Cabin
MidTown Retro Riverfront Cabin- !HOT TUB, Riverview Deck PET
Photo gallery for MidTown Retro Riverfront Cabin- !HOT TUB, Riverview Deck PET





Reviews
10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms 1 bathroom Sleeps 6 732 sq ft
Popular amenities
Explore the area

Ruidoso, NM
- Wingfield Park7 min walk
- Pillow's Funtrackers2 min drive
- Grindstone Lake3 min drive
- Ruidoso, NM (RUI-Sierra Blanca Regional)29 min drive
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)
Bedroom 1
2 Single Beds, 1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed
1 bathroom
Bathroom 1
Spaces
Kitchen
Balcony
About this property
MidTown Retro Riverfront Cabin- !HOT TUB, Riverview Deck PET
This is an authentic log cabin that has survived the years right in the heart of Mid-town Ruidoso! Don't choose this if you want to be alone in the middle of the woods. Choose this cabin if you want the ultimate in convenience to all the shops, bars and restaurants of Mid-town Ruidoso while being able to go out your back door and play in the river and enjoy the fascinating parade of wildlife going by.
We understand that things are a little more difficult during these times than normal so we have instituted:
- A flexible cancellation policy
- Coupons and discounts for future bookings
- Reduced minimum stay requirements
- Reduced daily rates
- Increased discounts for longer stays
- Employing stringent cleaning procedures
- Self check-in tools for no contact check in / out
- Quality work areas and internet for “workcations”
Brand new hot tub is here along with an expanded deck area for you to enjoy it! Please take advantage of our special. This is a new property that I have just purchased. Come on out while this introductory special is in effect. All I ask is that you provide me with some constructive feedback so we can make this property even more wonderful than it already is.
We just added ROKU TV with all the apps you can imagine. Just enter your check out date and you can use your subscription information to watch whatever you want. The system will sign you out automatically on the day that you leave.
THE CABIN: I have tried to determine when this cabin was built, but have not yet been successful. When you drive up to this cabin, you can imagine how Ruidoso was in the ‘50s and ‘60s when it became known as “The Playground of the Southwest”. If these walls could talk, oh, the stories they could tell. Over the years this cabin has undergone numerous repairs and remodels and today it stands as a reminder of the past while also showing off as a gem of modern technology. The windows have been there for a while and most are stuck from all the coats of paint, but they are reflective of the period.
When you enter the cabin the living room and the kitchen greet you with lovely colors and a décor that is reminiscent of the period during which the cabin was built. The fireplace is decorative only. We have a flat screen TV. Maybe one day I will figure out how to integrate a dishwasher in the mix, but until then please enjoy the charm of the 1950s.
The path from this area to the master bedroom is either through the kitchen or the bathroom. The floor plan is really simple. That’s how they built ‘em back then. The bedroom is comfy and warm. The knotty pine paneling provides a authentic log cabin feel. Just relax in the comfy king bed with the retro quilt and if the temperature is right, open the window and let the sound of the Rio Ruidoso lull you to sleep.
Oh did somebody say AIR CONDITIONING? The main floor of the cabin has complete climate control provided by two window units. One in the master bedroom and one in the living room. They are capable of providing heat as well as air conditioning that will flat freeze you out of there if you want it to!
Next we go back out the front door and to the BUNK HOUSE basement which is under the north end (furthest from the street) of the house. As you enter the basement door you find the bunkhouse. The two twin beds are really comfy and the décor is right off the ranch! This recently remodeled area of the house also contains the washer / dryer.
The BUNK HOUSE is a unique and fantastic area which will create lasting memories of adventure and independence for your children. Please understand this is not a place for children that need to be in a bedroom next to yours or senior citizens who are adverse to stairs or need to use the restroom in the middle of the night. Between the main front door and the BUNK HOUSE there are 9 steps outside. It has its own “front door” and no bathroom. In my personal opinion I think this is a great space for "tweens", teens and young folks.
THE PARKING: Oh this is the secret sauce. 95% of the time parking is not a problem. You can park in the public lot anytime night or day. It is just to the west of the cabin. I will put a parking pass in the form of a postcard in the cabin for you. With that you can park one vehicle in front of 221 Rio which is right next door (east side). You see most times in Ruidoso the public parking lot is not quite full, but during holidays and special events, parking is indeed at a premium, so it’s really nice to have that private parking space.
