Wildlife and Ruidoso go hand in hand. From the quiet appearance of the majestic elk and wild horse herds that roam here to the impressive flight of the bald eagle and the entertaining antics of the bears that are frequently seen, here are some of Ruidoso's most amazing wildlife and some tips on where you can safely spot them on your next trip.
Read MoreDiscover Ruidoso's favorite lakes! Bring a picnic, cast for fish, paddle a boat, cycle, horseback ride, or explore on foot via multi-use trails at Grindstone Lake and Alto Lake recreation areas.
Read MoreThe Best of Ruidoso People’s Choice Awards polled the Ruidoso community and visitors to select the best businesses and organizations in the area. People choose from over 25 categories through online voting, including Ruidoso shops, attractions, activities, restaurants, drinks venues, and more. Voting ran from January 9, 2023, through January 31, 2023. Here are the 2023 Best of Ruidoso People’s Choice Award Winners.
Read MoreSome 377 species of birds have been observed on the refuge since 1940. The wetlands attract huge flocks of wintering cranes and geese, the refuge's most exciting features. Many other species—notably waterfowl, shorebirds, and birds of prey—also winter in the refuge. Striking vagrants, such as groove-billed and have been found there.
Read MoreWith courses at Grindstone Lake and Ski Apache, add disc golf to your list of fun things to do in Ruidoso. Better yet, bring your own disc and it’s free fun for the whole family.
Read MoreSubmit social media photographs of your Ruidoso trip(s) for the annual #scenicsouthernNM2024 contest for weekly giveaways, as well as a final grand prize package, with multiple opportunities to win. The contest is open from February 1 - 29, 2024. Enter to win!
Read MoreExploring the great outdoors in Ruidoso? AllTrails has compiled a list of the 10 best trails and routes in the region, just waiting for you to explore. Choose from an array of easy routes for day trips with the family, or check out some trails laden with historical sights. There are plenty of nature spots in and around Ruidoso to explore, with routes suitable for all skill levels.
Read MoreDo less—experience more. Slow travel in Ruidoso isn’t only on-trend for 2023. It’s a nostalgic tribute to the generations who traveled to our mountain village to kick back in the cool pines and savor a local lifestyle. Explore Ruidoso at your own pace and on your own terms with these ideas for a slower and more meaningful relationship with Ruidoso.
Read MoreRuidoso in the summertime has all the usual visitor favorites: Live horse racing at Ruidoso Downs Race Track, the lively outdoor patios at Ruidoso eateries, a vibrant live music scene, and a never-ending stream of events and festivals, and great venues to visit. Not to mention the incredible forests, river, lakes, and other natural attractions that are perfect for exploring, having fun, and getting away from it all.
Read MoreFantasy fairies hide along the pathway at Ruidoso's Two Rivers Park and Wingfield Park. Magic wands, tiny houses, and whimsical fairies add fun for the young. Visitors may be startled when walking along village park trails to see a trout jumping out of the water and riding on his back, the smallest of the fairy folk.
Read More“Once a sleepy mountain town, Ruidoso is thriving and growing fast. Lovers of the great outdoors flock to the town to take advantage of the surrounding wilderness and hiking opportunities, while history buffs delight in the nearby Mescalero Apache Reservation’s preservation of nomadic Native American culture. A community of quaint shops and restaurants in town will keep also keep the cosmopolitan type entertained.” — Culture Trip
Read MoreDiscover how Ruidoso got its name and how to pronounce it like a local.
Read MoreWith 10 bowling lanes, 4 pool tables, dartboards, arcade games, a restaurant, and a lounge for parties and events, the Ruidoso Bowling Center is a fun, year-round, family-friendly entertainment destination where everybody gets to play.
Read MoreIf you are looking for a blend of festive cheer and mountain culture, then opt for a winter vacation in Ruidoso. Here are some of the best things to do in Ruidoso in winter, including where to stay, eat and how to make the most of a getaway in this special mountain town.
Read MoreThe data team at Realtor.com® names Ruidoso as one of 14 Great Ski Towns You’ve Never Heard Of (That Are Affordable for Buying a Home), where you can find the cozy sense of community and the balance of corduroy carving and mellow living for a bargain, at least relative to the area. Read the article here >>
Read MoreGo tubing at Ruidoso Winter Park. There are lanes for racing your friends and a Magic Carpet conveyor belt for an uphill ride. Adrenaline junkies can descend individually, in tandem — or for the fastest and longest ride, in group clusters in a giant tube. After your chilly thrill, retreat to a warming VIP Igloo to cozy up in with a hot drink and a snack.
Read MoreIn 2022, we welcomed record visitors to our friendly mountain town. From the scenic forests and lakes to our indie shops and restaurants and great places to stay, Ruidoso vacations have taken people outside, brought families closer, and reminded guests how special Ruidoso is. Along the way, Ruidoso visitors have shared their most memorable moments and memories online.; read more to discover this year’s top Ruidoso reasons to return from their perspective and in their own words.
Read MoreFrom Outerwear and layering to helmets and goggles plus skis, boots, and boards, Ruidoso ski shops have you covered.
Read MoreWhat to do on a Ruidoso ski vacation if you don’t ski or snowboard? Just off the ski slopes, there are galleries, restaurants, and easy access to multi-use trail systems.
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