Things to Do in Ruidoso

If you think Ruidoso is only a winter destination, think again. Yes, it is a mountain ski town, but you’d be surprised how much there is to do in the area other than skiing or snowboarding especially during the warmer months. Check out some of the best things to do in Ruidoso this summer including places to eat, explore, and shop.  

Family-Friendly Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Ruidoso

Ruidoso is truly a year-round vacation destination for those that can’t get enough of the great outdoors. Here are some family-friendly things to do in Ruidoso, NM to give your trip a fun mix of outdoor activities that everyone will love.

Pillow’s Funtrackers is a kids’ paradise that adults will have just as much fun at. This amusement park has go-karts, bumper cars and even bumper boats, mini golf, VR arenas, a giant mountain maze, and gem panning. You’re bound to have a blast at Funtrackers so carve out several hours (if not a whole day) so you get a chance to do it all!   

No mountain trip is complete without spending time on the trail. At Ski Apache, there’s more than just skiing or snowboarding. When the snow clears up, there’s miles of hiking and mountain biking that await. Check out any of our three trails by foot, rent a bike, or bring your own and enjoy time well spent with Mother Nature. You can also go on a gondola ride that takes you to the very top of the Sierra Blancas at an elevation of nearly 11,500 feet. The view is incredible and gives you a chance to see both the surrounding forest and the desert valley below the mountain. You definitely want to make sure you have your phone or camera with you to take pictures. 

Thrill seekers rejoice! Ski Apache is also home to the Apache Wind Rider ZipTour. It’s one of the longest ziplines in the world spanning 8,890 feet in length at an elevation of 11,489 feet. You’ll get an incredible view of the Sierra Blancas while flying down the mountain at more than 60 mph. Plus, there’s an optional side-by-side zipline, so you and a friend can glide down the mountain together.  

The Screaming Eagle Mountain Coaster is another popular ride that winds you through the Sierra Blancas on a cart that reaches a max speed of 25 mph. The track is approximately 5,100 feet long and is full of twists, turns, waves, and even a 360-degree helix. If you’re looking for things to do in Ruidoso and want a unique way to experience the Sierra Blancas, this mountain coaster is a no-brainer.  

For a more lowkey activity, why not spend a day in the saddle on a guided trail ride? Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino in Mescalero offers 1-hour rides, 2-hour rides, half-day rides, and even full-day rides. There’s also a lakeside trail ride that lets visitors enjoy time in the saddle while overlooking the beautiful Lake Mescalero. If you’re traveling with little ones (ages 2-8), they can also participate in the fun with a Little Buckaroo Ride. You don’t need to know how to ride a horse or have any experience to give this a try. In fact, if you’ve never been on a horse before, this is guaranteed to be a fun first.  

Who can resist a lake day in the summer? Lake Mescalero is just minutes from downtown Ruidoso where you can spend the day doing just about every lake activity you can think of including swimming, fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, biking, and hiking around the lake. 

And while you’re visiting Ruidoso, plan a day to spend in Lincoln, New Mexico. It’s about 30 miles north of Ruidoso and home to the Lincoln Historic Site, a preserved Old West town where legends like Billy the Kid once walked. Step back in time and stroll through the historic buildings while learning about the Lincoln County War, famous American outlaws, and the events that shaped one of the most famous frontiers in the West. 

You should also consider making the drive to Capitan, New Mexico to visit the Smokey Bear Historical Park. Only 26 miles from Ruidoso, this park is the final resting place of Smokey Bear, the famous and beloved black bear that became an iconic symbol of wildfire prevention. Visitors can view exhibits about forest ecosystems, wildfire prevention, and New Mexico’s natural resources, and even watch a short film about forest health. 

Popular Restaurants in Ruidoso 

Of course, no trip is complete without exploring the local cuisine and Ruidoso is no exception. Foodies be sure to add these restaurants to your travel itinerary! 

Hall of Flame Burgers and Anaheim Jacks are yummy burger and beer joints. They’re both casual restaurants that serve generous portions and artisanal burgers with equally as fun names like the Outlaw Jesse James burger or the Wujan Lujan at Anaheim Jacks, and the Hawaii 5-0 at Hall of Flame Burgers. 

Anyone who enjoys beer and live music should also check out Downshift Brewing Company. They’re a family-owned brewery that serves fun craft beer and pub food with a side of entertainment. On any given evening, Downshift hosts live music, open mic nights, and watch parties. Rio Grande Grill & Tap Room at Sierra Blanca Brewery is another quaint place to enjoy a great selection of craft beer, handpicked wine, and a good meal.  

