Whether shopping for your own pleasure or seeking a souvenir or gift for those on your list, the local businesses, small boutiques, restaurants, wineries, beer pubs, and art galleries lining the main thoroughfares of Ruidoso have an abundance to offer. Here are some unique spots to get your Ruidoso shopping going. not until 1:30
Begin your shopping day at the top of Sudderth Drive near Upper Canyon Road. The Adobe is the pinnacle establishment for fine art, designer jewelry, and decorative items. From an inlaid and carved silver poncho belt to display cases filled with exquisite designer gemstone jewelry to western bronze sculptures and glowing paintings, everything about this gallery whispers quality.
Hiking the trails and camping in the mountains requires sustenance. The Cork and Kettle, tucked away at the back of a small strip mall off Sudderth Drive, is the perfect stop for a tasty gourmet basket. From their section of gourmet oils, such as habanero pineapple, to their selection of wines, this is an excellent place to pick up treats for a picnic. Or perhaps you are planning to lounge on the porch admiring the view of Sierra Blanca Peak with a glass of New Mexico wine or beer, and you need a cheese platter to enhance the experience. If you left home without a corkscrew, the Cork and Kettle stocks corkscrews and other useful accessories for serving wine or beer, as well as gift items for the wine connoisseur.
In addition to your picnic, you may need other camping gear, which will lead you to The Happy Hiker. This shop supplies practical camping gear and clothing as well as outdoor gear for dogs. In your international travels, you may have been intrigued by the sight of the millions of locks attached to bridges in France and Ireland. Ruidoso has its own version of these tourist locks at The Happy Hiker. Perhaps you will decide to commemorate your visit by attaching an engraved lock at The Happy Hiker, too.
Roots contains an amalgam of plants, home decor, and gift items. From its sassy signs on the plant stand at the door to its roasted coffees and home decor, this store’s minimalist look creates a calm oasis from the busy street outdoors with ample light, white walls, and spare displays.
If coffee is not your choice for a hot beverage, stop in at Old Barrel Tea Company for one of their specialty tea blends. Try samples of hot and cold teas. Gather teas, herbs, and spices, or raw or unfiltered honey to delight your friends at home.
The earthy scent of leather draws shoppers inside Leathers with Style. Then a dramatic rainbow of wallets and bags from coin size to travel size catches your eyes. With such a range of choices and colors, selecting the bag you most desire will be a challenge.
As you stroll Ruidoso’s main thoroughfare, your feet may automatically turn into the Sweet Retreat, which tempts visitors with fudge, chocolate, candies, caramel apples, and ice cream. Ice cream served in a cup or a cone, is a delicious treat on a warm day — or any day in any season! Don’t pass up the opportunity to have a malt. An old-fashioned malt can be difficult to find in this era of shakes.
Even the dog receives special treatment at a store just for furry friends. No Bones About It has doggie outfits, special treats, and all kinds of toys. After all, you can’t go home to your canine empty-handed.
A fashionista can get decked out after exploring a profusion of women’s clothing stores. From consignment and vintage clothing to sparkling cowgirl style to Ralph Lauren, any woman can be outfitted with new duds. For Southwest style, slip into Cattilac Style. This shop overflows with Southwest style and bold colors. You can’t miss Birdie & Bree with bold flowers on the wall around the entrance and its sign with whimsical birds. This animal-loving proprietor has a fashion-forward collection of apparel and dramatic beaded handbags.
Further down the street, don’t resist checking out the vintage clothing at Took and Johnnie’s Boutique with a curated collection of dresses, skirts, blouses, shoes, handbags, and statement jewelry.
Of course, rambling along this busy shopping drive is bound to have created a powerful thirst. There are several opportunities up and down both sides of the street to taste New Mexico wines, beers, and liquors.
Tall Pines Beer and Wine Garden has a spacious patio with a welcoming atmosphere to relax you after shopping and give your feet a rest. Or stop at the Lost Hiker Brewing Company and Taproom for a beer in their tiny, mod bar. Noisy Water Winery serves up their own wines along with other New Mexico products, such as ciders, artisan cheeses, and green chile products.
If you require a stronger sip, drop into The Perfect Gift in the Times Square Shopping Center, where you can shop for gifts and visit the tucked-away bar serving cocktails made with locally produced vodka, gin, and whiskey from the Algodones Distillery.
There are many additional stores, galleries, and dining spots on Sudderth. You’ll want to wander the street and let your fancy carry you!
Story by Jackye Meinecke
Photography by Jackye Meinecke and Cheryl Fallstead
Posted by Ruidoso.com
