Places to visit in Ruidoso, NM.
If you’re planning a visit to the scenic village of Ruidoso in New Mexico, you will be glad to know that there are plenty of things to do and see while you’re there. The town is located in the Sierra Blanca mountain range and offers a lot to visitors. From hiking to horseback riding, there are various activities to choose from.
Ruidoso, New Mexico, is a famous resort town that offers a variety of activities. The mountainous landscapes and natural beauty create a wonderful atmosphere for outdoor adventure. There are many activities for all ages.
Two Rivers Ruidoso River Park
If you’re looking for a place to go and relax in Ruidoso, Two Rivers Park is the ideal spot. This public park features a paved walking path along the Ruidoso River. It also offers plenty of parking. In addition, guests can enjoy picnics and fishing and use a playground.
The Ruidoso River Trail, a 1.25-mile paved path, meanders along the Ruidoso River. It starts at Two Rivers Park and finishes at Eagle Drive. Aside from the paved path, the park also has several pavilions for rent. Visitors can picnic, have a family gathering, or play a game of disc golf.
Another fun feature at Two Rivers is the sculpture park. Here, visitors can view the works of local artists. Some pieces include a bronze sculpture by James C. Motley and a statue by Gordon Snidow.
Ruidoso Winter Park
Ruidoso Winter Park is a great place to spend the day. This park offers a zip line, snow tubing, and more. The park is a favorite for families to enjoy and make memories together.
If you are interested in skiing, the ski resort in Ruidoso is a fun spot. There are 11 lifts and a terrain park. It’s a nice mix of steep and soft slopes. You can go up the gondola and see some of the area’s best views.
The area also offers tubing, sleigh rides, and other winter activities. The winter park is also home to a few heated igloo tents you can rent. They are the perfect place to warm up after a long day on the slopes.
The Hubbard Museum of the American West
The Hubbard Museum of the American West is a Smithsonian Affiliate located in Ruidoso, New Mexico. This museum opened in 1992 and featured a unique collection of Western artifacts and Native American and Hispanic art. It also houses a vast array of firearms and horse-drawn carriages.
This museum also has a traveling trunk that goes to schools and homeschools. In addition, many of the museum’s events are accessible to the public. These events include guest speakers, musicians, and singers. All of these events depict the history of the American West.
The museum is also home to several permanent exhibits. One of these is a horse-drawn hearse on the lower level. There is also an exhibit of eight horses that weigh between 3,000 and 5,000 pounds each.
Fort Stanton Historic Site
Fort Stanton is one of the most important historic sites in the state of New Mexico. It was founded in 1855. During the Civil War, the Confederates took over the fort and tried to burn it. However, a rainstorm saved the site from destruction.
After the war, the fort became a prisoner-of-war camp for German soldiers during World War II. The fort also served as a tuberculosis hospital for the Merchant Marine during the 1920s.
In 1953, the fort was given to the State of New Mexico. The Department of Cultural Affairs now operates it. Fort Stanton offers a historical site of national significance, a look into New Mexico’s history. Many of the original fort buildings are still standing. Today, the fort is open to the public.
Monjeau Lookout
Monjeau Lookout is an old-school, 14-foot-by-14-foot native stone tower with a 7-foot-by-7-foot metal frame cab. It is situated in the Smokey Bear Ranger District in the Lincoln National Forest.
The tower was built in 1940 as part of a Civilian Conservation Corps project. It is one of the many landmarks in the surrounding area and a nice place to while away a few hours.
Despite its age, the Lookout remains a popular hiking destination. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby town of Ruidoso, home to more than a dozen craft breweries and a vibrant nightlife. So whether you are a novice hiker or an old-school rockstar, the Lookout is worth a visit.
The best time to go is in the fall, though the Lookout is open year-round. However, some hikers may consider springtime when the crowds are gone, and the weather is just right.
Best Things to Do in Ruidoso, New Mexico
Places to visit in Ruidoso, NM:
- Two Rivers Ruidoso River Park
- Ruidoso Winter Park
- The Hubbard Museum of the American West
- Fort Stanton Historic Site
- Monjeau Lookout