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.
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.
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.
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!
Experience the thrill of Quarter Horse racing at Ruidoso Downs Racetrack, home of the All American Futurity, the richest race in Quarter Horse history. Enjoy live racing every weekend from Memorial Day to Labor Day or visit The Racebook for year-round simulcast betting, great food, and drinks. Plan your visit now at RaceRuidoso.com!
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.
Experience the thrill of the Screaming Eagle Mountain Coaster and Tubing in Ruidoso! Ride New Mexico’s only Mountain Coaster with 5100 feet of waves, dips, and a 360-degree helix. Enjoy high-speed fun with state-of-the-art safety features. For winter excitement, try the tubing hill with magic carpet lifts and thrilling downhill rides. Perfect for family fun and adventure seekers of all ages!
Experience the thrill of axe throwing at Win Place & Show in Ruidoso! Challenge your friends, test your aim, and enjoy drinks from the bar on the lively WPS patio. Let expert guides show you the ropes and make it an unforgettable outing. Book your lane for some competitive fun by calling (575) 257-9982 or reserving online. Don’t miss this exciting addition to Ruidoso Midtown!
DON'T MISS THESE POPULAR SUMMER EVENTS
Eight rodeos in four days! The nation’s largest open rodeo weekend includes four nightly rodeos, a two-day ranch rodeo, a youth ranch rodeo, a kid’s rough stock rodeo, a 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, live music, and dance. You don’t want to miss this annual 4th of July celebration! smokeybearstampede.com
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.
Celebrate July 4 at Inn of the Mountain Gods with live music, food vendors, and family fun from 12–9 PM. Kids can enjoy jumping balloons (2–7 PM) with a $10 wristband. Then at dusk, don’t miss New Mexico’s largest fireworks show lighting up the sky. Parking is first come, first served—arrive early for the best spot!
Blues rock duo New Age Phonograph, based in Myrtle Creek/Roseburg, OR, brings their signature sound to Downshift Brewing – Hidden Tap in Ruidoso on July 4, 2025. Join the celebration from 6–9 PM for live music, craft brews, and good vibes.
Celebrate Independence Day with The Rockabilly Strangers at Downshift Brewing's Riverside on July 4, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM! This Detroit-born, New Mexico-based trio blends 50's rockabilly, roots rock, surf, and honky tonk into an electrifying show. With 3 CDs and countless gigs across the Southwest, they're a must-see act.
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.
Win Place & Show Bar in Ruidoso, NM, welcomes Apache Spirit for live music on July 4/5 from 7:30 PM to 12:30 AM. Enjoy an evening of great tunes and a lively atmosphere in the heart of town.
Celebrate Independence Day Weekend with the Run White & Blue 5K Color Run and Walk—part of the Run Ruidoso 2025 race series! Registration is $25; check-in starts at 7 AM. Bring a nonperishable item for the Lincoln County Food Bank. First 50 to sign in get a free T-shirt; first 70 finishers earn medals. All ages welcome. Register online via the Activities & Programs tab. Color, community, and a cause—don’t miss it!
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!
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. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes and good company!
Continue the holiday weekend excitement at Ruidoso Downs Race Track with the Zia QH Derby Trials NMB on Saturday, July 5! This thrilling race features three-year-old New Mexico-bred Quarter Horses sprinting 400 yards for a $10,000 purse. As part of the 46-day racing season (May 23–Sept 1), enjoy Friday-Sunday races and special holiday events. Witness top-tier Quarter Horse racing in Ruidoso!
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. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of great tunes and good company!
See 150 drones take flight in a patriotic-themed aerial drone show featuring a 300-foot-tall Statue of Liberty, fireworks, an eagle, and other iconic American images. Meet family and friends for a pre-show tailgate and enjoy FREE family-friendly activities and entertainment starting at 5:00 PM.
Join legendary singer-songwriter Robert Earl Keen for an unforgettable night at Ruidoso Downs Race Track Event Center on July 5, 2025, at 7:00 PM. A pioneer of the Americana genre, Keen’s career spans three decades, 21 albums, and countless live performances. Known for his authentic storytelling and dynamic stage presence, he continues to inspire fans nationwide. Doors at 6:00 PM. Buy Tickets »
Chris Baker is back at Downshift Brewing Company's Hidden Tap on Saturday, July 5, 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!
Celebrate The Texas Tenors’ 15th Anniversary Tour on Sat, July 5 at 8 PM at Spencer Theater! Hear new music, patriotic favorites, and a powerful mix of Country to Pop from America’s Got Talent’s top group. $86–$89. Add dinner: meatloaf buffet ($25) or beef tenderloin in the Founders Room ($55) at 6 PM. Buy Tickets »
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.