There's nothing like summer in the village! It's fun, relaxed, but with a full schedule of festivals, art, music, adventure, and exploration. Whether you're visiting with family, friends, your significant other, or even co-workers, you can find the right fit for your interests with our extensive guide below!

Festivals

Explore the Ruidoso Art & Wine Festival, Tequila & Margarita Festival, Brewdoso, Ruidoso Tattoo Expo, or Zia Festival while you're here for the summer. Music, drinks, and memories await!

History

Ruidoso was voted "Best Small Town Cultural Scene" in 2024 and 2025 by USA Today for good reason... History comes to life in Ruidoso! Enjoy Fort Stanton LIVE! in August, where the entire day is dedicated to historical reenactments at the fort, catch Old Lincoln Days and the Billy the Kid Pageant in nearby Lincoln, NM to experience "The Last Escape of Billy the Kid", or make plans to attend presentations in the Lincoln Lecture Series each month. Visitors can also take a drive over to Capitan and visit the Smokey Bear Historical Park, honoring America's favorite bear who has discovered nearby after a wildfire in 1950.

Health & Wellness

Do you want to run a marathon while you're here? Watch an exciting sporting event? Maybe enjoy a relaxing spa day and yoga class? Ruidoso has it all! Blue Lotus Day Spa & Yoga or Fusion Medical Spa are perfect places to get a massage and unwind, while Grindstone Lake is always playing host to exciting events like disc golf championships or XTERRA. If you're a runner (or a walker - we get it!) check out the many races in the Run Ruidoso series, like the Ruidoso Marathon or Run White & Blue 5K for Independence Day.

Outdoor Adventures

From fishing and golfing, to guided hunts, ziplining, off-roading, and mountain coasters, there's no shortage of outdoor adventures for all ages, skills, and budgets in and around the village. Check out our guide to Ruidoso's best outdoor activities!

Sweet Treats

Is it really a true vacation without a stop to get a treat? Ruidoso sure is "sweet" with our local dessert shops, bakeries, and eateries. Check out a list of options, plus plenty more dining recommendations here!

Water Fun

Living it up at the lake(s) is the way to do it during summer in the village! Alto Lake and Grindstone Lake are Ruidoso's two major bodies of water for summer fun by the water. The beautiful Grindstone Lake is just steps from Midtown and features trails, a disc golf course, and even a floating water park in the summer. Fish are stocked regularly for anglers, and boats and swimming are allowed.

Alto Lake is equally stunning with hiking, wildlife viewing, fishihg, and non-motorized boating. Swimming is not allowed. Also, don't forget to test your skills at the new disc golf course!

More ideas coming soon..