Delve Into Ruidoso's Creative Scene
Ruidoso is a melting pot for creative talent, where artists, performers, and musicians gather for a buzzing indie art movement. If you're looking for a place to access live music venues, unique art galleries, and festivals, come visit Ruidoso. Check out these venues, explore our Events Calendar, and never miss out.
The iconic Spencer Theater for the Performing Arts houses four major installations by Seattle glass sculptor Dale Chihuly, the Southwest's largest private collection open for public viewing. Guided tours are conducted on Tuesdays and Thursdays (except show dates) at 10 AM.
Address: 108 Spencer Rd, Alto, NM 88312
ENMU-Ruidoso Branch Community College
Try something new in a relaxed environment by enrolling in any of the ENMU-Ruidoso open-access, non-credit classes. From pottery to movie-making and guitar instruction to open studio time, explore the depths of your creativity.
Address: 709 Mechem Dr, Ruidoso, NM 88345
Ruidoso’s Bridge to Art Studio offers painting classes, drawing lessons, and art therapy sessions. Private lessons and wine-and-painting nights (by reservation) are also available, as well as open paint nights every Thursday.
Address: 200 Mechem Dr. Unit #2, Ruidoso, NM 88345
The museum showcases various artifacts from the Mescalero, Chiricahua, and Lipan Apache People, ranging from stone tools, weapons, and clothing to a selection of gorgeous baskets. Visitors have the option of taking a guided tour. There is also a video available for viewing. If desired, arrangements are available for dance entertainment and group lectures with advance notice. Call (575) 464-9254 for more information.
Address: 181 Chiricahua Plaza, Mescalero, NM 88340
The Ruidoso Community Center offers activity programming for all ages and interests, including a popular dance series and art and painting classes. Most activities are open to the public free of charge or for a nominal fee.
Address: 501 Sudderth Dr, Ruidoso, NM 88345
Meet other writers who are in various stages of the writing/publishing process in this FREE support group hosted at the Ruidoso Public Library. Meets biweekly on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month at 3 PM.
Address: 107 Kansas City Rd, Ruidoso, NM 88345, United States
A Quilting Stitchuation relocated from Midtown to Ft. Stanton Road in Alto, next to their new Stitch-n-Pines Retreat Center. They sell fabric, notions, gifts, and sewing machines and offer quilting classes and events.
Address: 229 Fort Stanton Rd, Alto, NM 88312
RuidoSew Quilters
Address: Ruidoso Community Center, 501 Sudderth Dr., Ruidoso, NM 88345
Time: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM on the first and third Tuesdays of each month.
join RuidoSew Quilters for an afternoon of quilting classes, show and tell, and engaging conversation. This inclusive gathering welcomes quilters and stitchers of all levels.
Vicki Conley has been a studio artist in Ruidoso Downs, NM, for forty years. Though her Pinon Pottery gallery remains open, showcasing handmade work from many local artists, Vicki's focus has shifted to quilting and fiber art. She offers classes both online and in-person.
Address: 26465 US-70, Ruidoso Downs, NM 88346
The art scene on Historic 12th Street in Carrizozo consists of the Malkerson Gallery 408 boasting contemporary artwork, jewelry, sculptures, and handmade items. The Tularosa Gallery of Photography shows the works of forty-plus New Mexico photographers. And the Heart of the Raven Gallery showcases Raku pottery and paintings and also offers ceramics classes. The galleries are typically open on weekends. Call ahead for hours. Be sure to stop by Honey Girl’s Café for a nice cup of joe; it's the perfect spot to take a break from your gallery visits.
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Enjoy a day of gallery hopping in Ruidoso's Midtown shopping district with this recommended art itinerary.
Grab a selfie in front of Ruidoso's Instagrammable public murals brought to you by local artists and the Ruidoso Midtown Association.
Explore Ruidoso's Live Music Scene
Ruidoso's live music scene is hotter than ever with venues from free street music in Midtown to annual festivals and year-round entertainment featuring everything from country singers to big-band crooners and edgy newcomers, so be sure to check our event calendar.