One Weekend in Ruidoso, New Mexico: A 3-day Ruidoso Itinerary
Nestled in the Sierra Blanca Mountains, Ruidoso, New Mexico, is an outdoor lover’s paradise and quite the hidden gem in the Southwest. From fun hikes to peaceful lakes, this charming town is perfect for a weekend getaway. Here’s exactly how I would spend one weekend in Ruidoso, NM.
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Table of Contents
3 Days in Ruidoso (Quick Itinerary)
Short on time? Here’s a quick overview of how to spend one weekend in Ruidoso. If you like what you see, check out all the details below!
- Day 1: Breakfast at The Cornerstone Cafe, Kayak at Grindstone Lake, Dinner at The Ranchers Steak and Seafood.
- Day 2: Zipline at Ski Apache, Drive the Billy the Kid Trail, Ruidoso Downs Race Track
- Day 3: Sunrise at Alto Lake, Midtown Ruidoso, Day Trip to White Sands NP for sunset.
How Do I Get to Ruidoso?
| Closest Airport | Miles from Ruidoso |
|---|---|
| Roswell (ROW) | 70 miles |
| El Paso (ELP) | 140 miles |
| Albuquerque (ABQ) | 180 miles |
Although it’s not the most accessible city to get to via a major airport, it’s worth the road trip. The closest airport is Roswell (ROW) which is about 70 miles away. However, you’ll likely find cheaper flights from El Paso (140 miles) or Albuquerque (180 miles).
From any of these airports, renting a car is really the only option to reach Ruidoso, as the village does not have a major public transportation system. The drive offers beautiful views of New Mexico’s diverse landscape, with rolling hills, desert, and mountain vistas.
Check out the best car rentals near Ruidoso!
Best Time to Visit Ruidoso
Ruidoso is a year-round destination, with each season offering its unique charm. However, most would agree that the best time to visit is during the summer (June to August) when the weather is perfect for hiking, ziplining, and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
However, if you’re a fan of winter sports, Ruidoso transforms into a snowy wonderland from December to February, making it ideal for skiing and snowboarding at Ski Apache.
Average Ruidoso Temperatures by Month
- January: High 48°F, Low 24°F
- February: High 51°F, Low 26°F
- March: High 56°F, Low 31°F
- April: High 64°F, Low 37°F
- May: High 72°F, Low 45°F
- June: High 80°F, Low 52°F
- July: High 82°F, Low 57°F
- August: High 80°F, Low 56°F
- September: High 75°F, Low 50°F
- October: High 66°F, Low 40°F
- November: High 55°F, Low 30°F
- December: High 48°F, Low 24°F
Where to Stay in Ruidoso
$Budget-Friendly: Travelodge by Wyndham Ruidoso – An affordable and convenient choice located just a few minutes from the heart of Ruidoso, this hotel offers basic, comfortable rooms with complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and an outdoor pool, perfect for travelers looking to save on accommodations without sacrificing convenience.
$$Mid-Range: Shadow Mountain Lodge and Cabins – Located close to downtown Ruidoso, this lodge offers cozy, well-equipped cabins and suites in a rustic setting. Guests enjoy peaceful surroundings with easy access to hiking trails and a beautiful garden area, perfect for a relaxing stay without breaking the bank.
$$$Luxury: The Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino – Nestled in the Sierra Blanca mountains, this luxury resort provides breathtaking views, a full-service casino, a spa, and various on-site dining options. Guests can also enjoy outdoor activities like golf, ziplining, and fishing on the property’s scenic lake.
Unique Stay: Ruidoso River Resort Condos – Offering the comfort of a vacation rental with the amenities of a resort, Ruidoso River Resort provides charming condos with full kitchens and fireplaces. Located near the Ruidoso River and Midtown, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a homey, private stay that’s close to nature and the town’s best shops and restaurants.
One Weekend in Ruidoso (A Complete 3-day Itinerary!)
Let’s dive into all the details! Here’s a complete 3-day Ruidoso itinerary!
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Ruidoso
Morning: Breakfast and a Scenic Drive
Start your day with breakfast at the local favorite, Cornerstone Bakery Café. Enjoy a hearty meal with fresh-baked goods before setting off on a scenic drive through the Lincoln National Forest. The winding roads offer breathtaking views of the mountains and forests, setting the tone for your adventurous weekend.
Afternoon: Grindstone Lake
Head to Grindstone Lake, a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Spend the afternoon kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing by the shore. The Dam House offers seasonal ( weekends from Memorial Day to Labor Day) boat and fishing rentals for easy access right at the lake.
If you’re up for a hike, explore the Grindstone Lake Trail, which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding forest.
Evening: Dinner and Live Music
After a day by the lake, unwind with a delicious dinner at The Ranchers Steak and Seafood. Known for its cozy ambiance and mouth-watering dishes, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a meal after a day of outdoor activities.
