5 Shocking Facts About Billy The Kid Casino: What’s Open After The Ruidoso Downs Fire?
Few places in the American West blend the legend of an outlaw with the thrill of modern gaming quite like the Billy the Kid Casino. Located in Ruidoso Downs, New Mexico, this venue is more than just a place to play slots; it is a direct link to the region’s volatile history, specifically the infamous Lincoln County War. As of today, December 26, 2025, the casino remains a critical entertainment hub, especially following recent dramatic events at its adjacent property, ensuring its status as a must-visit destination in the Land of Enchantment.
The casino’s continued operation, even as the Ruidoso Downs Race Track faces a significant rebuild, highlights its importance to the local economy and tourism. This article delves into the most current facts about the casino, its extensive gaming offerings, and the true story of the notorious figure whose name it bears, providing a fresh, in-depth look at one of New Mexico's most unique entertainment complexes.
The Life and Death of Henry McCarty, AKA Billy the Kid
The casino is named for one of the most mythologized figures of the American Old West, Billy the Kid, an outlaw whose short, violent life is forever tied to Lincoln County, New Mexico. To understand the casino's roots, one must first know the man.
The true identity of Billy the Kid is generally accepted to be Henry McCarty. Although some historical accounts cite his birthdate as September 17, 1859, the more commonly cited date is November 23, 1859, in New York City. He later adopted the alias William H. Bonney, the name most associated with his legend.
His life of crime began early, but his infamy solidified in New Mexico, specifically with his involvement in the Lincoln County War of 1878. This was a brutal conflict between rival factions of merchants and ranchers in the region.
- Born: Henry McCarty, 1859, New York City
- Aliases: William H. Bonney, Billy the Kid
- Key Role: Member of the Regulators during the Lincoln County War
- Notoriety: Charged with the murder of Sheriff William J. Brady
- Death: Shot and killed by Sheriff Pat Garrett on July 14, 1881, in Fort Sumner, New Mexico. He was only 21 years old.
Ruidoso Downs and the casino sit squarely in the heart of this historical territory, making the name a powerful marketing tool that taps into the romantic, yet deadly, legacy of the frontier.
Fact 1: The Casino is Open and Thriving Despite Racetrack Tragedy
One of the most pressing and surprising facts about the Billy the Kid Casino today is its operational status following a major incident. In a significant piece of breaking news, the Ruidoso Downs Race Track, to which the casino is adjacent, suffered a devastating fire.
The track's grandstand and other facilities were heavily damaged, leading to plans for a major rebuild that is expected to take until the 2026 season. However, the Billy the Kid Casino itself has remained resilient.
The casino is currently open and operating seven days a week, a testament to its separate infrastructure and its importance as a year-round entertainment venue in the area. This means that while the historic horse racing action is on hold, the gaming floor is fully functional, offering a vital source of entertainment for visitors and residents.
Fact 2: New Sole Ownership and a 1999 Gaming Legacy
The casino’s foundation is tied directly to the legalization of casino gaming in New Mexico. The Billy the Kid Casino first opened its doors in 1999, providing a crucial year-round revenue stream for the Ruidoso Downs property that was previously dependent on the summer racing season.
More recently, the ownership structure of the Ruidoso Downs Race Track and the Billy the Kid Casino complex has been streamlined. The New Mexico Racing Commission approved Texas businessman, horseman, and cowboy Johnny Trotter as the new sole owner. This change in leadership signals a dedicated focus on the future of the entire property, including the significant rebuild of the racetrack facilities.
This single-entity ownership under Johnny Trotter is expected to bring stability and a unified vision for the complex, ensuring the casino remains a top-tier gaming destination in the region.
Fact 3: A Gaming Floor Packed with 300+ Modern Slots and Table Games
The Billy the Kid Casino may not be the largest in New Mexico, but its gaming floor is packed with variety, offering a comprehensive selection of modern machines and electronic table games. It’s a far cry from the frontier gambling halls of Billy the Kid's time.
The casino features over 300 slot machines, catering to both low-stakes players and high-limit enthusiasts. The inventory is regularly updated and includes games from major industry developers, such as:
- IGT (International Game Technology)
- Konami
- WMS (Williams Interactive)
- Bally
- Shufflemaster
Beyond the slots, the casino provides a range of electronic table game options. Visitors can try their luck at classic casino staples, including video poker, Blackjack, and Keno. The casino also heavily promotes its rotating jackpots and a robust membership rewards program, designed to keep patrons engaged and loyal.
Fact 4: The Casino Sits on a Famous Outlaw Trail
The location of the Billy the Kid Casino is no accident; it is a geographic and historical anchor point. The casino and Ruidoso Downs are key stops on the Billy the Kid National Scenic Byway.
This 84-mile scenic route takes travelers through the very heart of the territory where the young outlaw operated, including the historic town of Lincoln, New Mexico, the site of the infamous war.
For visitors, the casino serves as a gateway to exploring the authentic history of the Old West. The town of Ruidoso itself is a major tourist destination, offering a blend of mountain resort amenities and historical exploration, all centered around the legacy of the Kid.
Fact 5: More Than Just Gaming—Live Music and Dining
To provide a complete entertainment experience, the Billy the Kid Casino offers amenities beyond the gaming floor, solidifying its role as a full-service entertainment complex in the Ruidoso Valley.
The facility includes a dedicated restaurant where guests can enjoy a meal or a casual drink. Furthermore, the casino frequently hosts live music events, providing a vibrant atmosphere that draws in both local patrons and tourists visiting the mountain resort town.
The inclusion of a gift shop and a comprehensive rewards system ensures that the venue caters to all visitor needs, making it a well-rounded destination for those seeking a mix of history, excitement, and relaxation in the mountains of New Mexico.
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