Ruidoso Takes Top Ranking in the US for Second Year

There’s just something magical about leaving El Paso behind and watching the desert slowly turn into towering pines, crisp mountain air, and cooler temperatures.

It’s that first deep breath when you roll the windows down in Ruidoso and instantly feel the difference.

And now, that go-to getaway for so many El Pasoans is getting national attention- again!

Ruidoso Lands Another Major National Win

For the second year in a row, Ruidoso has been named the Best Small Town Cultural Scene in the country in the 2026 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

That’s back-to-back No. 1 finishes- 2025 and now 2026- solidifying the mountain village as one of the top cultural destinations in the U.S.

The annual awards highlight standout spots across the country, with nominations selected by a panel of travel and cultural experts alongside USA TODAY editors. Final rankings are then decided by public vote, meaning this win reflects what visitors across the nation actually love.

Other towns across the country, from Kentucky to Oregon, made the top 10, but once again, Ruidoso claimed the No. 1 spot.

Why El Pasoans Keep Coming Back

If you’re from El Paso, this probably feels like a win close to home.

Ruidoso has long been the escape- especially when summer hits and triple digits settle in. It’s where you go for cooler weather, quiet mornings, and evenings that actually require a light jacket.

But it’s not just the weather.

It’s the mix of live music, local shops, and seasonal festivals that gives Ruidoso its charm. You can spend the day hiking or relaxing under the trees, then wander into town and find something happening, almost without trying.

That balance of nature and culture is exactly what keeps people coming back, and clearly, the rest of the country is starting to catch on.

Local leaders say the honor belongs to the entire community, crediting the creativity, passion, and spirit of the people who make the town what it is.

And for those of us in El Paso? It just means our favorite weekend getaway is now everyone else’s favorite too!

Whether it’s a quick weekend escape or a much-needed break from the heat, Ruidoso keeps proving it’s more than just a scenic drive- it’s an experience. And now with another national title under its belt, you might want to plan that next trip before the rest of the country beats you to it!