Spring Trip Ideas

Ruidoso is one of the best New Mexico spring break vacation spots. We’ve compiled our spring break vacation ideas—all our top attractions, best food, cultural happenings, most memorable activities – and popular spring events that 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.

 
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Did you know that Reader’s Digest selected Ruidoso…

…as one of their 17 Spring Break Getaways That Don’t Require Air Travel?

Learn more>>

 
Featured
Best Breakfast Spots in Ruidoso: Cozy Cafés & Local Favorites
Best Breakfast Spots in Ruidoso: Cozy Cafés & Local Favorites

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.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Ruidoso
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Ruidoso

Bring out your green! St. Patrick's Day in Ruidoso is celebrated with parties, good luck charms, and all things green. Check out these St. Patrick's Day specials in Midtown and the region.

5 Powerful Reasons to Plan a Ruidoso Mountain Getaway Right Now
5 Powerful Reasons to Plan a Ruidoso Mountain Getaway Right Now

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.


Planning a Ruidoso Family Getaway? Here’s How to Make It Fun and Stress-Free!
Planning a Ruidoso Family Getaway? Here’s How to Make It Fun and Stress-Free!

Ready for unforgettable family memories in Ruidoso? Discover the secrets to a hassle-free vacation! Learn how to keep your schedule flexible for spontaneous fun, pack like a pro, balance solo adventures with quality time, and bring the right “toys” for maximum enjoyment. Plus, get budget-friendly tips so you can splurge on experiences that matter most.

On Tap: The Best Brewpubs & Wine Bars in Ruidoso
On Tap: The Best Brewpubs & Wine Bars in Ruidoso

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.

See what Ruidoso looks like in real-time
See what Ruidoso looks like in real-time

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.

Embark on a Spring Escape: Crafting Your Perfect Four-Day Adventure in Ruidoso
Embark on a Spring Escape: Crafting Your Perfect Four-Day Adventure in Ruidoso

Join us in vibrant Ruidoso this spring, where nature comes alive with breathtaking outdoor adventures, cultural delights, and pure relaxation. Discover our curated itinerary for an unforgettable getaway filled with excitement and rejuvenation.

Tee off in Ruidoso
Tee off in Ruidoso

Cool temperatures. Unbelievable scenery. This is the Ruidoso golf experience. With four spectacular Ruidoso area golf courses, each course is situated against breathtaking backdrops with its own personality and landscape. Discover which one is best for you.

Spring Break 2025: Why Ruidoso is your best bet for a New Mexico spring break vacation
Spring Break 2025: Why Ruidoso is your best bet for a New Mexico spring break vacation

It’s time to start planning that New Mexico spring break escape to Ruidoso. Whether you're looking for a family adventure, a relaxing workcation to recharge your soul until summer, or a blast of adrenaline-inducing outdoor activities, here are a few ideas for an unforgettable Ruidoso spring break.

Must-Visit Coffeehouses in Ruidoso: Best Spots for a Perfect Brew
Must-Visit Coffeehouses in Ruidoso: Best Spots for a Perfect Brew

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. 

Ruidoso Food Truck Center
Ruidoso Food Truck Center

Experience Ruidoso's Food Truck Center on Mechem Drive for some of the tastiest bites in town. Dive into 440 Smokehouse BBQ, relish Toss'd Pizza, or savor Flash Jack's burgers and shakes, plus delicious coffee and more! Enjoy indoor seating, arcade games, and a fire pit for s'mores. Whether you're a foodie or seeking fun, there's something for everyone here.

Blooms and Bliss: Plan Your Ruidoso Wildflower Adventure
Blooms and Bliss: Plan Your Ruidoso Wildflower Adventure

Nestled within the majestic Sierra Blanca range, Ruidoso bursts into a riot of colors as spring and summer roll around, turning its trails and meadows into vibrant canvases of wildflowers. Eager to immerse yourself in this floral extravaganza? Let this guide be your ticket to the best wildflower sightseeing adventures in Ruidoso.

Families Love A Ruidoso Vacation
Families Love A Ruidoso Vacation

Get ready for a totally different adventure this year and head for the mountains for an unforgettable (and affordable) Ruidoso family vacation. From outdoor adventures to kid-friendly attractions and old west experiences Ruidoso offers year-round fun for families.

Midtown Gallery Walk
Midtown Gallery Walk

Enjoy a day of gallery hopping in Ruidoso's Midtown shopping district with this recommended art itinerary.

A Guide to Ruidoso's Incredible Wildlife
A Guide to Ruidoso's Incredible Wildlife

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.

Discover Ruidoso's Favorite Lakes
Discover Ruidoso's Favorite Lakes

Discover 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.

