Spring Trip Ideas
Ruidoso is one of the best New Mexico spring break vacation spots. We’ve compiled our spring break vacation ideas—all our top attractions, best food, cultural happenings, most memorable activities – and popular spring events that are worth traveling for. Meet the locals, find the best deals from our partners, and learn how to get here, get around, and find accommodations.

Did you know that Reader’s Digest selected Ruidoso…
…as one of their 17 Spring Break Getaways That Don’t Require Air Travel?
Bring out your green! St. Patrick's Day in Ruidoso is celebrated with parties, good luck charms, and all things green. Check out these St. Patrick's Day specials in Midtown and the region.
Escape to the mountains of Ruidoso for fresh air, star-filled skies, stunning views, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. This scenic alpine village offers the perfect year-round getaway for slow travel, relaxation, and outdoor adventure. Discover five powerful reasons to make Ruidoso your next soul-soothing vacation destination.
Ready for unforgettable family memories in Ruidoso? Discover the secrets to a hassle-free vacation! Learn how to keep your schedule flexible for spontaneous fun, pack like a pro, balance solo adventures with quality time, and bring the right “toys” for maximum enjoyment. Plus, get budget-friendly tips so you can splurge on experiences that matter most.
Looking for the perfect place to sip craft beer or local wine in Ruidoso? From laid-back brewpubs pouring New Mexico’s finest ales to cozy wine bars with curated selections, these top spots offer the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy a drink.
What's the weather like in Ruidoso? Check out the official Village of Ruidoso Tourism Webcams from strategic points overlooking Midtown and Grindstone Lake. View Ruidoso’s daily weather forecast and learn when is the best time to visit.
Join us in vibrant Ruidoso this spring, where nature comes alive with breathtaking outdoor adventures, cultural delights, and pure relaxation. Discover our curated itinerary for an unforgettable getaway filled with excitement and rejuvenation.
Cool temperatures. Unbelievable scenery. This is the Ruidoso golf experience. With four spectacular Ruidoso area golf courses, each course is situated against breathtaking backdrops with its own personality and landscape. Discover which one is best for you.
It’s time to start planning that New Mexico spring break escape to Ruidoso. Whether you're looking for a family adventure, a relaxing workcation to recharge your soul until summer, or a blast of adrenaline-inducing outdoor activities, here are a few ideas for an unforgettable Ruidoso spring break.
While you're in Ruidoso, check out these indie coffeehouses offering outdoor patios, welcoming interiors with cozy chairs in quiet corners, ample outlets and free WiFi, delicious pastries, baked goods and light meals—perfect for an afternoon or morning pick-me-up.
Experience Ruidoso's Food Truck Center on Mechem Drive for some of the tastiest bites in town. Dive into 440 Smokehouse BBQ, relish Toss'd Pizza, or savor Flash Jack's burgers and shakes, plus delicious coffee and more! Enjoy indoor seating, arcade games, and a fire pit for s'mores. Whether you're a foodie or seeking fun, there's something for everyone here.
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.
Get ready for a totally different adventure this year and head for the mountains for an unforgettable (and affordable) Ruidoso family vacation. From outdoor adventures to kid-friendly attractions and old west experiences Ruidoso offers year-round fun for families.
Enjoy a day of gallery hopping in Ruidoso's Midtown shopping district with this recommended art itinerary.
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.
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.
Discover everything you need to know about Grindstone Lake, one of Ruidoso's most popular recreation areas located just minutes from downtown Ruidoso.
Discover the best massage studios and therapists in Ruidoso. From classical massages to specialized treatments Ruidoso offers a diverse menu of massage therapists and spa treatments to help you ease into vacation mode.
Discover What’s On During Your Ruidoso Spring Break
Join Downshift Brewing Company for a night of live music featuring local Ruidoso musicians! Tyler Jones's high-energy mix of mountain country, punk, blues, and Irish music, combined with Moksi's blend of soul, folk, blues, and jazz, creates a unique musical experience!
No matter if you throw flowers around a pole or around your neck, come celebrate the start of May with Lost Hiker Trivia! Special May/Lei Day prizes. Trivia starts at 6:30 pm. Come early to grab a spot and join a team. Outside food is welcome. $10 growler fills.
Win Place & Show Bar in Ruidoso, NM, welcomes Jerry Hart & Flatland for live music on May 2/3 from 7:30 PM to 12:30 AM. Enjoy an evening of great tunes and a lively atmosphere in the heart of town.