MID-TOWN: This is where the action is. Restaurants, bars, shops, it is all within a short walk of your front door. No DUI’s while staying here. You can Rock and Roll at Quarters or Country and Western dance at WPS (Win Place or Show). You can close the place down and walk home.
If late night is not your thing, you have a choice of five of the best restaurants in Ruidoso within a two block walk. If you don’t like to go to restaurants, you have some of the most amazing clothes shops within two blocks.
If you don’t like any of the above, then there’s always wine and desert! Yes within one block there is an amazing cupcake shop and a lovely selection of wine to taste and take home. I can go into more detail later!
THE BACKDOOR: Every coin has two sides and this is no exception. You have all the fun and excitement of Mid-town out your front door, and all the peace and quiet of nature out your back door. Yes, there is a little grey area in the middle, the rest of the tourists that are parking in the public lot can look at you in the yard relaxing – just remember that they are just jealous. We put a nice curtain on the hot tub to afford you some needed privacy!
Back to Nature awaits you out the back door. We have a lovely porch with a great view of the river and plenty of comfy furniture to sit on and relax while enjoying the wonderful climate. There is also a gas grill there for your outdoor cooking pleasure.
There are some wonderful new steps leading down to a new porch that is just feet from the river. I am trying to get some trout to come hang out there. We’ll see how that goes in future years.
We have a great fenced yard for the kids and the dogs to run around in and play and there is a brand new hot tub to soak the soreness out of those muscles after a hard day of hiking, skiing, riding, or shopping. If you do bring a pet there will be a $85 pet fee charged for doing so.
We certainly hope that you will choose our little RETRO ON THE RIVER when you plan your vacation to Ruidoso. We have done what we can to make it a wonderful experience for you. Thanks again. We hope to see you soon. - Reed
Entire property I'm usually not on site, but am easy to get a hold of if you need anything. Hustle bustle during the day when the shops are open and then nice and quiet and peaceful at night. Walking is great from this location! Other alternatives include driving your car or calling Lincoln Co. Transit service.
Pets – yes, your pets are welcome, just please when you leave the property make it look as though there was no pet there. Pick up the waste and clean up any excess fur. We do charge a pet fee ($85/stay for up to 2 pets and $150/stay for up to 4 pets) because they do cause some wear and tear, but we know they are important to you, and we want to accommodate your whole family! Vrbo does not add the pet fee automatically to my reservation software. It will be a separate transaction after your booking is completed. Just let me know if you have a pet with you.
Safety: Property has 2 cameras: 1 located over the front door pointed at the front yard. 1 located over the downstairs basement door and pointed at the yard and hot tub area. These cameras will be recording during your stay.
Explanation about the damage deposit: Your reservation may require a damage deposit. If you book via Airbnb, there is no up front deposit, however if there is damage, you will be charged after your stay. If you are booking on my website, the checkout process will be easy. However, if you are booking on VRBO, they will show it as a "Refundable deposit paid at property". That is not accurate. The deposit is simply a credit card hold which is authorized on the day that you arrive and then automatically drops off 7 days after you leave. If you leave with no damage, you will never notice it. If there is damage, I will notify you of what I have found prior to making any type of claim against that hold. I'm sorry that VRBO describes it that way, but I have brought it to their attention, and they say it is the only thing that can be done with their system. I think they are just putting the square peg in the round hole. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.
We understand that things are a little more difficult during these times than normal so we have instituted:
- A flexible cancellation policy
- Coupons and discounts for future bookings
- Reduced minimum stay requirements
- Reduced daily rates
- Increased discounts for longer stays
- Employing stringent cleaning procedures
- Self check-in tools for no contact check in / out
- Quality work areas and internet for “workcations”
Brand new hot tub is here along with an expanded deck area for you to enjoy it! Please take advantage of our special. This is a new property that I have just purchased. Come on out while this introductory special is in effect. All I ask is that you provide me with some constructive feedback so we can make this property even more wonderful than it already is.
We just added ROKU TV with all the apps you can imagine. Just enter your check out date and you can use your subscription information to watch whatever you want. The system will sign you out automatically on the day that you leave.
THE CABIN: I have tried to determine when this cabin was built, but have not yet been successful. When you drive up to this cabin, you can imagine how Ruidoso was in the ‘50s and ‘60s when it became known as “The Playground of the Southwest”. If these walls could talk, oh, the stories they could tell. Over the years this cabin has undergone numerous repairs and remodels and today it stands as a reminder of the past while also showing off as a gem of modern technology. The windows have been there for a while and most are stuck from all the coats of paint, but they are reflective of the period.
