With Restrictions Lifted, You Can Finally Visit These 7 Historic Sites In New Mexico

Each day it seems like we are inching closer to the end of the pandemic and a return to normal life. One indicator includes long-closed locations finally reopening to visitors. In New Mexico, the most recent openings include several picturesque historic sites. Here's a look at seven historic sites that are once again open to the public.

1. Coronado Historic Site

Located just north of Albuquerque in Bernalillo, this historic site highlights the architecture and culture of Kuaua Pueblo, a Tewa village. The buildings date back to approximately 1325 and housed around 1200 people when conquistador Francisco Vásquez de Coronado arrived in 1540. The historic site is currently open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday.

Details: New Mexico Historic Sites

2. Fort Selden Historic Site

This historic site sits just 17 miles north of Las Cruces via Interstate 25 and is a site that combines Native American, early Mexican, and African American history. The Mogollon called this area home for 1000 years, starting in the year 400. From there, it was part of the El Camino Real trade route and eventually was occupied as a U.S. Army fort in 1865. Currently, the historic site is open Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Details: New Mexico Historic Sites

3. Fort Stanton Historic Site

History truly comes to life here, a former U.S. Army fort located about 68 miles west of Roswell, just outside the town of Lincoln. The buildings here have been exceptionally well-preserved and it is considered one of the most intact military forts dating back to the 1800s. This historic site is also open Thursday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Details: New Mexico Historic Sites

4. Fort Sumner Historic Site

This former military fort sits seven miles south of the town Fort Sumner and served as an internment location for the Navajo and Mescalero Apache peoples. Now a memorial site, a museum and interpretive trail present history about the fort and the suffering of the thousands forcibly relocated here.

You can embark on a self-guided audio tour of the site's grounds Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Details: New Mexico Historic Sites

5. Jemez Historic Site

Sitting just north of Jemez Springs, this historic site preserves ancient dwellings and a 17th century church. Self-guided tours and an interpretive trail allow you to gain a deeper understanding of the people who lived here. The site is open Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Details: New Mexico Historic Sites

6. Lincoln Historic Site

This historic site is unique because it preserves the historic buildings in the town of Lincoln. During a visit here, you'll see the town as it existed in the 1880s and learn about the characters who made the Wild West notorious. The historic buildings in town are currently open Thursday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Details: New Mexico Historic Sites

7. Los Luceros Historic Site

This hidden gem is located about 34 miles north of Santa Fe via U.S. Route 84. The historic site preserves an 18th century ranch and the stunning adobe hacienda. A visit here will introduce you to ranch-style living with orchards onsite and livestock still roaming the grounds. Currently, you can visit the site Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Details: New Mexico Historic Sites

On the lookout for more historic spots to visit this year? Be sure to add the tiny village of Socorro to your list! This dusty little town is loaded with history and beautiful sights. Read more in The Historic Small Town That Every New Mexican Should Visit At Least Once.