Spring break is a popular time in the village, as Ruidoso welcomes locals and visitors throughout the month of March. With so much to see and do locally, it can feel overwhelming to choose the best activities to do during your getaway, so we’ve chosen 11 of our top must-do activities for spring break visitors.
Don’t forget to find our checklist on social media! Take a screenshot and fill it out to share what you’ll be doing this spring break.
Play Disc Golf at Grindstone Lake
This 27 hole disc golf course at Grindstone Lake is challenging and fun for the whole family. Free to play, visitors can bring their own discs or rent discs from Parks & Rec by calling 575-257-5030.
LOCATION: 111 Wiggins Way, off Resort Drive
See Every Stop on the Ruidoso Mural Walk
A perfect way to spend an hour or two and explore Midtown, the Ruidoso Mural Walk is comprised of 10 unique murals created by a variety of incredibly talented artists. See the full lineup here. Which one will be your favorite?
LOCATION: Midtown Ruidoso, starting at 2520 Sudderth Drive
Shop Down Mechem & Through Midtown
Ruidoso has some great shopping, most of which is located in Midtown along Sudderth and Mechem. Find an iconic Ruidoso carved bear to take home with you or purchase fine jewelry and Native American turquoise at a local jewelry shop. Find a full directory of shops here.
Go Axe Throwing at Win Place & Show
Great for date nights, an afternoon with friends, or older kids, axe throwing at Win Place & Show is REALLY fun. Axe throwing is available Friday-Sunday from 12-5pm or for Half-Off Tuesdays on the Patio from 4-8 PM. Booking in advance recommended.
Location: 2516 Sudderth Dr
Try a Green Chile Flavored Dish (or Wine!)
New Mexico is famous for green chiles, so you have to try our favorite local flavor while you’re here. Our restaurants and bars serve everything from green chile enchiladas to green chile wine. Check out our list of favorite foods here.
Hike a Local Trail
Lincoln County has TONS of hiking for all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for spectacular views atop Monjeau Lookout or the chance to see a waterfall at Eagle Creek, it’s likely that there’s a trail that checks all your boxes. Check out local trails here.
Visit White Sands National Park
White Sands National Park is the world’s largest gypsum dunefield with 275 square miles of white, sandy hills for exploration and play. Just over an hour’s drive from Ruidoso, this is a must-see that will delight all ages! Pro tip: Bring waxed sleds or purchase them at the visitor center. Sledding down the sand is a little different than snow, so make sure you have the right equipment to maximize your fun!
Location: Visitor’s Center entrance located between mile markers 199 and 200 on Highway US-70.
Hit the Slopes at Ski Apache
Ski Apache offers the best warm-weather powder skiing in the world! With 55 runs and trails – 20% Expert, 60% Intermediate, and 20% Beginner, everyone can enjoy the experience no matter their skill level. Come enjoy the slopes over spring break and get lift tickets at skiapache.com.
Location: 1286 Ski Run Road in Alto, NM
Catch a Fish At a Local Lake
Bring the kids fishing at Alto Lake, Grindstone Lake, or, if you want a guaranteed catch (or your visit is free), Seeping Springs Trout Lake. The lakes are regularly stocked with rainbow trout and occasionally catfish and smallmouth bass. Just make sure you grab your rod and reel, bait, and fishing license in advance, unless you’re headed to Seeping Springs – they provide everything.
Explore Historic Lincoln, NM
Unchanged since the late 1800s, Lincoln, New Mexico was made famous by Billy the Kid and the Lincoln County War. Explore the old west in this historical town, located only 32 miles from Ruidoso. Most buildings are open Thursday through Monday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday. $7 admission for ages 16+
Go Tubing at Ruidoso Winter Park
Snow tubing for all ages! Ruidoso Winter Park has hills appropriate for little ones, big kids, and fun adults. Their first-class tubing area offers some of the most exciting tubing you will find anywhere. Buy tickets in advance on ruidosowinterpark.com. All tickets are good for 3 hours from the time you arrive or until end of day (whichever is shorter).
Location: 121 Ski Run Road in Alto
