a mountain resort like no other

by Patricia L. Garcia

Ruidoso promises a little bit of everything

Big cities are great, but there’s something to be said for small New Mexico villages that know how to live big. Take Ruidoso, a mountain resort town of around 10,000, just a three hours’ drive from Albuquerque. Once just a small ski and gambling destination, Ruidoso is a growing, hip place with charm enough for small towners and big city folk.

Named for the river that runs through it, and located in the Sacramento Mountains, nature is all around. It’s not uncommon to see elk, deer, even turkey, roaming around town. So, just a drive through town is enough to entertain those who just need a breath of fresh air, but there’s plenty more to enjoy. For more nature, with a curated twist, visit the Hondo Iris Farm, where you’ll find irises, yes; but also, a small art gallery too. The farm hosts an iris festival each May.

If you want to try something new, disc golf might be an option. Ruidoso is quickly being recognized for its disc golf courses, easily some of the best in New Mexico. There’s a total of 81 holes in Ruidoso, and a new course on Moon Mountain designed by professional disc golfer Eric McCabe will be ready in May.

The village has put a lot of investment into Grindstone Lake, making it an ideal spot for families. The lake used to be solely for fishing, but can now be enjoyed by boaters and swimmers, alike. A floating water park is a hit with kids, while adults can paddleboard.

If the outdoors aren’t your thing, there’s still plenty for you to do in Ruidoso. Catch world-class performances at the Spencer Theater. The $21 million facility is host to Broadway shows, as well as national recording artists. And, when there’s not a performance, you can view the largest collection of Chihuly glass in the Southwest.

Even if you’re not into gambling, it’s still worth visiting the Ruidoso Downs Race Track to see the majestic horses here. The racetrack has earned plenty of accolades, hosting the prestigious All American Futurity, and plenty of national winners have raced here. Again, you don’t need to bet any money to watch the races, so it’s a great way to pass the afternoon with family and friends.

History buffs will enjoy Fort Stanton and Lincoln, both just a short drive away. Both areas are ripe with history, thanks to the Native American peoples of the area, such as the Mogollon, the Piros and the Mescalero Apaches, as well as a famed kid named Billy. There’s also the American Museum of the West that encapsulates the spirit of the American West, with an interactive display to keep kids entertained.

Along the main road — that’s Sudderth Drive — you’ll find antique shops, art galleries, souvenir shops and other boutique shops to satisfy any shopping needs. The local shops will give you a taste of local artisans’ work. There are also plenty of restaurants when you need a bre ak from shopping.

It’s time to discover Ruidoso all over again. With activities for everyone, it’ll be hard to resist visiting again and again

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Discover Ruidoso

Where to Eat + Drink in Ruidoso (And Close By)

Hunt & Harvest
Billing itself as an earth to fork restaurant, Hunt & Harvest serves consciously sustained and sourced meats and vegetables. You’ll find locally sourced bison on the menu, as well as crispy fried Brussels sprouts and dishes that celebrate New Mexico’s star plant, green chile. The restaurant is a cutely rustic spot in the Midtown shopping district. facebook.com/huntandharvestruidoso

Glencoe Distillery
Grab a craft cocktail at Glencoe Distillery, which serves single malt whiskey, gin, vodka and Aquila (that’s their version of tequila). The tasting room is located next to co-owners Glenn and Sherry Barrow’s wood furniture and home accessory showroom, Wood Swan, which means you’ll find a lot of their work in the distillery too, from wooden serving trays to the wooden barrel-like entrance. A great ambiance you wouldn’t expect in a small mountain village. (575) 937-0596

The Texas Club
In the 1960s, actor Dale Robertson purchased this building as his private residence where his Texas friends could stay during visits. He later dubbed the property “The Texas Club,” and charged $1 to become a member. Fast forward to today, and The Texas Club is a top spot to get a great steak. Pasta and seafood round out the menu for an upscale meal out. texasclubruidoso.com

Michael J’s Italian-American Cuisine
Chef-owner Brian Flowers’ fine dining restaurant serves traditional Italian fare, from pastas to seafood-inspired plates to a carefully curated offering of wines. The restaurant is in a converted home, and offers outdoor seating so you can enjoy a meal and the gorgeous scenery. The spot is popular, so be sure to call ahead to make a reservation. michaeljsrestaurant.com

Noisy River Sushi
A new addition to the Ruidoso dining scene, this Asian-fusion sushi spot was opened by a Tucson transplant. The restaurant offers Japanese curry, poke salads, hot and cold appetizers and, of course, sushi. noisywatersushi.com

Hall of Flame Burgers
Sometimes you just want a tasty, juicy burger, right? Hall of Flame is the place to satisfy that craving. No frills, just good stuff here. This casual walk-up counter restaurant has been voted best burger in the county since 2007. And, if you’re not feeling a burger, you can grab other grub too, like a Philly cheesesteak or tacos. (575) 257-9987

The Khrome Grill
The most important meal of the day is breakfast, and The Khrome Grill is one of the best breakfast options in Ruidoso. With a whimsical 1950s motif, the diner makes everything from scratch. You’ll get downhome cooking here, so don’t miss out on this restaurant during your Ruidoso trip. facebook.com/KhromeGrill94