Visitors seeking things to do in New Mexico in July can find the Ruidoso Art & Wine Festival, a Robert Earl Keen show, and Flying J Ranch this year. But that’s just the start of the highlights on the area events calendar. The things to do in the Ruidoso area in July also include outdoor adventures, arts and crafts exhibitions, historical attractions, more live musical performances, and adrenaline-pumping rodeos.
If you’re going to be in town, consider yourself lucky — Ruidoso, near Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino, and the surrounding area is loaded with great things to do, and it’s well worth visiting in July! While you’re here, be sure to check out these family-friendly festivals and events.
Jump to an event below:
- 1. Area Concerts: Best Entertainment in July
- 2. Flying J Ranch: Best Family Activity in July
- 3. Pillow’s Funtrackers
- 4. Smokey Bear Stampede
- 5. White Sands National Monument: Best Outdoor Recreation in July
- 6. Ruidoso Art & Wine Festival: Best Festival in July
- 7. Lincoln National Forest
- 8. Midtown Market in Ruidoso
- 9. Fort Stanton Historic Site: Best Historical Attraction in July
- 10. Smokey Bear Historical Park
1. Area Concerts: Best Entertainment in July
For lovers of live music, the area concert calendar is loaded with things to do in Ruidoso in July. Just a few of the performances planned in and around Ruidoso for the month include:
- Van Darien at Wingfield Park on July 4
- New Age Phonograph at Downshift Brewing Company – Hidden Tap on July 4
- Rockabilly Strangers at Downshift Brewing Company – Riverside on July 4
- Robert Earl Keen at Ruidoso Downs Race Track on July 5
- Blake Burrow at Wingfield Park on July 11
- The Fab Four Ultimate Beatles Tribute Show at Spencer Theater on July 12
- Max Gomez at Wingfield Park on July 18
- Phil Hamilton at Wingfield Park on July 25
2. Flying J Ranch: Best Family Activity in July
Just a short drive from the Inn of the Mountain Gods, this authentic ranch offers an unforgettable chuckwagon supper featuring brisket, BBQ grilled chicken, and a long list of tasty sides. Enjoy a hearty meal under the stars while listening to live music and cowboy tales around a crackling campfire. The whole family will love the exciting activities at Flying J Ranch, including the Bonito City Gunfight, the Fiddle Side Show, and a cattle-roping dummy at the Flying J Kid’s Corral. This immersive experience for families also offers the opportunity to pan for gold, ride ponies, and more.
3. Pillow’s Funtrackers
If you’re looking for a fun-filled day for the whole family in Ruidoso, head to Pillow’s Funtrackers. This New Mexico amusement park offers thrilling rides, exciting go-kart tracks, and challenging mini-golf courses. Cool off in the water park, test your skills in the arcade, or indulge in delicious treats at the snack bar. Pillow’s Funtrackers is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
4. Smokey Bear Stampede
The Smokey Bear Stampede is one of the nation’s largest open rodeo weekends, with ranch rodeos, traditional rodeos, and goat roping every day of this event July 2–5. The festival will be brimming with patriotic festivities, including rodeos every day, dances, concerts, and a parade on July Fourth. Rodeo admission is $12 for adults and $8 for children ages 6–12.
5. White Sands National Monument: Best Outdoor Recreation in July
Prepare to be mesmerized by the otherworldly beauty of White Sands National Monument — one of the best things to do in New Mexico with family. This unique landscape is a must-see during your July visit to New Mexico, as the seemingly-endless glistening white dunes create a breathtaking sight under the summer sun. Take a leisurely stroll across the soft sand, try your hand at sand sledding, or relax and admire the stunning scenery.
This July at White Sands National Monument, you can even enjoy a moonlight hike on July 9! Stroll the gorgeous landscape under a full moon.
6. Ruidoso Art & Wine Festival: Best Festival in July
The Ruidoso Art & Wine Festival will take over the Ruidoso Convention Center with more than 100 of the country’s most talented artists displaying their crafts and artwork. Artistic mediums include photography, paintings, ceramic, glass, jewelry, and much more. The 54th annual Ruidoso Art and Wine Festival will take place on the following days:
- Friday, July 25, 2025: noon–6 p.m.
- Saturday, July 26, 2025: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Sunday, July 27, 2025: 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
7. Lincoln National Forest
Escape the heat this July and enjoy the cool shade of Lincoln National Forest. One of the most popular places for outdoor recreation in New Mexico, this wilderness area is a nature lover’s paradise, offering endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and relaxing. Explore hiking trails that wind through towering pines, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the New Mexico wilderness.
8. Midtown Market in Ruidoso
Savor local cuisine from food trucks and vendors, treat yourself to fresh produce, and enjoy live music and entertainment at Ruidoso’s Midtown Market. Every Saturday from June to October, artists, bakers, wineries, and material artists bring a curated selection of their best wares to this popular Ruidoso market.
9. Fort Stanton Historic Site: Best Historical Attraction in July
Delve into the rich history of the American Southwest at Fort Stanton Historic Site. This 19th-century military fort played a crucial role in the region’s development, serving as a base, a hospital, and even a Civilian Conservation Corps camp. Explore well-preserved buildings, walk through the parade grounds, and learn about the diverse cultures that shaped this historic site near Ruidoso.
10. Smokey Bear Historical Park
Pay homage to one of America’s most beloved icons at Smokey Bear Historical Park. This unique park tells the story of Smokey Bear, a symbol of wildfire prevention. Explore interactive exhibits, learn about fire safety, and discover the character’s journey from bear cub with burned paws to an internationally recognized symbol of fire safety and wildfire prevention. Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens, have a picnic lunch, and snap a photo with the famous Smokey Bear statue.
Whatever you choose to do in July in the Ruidoso area, make sure you’re prepared for the warm New Mexico summer weather. July is the hottest month of the year in Ruidoso, and daily temperatures range from an average low of 58 to an average high of 80. You’ll want to pack appropriately and be prepared to layer (and shed) clothing as needed, and prepare to stay hydrated when spending long periods of time outdoors in the sun. Looking for somewhere to stay in New Mexico this July? Book a room at the Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino today!