When you enter the cabin the living room and the kitchen greet you with lovely colors and a décor that is reminiscent of the period during which the cabin was built. The fireplace is decorative only. We have a flat screen TV. Maybe one day I will figure out how to integrate a dishwasher in the mix, but until then please enjoy the charm of the 1950s.
The path from this area to the master bedroom is either through the kitchen or the bathroom. The floor plan is really simple. That’s how they built ‘em back then. The bedroom is comfy and warm. The knotty pine paneling provides a authentic log cabin feel. Just relax in the comfy king bed with the retro quilt and if the temperature is right, open the window and let the sound of the Rio Ruidoso lull you to sleep.
Oh did somebody say AIR CONDITIONING? The main floor of the cabin has complete climate control provided by two window units. One in the master bedroom and one in the living room. They are capable of providing heat as well as air conditioning that will flat freeze you out of there if you want it to!
Next we go back out the front door and to the BUNK HOUSE basement which is under the north end (furthest from the street) of the house. As you enter the basement door you find the bunkhouse. The two twin beds are really comfy and the décor is right off the ranch! This recently remodeled area of the house also contains the washer / dryer.
The BUNK HOUSE is a unique and fantastic area which will create lasting memories of adventure and independence for your children. Please understand this is not a place for children that need to be in a bedroom next to yours or senior citizens who are adverse to stairs or need to use the restroom in the middle of the night. Between the main front door and the BUNK HOUSE there are 9 steps outside. It has its own “front door” and no bathroom. In my personal opinion I think this is a great space for "tweens", teens and young folks.
THE PARKING: Oh this is the secret sauce. 95% of the time parking is not a problem. You can park in the public lot anytime night or day. It is just to the west of the cabin. I will put a parking pass in the form of a postcard in the cabin for you. With that you can park one vehicle in front of 221 Rio which is right next door (east side). You see most times in Ruidoso the public parking lot is not quite full, but during holidays and special events, parking is indeed at a premium, so it’s really nice to have that private parking space.
MID-TOWN: This is where the action is. Restaurants, bars, shops, it is all within a short walk of your front door. No DUI’s while staying here. You can Rock and Roll at Quarters or Country and Western dance at WPS (Win Place or Show). You can close the place down and walk home.
If late night is not your thing, you have a choice of five of the best restaurants in Ruidoso within a two block walk. If you don’t like to go to restaurants, you have some of the most amazing clothes shops within two blocks.
If you don’t like any of the above, then there’s always wine and desert! Yes within one block there is an amazing cupcake shop and a lovely selection of wine to taste and take home. I can go into more detail later!
THE BACKDOOR: Every coin has two sides and this is no exception. You have all the fun and excitement of Mid-town out your front door, and all the peace and quiet of nature out your back door. Yes, there is a little grey area in the middle, the rest of the tourists that are parking in the public lot can look at you in the yard relaxing – just remember that they are just jealous. We put a nice curtain on the hot tub to afford you some needed privacy!
Back to Nature awaits you out the back door. We have a lovely porch with a great view of the river and plenty of comfy furniture to sit on and relax while enjoying the wonderful climate. There is also a gas grill there for your outdoor cooking pleasure.
There are some wonderful new steps leading down to a new porch that is just feet from the river. I am trying to get some trout to come hang out there. We’ll see how that goes in future years.
We have a great fenced yard for the kids and the dogs to run around in and play and there is a brand new hot tub to soak the soreness out of those muscles after a hard day of hiking, skiing, riding, or shopping. If you do bring a pet there will be a $85 pet fee charged for doing so.
We certainly hope that you will choose our little RETRO ON THE RIVER when you plan your vacation to Ruidoso. We have done what we can to make it a wonderful experience for you. Thanks again. We hope to see you soon. - Reed
Entire property I'm usually not on site, but am easy to get a hold of if you need anything. Hustle bustle during the day when the shops are open and then nice and quiet and peaceful at night. Walking is great from this location! Other alternatives include driving your car or calling Lincoln Co. Transit service.
Pets – yes, your pets are welcome, just please when you leave the property make it look as though there was no pet there. Pick up the waste and clean up any excess fur. We do charge a pet fee ($85/stay for up to 2 pets and $150/stay for up to 4 pets) because they do cause some wear and tear, but we know they are important to you, and we want to accommodate your whole family! Vrbo does not add the pet fee automatically to my reservation software. It will be a separate transaction after your booking is completed. Just let me know if you have a pet with you.
