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Ruidoso Downs, New Mexico
City · Population 2,627 · #42 in New Mexico
About Ruidoso Downs
Ruidoso Downs is a small town in southeastern New Mexico, home to 2,627 residents as of the latest Census estimates.
Officially, Ruidoso Downs is an incorporated city with its own municipal government. The community covers 3.79 square miles, giving it a balanced suburban layout with room to breathe at roughly 693 residents per square mile.
📰 Ruidoso Downs News Today
- New Mexico Gaming Control Board signs off on Ruidoso Downs Race Track and Casino suspending operations KTSM 9 News · Jul 23
- New Mexico Gaming Control Board meets to discuss Ruidoso Downs closure KOAT · Jul 22
- New Mexico Gaming Control Board unanimously votes to close Ruidoso Downs Racetrack & Casino KVIA · Jul 22
- Ruidoso Downs won’t return after fires, floods, dealing blow to New Mexico racing industry KFOX · Feb 17
- Statement from Mayor Lynn Crawford Regarding the Relocation of Ruidoso Downs Race Track 2026 Meet Village of Ruidoso Municipal Government (.gov) · Jan 19
Live headlines via Google News — updates through the day.
What Makes Ruidoso Downs Unique
- The only place in America named Ruidoso Downs — a truly one-of-a-kind name among 32,000+ US communities.
- Positioned in southeastern New Mexico, convenient to the region's corridors and crossings.
- Part of the fabric of New Mexico — one of 528 recognized communities statewide.
Why People Love It Here
- Quiet streets and a slower rhythm — the kind of place people move to on purpose.
- Housing dollars stretch further here than in the nearest metro.
- Well connected: 3+ neighboring communities within 16 miles.
🍽️ Where to Eat in Ruidoso Downs
- Denny's — american
- K-Bob's Steakhouse — steak house
- Olé Tacos — mexican
Local spots mapped by the OpenStreetMap community.
🎡 Fun Things to Do
- Fox Cave · Attraction
- Billy the Kid Museum · Museum
- Museum of the Horse · Museum
- The Hubbard Museum of the American West · Museum
Attractions mapped by the OpenStreetMap community.
⚡ Quick Facts
StateNew Mexico
TypeCity
Population (2024)2,627
Rank in state#42 of 105
Land area3.79 sq mi
Density693/sq mi
Coordinates33.3312, -105.5968