Roswell Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary
Experience the world's most famous UFO capital, blending quirky alien culture with stunning high desert scenery and rich aerospace history. Explore the mysteries of the 1947 incident, hike red rock bluffs, and discover a thriving local art scene in southeastern New Mexico.
Roswell, New Mexico, is a destination that transcends its reputation as the conspiracy capital of the world. While the 1947 UFO incident put it on the map, visitors quickly discover that this high desert city offers a charming blend of kitschy fun, serious aerospace history, and unexpected natural beauty. It is a place where you can discuss extraterrestrial theories over coffee in the morning and hike red rock bluffs by a bottomless lake in the afternoon.
Beyond the green men and flying saucers, Roswell serves as the economic hub of the Pecos Valley, rich in ranching heritage and art. The streets are lined with elm trees and historic architecture that tell the story of the American West long before the term “flying saucer” was coined. Whether you are a believer, a skeptic, or just a traveler looking for a unique slice of Americana, Roswell promises an experience unlike any other.
Seasonal Weather Guide
Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed seasonal forecast.
Beyond the Little Green Men
While the aliens get the headlines, Roswell’s contribution to science and culture is grounded in reality. This was the home of Robert H. Goddard, the father of modern rocketry, who conducted his pioneering experiments in the wide-open spaces nearby. The city honors this legacy with world-class museums that rival those in much larger cities. The intersection of cowboy culture, military history from the Walker Air Force Base era, and the modern artistic community creates a fascinating cultural tapestry.
The local geography is equally compelling. Situated in the Chihuahuan Desert but fed by the Pecos River, the area features unique geological formations. The sinkholes of Bottomless Lakes and the wetlands of Bitter Lake provide a stark, beautiful contrast to the arid plains, offering sanctuary to wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts alike. It is this duality, science fiction meets cowboy fact, that gives Roswell its enduring appeal.
Things to Do
Unforgettable experiences await you.
International UFO Museum & Research Center
Dive into the 1947 Roswell Incident with extensive exhibits, affidavits, and alien artifacts that define the town's identity.
Bottomless Lakes State Park
Explore a series of nine deep blue sinkholes surrounded by red cliffs, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and hiking just outside the city.
Roswell Museum and Art Center
Discover the Southwest's artistic heritage and the history of rocketry pioneer Robert H. Goddard in this sophisticated cultural hub.
The Alien Zone
Enjoy a quirky photo-op experience with posed alien mannequins followed by classic American diner food in a fun, kitschy setting.
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The Icons You’ll Want to See
International UFO Museum & Research Center - The absolute must-see for any visitor. Located downtown, this museum houses the most comprehensive collection of information regarding the 1947 incident. Entry is affordable at approximately $5-$10 USD depending on discounts.
Bottomless Lakes State Park - Located about 15 miles east of Roswell, this park features a chain of deep sinkholes. The greenish-blue water is perfect for swimming in summer. Entry is $5 USD per vehicle.
Roswell Museum and Art Center - A premier cultural institution featuring the Goddard rocketry wing and extensive Southwest art collections. It is located just north of downtown and tickets are typically $10 USD for adults.
Downtown Historic District - A walkable stretch of Main Street featuring the Chaves County Courthouse and numerous shops. It is free to explore, though you will likely spend money on alien-themed souvenirs.
Essential Guide
Everything you need to know.
Must-Visit Spots
Local Cuisine
Where to Stay
Travel Tips
Insider Tips
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Roswell usually involves a flight into the Roswell Air Center (ROW) or a three-hour drive from Albuquerque or El Paso. A rental car is essential here; while the downtown area is walkable, the best nature spots and some historic sites are spread out across the valley. The roads are wide and easy to navigate, with ample parking available almost everywhere.
When packing, remember that this is the high desert. Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly at night, so layers are key. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle are non-negotiable items, as the sun is intense and the air is dry. If you are visiting for the UFO Festival in July, book your accommodation at least six months in advance, as the town’s population effectively doubles during that week.
When to Visit
Choose the perfect time for your adventure.
Peak Season: Summer (June - August)
Pros
- Full UFO Festival experience
- All museums and attractions open late
- Water activities at Bottomless Lakes are refreshing
- Vibrant nightlife atmosphere
Cons
- Temperatures frequently exceed 100°F
- Hotel prices peak during festival weeks
- Crowds at major museums
- Afternoon thunderstorms can disrupt plans
Shoulder Season: Fall (September - October)
Pros
- Perfect hiking weather
- Chile roasting season offers great food
- Lower accommodation rates
- Beautiful desert sunsets
Cons
- Some summer-only events have ended
- Days get shorter quickly
- Water might be too cool for swimming
- Windy days are still possible
Off-Peak: Winter (November - February)
Pros
- Lowest hotel rates of the year
- Zero crowds at museums
- Crystal clear skies for astronomy
- Peaceful atmosphere
Cons
- Nights are below freezing
- Outdoor water activities are closed
- Limited hours for some attractions
- Vegetation is dormant and brown
Roswell is a town that embraces its eccentric identity with open arms. Whether you come for the mystery, the history, or the stark beauty of the New Mexico landscape, you will leave with a story to tell. Just remember to keep your eyes on the skies, you never know what you might see.
