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.
Explore OHV riding in Lincoln National Forest near Ruidoso, with miles of designated routes for ATVs, UTVs, dirt bikes, and highway-legal vehicles. Learn where to ride, how to access Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM), and why staying on designated routes is essential to protecting natural resources and keeping trails open.
Summer in Ruidoso brings together hiking, lake recreation, family-friendly attractions, scenic drives, patio dining, live music, and time to unwind. From Grindstone Lake and Wibit Water Park to summer events and cool mountain evenings, Ruidoso offers plenty of ways to relax, explore, and enjoy a memorable summer getaway.
Explore the scenic mountain lakes of Ruidoso, New Mexico. Grindstone, Alto, and Bonito Lakes offer trout fishing, non-motorized boating, hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and peaceful alpine views. Find out which lake is closest to downtown, where boating is allowed, and what permits you need before you go.
Discover everything you need to know about Grindstone Lake, one of Ruidoso's most popular recreation areas located just minutes from downtown Ruidoso.
The historic Ruidoso Downs racing season will be hosted at The Downs Racetrack & Casino in Albuquerque for 2026. The 49-day meet runs Fridays through Sundays from May 22 through Labor Day and features major races including the Ruidoso Futurity, Rainbow Futurity, and the $3 million All American Futurity.
Looking for the perfect place to sip craft beer or local wine in Ruidoso? From laid-back brewpubs pouring New Mexico’s finest ales to cozy wine bars with curated selections, these top spots offer the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy a drink.
Wibit Water Park at Grindstone Lake is Ruidoso’s floating, inflatable summer attraction—perfect for family fun, groups, and special events. Spend the day tackling the on-water obstacle course, then enjoy Grindstone Lake’s other recreation options like picnicking, fishing, boating, and disc golf nearby.
Now open in Ruidoso, The Crow at Marty’s Golf House is an indoor golf and social lounge blending interactive simulators, casual dining, and a relaxed sports-lounge vibe. Enjoy handmade pizzas, New Mexico chile favorites, beer, wine, cocktails, and mocktails in a welcoming space designed for golfers and non-golfers alike.
Looking for the best breakfast in Ruidoso? Whether you crave a hearty mountain-style meal, a cozy café with a fireplace, or a sunlit patio to enjoy your coffee, Ruidoso has plenty of charming spots to start your day. From classic diners to hidden gems serving homemade pastries, here’s your guide to the top breakfast restaurants in Ruidoso.
Ruidoso’s mild mountain climate makes outdoor dining a year-round pleasure. From cozy patios and wine gardens to casual brewery tables and classic Midtown decks, these local restaurants offer the perfect spots to sip, snack, and savor the fresh air. Call ahead to confirm patio seating availability.
Ruidoso is ready for a vibrant 2026 summer. Local shops, restaurants, trails, and outdoor spaces are welcoming visitors, with continued improvements following last year’s flooding. Enjoy cool mountain air, a vibrant Midtown shopping district, and easy access to nature—just be sure to stay weather-aware during monsoon season.
DON'T MISS THESE POPULAR SUMMER EVENTS
Watch the full moon rise over the glowing gypsum dunes at White Sands National Park. Enjoy live music, ranger programs, and cultural presentations during these free 2026 Full Moon Nights. Extended park hours allow visitors to experience the magic even without a scheduled program. Bring chairs, blankets, and layers for a stunning desert evening under the stars.
Acoustic rock singer-songwriter Bryan Bielanski brings his high-energy “Super Happy Fun Time” to Downshift Brewing Riverside. Known for catchy songs, warm crowd connection, and a globe-spanning touring history, Bryan’s sound blends classic rock and folk with a fresh, upbeat style. A feel-good night of lively originals and easygoing vibes.
Step into a weekend of revelry at the Lincoln Forest Renaissance Faire, May 15–17, 2026, at Wingfield Park in Ruidoso. Enjoy themed days featuring pirates, medieval and Celtic traditions, and family-friendly fantasy. Shop artisan vendors, meet colorful characters, and celebrate imagination, costumes, and community at this lively annual festival. Information and tickets at https://www.lincolnforestrenfair.com
The Long Dog Derby returns to Jacks Backstage in Ruidoso on May 16 with dachshund races, crowd-favorite contests, and more than $5,000 in prizes. From Best Dressed to Slow Weenie, these speedy pups compete for glory in one of Ruidoso’s most entertaining events. Registration is $30 per dog and opens March 23. Spectators welcome for a day of laughs and dachshund-powered fun.
Supersuckers and Scott H. Biram bring high-energy outlaw rock to Jacks Patina Lounge in Ruidoso. Expect gritty vocals, loud riffs, and boots-on-the-floor energy. $20 advance tickets at https://tickets.holdmyticket.com/tickets/458605?
The historic Ruidoso Downs horse racing season begins May 22, 2026. For the 2026 season, races will take place at The Downs Racetrack & Casino in Albuquerque. Learn more about the season schedule and related events connected to Ruidoso Downs. Learn More >>
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!
For a true "western" experience join the Flying J Wranglers, complete with gunfights, pony rides, stage show, gold panning, gift shops, and a chuckwagon style BBQ dinner.
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.
Kick off summer in Ruidoso over Memorial Day Weekend with the opening of the Wibit Water Park at Grindstone Lake and the Ruidoso Municipal Pool. Enjoy floating inflatable fun, classic pool swimming, and family-friendly recreation. Wibit opens 10 AM–6 PM; Pool opens 11 AM–4:30 PM. Fees apply.
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!
Experience the magic of Beatlemania with 4 Lads From Liverpool – Ultimate Beatles Tribute at Inn of the Mountain Gods on May 23, 2026. This dinner-and-show event features classic Beatles hits performed live along with a themed multi-course meal inspired by the band’s iconic songs. Doors and dinner begin at 6 PM, with the show at 7 PM.
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.
Catch the Parade through Midtown beginning at 10:00 am on Saturday, May 30, 2026. Then watch as the teams race their beds back to Wingfield Park for food, fun, and games for all ages. Following the race, there will be activities at the park! All proceeds benefit the High Mountain Youth Project.
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!
Start summer in Ruidoso with Frankie Ballard live at Jacks Backstage on May 30. Enjoy a high-energy country show featuring hits like “Helluva Life” and “Sunshine & Whiskey” in The Pit. Tickets on sale March 20 at https://tickets.holdmyticket.com/tickets/460045
MARCH 26, 2026: After 44 years of operation, Flying J Ranch has announced it is currently closed, and the property is for sale. We’ll update this page as new information becomes available.