Old Lincoln County Courthouse
Step into the heart of the Wild West at the Old Lincoln County Courthouse, where Billy the Kid made his legendary escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Old Lincoln County Courthouse
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into the heart of the Wild West at the Old Lincoln County Courthouse, where Billy the Kid made his legendary escape.
"A great walk back through history, with buildings so beautiful and so much to see in the museums."
🎟️ Get Your All-Site Pass
Buy one $7 ticket at the visitor center for access to all historic sites in Lincoln.
🚶♀️ Start at the Visitor Center
Tickets are sold at the visitor center, which is at the opposite end of town from the courthouse.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 81 reviews
Type
Museum
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Billy the Kid's Jail Cell
Lincoln County Courthouse
Stand where Billy the Kid was held before his infamous escape. A pivotal moment in Old West lore.
The 'Big House' History
Lincoln County Courthouse
Explore the building's past as a general store, Masonic lodge, bar, and more.
Lincoln County War Exhibits
Lincoln County Courthouse
Learn about the violent feuds that shaped this frontier town and Billy the Kid's role.
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Planning Your Visit
Tickets & Access
Best Time to Visit
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Get Your All-Site Pass
Buy one $7 ticket at the visitor center for access to all historic sites in Lincoln.
🚶♀️ Start at the Visitor Center
Tickets are sold at the visitor center, which is at the opposite end of town from the courthouse.
🤠 Immerse in Old West Lore
This is a must-see for fans of Billy the Kid and the wild west era.
🏛️ Explore the Town
Don't just see the courthouse; explore other historic buildings and friendly locals.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Get Your All-Site Pass
Buy one $7 ticket at the visitor center for access to all historic sites in Lincoln.
🚶♀️ Start at the Visitor Center
Tickets are sold at the visitor center, which is at the opposite end of town from the courthouse.
🤠 Immerse in Old West Lore
This is a must-see for fans of Billy the Kid and the wild west era.
🏛️ Explore the Town
Don't just see the courthouse; explore other historic buildings and friendly locals.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Old Lincoln County Courthouse as a fantastic spot for Wild West history enthusiasts, offering a tangible connection to the era of Billy the Kid and the Lincoln County War. The building's rich history and the surrounding town's charm are frequently highlighted. Some find the ticketing logistics a bit inconvenient, with the visitor center and courthouse being at opposite ends of town.
"Don’t miss stopping in this small town full of BIG history. The state has now secured many of the buildings and for a small fee, you can explore the original buildings full of Old West history and lore. There are volunteers and staff that take time to impart historical facts and information that bring the characters and living conditions to life. This “hole in the wall” village is worth the scenic byway and time spent (whether it be an hour or all afternoon).
Lincoln County War and Billy the Kid"
Howard Kline
"It's a must see. Love the history and all the original things there. If you like Billy the kid you must visit here."
Collins
"Great spot for wild west history fans. Lincoln was one of the most dangerous places in the US in the late 1800s as the feud between local factions elevated during the Lincoln war. Billy the Kid was in the middle of it and there’s a nice history of his arrest, internment and escape at the courthouse."
Chris A
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Lincoln County Courthouse is located in Lincoln, New Mexico. It's part of a historic town that was central to the Lincoln County War and Billy the Kid's exploits. Driving is the most common way to reach Lincoln, as it's a scenic route through the New Mexico landscape.
Parking is generally available in the historic town of Lincoln. Visitors often find street parking or designated areas near the various historic sites.
Yes, the Old Lincoln County Courthouse can be visited as a day trip, especially if you're coming from nearby cities like Roswell or Alamogordo. Plan for travel time and allow at least a few hours to explore the courthouse and other historic sites in town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Old Lincoln County Courthouse is included with a $7 ticket that grants access to all state historic sites in Lincoln. This ticket can be purchased at the Lincoln State Historic Visitor Center.
Tickets must be purchased at the Lincoln State Historic Visitor Center, which is located at the opposite end of town from the courthouse itself.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official New Mexico Historic Sites website or contact the visitor center for the most up-to-date information on operating hours before your visit.
Recent renovations aim to improve accessibility. It's advisable to inquire with the visitor center about specific accessibility features if needed.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you can explore exhibits detailing the history of the Lincoln County War, Billy the Kid's arrest and escape, and the building's past as a multi-purpose structure including a store, jail, and courthouse.
Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours at the courthouse, depending on their interest level in the history and exhibits. Allow extra time to explore other historic sites in Lincoln.
While not always explicitly advertised, the historic sites in Lincoln often have staff or volunteers who can provide insights. It's best to ask at the visitor center upon arrival.
The courthouse was a central location during the Lincoln County War and is most famous as the site of Billy the Kid's daring escape in 1881, where he killed two deputies.
Yes, the courthouse offers a fascinating glimpse into American history that can be engaging for older children and adults interested in the Old West.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted inside the courthouse, but flash photography might be restricted to protect exhibits. Always check for posted signs or ask staff.
The exterior of the historic building itself is very photogenic. The surrounding historic town of Lincoln also offers many picturesque scenes from the Old West era.
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