ceremonial Dances and Rodeo.

SPANISH & MEXICAN CULTURAL ROOTS

Southeastern New Mexico is rich with Spanish and Mexican influence. From the New Mexican food (with staples such as enchiladas, tamales, and chile-based dishes) to places with Spanish names (like Ruidoso, which means “noisy river”) and traditions.