Stays in Ruidoso

Where to stay in Ruidoso

Midtown. The central district along Sudderth Drive and the Rio Ruidoso, with many shops, restaurants, and hotels within walking distance of the river.

Upper Canyon. A wooded area north of downtown, known for its cabins and vacation homes tucked into the slopes, often with views of the Sierra Blanca.

Ruidoso Downs. A separate community east of Ruidoso, home to the Ruidoso Downs Race Track and Billy the Kid Casino, with its own lodging options.

Ski Run Road area. The road leading to Ski Apache, lined with condos and chalets that offer convenient access to the ski area and hiking trails in summer.

Getting there and around

Ruidoso is in southeastern New Mexico. The nearest major airport is in El Paso, Texas, about a two-hour drive west via US-54 and US-70. Roswell, New Mexico, has a smaller airport about an hour and a half north. By car, Ruidoso is reached from Alamogordo via US-82 over the Sacramento Mountains, or from Roswell via US-70 and NM-48. The village is not served by interstate highways. Getting around Ruidoso is easiest by car, though the Midtown area is walkable. A local bus service, Ruidoso Area Transit, provides limited routes. Taxis and ride-sharing may be available but are not as prevalent as in larger cities.

When to go

Ruidoso's high elevation brings cooler temperatures than nearby desert areas. Summer, from June to August, is popular for hiking and outdoor activities, with daytime temperatures often in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit. Winter, from December to February, offers skiing at Ski Apache and cooler temperatures, with snow possible. Spring and fall are quieter, with mild days and cool nights. The village hosts events throughout the year, including the Ruidoso Art Festival in July and the Festival of Lights in December. Visitors should check seasonal conditions for skiing and hiking.

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