Going to Ruidoso, New Mexico? Here Are Some Helpful Tips to Make It a Blast
Living out in West Texas makes it really easy to travel to New Mexico. One of the favorite spots everyone loves is Ruidoso. I've been there a couple of times and have some easy tips for travel, things to do once you're there, where to eat and so much more.
A trip to Ruidoso is so much fun for a family trip, girls' weekend, romance and so much more. I've always done it for a weekend or long weekend and it was always a perfect amount. Hopefully, this mini-guide to Ruidoso helps.
Driving From Lubbock to Ruidoso
First off, driving from Lubbock, Texas to Ruidoso, New Mexico takes a little under four hours. There are a couple ways you can go, but the fastest is through Brownfield to Plains, then you'll hit New Mexico at Tatum and go through Roswell. It's a good place to stop and see the aliens at the International UFO Museum and Research Center. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for kids 5-15, $3 for seniors and military/first responders and 100 percent free for kids 4 and under.
When my boyfriend and I recently visited Roswell, we ate at Cowboy Cafe. I'd strongly recommend dropping by for a stomach-busting meal. This place was packed but definitely worth it if you want to check it out and do some shopping or alien sightseeing.
Then you'll keep driving on 380 or 70. On your way you'll go through Ruidoso Downs, which is a great place because they have the race tracks there. It was so much fun and I had the time of my life, but I do recommend eating before you get there.
Where to Stay
Exploring Ruidoso
Now for things to do. You can go skiing, snow tubing, shopping, fishing, even zip-lining and so much more. The village's wealth of outdoor activities is truly staggering. I did all of those things and had a great time. I mean, look how cool this picture is and the smiles on our faces:
Getting Grub
Now for my favorite part of trips: where to eat. I've tried a lot of places in Ruidoso and my top two favorites so far are Cornerstone Bakery Cafe and Tina's Cafe. I've also heard great things about Jorge's Cafe and Cafe Rio, but have yet to try either.
You can see what we ate and liked in the posts below.
I hope you get to try out some of these activities and eateries on your next trip to Ruidoso. Have fun!