Roswell isn’t just about aliens—it’s a full-on small-town scene where history, art, nature, and yes, extraterrestrials collide. Whether you’re a believer, a skeptic, or just a curious traveler, Roswell delivers a strange mix of the surreal and the sincere.
Where It Is and Why It Matters
Roswell was settled in the late 1860s at the junction of the Spring, Hondo, and Pecos rivers. It became the seat of Chaves County in 1889 and started growing rapidly when the railroad arrived in 1893. Sitting at an elevation of around 3,573 feet, it’s firmly planted in New Mexico’s high desert region—sun-soaked, dry, and sprawling.
The 1947 Incident and UFO Culture
Roswell’s claim to fame came in July 1947 when rancher W. W. “Mack” Brazel discovered strange debris on his property. The military first announced it had recovered a “flying disc,” only to quickly walk it back, blaming a weather balloon—now believed to be part of a secret project called Project Mogul.
The retraction only fueled rumors, and Roswell’s legend was born. Since then, it has become a magnet for conspiracy theorists, sci-fi fans, and road-trippers, especially during its annual UFO-themed festival that draws thousands every summer.
Things to See and Do
International UFO Museum and Research Center
Located in a repurposed theater downtown, this is the heart of Roswell’s alien lore. It features exhibits on the 1947 crash, alien theories, government coverups, and pop culture influences. The museum also has an archive and a gift shop packed with spacey souvenirs.
UFO Festival
Held every July, the UFO Festival is equal parts party and pilgrimage. Expect alien costumes, panel talks, themed food, live music, and crowds ranging from hardcore believers to families just along for the ride. It’s weird in the best way.
Roswell Museum and Art Center
Founded in 1936, this museum blends local history and art. Exhibits include Southwestern works, Native American artifacts, and a large display dedicated to rocketry pioneer Robert H. Goddard. There’s also an on-site planetarium that hosts regular shows.
Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art
This large and vibrant space showcases works from artists who have completed the Roswell Artist-in-Residence program. It covers everything from painting and sculpture to installation and experimental media, making it one of the most unexpectedly impressive stops in town.
Bottomless Lakes State Park and Bitter Lake Wildlife Refuge
Located about 12 miles east of Roswell, Bottomless Lakes State Park offers deep, clear sinkhole lakes perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or just soaking up the sun. Further northeast, Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a hotspot for birdwatchers and nature photographers, with trails and seasonal festivals celebrating its ecosystem.
Pecos River and the Iron Cross
A scenic river walk in Roswell leads to the Iron Cross Memorial, a small but powerful tribute built by German prisoners of war during World War II. It’s an often-overlooked piece of history worth the stop.
Roswell McDonald’s and UFO Spacewalk
Yes, even the McDonald’s in Roswell is alien-themed—complete with flying saucer architecture. Nearby, the UFO Spacewalk is a walk-through art installation using blacklight, cosmic murals, and funhouse vibes to give visitors a surreal alien encounter.
Walker Aviation Museum
Housed inside Roswell’s regional airport, this museum explores the city’s military aviation past, with exhibits on Walker Air Force Base, Cold War aircraft, and high-altitude testing. It’s small but dense with fascinating detail.
Local Flavor and Travel Tips
Roswell’s vibe is a strange mix of sincerity and self-awareness. The town knows it’s known for aliens, and it embraces that without letting it define everything. Locals are friendly, and the downtown area has a surprising number of galleries, events, and places to eat. If you catch a show by the Roswell Symphony Orchestra or one of the town’s small theaters, it adds a layer you won’t get from the tourist trail.
Plan to spend at least a full day—more if you’re into art, hiking, or deep-dive UFO lore. Staying downtown puts you within walking distance of most major attractions, including the UFO Museum, historic buildings, diners, and quirky shops.
