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Roswell, New Mexico, best known for that otherworldly crash in 1947, is a quirky town which is much more than just a UFO hotspot.Nestled in the high desert, Roswell surprises visitors with a mix of mystery, art, nature, and small-town charm. Whether you’re a believer in aliens or just curious about what lies beyond the obvious, there are various things to do in Roswell. From rocket science to red rock trails, every corner has a story.
Top 9 Things To Do In Rosewell NM
Here are the best things to do in Rosewell NM, offering the best experiences during this amazing trip to this unique destination:
1. Explore The International UFO Museum And Research Center
Photo: J Dykstra / Wikimedia Commons
Delve into the mysteries of the infamous 1947 Roswell Incident at the International UFO Museum and Research Center. Located in the heart of downtown Roswell, this museum invites visitors to explore the world of UFOs, extraterrestrials, and government cover-ups. With detailed exhibits featuring real photographs, first-hand accounts, declassified documents, and life-size alien models, it’s a thought-provoking experience. The museum also houses an extensive research library where guests can dive deeper into decades of alien lore and sightings. Families and solo travellers will find the interactive displays engaging and entertaining.
Location: 114 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88203
Highlights: 1947 Roswell Incident exhibits, life-size alien models, extensive UFO research library
2. Visit The Roswell Museum And Art Center
Photo: Myotus / Wikimedia Commons
Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural and artistic legacy of the Southwest at the Roswell Museum and Art Center. Originally opened in 1936, the museum features twelve distinct galleries filled with everything from Native American artifacts to masterpieces from the Taos and Santa Fe art colonies. A major highlight is the exhibit dedicated to Dr. Robert Goddard, a rocket pioneer who conducted groundbreaking experiments in Roswell. The recreated workshop and rocket models give fascinating insights into his legacy. Attached to the museum is the Robert H. Goddard Planetarium, where visitors can enjoy immersive, full-dome astronomy presentations that bring the cosmos to life in vivid detail.
Location: 1011 N Richardson Ave, Roswell, NM 88201
Highlights: Southwestern art collections, Dr. Goddard’s rocket exhibits, full-dome planetarium shows
3. Discover Contemporary Art At The Anderson Museum
Photo: Myotus / Wikimedia Commons
Art lovers should make time to visit the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art, one of Roswell’s cultural gems. It houses more than 500 pieces created by alumni of the Roswell Artist-in-Residence Program (RAiR). The museum features twelve expansive galleries covering 22,000 square feet, filled with an eclectic range of contemporary paintings, photography, mixed-media, and sculpture. Each exhibit reflects the evolving artistic styles and cultural narratives of the American Southwest and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned art critic or a casual visitor, the collection’s energy and originality are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Location: 409 E College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201
Highlights: Rotating contemporary art exhibits, works by RAiR artists, diverse artistic mediums
4. Stroll Through Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Photo: markbyzewski / Wikimedia Commons
Reconnect with nature at Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge, a biodiversity hotspot located just outside Roswell. Spread across more than 24,000 acres, the refuge is a fascinating intersection of desert, wetland, and prairie ecosystems. It’s home to hundreds of wildlife species, including over 350 varieties of birds such as sandhill cranes, snow geese, and colourful dragonflies. Visitors can enjoy scenic walking and biking trails, observation decks, and interpretive signs that offer insights into the refuge’s unique environment. Ideal for nature photography, birdwatching, and peaceful walks, this refuge is also part of the Central Flyway for migrating birds.
Location: 4200 E Pine Lodge Rd, Roswell, NM 88201
Highlights: Birdwatching opportunities, diverse ecosystems, scenic hiking trails
5. Unwind At Bottomless Lakes State Park
Photo: Stephen Hanafin / Wikimedia Commons
Soak in natural beauty and recreation at Bottomless Lakes State Park, just a short drive from Roswell. This stunning area features nine vividly blue, spring-fed lakes nestled in sinkholes, with depths ranging from 17 to 90 feet. The water clarity and surrounding cliffs make it perfect for kayaking, swimming, and paddleboarding. Land-based activities include scenic hiking and biking trails, along with ample picnic spots and campgrounds for overnight stays. The park is known for its striking desert-meets-water landscape and fascinating geology.
Location: 545A Bottomless Lakes Rd, Roswell, NM 88201
Highlights: Recreational water activities, scenic hiking trails, camping facilities
6. Savour Local Flavours At Pecos Flavors Winery + Bistro
Photo: neshom / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Treat your taste buds to the best of New Mexico at Pecos Flavors Winery + Bistro. This charming venue offers a rustic yet elegant ambiance where visitors can sample a variety of award-winning local wines, from bold reds to crisp whites. The bistro serves up delicious meals like gourmet pizzas, charcuterie boards, and seafood dishes, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients. More than just a place to eat and drink, Pecos Flavors regularly hosts community events including live music nights, wine-and-paint sessions, and local art showcases.
Location: 412 W 2nd St, Roswell, NM 88201
Highlights: Local wine selections, gourmet bistro menu, cultural events
7. Experience The Roswell UFO Spacewalk
Photo: PhotoVision / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Embark on a surreal and otherworldly adventure at the Roswell UFO Spacewalk, one of the city’s most creative and visually captivating attractions. This interactive blacklight exhibit guides visitors through a series of imaginative, space-themed rooms filled with glowing murals, eerie lighting effects, and otherworldly soundscapes. The journey simulates a walk through an alien world, complete with animatronics and a cosmic atmosphere that feels straight out of a sci-fi movie. A unique space-themed art gallery is also part of the experience, showcasing local artists inspired by the universe.
Location: 116 E 2nd St, Roswell, NM 88201
Highlights: Interactive blacklight exhibits, space-themed art, family-friendly entertainment
8. Reflect At The J. Kenneth Smith Bird Sanctuary & Nature Center
Photo: GuentherDillingen / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Find peace and a closer connection to nature at the J. Kenneth Smith Bird Sanctuary & Nature Center, nestled alongside the serene Spring River. This urban oasis provides a quiet retreat from the city, with shaded walking trails, gentle streams, and peaceful picnic areas. The sanctuary serves as a vital refuge for migratory birds, making it a hotspot for birdwatching enthusiasts. Interpretive signage along the trails educates visitors about the area’s diverse ecosystems, flora, and fauna.
Location: 401 N Sycamore Ave, Roswell, NM 88201
Highlights: Birdwatching, shaded walking paths, educational displays
9. Catch A Performance At The Roswell Symphony Orchestra
Photo: Ministerio de Cultura de la Nación / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Enhance your cultural experience in Roswell with a visit to the Roswell Symphony Orchestra, a long-standing institution that has been enchanting audiences since 1959. The orchestra delivers a range of performances throughout the year, from powerful classical compositions by Beethoven and Mozart to family-friendly seasonal shows and movie-themed concerts. Performances are typically held at the Pearson Auditorium, offering excellent acoustics and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Each concert is a celebration of music and community, drawing both locals and tourists.
Location: 1401 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201 (Pearson Auditorium)
Highlights: Live orchestral performances, classical and modern repertoire, local arts community
While aliens and UFOs might lure you to Roswell, it’s the unexpected blend of culture, nature, and creativity that makes you stay a little longer. This desert town invites you to look beyond the conspiracy theories and explore an authentic slice of the American Southwest. Where else can you stargaze at a planetarium, kayak in a bottomless lake, and pose with a neon green alien all in one day? These things to do in Roswell NM render you experiences that’s truly out of the ordinary. Plan your trip today to Roswell with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Carrie Qualters / Wikimedia Commons