Grindstone Lake: All You Need To Know
Grindstone Lake: All You Need To Know

Discover everything you need to know about Grindstone Lake, one of Ruidoso's most popular recreation areas located just minutes from downtown Ruidoso.

Where to Get a Massage During Your Ruidoso Vacation
Where to Get a Massage During Your Ruidoso Vacation

Discover the best massage studios and therapists in Ruidoso. From classical massages to specialized treatments Ruidoso offers a diverse menu of massage therapists and spa treatments to help you ease into vacation mode.

 

Discover What’s On During Your Ruidoso Spring Break

Featured
Win, Place and Show Live PATIO Music - Marc Gerona
Apr 11
Win, Place and Show Live PATIO Music - Marc Gerona

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!

Ben Guihan LIVE at Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside
Apr 11
Ben Guihan LIVE at Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside

Experience Ben Guihan live at Downshift Brewing Company – Riverside in Ruidoso, NM, on Friday, April 11, 2025, from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM. A masterful visual songwriter, Guihan blends folk, western psychedelic Americana, and early California country rock, crafting cinematic verses inspired by the Beat Generation, Greenwich Village folk revival, and surrealist art. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind performance!

Win, Place and Show Live Music - Southernmost
Apr 11
Win, Place and Show Live Music - Southernmost

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.

DISC GOLF: Land of Enchantment State Championship Series – Alto Lake Tournament
Apr 12
DISC GOLF: Land of Enchantment State Championship Series – Alto Lake Tournament

Experience New Mexico’s newest disc golf course at Alto Lake in this exciting Land of Enchantment State Championship Series tournament. A perfect chance to prepare for the PDGA Tim Selinske US Masters Championships, qualify for the State Championships, and compete in a stunning mountain setting. Join players from across the region and be part of New Mexico’s premier disc golf community!

Strike a Pose with Your Pet at the Annual Pastel Paws Event
Apr 12
Strike a Pose with Your Pet at the Annual Pastel Paws Event

Join the Humane Society of Lincoln County for the annual Pastel Paws event on April 12, 2025, from 12–3 PM at the Humane Society Resale Shop. Enjoy free pet photos with Funny Bunny, meet adoptable dogs, and pick up a free pet care activity book for kids. Support the shelter’s mission while having fun with the whole family and your furry friends!

Win, Place and Show Live PATIO Music - Tracy Turbeville
Apr 12
Win, Place and Show Live PATIO Music - Tracy Turbeville

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!

Captain Klas LIVE at Downshift Brewing Company - Hidden Tap
Apr 12
Captain Klas LIVE at Downshift Brewing Company - Hidden Tap

Join Captain Klas live at Downshift Brewing Company's Hidden Tap!

Fungi Mungle live at Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside
Apr 12
Fungi Mungle live at Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside

Get ready to dance as Fungi Mungle brings their high-energy mix of funk, disco, and rock to Downshift Riverside on Saturday, April 12, 2025! With their signature ‘70s style, platform shoes, and electrifying stage presence, this legendary band guarantees a night of nonstop fun. Buy Tickets »

Let It Begin Tour 2025 at Inn of the Mountain Gods
Apr 12
Let It Begin Tour 2025 at Inn of the Mountain Gods

Experience an unforgettable night of praise and celebration with the “Let It Begin” Tour featuring Big Daddy Weave, Ben Fuller and Megan Woods! Get your tickets for a powerful performance!

Moonlight Hike at White Sands National Park
Apr 12
Moonlight Hike at White Sands National Park

Don't miss this chance to witness the ethereal beauty of White Sands National Park under the captivating glow of the moon during your Ruidoso vacation! Secure your tickets early and be part of an unforgettable nocturnal adventure.

Win, Place and Show Live PATIO Music - Southernmost
Apr 13
Win, Place and Show Live PATIO Music - Southernmost

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!

Paint and Pints at Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside
Apr 13
Paint and Pints at Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside

Join Downshift Brewing Company Riverside for an evening of art and craft beer on April 13, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.! Led by Bridge to Art, a local studio and gallery, each $40 ticket includes a painting class with supplies and a complimentary drink. Tickets are limited, so secure yours quickly at Eventbrite >>.

The Gold Souls LIVE at Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside
Apr 15
The Gold Souls LIVE at Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside

Get ready for a night of funk, soul, and blues with The Gold Souls at Downshift Brewing Company – Riverside in Ruidoso, NM, on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, from 6 PM to 9 PM. Known for their groove-driven sound and captivating storytelling, this high-energy band brings soulful rhythms and infectious beats straight to the dance floor. Don’t miss this unforgettable performance!

Win, Place and Show Live PATIO Music - Southernmost
Apr 18
Win, Place and Show Live PATIO Music - Southernmost

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!

Win, Place and Show Live Music - Brian Marshall
Apr 18
Win, Place and Show Live Music - Brian Marshall

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.