We’ve compiled our summer vacation ideas—all our top attractions, best food, cultural happenings, most memorable activities – and popular summer events 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.
This adrenaline-pumping, three-span zip tour begins above 11,000 feet with parallel cables so riders can ride side-by-side. It also spans over 8,900 feet in length, making it one of the longest in the world while offering a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
Discover some of Ruidoso's best patio bars, alfresco terraces and outdoor restaurants to make the most of your Ruidoso vacation.
The Fort Stanton State Historic Site is a must-see historic attraction when visiting Lincoln County. Few sites in the nation encompass the breadth of history seen at the Fort.
Take in the breathtaking views of Inn of the Mountain Gods as you glide over the crystal waters of Lake Mescalero. Offering parallel cables so riders can enjoy the view side-by-side.
While much of the country is sweltering in summer heat, Ruidosoans are chilling out in the tall pines. No matter what a vacation means to you, a summer holiday is pretty cool in Ruidoso.
Give your kids an adventure they’ll never forget. From youngsters to tweens, Ruidoso Wilderness Camps gets kids out in nature. From fishing and canoeing, to hiking and outdoor sports, plus horseback riding and rock climbing, our Parks & Rec wilderness camps offer it all.
Enjoy a day of gallery hopping in Ruidoso's Midtown shopping district with this recommended art itinerary.
From pristine high-mountain lakes and streams to sparkling reservoirs and meandering rivers, discover the best places to cast a line in Ruidoso.
From street to trail, if you love to pedal, Ruidoso has you covered. With new trail development and a vast network of empty rural roads and awesome mountain trails, cycling in Ruidoso has never been better. Discover the best places to get your bike on in Ruidoso.
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.
Use these tips to get on your way camping with the entire family and create camping memories now.
TripAdvisor reviews answer the question: Where do locals in Ruidoso go to eat? Discover the Top 10 Ruidoso restaurants according to TripAdvisor reviews.
The All American Futurity (G1) is the richest race for 2-year-olds in North America, regardless of breed. Run every Labor Day at Ruidoso Downs in the mountain village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, the $3 million race is contested by 2-year-old American Quarter Horses. It will be run on September 3, 2018.
Witness panoramic vistas from the top of Ski Apache. Look for wildlife and enjoy the cool temperatures of Sierra Blanca Peak. For extra fun, rent a mountain bike at Ski Apache, take it up the mountain on the gondola, and ride down.
Ruidoso is proud to offer special Military travel deals for active and retired service members. As a member of the armed forces, you'll save with exclusive discounts and offers from local shops, hotels, resorts, restaurants, and attractions.
The Flying J Ranch Chuckwagon Supper and Western Show is one of Ruidoso's most popular summer activities, offering great food and excellent family entertainment.
"Ruidoso has a little bit of everything, making it the perfect vacation spot for the family. Whether you crave culture or are an avid outdoorsman, you can find it all in this sliver of New Mexico." —TravelMindset.Com
Celebrate Independence weekend at the races. All active military with ID will receive up to four turf club passes with an advanced reservation, so telephone 575-378-4140 to reserve a table.
Enjoy Parnell and his band as the hold their own on the Spencer stage. Saturday, June 30, 8pm • $39 - $59. Southern Fried Chicken Buffet at 6pm • $20
Visitors will be offered a rare opportunity to witness the coming of age ceremony of Mescalero Apache maidens during this annual event. Ceremonial dances, rodeo, arts and crafts, and ceremonial parade are all part of the annual Mescalero Ceremonial and Rodeo held at the Mescalero Apache reservation over the July 4th holiday.
Eight rodeos in four days! The nation’s largest open rodeo weekend includes four nightly rodeos, two-day ranch rodeo, youth ranch rodeo, kid’s rough stock rodeo, cook-off, kids events, and nightly dances. On July 4th, enjoy a full day of Independence celebration with a campfire dutch oven competition, mutton bustin’, steer riding, evening rodeo, fireworks, and a dance. You don’t want to miss this 4th of July celebration!
Come out and enjoy ALL the Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort has to offer as we celebrate Independence Day 2017! The Star Spangled Celebration is FREE and begins at 3 p.m. with concessions, jumping balloons, live music, and the LARGEST fireworks show in New Mexico. Cost: Free.
Art Loop began as a creative venture amongst artists 18 years ago and continues to be one of the most successful studio tours in New Mexico. Throughout Lincoln County artists will open their studios, demonstrate their craft and discuss their creative process creating much more than simply a vibrant art market
Comedian Vicki Lawrence’s sassy senior alter ego “Mama” is back, eager to share her timeless observations about our cultural wars and domestic struggles with the same spit and vinegar that won hearts across the land. Saturday, July 7, 2pm & 8pm • $39 - $79. Tuscan Cod Filet Buffet at 6pm • $20
Enjoy patriotic music from America’s songbook with The 44th Army Band at the Spencer Theater. Tuesday, July 10, 8pm • Reserved Tickets. Free To Public * Limit 4 per person. Smoked Boneless Beef Ribs Buffet at 6pm • $20
Cody Ray Slaughter has been tagged as one of the most talented, young Elvis Tribute Artists in the country. Friday, July 13, 8pm • $39 - $59. Grilled Thin-Cut Pork Chops Buffet at 6pm • $20
If you are looking for action, look no further than Fort Stanton where the annual Fort Stanton LIVE! event brings costumed reenactors from the Civil War and Indian Wars era to the Fort for demonstrations, presentations, concert and a military ball which will have visitors dancing into the night! Additionally, the event brings authors, historians, photographers, artists, and a variety of historical vendors to site to share their crafts and other handiwork. Local food vendors are on hand to provide sustenance for your day at the Fort as well, so bring a healthy appetite for knowledge, food and fun.
