Summer Trip Ideas

We’ve compiled our summer vacation ideas—all our top attractions, best food, cultural happenings, most memorable activities – and popular summer events are worth traveling for. Meet the locals, find the best deals from our partners, and learn how to get here, get around, and find accommodations.

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Ruidoso Lakes Guide: Fishing, Boating & Outdoor Recreation in Ruidoso, NM
Ruidoso Lakes Guide: Fishing, Boating & Outdoor Recreation in Ruidoso, NM

Explore the scenic mountain lakes of Ruidoso, New Mexico. Grindstone, Alto, and Bonito Lakes offer trout fishing, non-motorized boating, hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and peaceful alpine views. Find out which lake is closest to downtown, where boating is allowed, and what permits you need before you go.

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Now Open: The Crow at Marty’s Golf House — Indoor Golf & Social Lounge in Ruidoso
Now Open: The Crow at Marty’s Golf House — Indoor Golf & Social Lounge in Ruidoso

Now open in Ruidoso, The Crow at Marty’s Golf House is an indoor golf and social lounge blending interactive simulators, casual dining, and a relaxed sports-lounge vibe. Enjoy handmade pizzas, New Mexico chile favorites, beer, wine, cocktails, and mocktails in a welcoming space designed for golfers and non-golfers alike.

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Wibit Water Park at Grindstone Lake (Seasonal, Summer only).
Wibit Water Park at Grindstone Lake (Seasonal, Summer only).

Wibit Water Park at Grindstone Lake is Ruidoso’s floating, inflatable summer attraction—perfect for family fun, groups, and special events. Spend the day tackling the on-water obstacle course, then enjoy Grindstone Lake’s other recreation options like picnicking, fishing, boating, and disc golf nearby.

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Ruidoso Restaurants for Outdoor Dining and Drinking
Ruidoso Restaurants for Outdoor Dining and Drinking

Ruidoso’s mild mountain climate makes outdoor dining a year-round pleasure. From cozy patios and wine gardens to casual brewery tables and classic Midtown decks, these local restaurants offer the perfect spots to sip, snack, and savor the fresh air. Call ahead to confirm patio seating availability.

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Ruidoso Downs Racetrack 2026 Update: What Visitors Need to Know
Ruidoso Downs Racetrack 2026 Update: What Visitors Need to Know

Live horse racing will not take place at Ruidoso Downs Racetrack during the 2026 summer season. Racing will be held at The Downs Racetrack in Albuquerque, while the Billy the Kid Casino, Simulcast wagering, and Cantina dining at Ruidoso Downs continue as usual.

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Planning Your Visit? Ruidoso Is Open and Ready for the 2026 Summer Season
Planning Your Visit? Ruidoso Is Open and Ready for the 2026 Summer Season

Ruidoso is ready for a vibrant 2026 summer. Local shops, restaurants, trails, and outdoor spaces are welcoming visitors, with continued improvements following last year’s flooding. Enjoy cool mountain air, a vibrant Midtown shopping district, and easy access to nature—just be sure to stay weather-aware during monsoon season.

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IRONMAN® Weekend in Ruidoso: Racing, Spectating & Mountain Adventure
IRONMAN® Weekend in Ruidoso: Racing, Spectating & Mountain Adventure

IRONMAN Comes to Ruidoso! Experience the thrill as IRONMAN 70.3 debuts in New Mexico with a festival weekend of triathlon racing in Ruidoso, July 11–12, 2026. Swim, bike, and run through stunning mountain landscapes—or come cheer on the athletes and enjoy the excitement! Registration opens April 23. 2026.

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Midtown Market (Seasonal, June - October)
Midtown Market (Seasonal, June - October)

Discover the Heart of Ruidoso at Midtown Market. Shop local every Saturday, June through October, from 9 am to 1 pm at Country Club Park in Midtown Ruidoso. Enjoy fresh New Mexico produce, artisan foods, handmade crafts, and regional wines in a lively, community-driven atmosphere. With special events all season, it’s a favorite stop for both locals and visitors.

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Best Ways to Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend in Ruidoso
Best Ways to Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend in Ruidoso

Planning your Memorial Day weekend in Ruidoso, NM? From live music and great food to rich historical sites, there’s something for everyone. Explore our top four picks to celebrate Memorial Day in style!

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Best Breakfast Spots in Ruidoso: Cozy Cafés & Local Favorites
Best Breakfast Spots in Ruidoso: Cozy Cafés & Local Favorites

Looking for the best breakfast in Ruidoso? Whether you crave a hearty mountain-style meal, a cozy café with a fireplace, or a sunlit patio to enjoy your coffee, Ruidoso has plenty of charming spots to start your day. From classic diners to hidden gems serving homemade pastries, here’s your guide to the top breakfast restaurants in Ruidoso.

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Thrills Await on the Mountain Coaster and Tubing in Ruidoso!
Thrills Await on the Mountain Coaster and Tubing in Ruidoso!

Experience the thrill of the Screaming Eagle Mountain Coaster and Tubing in Ruidoso! Ride New Mexico’s only Mountain Coaster with 5100 feet of waves, dips, and a 360-degree helix. Enjoy high-speed fun with state-of-the-art safety features. For winter excitement, try the tubing hill with magic carpet lifts and thrilling downhill rides. Perfect for family fun and adventure seekers of all ages!

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Make Work Work for You in 2026: Remote Productivity in Ruidoso’s Scenic Setting
Make Work Work for You in 2026: Remote Productivity in Ruidoso’s Scenic Setting

Work where mountain air sharpens focus and nature restores balance. In Ruidoso, remote workers enjoy comfortable stays, reliable connectivity, walkable midtown cafés, and easy access to trails and lakes. It’s a place where productive mornings lead to rejuvenating afternoons—making 2026 the year work and well-being finally align.

