Ruidoso Travel Essentials

To help you plan your Ruidoso vacation, browse these travel essentials, including weather information, upcoming and annual events, packing and driving advice, military savings, and much more. 

Weather Forecast

Upcoming Events

Featured
Bo DePena live at Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside
Jul 30
Bo DePena live at Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside

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!

Movie Night at the Pool
Jul 31
Movie Night at the Pool

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.

Thirstday Night Trivia "Jump for Jelly Beans Day" at Lost Hiker Brewing Company - Basecamp
Jul 31
Thirstday Night Trivia "Jump for Jelly Beans Day" at Lost Hiker Brewing Company - Basecamp

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!

Billy the Kid Pageant and Old Lincoln Days
Aug 1
Billy the Kid Pageant and Old Lincoln Days

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.

Alto Artists Tour
Aug 1
Alto Artists Tour

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

Lincoln Lecture Series: Archaeological Investigations at Fort Stanton
Aug 1
Lincoln Lecture Series: Archaeological Investigations at Fort Stanton

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.

Lincoln Lecture Series: Prehistoric Lifeways of Lincoln County
Aug 1
Lincoln Lecture Series: Prehistoric Lifeways of Lincoln County

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.

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Humane Society of Lincoln County FurrBall 2025
Aug 1
Humane Society of Lincoln County FurrBall 2025

The Annual FurrBall is a fundraising event for the Humane Society of Lincoln County featuring dinner, entertainment, and live and silent auctions. Enjoy a fun night out and support our homeless animals! Learn more at hslcnm.org/index.php/furrball/

Doso Dirtbags Live at Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside
Aug 1
Doso Dirtbags Live at Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside

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.

Keaton Adams LIVE at Wingfield Park
Aug 1
Keaton Adams LIVE at Wingfield Park

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!

Helpful Information

Featured
Planning Your Visit? Ruidoso is Open and Ready for You
Planning Your Visit? Ruidoso is Open and Ready for You

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.

Travel Smart This Monsoon Season
Travel Smart This Monsoon Season

Travel smart this monsoon season—summer storms can bring sudden flash flooding in Ruidoso. Before you explore, check the RAIN map, sign up for CallMeRuidoso alerts, and know your safest routes. With a little prep, you can enjoy the mountains with peace of mind. Get safety tips before your visit.

Getting to Ruidoso: Your Travel Guide
Getting to Ruidoso: Your Travel Guide

Getting to Ruidoso is easy whether you’re driving or flying. The closest airport is Roswell International Air Center (ROW), about 75 miles away, with flights from Dallas and Phoenix. Larger airports in El Paso (ELP) and Albuquerque (ABQ) offer more options. Car rentals are available at all airports, and private shuttles may be an option. Check road conditions before driving, especially in winter.

See what Ruidoso looks like in real-time
See what Ruidoso looks like in real-time

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.

What to Wear for a Winter Trip to Ruidoso
What to Wear for a Winter Trip to Ruidoso

Stay warm and comfortable during your Ruidoso winter getaway with the right gear. Layer up with insulated jackets, cozy pullovers, wool socks, and waterproof outerwear. Don’t forget hats, gloves, and boots to stay protected from snow and chilly temperatures. Get expert tips on winter packing to make the most of your trip.

Wildfire Safety Tips for Camping & Outdoor Recreation in Ruidoso
Wildfire Safety Tips for Camping & Outdoor Recreation in Ruidoso

Protect Ruidoso’s natural beauty by practicing wildfire safety while camping and exploring. Learn essential fire prevention tips before you go, from safe campfire practices to trail precautions. Stay informed, follow local guidelines, and enjoy a safe, responsible outdoor adventure in Ruidoso.

High-Altitude Adventure Tips for Ruidoso
High-Altitude Adventure Tips for Ruidoso

At 6,920 feet above sea level, Ruidoso offers breathtaking scenery and endless outdoor activities. Stay safe by preparing for high-altitude conditions, staying hydrated, and pacing yourself during exploration. Whether hiking, biking, or sightseeing, these precautions will help you enjoy Ruidoso’s mountain air and vibrant attractions to the fullest.

Recreational Cannabis in Ruidoso: What You Need to Know
Recreational Cannabis in Ruidoso: What You Need to Know

Recreational cannabis is legal in New Mexico for adults 21+ as of April 1, 2022. Learn about purchase limits, consumption rules, and local regulations before your visit. Discover where to find licensed dispensaries in Ruidoso and enjoy responsibly while exploring the area. Stay informed for a safe and legal experience.

How to Pronounce Ruidoso and the Story Behind Its Name
How to Pronounce Ruidoso and the Story Behind Its Name

Ever wondered how Ruidoso got its name? Learn about its origins, meaning, and how to pronounce it like a local. Discover the history behind this scenic mountain town’s unique name and what makes it special.

What to Do If You Get Sick on Your Ruidoso Vacation
What to Do If You Get Sick on Your Ruidoso Vacation

Feeling unwell on your trip? Know where to go for medical care in Ruidoso. Choose between an urgent care clinic or the emergency room, but be aware—your insurance may not cover the wrong choice. Learn where to seek treatment, what services are available, and how to avoid unexpected costs so you can focus on recovery and getting back to enjoying your vacation.