“If I could paint a picture of a small-town bar on a Sunday afternoon where the whiskey pours, the axes fly, and the band plays on, it would be Ruidoso’s Win Place & Show.” — THE BITE
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Planning a short break in Ruidoso? Discover the best of Ruidoso in 2 days. Between year-round outdoor adventures, shopping, plus a vibrant food, drink and live music culture, it’s possible to spend every vacation in Ruidoso and discover something new each time. If you only have a couple of days, however, you can still drive away with a well-rounded Ruidoso experience.
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Even with rising travel costs, people are raring to go and eager to splurge on dining out, mementos, nicer accommodations, and longer stays. Chances are you’re feeling it too. We’ve got you covered. Here are six reasons to put Ruidoso in your 2023 summer travel plans.
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Venture into the legendary rock-carved landscapes of the American West, exploring Utah's Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Colorado's Mesa Verde National Park, and New Mexico’s ancient landscapes, cultural history, and, yes, green chile cheeseburgers.
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Ruidoso is a favorite Las Cruces getaway and perfect weekend escape or New Mexico staycation. Here’s how to get here plus some ideas of what to see and do along the way.
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Wildlife and Ruidoso go hand in hand. From the quiet appearance of the majestic elk and wild horse herds that roam here to the impressive flight of the bald eagle and the entertaining antics of the bears that are frequently seen, here are some of Ruidoso's most amazing wildlife and some tips on where you can safely spot them on your next trip.
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Discover Ruidoso's favorite lakes! Bring a picnic, cast for fish, paddle a boat, cycle, horseback ride, or explore on foot via multi-use trails at Grindstone Lake and Alto Lake recreation areas.
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The Best of Ruidoso People’s Choice Awards polled the Ruidoso community and visitors to select the best businesses and organizations in the area. People choose from over 25 categories through online voting, including Ruidoso shops, attractions, activities, restaurants, drinks venues, and more. Voting ran from January 9, 2023, through January 31, 2023. Here are the 2023 Best of Ruidoso People’s Choice Award Winners.
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Some 377 species of birds have been observed on the refuge since 1940. The wetlands attract huge flocks of wintering cranes and geese, the refuge's most exciting features. Many other species—notably waterfowl, shorebirds, and birds of prey—also winter in the refuge. Striking vagrants, such as groove-billed and have been found there.
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Don't miss out on ensuring that your favorite Ruidoso shops, attractions, activities, restaurants, drinks venues, and more get the recognition they deserve! Voting runs November 15, 2025, through December 15, 2025, at 11:59 PM Mountain Time Zone. Cast your vote today!
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With courses at Grindstone Lake and Ski Apache, add disc golf to your list of fun things to do in Ruidoso. Better yet, bring your own disc and it’s free fun for the whole family.
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Submit social media photographs of your Ruidoso trip(s) for the annual #scenicsouthernNM2024 contest for weekly giveaways, as well as a final grand prize package, with multiple opportunities to win. The contest is open from February 1 - 29, 2024. Enter to win!
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Ruidoso in the summertime has all the usual visitor favorites: Live horse racing at Ruidoso Downs Race Track, the lively outdoor patios at Ruidoso eateries, a vibrant live music scene, and a never-ending stream of events and festivals, and great venues to visit. Not to mention the incredible forests, river, lakes, and other natural attractions that are perfect for exploring, having fun, and getting away from it all.
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“Once a sleepy mountain town, Ruidoso is thriving and growing fast. Lovers of the great outdoors flock to the town to take advantage of the surrounding wilderness and hiking opportunities, while history buffs delight in the nearby Mescalero Apache Reservation’s preservation of nomadic Native American culture. A community of quaint shops and restaurants in town will keep also keep the cosmopolitan type entertained.” — Culture Trip
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Ever wondered how Ruidoso got its name? Learn about its origins, meaning, and how to pronounce it like a local. Discover the history behind this scenic mountain town’s unique name and what makes it special.
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If you are looking for a blend of festive cheer and mountain culture, then opt for a winter vacation in Ruidoso. Here are some of the best things to do in Ruidoso in winter, including where to stay, eat and how to make the most of a getaway in this special mountain town.
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The data team at Realtor.com® names Ruidoso as one of 14 Great Ski Towns You’ve Never Heard Of (That Are Affordable for Buying a Home), where you can find the cozy sense of community and the balance of corduroy carving and mellow living for a bargain, at least relative to the area. Read the article here >>
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