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DON'T MISS THESE POPULAR SUMMER EVENTS

Featured
Bryan Bielanski LIVE at Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside
May 6
Bryan Bielanski LIVE at Downshift Brewing Company - Riverside

Acoustic rock singer-songwriter Bryan Bielanski brings his high-energy “Super Happy Fun Time” to Downshift Brewing Riverside. Known for catchy songs, warm crowd connection, and a globe-spanning touring history, Bryan’s sound blends classic rock and folk with a fresh, upbeat style. A feel-good night of lively originals and easygoing vibes.

Lincoln Forest Renaissance Faire at Wingfield Park
May 15
Lincoln Forest Renaissance Faire at Wingfield Park

Immerse yourself in the magic of the medieval era right in the heart of Ruidoso, New Mexico. Featuring talented jesters, minstrels, and troubadours, a bustling marketplace with medieval wares, delicious Renaissance fare, and enchanting children's activities. Encounter mystical characters, fortune tellers, and more surprises throughout the weekend. Don your finest medieval attire and join event host Oso Productions for a day of history, fantasy, and fun at the Lincoln Forest Renaissance Faire. Information and tickets at https://www.lincolnforestrenfair.com

Flying J Ranch Opening Weekend
May 22
Flying J Ranch Opening Weekend

For a true "western" experience join the Flying J Wranglers, complete with gunfights, pony rides, stage show, gold panning, gift shops, and a chuckwagon style BBQ dinner.

Memorial Day Weekend Opening: Wibit Water Park & Ruidoso Municipal Pool
May 23
Memorial Day Weekend Opening: Wibit Water Park & Ruidoso Municipal Pool

Kick off summer in Ruidoso over Memorial Day Weekend with the opening of the Wibit Water Park at Grindstone Lake and the Ruidoso Municipal Pool. Enjoy floating inflatable fun, classic pool swimming, and family-friendly recreation. Wibit opens 10 AM–6 PM; Pool opens 11 AM–4:30 PM. Fees apply.

Opening Day Midtown Market (Seasonal, June to October)
Jun 6
Opening Day Midtown Market (Seasonal, June to October)

Discover fresh, local foods and handmade crafts at the Midtown Market, where artists, bakers, wineries, and more converge on Saturdays to provide locally made products in Midtown at Country Club Park, located at 100 Country Club Drive. June 6, 2026, to October 3, 2026. See you there!

Annual Brewdoso Craft Beer and Wine Festival at Wingfield Park
Jun 20
Annual Brewdoso Craft Beer and Wine Festival at Wingfield Park

Brewdoso 2026 returns to Wingfield Park on June 20 for a full day of craft beer, live music, and mountain-town energy. Sample regional and national brews, enjoy food vendors and artisan booths, and settle in for an evening of concerts under the pines. A signature summer celebration in the heart of Ruidoso. Learn more at Brewdoso.com

31st Annual Lincoln County Art Loop
Jul 3
31st Annual Lincoln County Art Loop

Experience the art where it’s made. Throughout Lincoln County, painters, sculptors, and artisans open their studios for a self-guided tour that invites you to meet the makers, watch live demonstrations, and discover original works directly from local artists.

Run White & Blue – 5k Color Run or Walk at Wingfield Park
Jul 4
Run White & Blue – 5k Color Run or Walk at Wingfield Park

Kick off Independence Day with the Run White & Blue 5K on Saturday, July 4, 2026. Part of the Run Ruidoso 2026 race series, this festive street-course run starts at 10:00 AM and winds through Wingfield, Carrizo Canyon, and Grindstone. All ages welcome. Nonperishable food donations encouraged for the Lincoln County Food Bank. Register online via the Activities & Programs tab. Color, community, and a cause—don’t miss it!

IRONMAN® 70.3 Race Weekend in Ruidoso
Jul 11
IRONMAN® 70.3 Race Weekend in Ruidoso

Ruidoso is proud to host IRONMAN® 70.3 Ruidoso Race Weekend on July 11–12, 2026, a landmark event in our rise as a hub for elite endurance competitions. Joining the 2026 XTERRA World Championships, this triathlon will draw athletes from around the world. A full schedule and more details will be shared closer to the event. Learn More »

55th Annual Ruidoso Art and Wine Festival
Jul 24
55th Annual Ruidoso Art and Wine Festival

A cornerstone of Ruidoso’s cultural calendar, this juried fine art show draws over 100 acclaimed artists from across the country. Explore paintings, sculpture, pottery, jewelry, and more while enjoying regional wines, live music, and mountain hospitality. Don’t miss: The opportunity to meet featured artists and add a one-of-a-kind piece to your collection.

Alto Artists Tour
Aug 7
Alto Artists Tour

Step inside the studios and homes of Alto’s professional artists during this free, self-guided tour. From ceramics and glass to woodwork and textiles, each stop reveals the stories and spaces behind the art. Insider favorite: Many artists offer works not available anywhere else—so come ready to browse and be inspired. Learn more at AltoArtists.org

2nd Annual Ruidoso RunFest (formerly Ruidoso Marathon Weekend)
Sep 18
2nd Annual Ruidoso RunFest (formerly Ruidoso Marathon Weekend)

The 2nd Annual Ruidoso RunFest takes place September 18–19, 2026, bringing runners and visitors together for a festive weekend in downtown Ruidoso. Events include a Friday night 5K and Kids 1K, plus Saturday’s marathon, half marathon, and road 47K/50K, with live music, food trucks, and a beer garden at Wingfield Park. Registration + Details >>