Free & Cheap Things to Do in Ruidoso, NM

  • The list below includes 12 free or cheap things to do in or near Ruidoso, New Mexico, including 17 different types of inexpensive activities like Horseback Riding, Maze, Horse Races and History Museums.
  • From Lincoln National Forest to Grindstone Lake, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Ruidoso and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Ruidoso Downs and Capitan.
  • The list below includes 12 free or cheap things to do in or near Ruidoso, New Mexico, including 17 different types of inexpensive activities like Horseback Riding, Maze, Horse Races and History Museums.
  • From Lincoln National Forest to Grindstone Lake, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Ruidoso and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Ruidoso Downs and Capitan.
Showing 1-10 of 28
34.1 Miles
95% 211 votes
Forests Ruidoso, NM MoreLess Info
Known as the 'Birthplace of Smokey the Bear', the Lincoln National Forest covers more than a million acres of pristine mountain lands. Outdoor and wildlife enthusiasts enjoy camping, hiking, hunting, and fishing in this breathtaking forest.
0.1 Miles
57% 69 votes
Lake Grindstone Canyon Rd, Ruidoso, NM MoreLess Info
The Grindstone Lakes are a collection of 20-70 acre lakes surrounded by desert-like terrain. Attractions include fly, stalk, and spot fishing and a 3,000 square foot lodge that provides both dining and lodging.
0.6 Miles
67% 36 votes
Scenic Drives Mechem Drive, Ruidoso, NM MoreLess Info
Mechem Drive is a scenic road that is one of the major streets in downtown Ruidoso. It features an array of restaurants, shops, and art galleries, as well as views of the surrounding mountains.
3.4 Miles
92% 49 votes
Statues Ruidoso, NM MoreLess Info
When visiting Ruidoso, taking a side trip to visit the Free Spirits at Noisy Water should be on your list of things to do. The eight life-size, bronze statues of galloping horses are displayed in a park-like setting and provide a perfect photo opportunity.
0.7 Miles
96% 134 votes
Horseback Riding 523 Resort Dr, Ruidoso, NM 88345 MoreLess Info
Offering guided horseback tours for more than 20 years, Grindstone Stables is fun for the entire family. Visitors keep coming back to experience the breathtaking views from the trails, the friendly staff, and even sleigh rides in the winter months.
4.8 Miles
82% 171 votes
Horse Races Ruidoso, NM MoreLess Info
Home to the World's Richest Quarter-Horse Race, Ruidoso Downs is an ideal entertainment destination that includes more than just the ponies. Featuring a variety of on-site restaurants and bars and year-round gaming at the Billy the Kid Casino.
3.4 Miles
83% 54 votes
Specialty Museums Ruidoso, NM MoreLess Info
With a collection of horse-drawn wagons and carriages, the Museum of the Horse contains many horse-related items including saddles, chaps and a horse statue. It also houses collections of art and guns as well as a photo exhibit.
1.1 Miles
84% 64 votes
Maze 101 Carrizo Canyon Rd., Ruidoso, NM MoreLess Info
The Mountain Maze attempts to form a real-life interactive maze game. The giant arrangement allows guests to search for four checkpoints and then eventually find a way out of the extensive outdoor human maze.
4.3 Miles
71% 24 votes
Horseback Riding 107 Forest Road, Ruidoso, NM MoreLess Info
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.
0.5 Miles
67% 9 votes
History Museums 101 Mechem Drive, Ruidoso, NM MoreLess Info
The Ruidoso River Museum offers information on the Lincoln County War and the role of Billy the Kid and Pat Garrett. The site features a variety of artifacts, including paintings, coins, and jewelry.
Showing 1-10 of 28
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