Hotels in Ruidoso Downs

Whispers of the Mountains: Discover the Enchantment of Ruidoso Downs

Nestled in the picturesque Sierra Blanca mountains, Ruidoso Downs, New Mexico, is a thrilling blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Renowned for the Ruidoso Downs Racetrack, this charming destination offers exhilarating horse racing amid stunning landscapes. Adventure seekers can explore nearby hiking trails or indulge in winter sports at Ski Apache. The quaint downtown is filled with unique shops and local eateries, making it perfect for leisurely strolls. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping action or tranquil mountain views, Ruidoso Downs is a captivating retreat that promises unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

Discover great hotels in Ruidoso Downs

Ruidoso Downs offers a variety of friendly hotel accommodations, ranging from cozy inns to comfortable lodges. Guests can expect amenities like free Wi-Fi, breakfast options, and spacious guest rooms. Rates vary, making it easy to find options that suit different budgets while enjoying the scenic beauty of the area. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Ruidoso Downs:

1. Travelodge by Wyndham RuidosoOpens in a new window: Travelodge by Wyndham Ruidoso, a 2.0-star hotel, is an excellent choice for adventure seekers looking to explore the stunning outdoors of Ruidoso Downs. With a focus on adventure sports, this property offers exciting activities such as hunting, mountain climbing, snowboarding, hiking, and ziplining nearby. The hotel also features essential amenities for travelers, including a Business Center, making it a versatile option for both leisure and business. The welcoming atmosphere and pet-friendly policy make it a favorite among travelers who appreciate comfort and a spirit of adventure.
2. Simple Rewards InnOpens in a new window: Simple Rewards Inn is a 2.5-star hotel tailored for business travelers seeking a productive stay. This hotel provides a range of services and facilities designed to support your professional needs. Its strategic location and efficient amenities create an environment conducive to seamless business trips. The commitment to high-quality services ensures that guests can focus on their work without distractions, allowing for smooth and efficient travel experiences.
3. Super 8 by Wyndham RuidosoOpens in a new window: Super 8 by Wyndham Ruidoso, a 2.0-star hotel, caters to business travelers who prioritize convenience and comfort. This property includes a Business Center, providing essential resources for those on work trips. Its pet-friendly policy allows for a relaxing atmosphere, ensuring that guests can enjoy their stay while managing professional obligations. Travelers appreciate the thoughtful amenities and the welcoming environment, which contribute to a high-quality experience during their visit.

Top locations to stay in Ruidoso Downs

Some of the best areas to stay in Ruidoso Downs, New Mexico, are Ruidoso, Alto, and Hollywood. Ruidoso offers casinos and lakes for entertainment, while Alto is perfect for horseback riding amidst scenic landscapes. Hollywood features unique attractions and charm. For first-time visitors, Ruidoso is the most appealing choice due to its vibrant amenities and accessibility to the Ruidoso Downs Racetrack.

1. RuidosoOpens in a new window: Ruidoso is a charming mountain town perfect for travelers seeking a mix of outdoor fun and cultural experiences. Nestled in the Sierra Blanca mountains, it offers beautiful landscapes and a variety of recreational activities including hiking, biking, and fishing at nearby lakes. The area is also known for its cultural attractions, with local art galleries and live performances adding to its vibrant atmosphere. Ruidoso hosts several annual events and festivals, making it a lively destination year-round. With a welcoming community and stunning scenery, Ruidoso is an ideal base for exploring the natural beauty of New Mexico.
2. AltoOpens in a new window: Alto is a peaceful retreat that appeals to nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Known for its horseback riding opportunities, visitors can enjoy scenic trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The area is also home to beautiful parks and a serene lake, perfect for relaxing picnics or leisurely strolls. With its tranquil ambiance and stunning landscapes, Alto offers a unique escape while still being close to the attractions of Ruidoso, making it a great choice for those looking to unwind in nature.
3. HollywoodOpens in a new window: Hollywood is a fun spot to stay if you're looking for a blend of entertainment and cultural experiences. Although it's smaller, it boasts a variety of local attractions, including quaint shops and art galleries that showcase regional talent. The area often features cultural events and community gatherings that provide insight into local traditions and crafts. With its unique charm and welcoming atmosphere, Hollywood offers a unique experience for travelers interested in exploring local culture while still being conveniently located near Ruidoso's offerings.

Things to do in Ruidoso Downs

Ruidoso Downs offers a delightful blend of stunning mountain landscapes and vibrant entertainment options. Visitors can hit the slopes for skiing, explore scenic hiking trails, or enjoy lively evenings filled with music and dancing. With a bustling atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot for shopping and thrilling races that keep the excitement alive!

• Free Spirits at Noisy WaterOpens in a new window – Wander through this enchanting sculpture garden, where stunning pieces of art celebrate the spirit of the horse. Set against a backdrop of majestic mountains, it’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a thoughtful pause amidst nature’s beauty.
• Museum of the HorseOpens in a new window – Discover the rich history of horses at this dedicated museum. With fascinating exhibits that showcase the bond between humans and horses, you’ll find everything from artifacts to engaging displays that tell the stories of these magnificent creatures.
• Wingfield ParkOpens in a new window – Enjoy a day outdoors at this urban park, where you can relax by the water, have a picnic, or take a leisurely walk along the scenic trails. The park offers a peaceful escape and a chance to soak in the natural beauty surrounding Ruidoso Downs.
• Grindstone LakeOpens in a new window – Spend some time at this picturesque lake, where visitors can fish, kayak, or simply unwind by the shore. The serene environment and mountain views provide an ideal backdrop for a day of relaxation or outdoor activities.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Ruidoso Downs

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Ruidoso Downs is in February, April, and November, when hotel prices are generally lower. For a great value for money experience, staying for at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully explore the area's landmarks and cultural attractions. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery, engage in horseback riding, and take advantage of local entertainment options like live music and dancing. Additionally, the friendly atmosphere and shopping opportunities enhance the overall experience, making it a worthwhile destination.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover great savings on hotels at Ruidoso Downs, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save on accommodations. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so you're more likely to see the best deals and book a fantastic last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay at a hotel in Ruidoso Downs. If you're interested in a unique experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll recommend alternative dates that could help you get a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Ruidoso Downs's excellent public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel located a bit farther away that is still well connected. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often great value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative locations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Become a Member: Join us today for free and start planning your next stay in Ruidoso Downs! As a member, you’ll gain access to exclusive member prices, saving on over 100,000 hotels worldwide. Plus, you can quickly move up through our membership tiers and enjoy exciting perks such as complimentary room upgrades when available and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don’t miss out on these fantastic benefits—sign up now and make your next getaway unforgettable!

Best time to go to Ruidoso Downs

Ruidoso Downs experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 34.9°F (1.6°C), while June is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 69.8°F (21.0°C). July is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Ruidoso Downs, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly sunny, with light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, February, and November are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by no rainfall and sunny conditions.