After dinner, catch some live music at The Quarters, where you can enjoy local bands and a lively atmosphere.
Day 2: Adventure in the Sierra Blanca Mountains
Morning: Ziplining at Ski Apache
For thrill-seekers, head to Ski Apache for an exhilarating ziplining experience. Soar above the treetops and take in panoramic views of the Sierra Blanca Mountains.
If you prefer a more relaxed morning, you can take the gondola ride to the top and enjoy the stunning vistas.
Afternoon: Billy the Kid Scenic Drive
Then spend the afternoon driving along the Billy the Kid Trail in the Lincoln National Forest. This scenic drive is rich in history and offers multiple unique stops along the way.
It’s 84- miles and would take around 2 hours to drive straight through. However, I recommend giving yourself extra time so you can make a few stops!
Evening: Relax at Ruidoso Downs Racetrack
Wind down your adventurous day with a visit to the Ruidoso Downs Racetrack. Whether you’re into horse racing or just looking to experience something new, the racetrack offers an exciting way to spend your evening. Grab a bite at one of the track’s restaurants and enjoy the races under the New Mexico sky.
Day 3: White Sands
Morning: Alto Lake and Shopping Midtown Ruidoso
Start your morning with a sunrise breakfast picnic at Alto Lake. There’s a short .5-mile trail that circles the lake for a relaxing morning stroll.
Then head to Midtown Ruidoso, where you can find unique shops, art galleries, and local boutiques. Spend the next hour or so window shopping and picking up a lunch to go (for your next stop).
Afternoon: Day Trip to White Sands National Park
My personal favorite thing about Ruidoso is its proximity to the coolest National Park, White Sands. It’s just over 1 hour away and is the perfect place to spend your last day in Ruidoso.
After arriving at the park, head to the gift shop to pick up a sled and then find a spot to park. From here, you can walk in any direction to find a perfect sledding spot. Spend the next hour or so sliding the dunes and eating your picnic lunch.
Evening: Sunset at White Sands
The sunsets at White Sands are out of this world. Make sure to pack layers so you can stick around to watch.
Other Things to Do in Ruidoso
- Ruidoso Winter Park – Great for family-friendly tubing in winter or zip-lining and other fun activities in warmer months.
- Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino – Enjoy a luxurious stay with golf, gaming, and lake activities, plus excellent dining options and a spa.
- Fort Stanton Historic Site – Dive into history at this preserved 19th-century military fort, with exhibits on the Civil War, Native American heritage, and pioneer life.
- Spencer Theater for the Performing Arts – Catch a live performance or a theater tour in this beautiful venue nestled in the mountains.
- Take a Day Trip to Roswell – Otherwise known as the alien capital of the USA, this unique town is just over 1 hour and 20 minutes away!
Other Restaurant Recommendations
- Tina’s Cafe – Known for its cozy atmosphere and hearty breakfast options, Tina’s Cafe offers delicious New Mexican-style dishes, like their breakfast burrito with red and green chile sauce. The cafe also serves tapas on weekend evenings.
- Ruidoso Sushi – A surprising find in the mountains, Ruidoso Sushi features fresh sushi rolls and Asian-inspired dishes, including vegan and gluten-free options like the Tempura Sweet Potato Roll and Veggie Futomaki Roll. It’s a favorite in Midtown Ruidoso for sushi lovers.
- The Village Buttery – This quaint spot is perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch. Known for its sandwiches and desserts, the Village Buttery also offers a friendly and relaxed dining experience, with homemade soups and pies as popular choices.
- Lost Hiker Brewing Company – More than just a brewery, Lost Hiker serves unique beers crafted in Ruidoso. With two locations and a fun, relaxed vibe, this brewery also supports local artists and serves pizza from their own kitchen.
- The Hidden Tap – Located on Sudderth Drive, The Hidden Tap offers craft beers from local Downshift Brewing Company. Known for live music events and an inviting taproom, it’s a go-to spot for a casual night out in Ruidoso.
- Casa Blanca – A staple for Mexican food, Casa Blanca is known for its green chile enchiladas and margaritas. With a warm, rustic setting, it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike looking for traditional New Mexican cuisine.
- Rio Grande Grill & Tap Room – A family-friendly choice, this restaurant serves American favorites with a Southwestern twist, like green chile cheeseburgers and locally sourced craft beer. The taproom atmosphere makes it a relaxed stop for lunch or dinner.
3-Days in Ruidoso, NM Recap
Ruidoso, NM, offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. This 3-day itinerary is designed to give you a taste of everything this beautiful mountain town has to offer. Whether you’re hiking through the forest, ziplining over mountains, or enjoying a quiet evening by the lake, Ruidoso is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories!
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