- The list below includes 12 free or cheap things to do in or near Ruidoso Downs, New Mexico, including 17 different types of inexpensive activities like History Museums, Race Tracks, Hiking Trails and Parks.
- From Hubbard Museum of the American West to Ruidoso Downs Race Track, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Ruidoso Downs and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Ruidoso and Capitan.
Showing 11-20 of
28
6.1 Miles
Located in a forested area with several scenic overlooks, Bonito Stables provides daily trail rides from 9am to 5pm for one hour trips. Children of all ages are welcome to learn how to ride on these gentle and easy paths.
15.1 Miles
The Visitors Center at the Smokey Bear Historical Park features exhibits about forest health, forest fires, and fire ecology. Outdoor exhibits display six of the vegetative life zones in New Mexico, and there are also picnic areas and a playground.
25.4 Miles
Open throughout the year, the Rim Trail is just over 31 miles in total length. Multiple smaller routes are accessible at the trailhead for shorter trips, and the entire trail network is available for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.
26.8 Miles
The Trestle Recreation Area features six hiking trails of moderate difficulty. These trails range from a quarter mile to eight miles long and average an elevation of 8,000 feet. Available activities include picnicking, hiking, and biking.
26.8 Miles
Owned by a local pastel artist, visitors at Cloudcroft Gallery can enjoy the work of the regional artists displayed here. These pieces of art are made from wood, art, glass, ceramics, and other mediums.
27.8 Miles
The core of New Mexico Rails-to-Trails is a scenic overlook at the historic railroad track. From this spot, several trails spread over the area that allow people to walk, jog, or hike while enjoying the view.
28.3 Miles
The Sacramento Mountains Museum is also known as the Cloudcroft Museum. The attraction tells the stories of the early settlers in the area and how they struggled to survive through the museum collections and the adjoining Pioneer Village.
30.3 Miles
The Visitors Center at the Valley of Fires Recreation Area features books, postcards, apparel, and information about public lands in New Mexico. Outdoor activities include hiking trails to the lava flow and camping.
30.5 Miles
While bikes are not allowed, the Osha Trail does provide a moderately challenging hiking trail. In addition to hiking, visitors are also allowed to go horseback riding along the trail and camp at designated areas.
33.7 Miles
The Nelson Canyon Vista Trail offers an unforgettable view of the Tularosa Basin below. It is a short and easy loop trail for hikers of all experience levels, and the trail along the way is beautiful as well.