Location: Ruidoso
Top Things to do in Ruidoso
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Top 10 Budget-friendly Things to do in Ruidoso, New Mexico (NM)
Situated ideally at the center between the Lincoln National Forest to the south and the northeast and the Valley of Fires State Park to the northwest, Ruidoso is a still-sleepy mountain town despite its recent growth and popularity with tourists. The majestic Sierra Blanca towers over the city, tempting snow bunnies to the slopes of nearby Ski Apache. The race track at Ruidoso Downs and the casino at the Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort promise chance and adventure of a different sort.
Restaurants in Ruidoso
1. Grindstone Stables
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 183 reviews
One hour guided horseback rides for the whole family! Please call for prices and reservations.
Reviewed By charlottemF7264WW
Our family of five visited Grindstone Stables and had a great time. Everyone was so friendly and helpful. They pair you with the perfect horse for your riding experience which was ideal for my grandchildren. The route up the mountain was so scenic and beautiful. The tour guides were funny, knowledgeable, and made this an amazing experience. I will definitely be coming back here next time I’m in NM.
2. Lincoln National Forest
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 339 reviews
This vast 1.1 million-acre forest region is comprised of separate recreational sections including Ruidoso Valley, Cloudcroft and Carlsbad, which are all located throughout the southern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico.
Reviewed By 269marykayg - Bastrop, United States
Lincoln National Forest has it all...camp sites, great trails, wonderful views. This is a great place to enjoy Nature in a pristine environment.
3. Free Spirits at Noisy Water
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 80 reviews
This monumental outdoor sculpture depicts eight bronze horses, each weighing 3,000-5,000 pounds, running majestically through a wild landscape.
Reviewed By localexplorernm - Bent, United States
1. Because this is not just sculptures but a beautiful garden, with benches and probably a good spot for a picnic on the grass with young kids. 2. Becase The Billy The Kid Scenic Byway Visitors Center is within walking distance. 3. Because the Hubbard Museum of the American West is also within walking distance. 4. Because the views from there are what the southwest is all about. 5. The sculptures are impressive in size and detail 5. This is a pet-friendly stop
4. Adobe Day Spa
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 47 reviews
We have Moved! We are just 3 minutes from the Inn of the Mountain Gods, same road. Couples Massage is a favorite, our place or yours. On-site massage available. A massage/facial combo will brighten your day and put a smile on your face. We have infrared sauna, wraps, indoor hot tub and steam baths coming soon. Under the direction of Dr.David McMinn our services are the best you can find. Our staff of highly trained, certified personnel are here to serve your every needs. Call us for an appointment today.
5. Pillow's Funtrackers
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 122 reviews
Reviewed By darbjustic - Albuquerque, United States
We bumped into this place on accident while visiting Ruidoso for Fall Break. A few hints and tips: Watch the opening days. Check the schedule online before going as it isn't open during the weekdays during parts of the year. Don't let the lines intimidate you. When we showed up we thought it was going to take forever to get onto the go-carts. Each ride is 5 minutes. If the line looks long, you may need to wait one (or two) times and you're on. Also, know the ride heights. There were plenty of surprised and frustrated families in line when they learned that kids until a certain height must be accompanied by an adult. We did the family go-carts and the Mountain Maze. Both were very fun. It's about $6 per activity--whatever you choose to do. The Mountain Maze took 25 minutes. They give you a card to time stamp in and out and the goal is to fine the punch cards for M A Z E throughout the maze. The Z was really hard to find! We absolutely would go again.
6. Noisy Water Winery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 160 reviews
A true Ruidoso Experience, Come in to try our World Famous Relleno Brothers line of Wines(Don't forget to try the famous Green Chile Wine) along with our Artisan crafted New Mexico cheeses! (Including the worlds hottest cheese, Made with the Ghost Pepper!) Try other great New Mexico products and hit up our gift shop to get all those great Ruidoso Souvenirs and Apparel. Noisy Water is a must stop for anyone traveling to The Cool Pines and our friendly and fun staff can't wait to share our experience with you and all of your friends and family!Established in 1993 Noisy Water has been operating in Ruidoso for over 20 years now. With many remembering us before we took the leap into wine and cheese in the late 2000's. A family business that has grown and changed to meet the needs of Ruidoso's ever changing community. We love Ruidoso and all of its great guests and look forward to having people come see us on their visits to our gorgeous mountain town.
Reviewed By Teridann - El Cerrito, United States
We loved the wines here. There was a wide variety of dry reds (our favorites) as well as whites and roses. A trip to the winery the next day opened up new wines and ciders. We joined the wine club and look forward to our shipments.
7. Win, Place & Show
8. The Ruidoso Trading Post
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 20 reviews
Reviewed By HugeWig
Scrumptious turquoise jewelry, prices whip all other stores in the state. Made my head spin, I have never been to a store with such a vast selection of jewelry... fine estate pieces to trendy and inexpensive . But that’s not all... oddities, antiques, art, metaphysical items, toys for the kiddos, blankets, crosses, scarves, and an entire room of beads and jewelry making supplies. Huge store - staffed by friendly knowledgeable experts.
9. Grindstone Lake Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 42 reviews
Reviewed By donlovestravel - Austin, United States
Hiking the trails were a delight. Lentgh of hike was about 2 hours and an easy to moderate hilke. As senoirs this is what my wife & I enjoyed.