Sample Itineraries
The Classic Roswell Weekend
The quintessential first-timer's loop covering the major alien attractions, local history, and a touch of nature.
Day 1: Aliens and Artifacts
- Morning: Start your adventure at the International UFO Museum and Research Center on Main Street, spending about 2 hours exploring the exhibits for an entry fee of $5 per person. Afterward, walk two blocks to Stellar Coffee Co. for a mid-morning pastry and coffee break in a relaxed art-filled setting.
- Afternoon: Wander through the downtown gift shops to pick up alien souvenirs and visit the Alien Zone for hilarious photo ops with prop aliens, which costs roughly $5 to enter the photo area. Drive 10 minutes to the Roswell Museum and Art Center to see the Robert Goddard rocketry exhibit and southwestern art, with tickets costing around $10 for adults.
- Evening: Enjoy a hearty dinner at Cattle Baron, where a steak dinner for two will cost approximately $60 to $80 including drinks. End the night with a stroll down Main Street to see the glow of the alien-head streetlights which provide a unique atmospheric photo opportunity.
Day 2: Nature and Nourishment
- Morning: Drive 15 miles east of town to Bottomless Lakes State Park, paying the $5 vehicle entrance fee to hike the bluff trails or swim in Lea Lake if the weather is warm. Pack a light picnic or snacks to enjoy by the water while watching for migratory birds and enjoying the red rock scenery.
- Afternoon: Head back to town for a late lunch at Martin’s Capitol Café, ordering the green chile enchiladas for about $15 per person to taste authentic New Mexican heat. Visit the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art nearby to see an impressive collection of diverse works from the Artist-in-Residence program, which is free to enter.
- Evening: Wrap up your trip with a casual dinner at Big D’s Downtown Dive, where unique burgers and fries cost around $30 for two people. Before leaving, stop by the iconic spaceman mural on South Main Street for one final memorable photograph of your extraterrestrial journey.
Desert Skies & History Deep Dive
An extended itinerary for travelers who want to look beyond the kitsch and explore the aerospace history and natural beauty of the Pecos Valley.
Day 1: Aviation and Arts
- Morning: Begin at the Walker Aviation Museum located at the Roswell Air Center terminal to learn about the strategic military history of the area, with free admission. Spend the rest of the morning exploring the astonishing collection at the Roswell Museum and Art Center, focusing on the Peter Hurd and Henriette Wyeth wing.
- Afternoon: Grab a quick lunch at a local taco truck for about $20 total before heading to the Historical Society for Southeast New Mexico to tour the archives and Victorian-era home. Take a walking tour of the Historical District to admire the architecture that predates the 1947 incident.
- Evening: Dine at Peppers Grill and Bar for a mix of Mexican and American fare, budgeting around $45 for two. If available, attend a show at the Robert H. Goddard Planetarium to view the spectacular desert star field simulation for a small fee of $5.
Day 2: The Wild Pecos Valley
- Morning: drive about 10 miles northeast to the Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge, a serene spot for hiking and birdwatching that is free to enter. Spend the morning on the nature drives and observation decks looking for dragonflies and migratory waterfowl.
- Afternoon: Return to town for lunch at Cowboy Cafe, famous for comfort food like chicken fried steak costing about $15 per plate. Drive south to visit the Spring River Zoo and Park, a small, free, family-friendly zoo that focuses on native New Mexican animals and offers lovely walking paths.
- Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner at the Red Lobster or a local steakhouse, budgeting $70 for a nice meal. Afterward, drive a few miles out of the city limits to simply park and look up at the Milky Way, taking advantage of the low light pollution in the high desert.
Day 3: The Crash Site Lore
- Morning: Dedicate your final morning to the deep lore at the UFO Museum, taking your time to read the affidavits, which takes about 2 to 3 hours. Visit the gift shop to purchase books or documentaries to continue your research after the trip.
- Afternoon: Grab a classic burger and a shake at the spaceship-shaped McDonald’s for a novelty lunch costing about $20. Spend your final hours browsing the antique stores on Main Street, looking for vintage Americana or turquoise jewelry.
- Evening: Conclude your trip with a relaxed dinner at a local brewery or pub, spending around $40 for food and drinks. reflect on the mix of history and mystery that defines this unique corner of the American Southwest.
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