Don’t miss this epic night as Kevin Fowler and the Gatlin Brothers bring you a night you won’t forget.
Led by violinist and arranger Nina Di Gregorio, FEMMES of ROCK have rocked audiences worldwide with their blistering solos and unique arrangements. Saturday, July 21, 8pm • $39 - $59. Green Chile Chicken Lasagna Buffet at 6pm • $20
Fine art lovers from around the southwest make an annual trip to Ruidoso for this juried fine arts show that features over 100 of the nation’s most talented artists showcasing a broad spectrum of mediums, showcasing collectible art and jewelry.
The locals say, “If you only come to the races one weekend all summer, let it be the Zia Festival!” That’s because the race track is decked out in the state’s vibrant colors ready to welcome the best New Mexico-bred thoroughbreds and quarter horses. There will be approximately 60 statewide venders displaying art, crafts, jewelry, and other creations make in the Land of Enchantment. There will be a special play area for the kids, so make plans now to come enjoy the annual Zia Festival celebration.
A great family event starting & finishing at Wingfield Park using 2 different running trails at Grindstone Lake in midtown Ruidoso. It is sanctioned by USA Track & Field and the American Trail Running Association. Great Ruidoso carved bears as awards. It is a benefit for the Ski Apache Adaptive Sports & Ecoservants.
This is an opportunity for runners to train in the high altitude and cooler temperatures of the Sacramento Mountains. There are three runs: a 4-mile course, an 8.5-mile course & a half marathon. Each run will begin and end in Wingfield Park in mid-town Ruidoso.
Rhonda Vincent is a firecracker of talent that powers one of the hottest shows in Bluegrass.
Her award winning vocals and break-neck riffs on the mandolin set the stage for a breathtaking, one-of-a-kind performance. Saturday, July 28, 8pm • $39 - $69. Slow Roast Pot Roast Buffet at 6pm • $20
This free, self-guided tour offers you the chance to explore behind the scenes of the Alto art community. The public is invited to visit private studios and homes throughout Alto to interact with local professional artists.
A folk pageant with re-enactors portraying Billy the Kid's last escape and the notorious Lincoln County War - plus food vendors, live music, food and a parade.
Live racing all weekend in conjunction with our Green Chile Wine and Beer Festival! There will be New Mexico Beer and Wine Vendors in a tent outside the racetrack as well as Hatch Green Chile roasting and sampling and local vendors. A free concert on Friday and Saturday inside the tent will start immediately after the races.
Winner of five Grammys and two Dove Awards, B.J. Thomas has sold more than 70 million records and is ranked in Billboard’s Top 50 most played artists of the past 50 years. Saturday, August 4, 8pm • $39 - $69. Enchiladas (Chicken or Beef) & Tamales Buffet at 6pm • $20
Grammy Award winner Lee Rocker and the Stray Cats put Rockabilly music back on the record charts in the early ’80s, scoring several mega hits – Stray Cat Strut, Sexy & Seventeen and Rock this Town. Friday, August 10, 8pm • $39 - $69. Crispy Fried Catfish Buffet at 6pm • $20
Tony Kishman has perfected all aspects of McCartney’s voice, appearance & music. Enjoy an evening packed with classic McCartney music -- Band On The Run, Yesterday, Hey Jude, Maybe I’m Amazed, and LIVE & LET DIE. Saturday, August 18, 8pm • $39 - $79. Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin Buffet at 6pm • $20
Platinum recording artist Neal McCoy is one of the most iconic names in Country music. Well armed with considerable charm and a lyrically rich baritone, his concerts get the crowds buzzing and wanting more. Thursday & Friday, August 23-24, 8pm • $39 - $79
Platinum recording artist Neal McCoy is one of the most iconic names in Country music. Well armed with considerable charm and a lyrically rich baritone, his concerts get the crowds buzzing and wanting more. Thursday & Friday, August 23-24, 8pm • $39 - $79
The All American Country Music Festival is Labor Day Weekend. Come out and join us at Wingfield Park Friday, August 31 and Saturday, September 1.
Backdropped by Sierra Blanca peak and surrounded by pine trees, cool breezes and clear blue skies the music, food, and drinks take a front seat to your adventure. Few weekends mean more to horse-racing, country music and cowboys and cowgirls than Labor Day weekend in Ruidoso NM.
The All American Futurity at Ruidoso Downs has a purse of $3 million and is the richest race for a two-year-old of any breed in North America. Arrive early as the race track fills to capacity to watch all the exciting stakes race action on closing weekend.
John Mueller’s “Winter Dance Party” ® is a riveting live concert experience that brings audiences as close to the real Buddy Holly, the Big Bopper and Richie Valens as humanly possible. Sunday, September 2, 8pm • $39 - $69. Smoked BBQ Brisket Buffet at 6pm • $20
Ski Apache is known for its beautiful warm weather skiing and snowboarding as the nation’s southern-most continually operating resort, but there is plenty of summer excitement too. Here is what travelers can look forward to this summer.