Things To Do in Ruidoso

Hiking, fishing (stocked trout), and kayaking at the reservoir just minutes from the cabin. The 4.2-mile loop trail is perfect for a morning walk.

Southern New Mexico's premier ski resort with 55 trails and 750 acres of terrain, owned by the Mescalero Apache Tribe. Season runs November through March.

Thousands of acres of trails, camping, and wilderness. Cedar Creek, South Fork, and Lookout Mountain trailheads are all minutes away.

An easy, family-friendly 3-mile creekside trail through mixed conifer forest. Cool and shaded, perfect for hot summer days.

Over 21,000 ancient petroglyphs along an easy trail. One of the largest petroglyph sites in the Southwest. $5 entry.

Casa Blanca (green chile everything), Cafe Rio (Portuguese fusion), Hall of Flame (burgers), and Sacred Grounds Coffee, all within walking distance of each other.

Local craft brewery with two taprooms: the Hidden Tap and Riverside location. Coffee and pastries in the morning, food truck and brews in the evening. Kid and dog friendly.

Rotating craft brews in a laid-back atmosphere. Hosts songwriter nights and community events. A local favorite for unwinding.

Local winery with tastings ($10-15) and a cozy tasting room in Midtown. Great for couples or a relaxed afternoon.

Mescalero-owned resort with casino, golf course, lakeside dining, and Sierra Blanca views. Worth a visit even for non-gamblers.

440 Smokehouse BBQ, Toss'd Pizza, and Flash Jack's burgers and shakes on Mechem Drive. Casual outdoor eating with rotating trucks.

The walkable heart of Ruidoso along Sudderth Drive. Shops, galleries, restaurants, and live music. The Midtown Market runs Saturday mornings at Country Club Park.

Hand-crafted spirits with a tasting room at 2501 Sudderth Dr. Unique gifts and locally made spirits in Midtown.

Opened October 2025. A restored 1920s home on Sudderth Drive exploring Lincoln County history and the growth of Ruidoso. Free admission.

World-class performances in an intimate, architecturally stunning venue in Alto. Check their schedule for concerts, dance, and theater.

The entire town of Lincoln is a living museum. Walk where Billy the Kid escaped from the courthouse. $7 entry. About 45 minutes from Ruidoso.

Go-karts, bumper boats, mini golf, and an arcade. Fun for all ages, especially kids. Budget about $40-60 per family.

English-style afternoon tea on a lavender farm in the Hondo Valley. Three-tier service with paired teas. Opened May 2025. Reservations required.

The birthplace of Smokey Bear in Capitan. Museum, gardens, and Smokey's grave. Free admission. Great for kids. Hosts Smokey Bear Days in May.

Community park hosting events year-round: WagFest (May), Brewdoso beer festival (June), ice rink (winter), and summer concerts.

Opens Memorial Day weekend. Waterslide, public swim, and pool party rentals at 515 Sudderth Dr. $5 per person.