Summer Trip Ideas
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.
Ruidoso is open and ready to welcome visitors. While recent flooding impacted some infrastructure, recovery efforts are well underway. Visitors are encouraged to stay informed, use the Discover Ruidoso app, and check the Monsoon Awareness page for real-time updates. Trails, shops, and restaurants are open—come enjoy the beauty of our mountain town.
YesterLanes is Ruidoso’s newly renovated bowling center, offering classic lanes, an all-new arcade, casual dining at 575 Grill, and drinks at YesterPub. Formerly Ruidoso Bowling Center, it’s now the go-to spot for family fun, parties, and everyday entertainment—with a fresh look and a nostalgic twist. Same great lanes. Totally new vibe.
Due to recent flooding, the Cedar Creek area on the Smokey Bear Ranger District is temporarily closed through Sept. 30, 2025. The closure includes trailheads, recreation sites, and several popular trails. The Forest Service is working with local officials on safety and recovery. Full details: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/lincoln/alerts
Looking for the best things to do in Ruidoso this summer? Locals and visitors share their favorite warm-weather activities—like hiking forest trails, relaxing on porches, and exploring Midtown shops. Discover why Ruidoso is the go-to summer retreat for cool mountain air, scenic views, and unforgettable moments.
Looking for things to do during your 4th of July weekend getaway? From the festivals to the parades and the horseraces at Ruidoso Downs, Ruidoso is a perfect choice. Start planning your Independence Day weekend in Ruidoso today.
2025 Season Update: Wibit Water Park Will Remain Closed This Summer
The Wibit Water Park at Grindstone Lake will not open for the 2025 season. While we know this is a favorite summer activity for many, current conditions have made setup and operation unfeasible this year. We appreciate your understanding and encourage visitors to explore the lake’s other outdoor recreation options, including swimming, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and more.
Discover the best golf courses in Ruidoso, NM. From mountain views to high-elevation play, enjoy scenic golf year-round at top-rated public and resort courses in the Sierra Blanca region.
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.
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!
Discover the Heart of Ruidoso at Midtown Market. Shop local every Saturday, June through October, from 9 am to 1 pm at Country Club Park in Midtown Ruidoso. Enjoy fresh New Mexico produce, artisan foods, handmade crafts, and regional wines in a lively, community-driven atmosphere. With special events all season, it’s a favorite stop for both locals and visitors.
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.
DON'T MISS THESE POPULAR SUMMER EVENTS
Don’t miss Bo DePeña live at Downshift Brewing – Riverside on August 30, 2025, from 6–9 PM. This Colorado-based country artist blends classic and modern influences into high-energy shows that have earned him fans across the West. Enjoy an evening of great tunes, great beer, and stories that hit home. Free and open to all music lovers!
Dive into summer fun with a poolside screening of Luca at the Ruidoso Public Pool on July 31! Doors open at 6 PM, and the movie starts at 8 PM. Admission is just $2 for everyone over age 3. Hosted by Ruidoso Parks & Recreation, this family-friendly event includes snacks and drinks for sale. Bring your floaties and enjoy a magical movie night under the stars! Kids under 11 years old must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, call 575-257-5030.
Are you keen as a bean? Join us for trivia night and celebrate the sweet history of jelly beans—first advertised as a treat for Union soldiers during the Civil War! Trivia starts at 6:30 pm. Sip on Lost Hiker brews with $10 growler fills all night. Bring your own bites, bring your friends, and bring your A-game!
The 2025 Billy the Kid Pageant brings history to life in Lincoln, NM, with performances on August 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. This folk play, first staged in 1940, reenacts key moments of the Lincoln County War, including Billy the Kid’s daring escape. Featuring local volunteer actors, many of whom are descendants of past participants, the event offers an authentic Old West experience. Tickets are available only at the gate.
This free, self-guided annual 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. Learn more at AltoArtists.org
Join the Lincoln Lecture Series on August 1 during Old Lincoln Days for a fascinating talk by archaeologist Charles M. Haecker. Held in the historic San Juan Bautista Church, this free-with-admission lecture explores Mescalero Apache encampments near Fort Stanton and their peaceful relationship with the fort. 11 AM–12 PM at Lincoln Historic Site. $7 admission; kids 16 and under free.
Join archaeologist Lisa L. Sparks on August 1 for a fascinating Lincoln Lecture exploring 7,000 years of human history in Lincoln County. Discover how ancient cultures shaped the region’s lifeways through sites like Feather Cave and Lower Stanton Ruin. Lecture included with $7 admission; kids 16 and under free.
Get ready to rock at Downshift Brewing Company—Riverside, where Doso Dirtbags Live at 6:00 PM. Their unique blend of mountain country, punk, blues, and Irish music guarantees an unforgettable experience.
Don't miss Keaton Adams live at Wingfield Park on August 1, 2025, from 6-8 PM. Enjoy this free outdoor concert as part of the "Under a Mountain Sky" Summer Outdoor Music Series presented by the Village of Ruidoso. Bring your loved ones and soak in the music under the stars!
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.
Discover the heart of Ruidoso at Midtown Market, Saturdays 9 AM–1 PM, June–October at Country Club Park. Shop fresh local produce, artisan foods, handmade crafts, and regional wines. Enjoy live music, community vibes, and seasonal events in a vibrant setting. A must-visit for locals and visitors alike!
Join historian Brandon Dickson on August 2 for The Most Dangerous Street in America, a thrilling Lincoln Lecture during Old Lincoln Days. Held in the historic San Juan Bautista Church, this talk dives into Lincoln’s violent past—Billy the Kid, the Five-Day Battle, and more. Included with $7 site admission; free for kids 16 and under. Don’t miss this gripping Wild West story! Buy Tickets »
Join the Back to School Bash on August 2 from 11 AM–3 PM at Wingfield Park! Enjoy free hot dogs, haircuts, and a petting zoo, plus games, music, and school supply giveaways. Hosted by the PIECE Coalition and the NM Early Childhood Education & Care Department, this fun, family-friendly event is the perfect way to kick off the new school year! Free for Lincoln County residents.
On August 2, join Prince G. McKenzie at the Lincoln Historic Site for a fascinating lecture on the evolution of the Colt Frontier Six Shooter and the Winchester 73—two iconic firearms that shaped life in the American West. Held during Old Lincoln Days, this talk is included with $7 admission; free for kids 16 and under. Don’t miss this look at the guns that “won the West.” Buy Tickets »
Chris Baker is back at Downshift Brewing Company's Hidden Tap on Saturday, August 2, 2025 from 6-9 PM. Bring the family and enjoy craft beer & live music! This Las Cruces native is a singer-songwriter of the best variety. With covers and originals enhanced by his signature loops, his shows are always a can't miss!
Experience the fiery magic of Benise live at Spencer Theater on Sat, Aug 2 at 8 PM! Celebrate 25 years of Spanish guitar and breathtaking dance in a show that fuses world music and spectacular choreography. Tickets $76–$79. Add dinner: beef fajita buffet ($25) or double cut pork chop in the Founders Room ($55) at 6 PM. A night of passion, rhythm, and unforgettable performance! Buy Tickets »
Due to flood damage, Ruidoso Downs has suspended live racing for 2025. The All American Futurity, Derby, and Oaks will be held at Albuquerque Downs, with trials August 4–6 and finals on Labor Day, September 1. Major horse sales and select events will still take place in Ruidoso. Visit raceruidoso.com for updates.