- 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 11-20 of
28
3.7 Miles
The world's richest quarter-horse race is held at the Ruidoso Downs Race Track. The Turf Club on the second level allows guests to have their own waiter or waitress for food and refreshments, private betting windows, and an overarching view of the track.
4.4 Miles
83%
76 votes
26301 Hwy 70 West, Ruidoso Downs, NM 88346
MoreLess Info
The history of the American West is put on display at the Hubbard Museum of the American West. Entertainment and education is woven into the programs while the exhibits show a wide collection of artifacts, including Native American artifacts, cowboy artifacts, saddles, and wagons.
15.8 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.
25.3 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.
26.1 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.
26.1 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.
27.0 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.
27.1 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.
27.9 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.
28.9 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.