Safety: Property has 2 cameras: 1 located over the front door pointed at the front yard. 1 located over the downstairs basement door and pointed at the yard and hot tub area. These cameras will be recording during your stay.
Explanation about the damage deposit: Your reservation may require a damage deposit. If you book via Airbnb, there is no up front deposit, however if there is damage, you will be charged after your stay. If you are booking on my website, the checkout process will be easy. However, if you are booking on VRBO, they will show it as a "Refundable deposit paid at property". That is not accurate. The deposit is simply a credit card hold which is authorized on the day that you arrive and then automatically drops off 7 days after you leave. If you leave with no damage, you will never notice it. If there is damage, I will notify you of what I have found prior to making any type of claim against that hold. I'm sorry that VRBO describes it that way, but I have brought it to their attention, and they say it is the only thing that can be done with their system. I think they are just putting the square peg in the round hole. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Property manager
Reed Helmly
Premier Host
Languages
English, Spanish
Protect your payment — always book on Vrbo
If someone asks you to book through them or pay them directly before you book on Vrbo, report it.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
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8.6 out of 10, (150 reviews)
House Rules
Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
Events
No events allowed
Pets
Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.
About the area
Ruidoso
Located in Ruidoso, this cabin is in the city centre and on the waterfront. Cree Medows Public Golf Course and The Links at Sierra Blanca are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Fort Stanton-Snowy River National Conservation Area and Wingfield Park. Pillow's Funtrackers and Free Spirits at Noisy Water are also worth visiting.

Ruidoso, NM
What's nearby
- Wingfield Park - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
- Pillow's Funtrackers - 2 min drive - 1.9 km
- Grindstone Lake - 3 min drive - 1.9 km
- The Links at Sierra Blanca - 4 min drive - 4.2 km
- Ruidoso Convention Center - 6 min drive - 4.9 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- Downshift Brewing Company - 9 min walk
- Starbucks - 13 min walk
- Domino's Pizza - 10 min walk
- Lost Hiker Brewing Company - 4 min walk
- Schlotzsky's - 16 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window9.8/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Staff & service
10/10
Amenities
10/10
Property conditions & facilities
10/10
Eco-friendliness
10/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
10/10
Location
10/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
14 Jul 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
8/10 Good
Tom P.
10 Jul 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Tom P.
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Marco T.
1 Jun 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Calm Stay
Marco T.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
James W.
24 Jun 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice time
James W.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Lionel S.
3 May 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Stay
Lionel S.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
John F.
17 Apr 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location.
John F.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Ari W.
6 Apr 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect Cabin Retreat!
Ari W.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Justin C.
5 Mar 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy and great location
Justin C.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Destiny M.
10 Feb 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent stay!
Destiny M.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
Travis C.
20 Jan 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
New Favorite spot
Travis C.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Matt C.
9 Nov 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing place!
Matt C.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023
10/10 Excellent
Justin W.
19 Oct 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Ruidoso Relaxation
Justin W.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Julian A.
4 Nov 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Satisfaction
Julian A.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Lori S.
10 Feb 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute Town
Lori S.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
10/10 Excellent
Michael F.
17 Sept 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing Location!
Michael F.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Cynthia S.
4 Jan 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful place nice location
Cynthia S.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
10/10 Excellent
Isaac L.
21 Jan 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Close to everything!
Isaac L.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025
10/10 Excellent
STEPHANIE G.
24 Apr 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome
STEPHANIE G.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
10/10 Excellent
Yamel R.
20 May 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
217 Cabin
Yamel R.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Stephanie R.
21 Jun 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect family getaway
Stephanie R.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Cathy G.
23 Oct 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place for couples or small family
Cathy G.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Michelle F.
4 Sept 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect!
Michelle F.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
8/10 Good
Billy H.
24 Apr 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy cabin
Billy H.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
10/10 Excellent
Danielle F., San Antonio USA
10 Oct 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peaceful river cabin❤️
Danielle F.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Brandy H.
18 Mar 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Spring Break Getaway
Brandy H.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023
About the host
Hosted by Reed Helmly

I LOVE THE MOUNTAINS. They are a little hard to get to from Austin, Texas. Having a cabin in the mountains is a great way to get away! It is my pleasure to share this cute little gem with you.
Why they chose this property
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION - It may not be big, but it offers a real authentic experience with all the conveniences of being in town steps away from your front door.
What makes this property unique
This cabin has survived the years. It has been updated quite a bit since it was built, but the décor reflects the charm of a simpler time in our history.
Languages:
English, Spanish
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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