WHAT MOVES YOU?
A small village with a big personality, Ruidoso has bucket-loads of experiences to offer when it comes to vacations – so how will you know where to start?
Don’t fear – we’ve lined up an array of itineraries to help you plan your ideal Ruidoso trip, be that a weekend, a week, or a longer remote work stay.
A Taste of Ruidoso
If you love to discover a place food-first, a great way to get started is with a visit to these Best of Ruidoso People's Choice Awards winners!
Ranging from cafes to fine dining, these Ruidoso eateries offer foodies experiences to savor. This three-day itinerary showcases a few insider favorites, plus insider tips for places to sip.
Slow Travel Suggestions
Travel slowly and give special moments the time they deserve. We have some top suggestions for ideas well worth your time and energy.
Discover the perfect skip-gen getaway in Ruidoso! This scenic mountain town is ideal for grandparents and grandchildren to connect through outdoor adventures, cozy cabin stays, and family-friendly fun. Plan your multigenerational escape today and create lasting memories in one of New Mexico’s most charming destinations. Start planning your Ruidoso adventure today!
Escape to Ruidoso's winter serenity in the Sierra Blanca mountains. Relax with peaceful strolls on snow-covered trails, breathe in crisp air, and enjoy a magical horse-drawn sleigh ride. Rejuvenate with spa treatments that soothe the spirit, and cozy up by the fire as night falls. Surrounded by stunning scenery and local charm, Ruidoso is the ideal mountain retreat for a tranquil winter getaway.
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.
The Ultimate 2-Day Getaway
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.
Money-Saving Ideas
Discover the best free things to do in Ruidoso! From stargazing and wildlife watching to forest walks, playground adventures, and scenic photo ops, this mountain town offers unforgettable experiences that won’t cost a dime. Perfect for families, couples, and solo explorers looking to enjoy nature and fun on a budget.
Looking for a relaxing spot during your Ruidoso vacation? Visit the Ruidoso Public Library. Whether you need free WiFi, a quiet place to work, or a chance to connect with the community, the library enhances your Ruidoso travel experience. Here are a few reasons why the municipal library deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Area Explorations
Take time to travel around the region and discover the diversity of local communities. Get involved in events, meet new people, and experience what life here is really like.
Ruidoso is known for its stunning landscapes, forested paths, and mountain charm, but the adventure doesn’t stop at the village limits. Explore the Southeast Regional Trail Network with dozens of scenic hiking, biking, and walking routes across southeast New Mexico. View the interactive map and download the official guide at snmedd.com/trails.
History and Heritage
Delve into the captivating past of Lincoln County, New Mexico. From the historic Mescalero Apache Tribe and the Lincoln and Fort Stanton Historic Sites, history buffs can embark on a journey of discovery during a Ruidoso visit.
Discover Ruidoso’s rich history at the Wingfield Heritage House Museum, a beautifully restored 1920s home. Once a family residence and business hub, it now features curated exhibits on early settlers, Native cultures, and the town’s evolution. Explore preserved rooms, uncover local traditions, and connect with the stories that shaped Ruidoso’s past and present.
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.
Lincoln, the most widely visited historic site in New Mexico, is part of a community frozen in time—the 1870s and 1880s. The historic site includes 17 structures and outbuildings, four of which are open year-round and two more seasonally as museums.
Family Fun
Plan a family holiday with these itineraries and ideas packed with activities and attractions from historic sites to adventure parks.
Celebrate Father’s Day weekend in Ruidoso with live music, family fun, and exciting events! Enjoy the Ruidoso Tattoo Expo, outdoor concerts, and dancing downtown. Take the kids to Youth Fishing Day at Grindstone Lake, then head to Ruidoso Downs for a weekend of thrilling Quarter Horse racing. Wrap it up with a Brooks & Dunn tribute at Spencer Theater—June 13–15, 2025!
Experience the thrill of Quarter Horse racing at Ruidoso Downs Racetrack, home of the All American Futurity, the richest race in Quarter Horse history. Enjoy live racing every weekend from Memorial Day to Labor Day or visit The Racebook for year-round simulcast betting, great food, and drinks. Plan your visit now at RaceRuidoso.com!
Famous for its sunny slopes and southern charm, Ski Apache transforms in summer with high-altitude thrills and stunning mountain views. From scenic gondola rides to outdoor adventures, there’s plenty to explore beyond the snow. Plan ahead—hours vary. Visit SkiApache.com/summer or call (575) 464-3600.
Experience the thrill of the Screaming Eagle Mountain Coaster and Tubing in Ruidoso! Ride New Mexico’s only Mountain Coaster with 5100 feet of waves, dips, and a 360-degree helix. Enjoy high-speed fun with state-of-the-art safety features. For winter excitement, try the tubing hill with magic carpet lifts and thrilling downhill rides. Perfect for family fun and adventure seekers of all ages!
Seasonal Suggestions
Discover the perfect skip-gen getaway in Ruidoso! This scenic mountain town is ideal for grandparents and grandchildren to connect through outdoor adventures, cozy cabin stays, and family-friendly fun. Plan your multigenerational escape today and create lasting memories in one of New Mexico’s most charming destinations. Start planning your Ruidoso adventure today!
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.
Escape to Ruidoso's winter serenity in the Sierra Blanca mountains. Relax with peaceful strolls on snow-covered trails, breathe in crisp air, and enjoy a magical horse-drawn sleigh ride. Rejuvenate with spa treatments that soothe the spirit, and cozy up by the fire as night falls. Surrounded by stunning scenery and local charm, Ruidoso is the ideal mountain retreat for a tranquil winter getaway.
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.