Discover the most amazing experiences for a Ruidoso autumn getaway. We’ve compiled our fall vacation ideas—all our top attractions, best food, cultural happenings, most memorable activities – and popular fall 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.
Plan A Ruidoso Fall Getaway
Are you looking for things to do during your Ruidoso Thanksgiving getaway? From food and music to holiday events and outdoor adventure, here are some ways to enjoy your Ruidoso Thanksgiving weekend.
Discover Halloween in Ruidoso with family-friendly events and spooky fun in the mountains. Trick-or-treat through Midtown, join costume contests, watch pumpkin rolls, or explore haunted happenings. Perfect for kids and adults, Ruidoso’s Halloween celebrations blend small-town charm with festive thrills—plan your fall getaway today.
Join the fun at Ruidoso’s 11th Annual Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk on November 29, 2025! The final race in the Ruidoso Run Series kicks off at 10 a.m. on the Links Trail. The first 50 runners have a chance to receive a free T-shirt and the first 70 finishers earn a participation medal. In-person registration begins at 8:30 a.m. at the White Mountain Recreation Complex.
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.
Discover Ruidoso's vibrant autumn with our fall foliage guide. Explore top spots like Alto Lake, Grindstone Lake, Lincoln National Forest, and Ski Run Road. Enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and more amidst stunning fall colors. Visit during peak season from mid-September to late October, and don't miss local events like AspenFest and Oktoberfest.
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.
Join the fun every Sunday at Enchanted Vine! Shop local at the Farmer’s and Craft Market from 11 AM–4 PM, enjoy live music from 2–4 PM, sip Noisy Water wine, Uncle Dick’s Hard Cider, and seasonal cocktails, and play yard games on the spacious grounds. Celebrate the season with great music, local makers, and a festive atmosphere!
Transform your remote work in 2025 with Ruidoso’s scenic beauty. Set against the stunning mountains, your workspace becomes a blend of productivity and tranquility. Enjoy fresh air, creative energy, and diverse accommodations, making Ruidoso the ideal spot for remote workers seeking a balance of professional focus and natural inspiration.
Discover the best free things to do in Ruidoso! From stargazing and wildlife watching to forest walks, playground adventures, and scenic photo ops, this mountain town offers unforgettable experiences that won’t cost a dime. Perfect for families, couples, and solo explorers looking to enjoy nature and fun on a budget.
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.
Escape to the mountains of Ruidoso for fresh air, star-filled skies, stunning views, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. This scenic alpine village offers the perfect year-round getaway for slow travel, relaxation, and outdoor adventure. Discover five powerful reasons to make Ruidoso your next soul-soothing vacation destination.
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.
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.
While you're in Ruidoso, check out these indie coffeehouses offering outdoor patios, welcoming interiors with cozy chairs in quiet corners, ample outlets and free WiFi, delicious pastries, baked goods and light meals—perfect for an afternoon or morning pick-me-up.
Autumn in southern New Mexico brings ripe apples to regional orchards, and Ruidoso eateries shine with apple pies and sweet indulgences, some with a spicy twist. Try a slice of Hatch green chile apple pie or chipotle caramel apple for a taste of the Land of Enchantment. Explore our guide to Ruidoso's fall flavors for a memorable autumn experience.
Escape the daily grind and embrace autumn in Ruidoso, New Mexico, a vacation destination that promises to engage all your senses. With crisp mountain air, vibrant fall colors, and numerous outdoor activities, Ruidoso is the quintessential fall getaway. Here’s a three-day autumn trip itinerary that guarantees a revitalizing reconnection with nature.
Celebrate Autumn in Ruidoso at AspenFest. The weekend celebration is kicked off on Saturday, October 4, 2025, with a 10:00 AM parade through Midtown, immediately followed by fun, food, music, and drinks at Wingfield Park. Don't miss Ruidoso's favorite fall festival!
Upcoming Fall Events
Bring the kids to Midtown for safe Trick-or-Treating and fun Halloween events. There will be fun for the whole family with candy and a costume contest for children 17 and younger. Plus, pumpkin carving, pumpkin roll, coffin race, candy, and much more. See you there!
Step into the Time Warp with Oso Productions’ shadow cast of The Rocky Horror Picture Show! Watch the cult classic on the big screen as a live cast brings every outrageous moment to life. Your ticket guarantees a seat—and you can boost the fun with an optional prop bag packed with interactive goodies timed to the film’s most iconic scenes. Buy Tickets >>
Don't miss this lively annual community Day of the Dead celebration in Lincoln, NM. Join the fun with live music, dance, family activities, face painting, altar offerings, arts and crafts, and food and drink. This community event is free to the public.
Step into the Time Warp with Oso Productions’ shadow cast of The Rocky Horror Picture Show! Watch the cult classic on the big screen as a live cast brings every outrageous moment to life. Your ticket guarantees a seat—and you can boost the fun with an optional prop bag packed with interactive goodies timed to the film’s most iconic scenes. Buy Tickets >>
Enjoy an evening of standout live music at Downshift Brewing Co – Riverside. The night begins at 5 PM with Grammy-nominated Texas guitarist Dave Millsap, who has performed alongside icons like Delbert McClinton, Bonnie Raitt, and Boz Scaggs. At 7:30 PM, the energy amps up with Party Falcon, an original ’80s band known for its high-octane performances. Craft beer, great tunes, and a lively crowd—right on the river.
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.
Thanksgiving in Ruidoso is ideal if you’re looking for the perfect mountain town getaway packed with the best of the outdoors, indoors, and everything in between.
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.
Join the fun at Ruidoso’s 11th Annual Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk on November 29, 2025! The final race in the Ruidoso Run Series kicks off at 10 a.m. on the Links Trail. The first 50 runners receive a free T-shirt and the first 70 finishers earn a participation medal. In-person registration begins at 8:30 a.m. at the White Mountain Recreation Complex.
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.
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.