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
Experience the thrill of the National Championship Air Races, just a short drive from Ruidoso, at the Roswell International Air Center from September 10-14, 2025! Witness aircraft racing at over 500 mph, enjoy aerobatic shows, and explore interactive exhibits. Whether it is a day trip or a weekend getaway, don’t miss this unique high-speed adventure right next door! Visit https://airrace.org/ for tickets and details.
Celebrate recovery at the 2nd Annual Clear Minds, Clear Skies Sobriety Celebration Luau on Sept. 13, 4:30–7 PM at All-American Park, Ruidoso Downs. This free, family-friendly event features music by DJ One, finger foods, kids zone, free haircuts, inspiring guest speakers, and a best-dressed contest—wear your Hawaiian attire for a chance to win!
Enjoy afternoon live music at Win Place & Show Bar in Ruidoso, where talented local and regional musicians set the vibe on the outdoor patio. Relax with a drink and soak in the fresh mountain air. Cold weather? No problem! The music moves inside, so the fun never stops. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes and good company!
Experience a giant in the American roots music landscape at Inn of the Mountain Gods! Doors: 6 pm | Show: 7 pm. Tickets from $35. BUY TICKETS
Don’t miss The Yarbrough Band live at Jacks Backstage on September 13! Doors open at 6:00 PM; the show starts at 8:00 PM. This high-energy country performance is part of a special Lincoln County Youth Agriculture Supporters event. Join the fun, support a great cause, and get your tickets at https://tickets.holdmyticket.com/tickets/448736?tc=hmt
Enjoy afternoon live music at Win Place & Show Bar in Ruidoso, where talented local and regional musicians set the vibe on the outdoor patio. Relax with a drink and soak in the fresh mountain air. Cold weather? No problem! The music moves inside, so the fun never stops. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes and good company!
The Far West, an Alt-Country/Americana band from Los Angeles, performs live at Downshift Brewing Company – Riverside on September 16, 2025. Enjoy an evening of craft brews and soulful roots-inspired music from 6–9 PM in the heart of Ruidoso.
Tif & Mollie, a genre-bending female duo, perform live at Downshift Brewing Company – Riverside on September 17, 2025. With looping, cello, multi-instrument grooves, and dynamic originals alongside inventive covers, they create a lively, off-the-cuff show full of energy, laughter, and dance-worthy music from 6–8 PM in Ruidoso.
Rev up for the Golden Aspen Motorcycle Rally, September 18–21, 2025. One of the Southwest’s premier rallies, it features scenic rides through Lincoln County, a trade show, live music, demo rides, and a custom bike show. A four-day celebration of motorcycles, music, and mountain roads.
The beloved Wine Pairing Dinner returns September 18, 2025, from 6–8 PM at Noisy Water Winery in Ruidoso. Enjoy a five-course menu featuring dishes like red wine–braised short ribs and lemon panna cotta, each paired with a hand-selected wine. Seats are limited—reserve your spot now for an unforgettable evening of food, wine, and celebration. Reserve Your Seat
Helpful Information
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—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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.