Culinary Delights and Outdoor Adventures in Ruidoso, New Mexico Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to the Hubbard Museum of the American West, immersing yourself in the history and art of the region. For a morning pick-me-up, stop by Sacred Grounds Coffee & Southside Flying Pizza for a freshly brewed coffee and a slice of their signature pizza.

Post-museum, take a short drive to the Lincoln National Forest, where you can explore the trails and enjoy the natural beauty. For lunch, unwind at Downshift Brewing Company (Hidden Tap), a hidden gem offering a selection of craft beers and a menu of pub-style favorites.

Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through the Midtown Ruidoso area, browsing the shops and boutiques. For dinner, indulge in the flavors of the Southwest at Ruidoso Sushi, a unique fusion spot that combines local ingredients with traditional sushi preparations.

Enjoy a breakfast with a view at Tall Pines Beer and Wine Garden, nestled in the mountainous surroundings. Post-breakfast, head to the Smoky Bear Historical Park to learn about the fascinating history of wildfire prevention and meet the real-life Smokey Bear.

For lunch, savor the smoky flavors of the region at 440 BBQ & Smokehouse, known for its authentic barbecue dishes. Afterward, take a scenic drive to the nearby town of Capitan, where you can visit the Capitan, New Mexico, the birthplace of Smokey Bear.

Return to Ruidoso for a relaxing evening at The Links at Sierra Blanca, a beautiful golf course where you can enjoy a round of twilight golf. Cap off the day with a sumptuous dinner at The Ranchers Steak and Seafood Restaurant, offering a fine dining experience with a focus on local ingredients.

Embrace the morning with a visit to Ski Apache, just a short drive from Ruidoso. Whether it's skiing in the winter or mountain biking in the summer, the alpine landscape offers an array of outdoor activities. Before hitting the slopes, grab a quick breakfast at Cattle Baron.

After an exhilarating morning, take a break for lunch at Bowls and Rolls, a cozy spot known for its comforting soups and fresh rolls. Post-lunch, continue your outdoor adventure with a scenic gondola ride at Ski Apache, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

As the day winds down, return to Ruidoso and treat yourself to a memorable dining experience at Michael J's Italian-American Restaurant. Indulge in classic Italian dishes and fine wines, reflecting the owner's New York roots combined with the flavors of New Mexico.

For your last morning in Ruidoso, enjoy a delightful breakfast at The Bull Ring Snack Bar and Grill, a local spot with a casual atmosphere. After breakfast, take a scenic drive to the nearby town of Cloudcroft, where you can explore the charming village and visit the Sacramento Mountains Museum to learn about the area's history.

Have lunch at Anaheim Jacks, a restaurant with a diverse menu to please all tastes. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the shops and galleries in Cloudcroft, or if you prefer outdoor activities, take a hike on one of the many trails in the area.

Return to Ruidoso for your final evening. Enjoy a farewell dinner at Rio Grande Grill and Tap Room, where you can reminisce about your trip over a delicious meal and a selection of local brews. End the night with a visit to Spencer Theater for the Performing Arts, if there's a show scheduled, for a memorable end to your Ruidoso adventure.