Things to Do in Ruidoso, New Mexico

By VI | Disclosure: I use affiliate links

Courtesy of Nancy Olson - Fotolia.com

Need a mountain escape packed with adventure and charm? I say—head to Ruidoso! Tucked into the Sierra Blanca mountains, this is one of those places I keep coming back to. You’ll find year-round fun—skiing in the winter, hiking and lake days in the summer, and a dose of crisp mountain air in the spring and fall. I’ve always loved how Ruidoso blends outdoor adventure with a laid-back artsy vibe and a great food scene. If you’re into cozy cabin stays, trail time, or just want to unwind somewhere beautiful, I think you’ll love it here too.

Ruidoso, NM Highlights:

Watch live horse racing at Ruidoso Downs Race Track – I had a blast cheering from the stands and placing a friendly bet or two.
Stroll through Midtown Ruidoso – You’ll find cute shops, galleries, and spots to grab a coffee or bite to eat. I always leave with something handmade.
Swim, kayak, hike, or fish at Grindstone Lake – It’s just minutes from downtown, and I’ve spent entire afternoons soaking up the scenery here.
Hike in Lincoln National Forest – The trails range from easy strolls to serious climbs. I always pack my camera—there’s so much beauty to capture.
Hit the slopes at Ski Apache – If you love skiing or snowboarding, this place is worth the trip. I’ve tackled a few runs here and the mountain views are next-level.

Where to Stay in Ruidoso, NM

MCM Elegante Lodge & Resort – I liked the indoor pool and relaxed setting—it’s great for winding down after a day outdoors.
Hotel Ruidoso - Midtown – If you want to stay close to shopping and dining, this one’s right in the heart of it all.

Best Time to Visit Ruidoso, NM

Personally, I love visiting in the summer and fall (June through October). It’s perfect for hiking, lake activities, and cool evening strolls. But if you’re a skier or snowboarder, you’ll want to come in winter (December–March) when Ski Apache is in full swing.

How to Get to Ruidoso, NM

If you’re driving: I usually take U.S. Route 70—Ruidoso is about 3 hours from Albuquerque or 2.5 hours from El Paso, and the drive is beautiful either way.
By Air: You’ll fly into either Albuquerque (ABQ) or El Paso (ELP), depending on your route. I’ve done both—they’re about equal distance.
By Shuttle or Bus: If you don’t want to rent a car, there are shuttle services from both airports to Ruidoso. I’ve also seen Greyhound run a daily route if you’re looking for a bus option.