Fort Stanton Historic Site hosts Park Day on May 3, 9 a.m.–1 p.m., inviting volunteers to help clean and maintain trails across this historic site. In celebration of its 170th anniversary, the event honors Fort Stanton’s multifaceted past as a military post, hospital, and WWII internment center. Volunteers should bring water and wear sun-safe clothing and sturdy shoes. Learn More »
Join Smokey Bear as he celebrates his 81th birthday in his hometown of Capitan! It's free fun for all ages. The event includes food vendors, a challenge, a hometown parade, collectibles, fire prevention and conservation displays, games, music, activities, and more. To top it off, you can have your pict’ have your picture taken with Smokey. Don't miss this unforgettable celebration!
Join the All-American Comeback BBQ at Ruidoso Downs Race Track Event Center on May 3, 2025, for a full day of BBQ, bourbon, and live music! Featuring 30 KCBS BBQ teams competing for $25,000, performances by Brian Mars, Erick Willis, and Pat Green, bourbon tastings, shopping, and a Kentucky Derby viewing, this is a can’t-miss event! Tickets: $34.05 - $134.44. Pat Green live at 7 PM! BUY TICKETS »
Join the Ruidoso Public Library for its 4th annual Día celebration on Saturday, May 3, from 11 AM – 3 PM at the Ruidoso Convention Center! This free family event celebrates children, culture, and literacy with fun activities, entertainment, free books, and local resources. All are welcome to enjoy this joyful day of reading and community connection!
Catch singer-songwriter Kevin Gruen live at Downshift Brewing Company – Hidden Tap in Ruidoso on May 3, 2025, from 6–9 PM. Known for his one-man-band shows and genre-blending style of funk, soul, rock, blues, and country, Gruen delivers high-energy performances that captivate. Don’t miss this unforgettable night of music, craft beer, and good vibes!
Celebrate 3 de Mayo at The Patina Lounge with DJ CORI spinning the best Cumbia and Norteño hits all night long! Enjoy classic jams, fresh tracks, nonstop dancing, drink specials, great food, and unbeatable fiesta vibes. Bring your crew and boots—let’s party! Get tickets »
Banjo Legends at the Flying J Ranch on Sunday, May 4, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM, features world-renowned banjo players Ned Luberecki, Riley Baugus, Alan Munde, and Bill Evans. Joined by New Mexico musicians Steve Smith, Anne Luna, and Elliott Rogers, this one-time concert promises unmatched five-string virtuosity. Ticket includes Chuckwagon Supper, Stage Show, and access to the ranch. Buy tickets>>
Enjoy a relaxing Sunday evening with singer-songwriter duo Burt Ferguson and Tim Thompson, live at Downshift Brewing Company – Riverside in Ruidoso on May 4, 2025, from 6–9 PM. Hailing from Truth or Consequences, NM, their acoustic set blends warm harmonies and heartfelt songwriting. Great music, good beer, and riverside vibes await!
Join Ugly Prom at Enchanted Vine by Noisy Water Winery in Alto, NM! For $5, dance the night away in your most gloriously awful prom attire. Prizes, music, and laughs await—may the worst outfit win! Saturday night fun you’ll never want to frame. Get tickets now at noisywaterwinery.com.
Enjoy a journey through the history of Doo Wop with The Doo Wop Project on Friday, May 9, at 7 pm at the Spencer Theater. Relive the classic sounds of Frankie Valli, The Drifters, and more, with harmonies from the street corner to modern hits. Enjoy a green chile chicken enchiladas buffet or a Founders Room dinner featuring redfish romesco at 5 pm. Buy Tickets >>
Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just looking for a fun night out, Win, Place and Show bar promises an unforgettable experience. So grab your cowboy boots and enjoy a night of country music and dancing. Please note that this event is exclusively for those aged 21 and older.
Catch Mike Speenberg live at Jack’s Patina Lounge, featuring Texas comedy favorite Daryl Felsberg! Don’t miss this night of sharp humor, epic stories, and non-stop laughs from two nationally touring comics. Buy Tickets >>
Looking for the best breakfast in Ruidoso? Whether you crave a hearty mountain-style meal, a cozy café with a fireplace, or a sunlit patio to enjoy your coffee, Ruidoso has plenty of charming spots to start your day. From classic diners to hidden gems serving homemade pastries, here’s your guide to the top breakfast restaurants in Ruidoso.