Ruidoso, New Mexico

Ruidoso is known for its winter skiing. Like Cloudcroft, the city is a gateway to Ski Apache, operated by the Mescalero Apaches. The city itself sits in the shadow of the 12,003-foot peak of Sierra Blanca.

Spencer Theater for the Performing Arts. The $20 million Spencer Theater for the Performing Arts (Antoine Predock, 1997) was designed to echo the essence of the surrounding mountins with white limestone and steep angles. The 514-seat theater, which hosts dramatic, musical and dance performances, also showcases the glass artwork of Dale Chihuly. The theater has 180 degree views of the Capitan and Sacramento mountains. Located on Airport Hwy. 220.

Hubbard Museum of the American West. Formerly known as the Museum of the Horse, this multi-million dollar facility houses over 10,000 historical and cultural items that chronicle man's relationship with the horse. Memorabilia from the American West--firearms, farm tools, and wagons--are also on display.

The entrance of the museum is marked by "Free Spirits at Noisy Water," a statue by Dave McGary. Considered one of the world's largest equine monuments, the bronze is over 300 feet in length and stands over three stories. Located on US 70 in Ruidoso Downs.

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