Fun Things to Do in Ruidoso | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Ruidoso Travel Guide
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Welcome to Ruidoso, a charming mountain village nestled in the heart of New Mexico. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, Ruidoso offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Surrounded by the majestic Sierra Blanca mountain range, visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities such as hiking, skiing, and horseback riding. The village is also home to the renowned Ruidoso Downs Race Track, where horse racing enthusiasts can witness thrilling races and place their bets. Additionally, Ruidoso boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music festivals showcasing the talents of local artists. Whether you're seeking adventure in the great outdoors or a relaxing getaway immersed in nature, Ruidoso has something for everyone.
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Things To Do In Ruidoso
Ruidoso is a charming mountain village located in New Mexico. It offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Ruidoso:
1. Explore the Lincoln National Forest: Ruidoso is surrounded by the beautiful Lincoln National Forest, which offers numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping spots. Take a leisurely hike through the forest and enjoy the stunning views of the mountains and wildlife.
2. Visit Ski Apache: If you're visiting Ruidoso during the winter months, a visit to Ski Apache is a must. It is the southernmost ski resort in the United States and offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Enjoy the thrill of gliding down the slopes and take in the breathtaking views from the top.
3. Go horseback riding: Ruidoso is known for its horse racing heritage, so why not experience it firsthand? Take a guided horseback ride through the scenic trails and enjoy the peacefulness of nature. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, there are options available for all skill levels.
4. Explore the art scene: Ruidoso is home to a vibrant art community, with numerous galleries and studios showcasing local artists' work. Take a stroll through the art district and admire the diverse range of paintings, sculptures, and crafts. You may even find a unique piece to take home as a souvenir.
5. Visit the Hubbard Museum of the American West: This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the American West. Explore the exhibits showcasing Native American artifacts, Western art, and cowboy memorabilia. Learn about the rich heritage of the region and gain a deeper understanding of its significance.
6. Go fishing: Ruidoso is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. The nearby rivers and lakes are teeming with trout, making it an ideal spot for fishing. Grab your fishing gear and spend a relaxing day by the water, trying to catch the big one.
7. Enjoy outdoor activities: Ruidoso offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including zip-lining, mountain biking, and golfing. Soak up the sunshine and enjoy the adrenaline rush as you zip through the treetops or navigate the challenging mountain bike trails. If golf is your game, Ruidoso boasts several top-notch golf courses with stunning views.
Tours And Activities In Ruidoso
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Best Time To Visit Ruidoso
The best time to visit Ruidoso is during the summer months of June, July, and August. During this time, the weather is warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from the 70s to low 80s. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. Additionally, summer is also when festivals and events take place in Ruidoso, including the Ruidoso Art Festival and the Ruidoso Downs Race Track. However, it's important to note that summer is also the peak tourist season, so accommodation prices may be higher and popular attractions may be more crowded. If you prefer a quieter and more affordable visit, spring and fall can also be great times to visit Ruidoso, as the weather is still pleasant and there are fewer tourists.
Flight Calendar For Ruidoso
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Best Areas To Stay In Ruidoso
Ruidoso is a beautiful destination in New Mexico that offers a variety of accommodation options. Here are some of the best areas for accommodation in Ruidoso:
1. Downtown Ruidoso: This area is perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the action. Downtown Ruidoso offers a range of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Visitors can enjoy easy access to shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
2. Upper Canyon: If you're looking for a more secluded and peaceful setting, Upper Canyon is the ideal choice. This area is known for its charming cabins and vacation homes nestled among the trees. It's a great option for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil retreat.
3. Midtown Ruidoso: Midtown Ruidoso is a popular area for accommodation due to its convenient location. It offers a mix of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. Visitors staying in Midtown can easily access various attractions, including galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.
4. Alto: Located just a few miles north of Ruidoso, Alto is a picturesque area that offers a range of accommodation options. From luxurious resorts to cozy cabins, there's something for everyone. Alto is also known for its golf courses and stunning mountain views.
5. Ski Apache: For those who love skiing and snowboarding, staying near Ski Apache is a great choice. This area offers a selection of lodges and vacation rentals that provide easy access to the slopes. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking mountain views and a range of winter activities.
Overall, Ruidoso offers a diverse range of accommodation options in various areas, catering to different preferences and interests. Whether you prefer a bustling downtown atmosphere or a peaceful mountain retreat, Ruidoso has something to offer for every traveler.
Hotels Map Of Ruidoso
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Transportation To Ruidoso
There are several transportation options to Ruidoso, depending on your starting location:
1. By Air: The closest major airport to Ruidoso is Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), which is approximately 180 miles away. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Ruidoso.
2. By Car: Ruidoso is accessible by car via several highways. If you are coming from Albuquerque, you can take US-380 E and US-70 E. If you are coming from El Paso, Texas, you can take US-54 N and US-70 E.
3. By Bus: Greyhound offers bus service to Ruidoso from various cities. You can check their website for schedules and fares.
4. By Train: There is no direct train service to Ruidoso. The closest Amtrak station is in Albuquerque, and from there, you would need to take another form of transportation to reach Ruidoso.
5. By Shuttle: There are shuttle services available that provide transportation from Albuquerque to Ruidoso. These services can be booked in advance and offer a convenient option for those who prefer not to drive.
It is recommended to check the availability and schedules of these transportation options before planning your trip to Ruidoso.
Nearby Destination From Ruidoso
1. Alto: A small village known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational activities.
2. Capitan: Home to the Smokey Bear Historical Park, showcasing the history of the iconic bear and the importance of fire prevention.
3. Cloudcroft: A charming mountain town offering hiking trails, skiing opportunities, and a historic railroad.
4. Mescalero: The tribal headquarters of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, offering cultural experiences and a casino resort.
5. Lincoln: A historic village known for its connection to the infamous Lincoln County War and the Billy the Kid legend.
6. Tularosa: A picturesque town surrounded by white gypsum sand dunes, offering unique outdoor adventures.
7. Carrizozo: A small town with a vibrant art scene and a historic downtown district.
8. Hondo: A rural community known for its apple orchards and annual Apple Festival.
9. Nogal: A peaceful village nestled in the mountains, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
10. San Patricio: A quaint village with a rich history and a beautiful church, attracting visitors seeking a peaceful retreat.