Air
- Companies: Southwest Airlines, American Airlines
- Duration: Approximately 6-8 hours (including layovers)
- Distance: 700 miles
- Costs: Approximately 250 EUR [round-trip, tier-dependent]
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable
Pro Tip: Use the Southwest Airlines app to check for last-minute deals or upgrades before booking.
I recommend taking a flight from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) to Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD), then rent a car for the drive to Watertown.
Car
- Companies: Budget, Enterprise, Hertz
- Duration: Approximately 12 hours
- Distance: 650 miles
- Costs: Approximately 120 EUR [gasoline and rental combined]
- Roads/Routes: US-54 E, I-25 N, I-90 E
Pro Tip: Download offline maps prior to your journey to help navigate through areas with limited signal.
For a road trip, I suggest driving along I-25 N and I-90 E for scenic views and quick rest stops.
Bus
- Companies: Greyhound, Megabus
- Duration: Approximately 15-18 hours (including transfers)
- Distance: 700 miles
- Costs: Approximately 80 EUR [one-way]
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable
Pro Tip: Book tickets in advance and check schedules thoroughly, as they can change frequently.
The bus is a comfortable and budget-friendly option; however, be prepared for long travel times.
Recommendation
For the most efficient journey from Ruidoso, NM to Watertown, SD, I recommend flying to minimize travel time. The approximate total costs would be around 250 EUR for a round-trip flight, with the additional rental car costs to reach Watertown from Sioux Falls. Ensure to check airline schedules early, as direct flights may have limited availability. Don’t forget to verify any travel restrictions or requirements due to local regulations.