The Albuquerque Journal spotlights Ruidoso’s winter magic with a feature on Grindstone Stables' unforgettable sleigh rides! Whether snow blankets the ground or not, the charm of dashing through the cool mountain air—bells jingling all the way—is a must-have experience for visitors and locals alike.
Experience a magical family winter getaway in Ruidoso, NM! This kid-friendly itinerary is packed with snowy adventures, festive lights, and cozy dining—from tubing and ice skating to exploring historic sites. Get ready for unforgettable family fun in this charming mountain town!
As winter kicks off in Ruidoso, the village fills with holiday lights after dark: from the holiday displays in Midtown and Upper Canyon to the festive glow of the Festival of Lights Parade and After Party. Pile everyone into the car to see some of the best, brightest, and most beautiful holiday light shows by Ruidoso area residents. Don't miss the fun!
Autumn in southern New Mexico brings ripe apples to regional orchards, and Ruidoso eateries shine with apple pies and sweet indulgences, some with a spicy twist. Try a slice of Hatch green chile apple pie or chipotle caramel apple for a taste of the Land of Enchantment. Explore our guide to Ruidoso's fall flavors for a memorable autumn experience.
Escape the daily grind and embrace autumn in Ruidoso, New Mexico, a vacation destination that promises to engage all your senses. With crisp mountain air, vibrant fall colors, and numerous outdoor activities, Ruidoso is the quintessential fall getaway. Here’s a three-day autumn trip itinerary that guarantees a revitalizing reconnection with nature.
Smokey Bear Historical Park in Capitan, NM, near Ruidoso, honors the legacy of Smokey Bear, the iconic symbol of wildfire prevention. The park features indoor and outdoor exhibits on forest health, fire safety, and black bears. Visitors can explore Smokey’s tranquil grave, enjoy a family-friendly playground, and take a stroll through climate zone replicas. Day-use only; service dogs allowed.
Celebrate Autumn in Ruidoso at AspenFest. The weekend celebration is kicked off on Saturday, October 4, 2025, with a 10:00 AM parade through Midtown, immediately followed by fun, food, music, and drinks at Wingfield Park. Don't miss Ruidoso's favorite fall festival!
Bonito Lake, located just north of Ruidoso, reopened for fishing after a decade of restoration following fire and flood damage. Enjoy a peaceful day of fishing in the scenic Sacramento Mountains. Only fishing is allowed for now to protect ongoing restoration efforts. Visit soon to experience the renewed beauty of Bonito Lake!
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 June 1 to June 30, 2024. Here are the 2024 Best of Ruidoso People’s Choice Award Winners!
In an inspiring display of community spirit, the Flying J Wranglers raised over $35,000 during a Lubbock fundraiser on July 1st to support Ruidoso's fire and flood victims. The donation, part of a broader $1.4 million nationwide effort, has been donated to the Community Foundation of Lincoln County. This generosity highlights the generosity of our West Texas neighbors and the resilience and unity of Ruidoso, providing much-needed aid and hope to those affected.
Join the Texas Club in Ruidoso for "Texas Club After Hours" every Saturday from June 1 through July. Enjoy live music from special guests, exclusive drink specials, and a new tapas menu. The event runs from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at 212 Metz Dr., Ruidoso, NM. Bring friends or a partner for a lively, social night out. Check the Texas Club website for the full list of performers and updates.
The Village of Ruidoso Parks and Recreation Department announces opening five new miles of trails on Moon Mountain. These trails are designed for moderate difficulty and are perfect for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrian riders. Enjoy stunning vistas and local wildlife, such as turkeys, deer, and elk. Access is off Gavilan Canyon Road by Warrior Drive. Remember to wear sturdy shoes, bring snacks, and respect the environment.
Discover the winners of Ruidoso's Vegan Chef Challenge Southwest and enjoy an array of innovative vegan dishes. Visit Downshift Brewing Company, Corazon Restaurant, and Casitas Café to savor the culinary creativity that won them top honors. This event highlighted Ruidoso's vibrant culinary scene and the growing appreciation for vegan cuisine. Come taste the best of plant-based dining in Ruidoso!
Nestled within the majestic Sierra Blanca range, Ruidoso bursts into a riot of colors as spring and summer roll around, turning its trails and meadows into vibrant canvases of wildflowers. Eager to immerse yourself in this floral extravaganza? Let this guide be your ticket to the best wildflower sightseeing adventures in Ruidoso.
Ruidoso's thriving art community takes center stage in a recent feature by the Santa Fe New Mexican. Highlighting the town's rich artistic heritage and diverse talents, the article showcases local artists like Michael Fish, Vicki Conley, and more. Ruidoso offers a unique artistic experience for visitors and residents alike, from captivating murals to intricate quilts. Experience the creativity of Ruidoso today! Read the full story here>>
Don't have a travel partner? No problem. Ruidoso is an ideal destination for travelers exploring alone. Enjoy solitary hiking, mountain biking, or paddling in summer. Ski and snowboard in winter. Ruidoso is a laid-back village with a friendly mountain town vibe, making it easy to socialize and find your way around. Visitors will find plenty of year-round solitary activities.
Discover the remarkable journey of Shelby and Eddie Gutierrez, the founders of Downshift Brewing Company, who turned their daydreams into a thriving Ruidoso business with a deeply rooted connection to the community they love. Not only do they create exceptional beer, but they also champion positive change and community spirit. Learn about their inspiring journey and its impact on Ruidoso's local economy and culture.
Ruidoso’s social calendar is packed with music festivals, outdoor concerts, art fests, running races, and more all summer. Don’t miss a beat with this handy guide that covers the best Ruidoso festivals and annual events happening each month. Start making your travel plans now.
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors in Ruidoso. Get ready to immerse yourself in stunning mountain scenery, encounter wildlife, and enjoy the cool high-altitude climate. Ruidoso is a great place to escape the heat and have some fun in the mountains. Here are some of the top summer outdoor activities in Ruidoso.