things to do in ruidoso new mexico

Ruidoso, New Mexico, is a charming mountain town surrounded by the Lincoln National Forest. Here are some things to do in Ruidoso:

1. Skiing and Snowboarding: Ruidoso is home to Ski Apache, a ski resort that offers 55 trails, 8 lifts, and a vertical drop of 1,900 feet.
2. Hiking and Biking: The Lincoln National Forest offers numerous hiking and biking trails, including the popular Monjeau Lookout Trail and the Crest Trail.
3. Horseback Riding: Explore the beautiful mountains and forests on horseback with a guided tour from one of the many stables in the area.
4. Golfing: Ruidoso has several golf courses, including the Links at Sierra Blanca and the Cree Meadows Country Club.
5. Casino Gaming: The Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino offers a variety of games, including slots, blackjack, and roulette.
6. Fishing: The Rio Ruidoso and surrounding lakes offer excellent fishing opportunities for trout and other species.
7. Shopping and Dining: Downtown Ruidoso has a charming shopping district with unique boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants serving a range of cuisines.
8. Midtown Emporium: A shopping center with a variety of stores, restaurants, and a movie theater.
9. Ruidoso Downs: A horse racing track that hosts live racing during the summer months.
10. Billy the Kid Museum: A museum dedicated to the life and legend of Billy the Kid, one of the most infamous outlaws of the Wild West.
11. Lincoln National Forest: Offers scenic drives, camping, and picnicking opportunities.
12. Monjeau Lookout: A historic fire lookout tower with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
13. Spencer Theater: A performing arts center that hosts a variety of shows and concerts.
14. Ruidoso Art Gallery: A gallery featuring the work of local artists.
15. Wine Tasting: Visit the Noisy Water Winery or the Ruidoso Wine Festival to sample some of New Mexico’s best wines.
16. Zip Line: Take a thrilling ride on the Apache Eagle Zip Line at Ski Apache.
17. Tubing and Sledding: Enjoy winter fun at the Ruidoso Winter Park or the Ski Apache tubing area.
18. Star Gazing: Due to the town’s dark skies, Ruidoso is an ideal spot for stargazing and astronomy.
19. Festivals and Events: Ruidoso hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Ruidoso Art Festival, the Ruidoso Wine Festival, and the All American Country Music Festival.
20. Historic Walking Tour: Take a self-guided tour of Ruidoso’s historic district and learn about the town’s rich history.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Ruidoso, New Mexico. The town offers a mix of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and entertainment options that make it a great destination for visitors of all ages.