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Exploring Ruidoso: 3-Day Road Trip

Viewed by 88 travelers

Day 1: Mountain Adventures

Ruidoso, New Mexico on March 29, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Sacred Grounds Coffee & Tea House

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Sacred Grounds Coffee & Tea House, known for its cozy atmosphere and excellent coffee.
It is located in downtown Ruidoso, a short drive from most accommodations.
$$, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Explore Lincoln National Forest

Embark on a scenic drive through Lincoln National Forest, filled with pine forests, hiking trails, and breathtaking views.
Take US-70 W from Ruidoso for about 30 minutes to reach the forest entrance.
Free, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Rio Grande Grill & Tap Room

Enjoy a hearty Southwestern lunch at Rio Grande Grill & Tap Room, known for its tasty burgers and craft beer selection.
Head back towards Ruidoso for lunch at this local favorite.
$$, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Relax at Grindstone Lake

Spend the afternoon at Grindstone Lake, where you can relax by the water, go fishing, or take a leisurely hike around the lake.
Grindstone Lake is a short drive from downtown Ruidoso.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Ranchers Steak & Seafood

Indulge in a delicious steak dinner at Ranchers Steak & Seafood, a popular spot for savory dishes and friendly service.
Head back to Ruidoso for dinner at this local gem.
$$$, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Desert Expedition

Ruidoso, New Mexico on March 30, 2024

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Cornerstone Bakery & Cafe

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cornerstone Bakery & Cafe, known for its freshly baked goods and cozy ambiance.
Located in downtown Ruidoso, it's a great spot to fuel up before your drive.
$$, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit White Sands National Park

Embark on a mesmerizing journey to White Sands National Park, where you'll be amazed by the vast gypsum dunes and surreal landscapes.
Take US-70 E for about 2 hours to reach the park entrance.
$, 4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Rockin' BZ Burgers

Savor a tasty burger and shake at Rockin' BZ Burgers in Alamogordo, a local favorite for delicious comfort food.
After exploring White Sands, head to Alamogordo for lunch at this nearby eatery.
$$, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Explore Alamogordo

Take some time to explore Alamogordo, visit the New Mexico Museum of Space History or stroll through the charming downtown area.
Alamogordo is a short drive from White Sands National Park.
$, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Return to Ruidoso

Head back to Ruidoso and relax after a day of desert exploration, enjoying the scenic drive back.
Take US-70 W to return to Ruidoso.
Gas, 2.5 hours
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Day 3: Mountain Skiing

Ruidoso, New Mexico on March 31, 2024

8:30 AM

Breakfast at Tina's Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Tina's Cafe, a local diner known for its delicious comfort food and friendly service.
Located in Ruidoso, it's a great spot to fuel up before hitting the slopes.
$$, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Hit the Slopes at Ski Apache

Experience the thrill of skiing at Ski Apache, known for its diverse slopes and stunning mountain views.
Ski Apache is a short drive from Ruidoso, offering a perfect day on the slopes.
$$$, 5 hours

3:00 PM

Apres-Ski Snacks at Ski Apache Resort

After a day of skiing, unwind with some apres-ski snacks and drinks at Ski Apache Resort, enjoying the mountain ambiance.
Relax at the resort before heading back to Ruidoso.
$$, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Casa Blanca Restaurant

Enjoy a flavorful dinner at Casa Blanca Restaurant, known for its delicious Mexican cuisine and warm atmosphere.
Head back to Ruidoso for dinner at this local favorite.
$$, 1.5 hours
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