These are the best things to do near Ruidoso, NM for the outdoorsy types, the pampering types, the thrill seekers, and everyone in between.
Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, there’s something to do for all ages near Ruidoso. And travelers that choose to stay at our hotel near Ruidoso are just steps from many of the activities below!
Now let’s get to it.
Place your bet at the casino
Test your luck on the casino floor at Inn of the Mountain Gods Casino!
The casino is filled with machine games, table games, and much more, so players will have plenty of games to choose from.
Plus, there are casino promotions happening monthly, so guests will never miss a chance at winning big!
Take in the views on horseback
Trot through the majestic Mescalero landscape on horseback with Inn of the Mountain Gods Stables.
This is the perfect option for a romantic excursion or honeymoon activity, and a great idea for families with kiddos that want to explore the natural beauty of New Mexico in a unique way.
Discover more things to do in New Mexico with kids!
Enjoy the best warm-weather powder skiing in the world
There’s no better way to enjoy the New Mexico alpine air than a ski trip to Ski Apache.
Nestled on Sierra Blanca in Alto, New Mexico, Ski Apache has slopes and trails for all experience levels. So even if you’ve never skied a day in your life, you’re still sure to have an unforgettable experience at this New Mexico ski resort.
During the winter months, Ski Apache offers ski rentals, snowboard rentals, and lessons. And with 11 ski lifts available, riders will have no trouble getting to and from the best slopes on the mountain.
Aside from the best skiing in the state, during the summer months, Ski Apache becomes a haven for hiking, mountain biking, and sightseeing.
Plus, Ski Apache’s ZipTour will provide additional thrills. The ZipTour is Ski Apache’s three-part heart-pumping zipline. Sitting at 11,489 feet in elevation, riders will reach flying speeds at over 60 miles per hour!
Fishing and boating at Lake Mescalero
Rent a rod and head to Lake Mescalero for the best fishing in the area. Lake Mescalero is stocked annually with beautiful trout that are waiting for you to catch them!
Or enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding with rentals at Inn of the Mountain Gods for additional lakeside relaxation and excitement.
Reach speeds Of up to 55 miles per hour
The Apache Eagle Ziprider is one of the area’s most thrilling outdoor experiences!
Riders will fly up to 55 miles per hour and soar 2,668 feet in length above Lake Mescalero.
Plus, you can experience the thrills with a friend thanks to side-by-side ziplines!
Hunt for big game
The Mescalero Apache Reservation is teeming with wildlife, including prized bull and cow elk, bear, and wild turkey.
So what’s stopping you from planning your dream hunt?
Mescalero Big Game Hunts offers hunts starting at just $250, so wild game hunters will get to enjoy affordably priced excursions and live out their dream hunts.
You can also visit the Hunting Lodge Clay Range to perfect your shot.
Cheer for live entertainment
The best entertainment near Ruidoso is happening at Inn of the Mountain Gods.
Inn of the Mountain Gods has regularly hosted Grammy award-winning artists, nationally renowned comedy acts, and the best performers in the region, including names like Snoop Dogg, Kane Brown, WAR, and much more!
Just visit our New Mexico entertainment page to find out more about who’s coming to Inn of the Mountain Gods soon!
Pamper yourself with a spa day
For the ones that consider a getaway to include more relaxation than thrills, The Spa at the Inn is calling your name.
From Mescalero sumac rose purifying treatments to innovative oxygen treatments that soothe and recharge, there are dozens of spa and salon options that will leave you feeling like a new and better you.
Below are just some of the services offered at The Spa at the Inn:
Experience the best dining in the area
Enjoy classics for breakfast, pub bites and craft beers for lunch, and aged steaks and fine wine for dinner, all at Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino.
You’ll find unique restaurants with their own flavors and atmospheres all within the resort.
From the best selection of beers around at Broken Arrow Tap House to signature dining with a view at Wendell’s Steak & Seafood, there’s something for all appetites to savor.
Or enjoy Inn of the Mountain Gods’ newest dining experience: The Market at the Mountain.
Sled the sand dunes at White Sands
You’ve heard of skiing the slopes at Ski Apache, but what about sledding the sand dunes at White Sands National Park?
A favorite among all ages, White Sands National Park presents an assortment of outdoor activities including hiking, sightseeing, scenic drives, and of course, sledding the white sand dunes!
Discover more places to visit in southern New Mexico!
Visit Grindstone Lake
Grindstone Lake Recreation Area offers a hodgepodge of outdoor activities for all ages.
From wildlife viewing to boat rentals, disc golf to swimming, and picnics to hiking, Grindstone Lake is a popular spot for outdoor adventure and fresh air.
Find additional activities and things to do at and near Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino!
We’re making sure our activities are safe for everyone with enhanced health and safety measures in place.