Named the best pizza in New Mexico, Café Rio is a must-visit dining destination. Since 1993, this pizza parlor with its vibrant, deep blue exterior and Southwestern charm has been a beloved favorite of locals and visitors alike. Make sure you give popular pies like The Kitchen Sink or The Connoisseur a try while you’re in town.  

For breakfast, Cornerstone Bakery and Log Cabin are the two best spots in town to start your day off right. Log Cabin is a rustic restaurant that serves a classic breakfast and decadent dishes like Reese’s Stuffed French Toast and Roasted Pecan Belgian Waffles. Cornerstone Bakery is a 26-year-old staple in Ruidoso that serves traditional breakfast foods, crepes, New Mexican specialty dishes, lunch options like burgers and sandwiches, and delicious baked goods made in-house daily. 

For a coffee run, check out local coffee shops like Roots, Zocca Coffee, Java S’Treat, or The Krafty Kup. Each of these shops make a great latte and have their own eclectic personality to match.  

Local Shops & Boutiques in Ruidoso

If you really want to get to know this charming town, one of the best things to do in Ruidoso is take a stroll in Midtown and explore all of the local shops. You’ll get to experience the rustic and artsy vibe this mountain town has. Some neighborhood favorites include Michelle’s, a long-standing boutique that sells quintessential southwestern style; J Roberts, a women’s apparel shop with chic, feminine pieces whether you’re looking for something casual or dressy. 25th in Mid, is a cute Midtown retailer full of turquoise accessories and trendy pieces, and Indulgence, is a luxury jewelry retailer with everyday women’s apparel.          

Specialty gifts shops like Watusi and The Perfect Gift With Algodones Distillery are great local spots if you’re on the hunt for curated home decor, clothing, jewelry, and accessories all in one place. And The Perfect Gift isn’t your average retailer. The shop is home to a distillery with tastings, whiskey flights, and handcrafted cocktails so you can shop and sip.   

Bookworms should check out Book Etcetera to find their next vacation read. It’s an independent bookstore that carries a wide-selection of books including children’s books, toys, games, and gifts. And of course, since you’re in an outdoorsy town, it’s worth your while to check out Happy Hiker or Nomad for outdoor gear.    

Entertainment

Aside from live music at local breweries, you can also find some amazing shows at Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino. The entertainment calendar is always full of comedy shows and concerts starring A-list artists, local bands, tribute bands, and more. While you’re at the resort, you can also try your luck at any of the 640 slot machines and table games in the casino. Who knows? You may go home with a big win!

Enjoy a Summer Adventure in Ruidoso

Ruidoso isn’t just a winter sports destination. There are so many fun things to do in Ruidoso whether it’s dining at a local brewery, hiking or ziplining at Ski Apache, or finding a cute outfit at one of the local boutiques. If you’re planning a trip to Ski Apache, you’re bound to enjoy your time both on and off the mountain with so many tourist attractions in the area.     

Things to Do in Ruidoso FAQs 

What is there to do in Ruidoso besides skiing?

There are lots of outdoor activities to do in Ruidoso besides skiing. In the summer, tourists can go hiking, ziplining, and mountain biking at Ski Apache. Or you can spend the day swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding on Grindstone Lake. There’s also guided trail rides at Grindstone Stables and a mountain coaster that adrenaline junkies will love at Ruidoso Winter Park. Beyond outdoor activities, Ruidoso also has eclectic local shops and good restaurants worth checking out.   

Is Ruidoso a good summer destination?

Yes, Ruidoso is a great, laid back summer destination for all ages. There’s an endless amount of outdoor activities, plenty of local stores for shopping, great restaurants, gaming, and entertainment venues with live music and comedy shows. Everything you need for a memorable summer vacation can be found here in town. 

What are the best family activities in Ruidoso?

Some popular family activities in Ruidoso include Pillow’s Funtrackers, an amusement park with go-karts, VR, mini golf, and bumper boats. If you’re interested in getting the entire family outside, you can go ziplining, hiking, or mountain biking at Ski Apache, or go horseback riding at Grindstone Stables. There’s also plenty to do on Grindstone Lake like spending the day swimming, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding. 

Where should I eat in Ruidoso?

Anaheim Jacks, Hall of Flame Burgers, Café Rio, Rio Grande Grill & Tap Room, Log Cabin, Cornerstone Bakery, and Downshift Brewing Company are all popular places that give visitors a taste of Ruidoso’s restaurant scene.  

How many days do I need in Ruidoso? 

To get the most out of your visit to Ruidoso, consider spending a weekend in town at the very least. This will give you enough time to check out a couple restaurants, shop, and perhaps spend some time outdoors. 

If you don’t want to pack in a bunch of activities all in one short weekend, five to seven days is a good amount of time to thoroughly explore the town, find the favorite local spots, and visit the area’s top attractions.