Roswell is a popular destination for travelers looking for an authentic Mexican experience. Located in the heart of Mexico’s Chihuahua Desert, the city offers visitors a unique range of activities and attractions to explore: from ancient ruins to modern art galleries and restaurants. The city’s annual festivals attract thousands of tourists each year with vibrant music and dancing at its core. Whether you’re interested in exploring the region’s culture or simply looking for some fun activities during your stay, Roswell has something for everyone!
Interactive Map of 25 Things to Do in Roswell (NM)
1. International UFO Museum and Research Center
The International UFO Museum and Research Center is a must-visit destination for any alien enthusiast. This museum has been around since 1991 and offers an impressive collection of artifacts related to the 1947 incident where a spacecraft supposedly crashed outside of town. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, watch documentary films, learn more about local legends, and browse through the gift shop filled with souvenirs. The museum also offers guided tours that take visitors deep into history as they explore various aspects of the crash site. With over 60 years’ worth of research material available to study, this is one stop you won’t want to miss!
2. Roswell Museum
For those interested in uncovering the historical, cultural and geological gems of Roswell state, a visit to the iconic Roswell Museum is an absolute must. Established in 1939, it houses over 300 artifacts from ancient pottery to modern artworks spread across two floors with interactive exhibits that provide visitors unique insights into life here through 500 photographs chronicling events dating back as far as 1867!
3. The Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art
The Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art from around the world. With over 5,000 pieces spanning four centuries, visitors can explore various mediums including painting, sculpture, photography and new media. The museum also offers interactive exhibits that allow guests to engage with the works on display as well as educational programs that provide insight into how various forms of art have evolved over time. Visitors will be delighted by the unique blend of art styles and themes presented throughout the galleries – ranging from traditional paintings to abstract sculptures to multimedia installations – making it one stop you won’t want to miss!
4. Roswell UFO Spacewalk
Immerse yourself in a galactic adventure at the Roswell UFO Spacewalk! Here you can don a spacesuit and experience an out-of-this-world simulation, as well explore craters on distant planets like never before. Plus, learn why other cultures from around the globe view UFOs with new insight thanks to more than 20 years of research available for study during your visit – it’s sure to be one space odyssey that won’t soon be forgotten! Available to study, this is one stop you won’t want to miss!
5. Pecos Flavors Winery + Bistro
Experience the finest award-winning vintages from around the world with a visit to Pecos Flavors Winery + Bistro. This family-owned local gem has been providing customers with premium wines since 1998 and offers an extensive variety of whites, reds, and beyond for your tasting pleasure. Enjoy savory meals crafted from fresh ingredients grown in their very own backyard on the outdoor patio or within their cozy bistro—promising memorable flavors any time you drop by!
6. Spring River Zoo
The Spring River Zoo is a small but well-maintained zoo that houses over 120 species of animals worldwide and offers visitors an up close and personal experience with nature. Visitors can explore habitats such as the African Savannah, South American Jungle, and Asian Rainforest, where they will find exotic creatures like lions, tigers, giraffes, jaguars, flamingos and more! The zoo also has special interactive programs that allow guests to get even closer to their favorite animals by feeding them or taking part in guided tours led by knowledgeable zookeepers.
7. Alien Zone
This attraction offers visitors the chance to explore a simulated alien landscape and learn more about extraterrestrial life. Visitors can take part in activities such as walking through a replica of an alien spacecraft or exploring interactive exhibits that feature artifacts from UFO sightings around the world. The facility also features a 3D movie theater where guests can watch films related to outer space exploration and beyond. With its immersive environment and educational opportunities, Alien Zone is sure to be one stop you won’t want to miss while visiting Roswell!
8. J. Kenneth Smith Bird Sanctuary and Nature Center
The J. Kenneth Smith Bird Sanctuary and Nature Center offers an expansive outdoor experience – with over 200 acres to explore, featuring a diverse array of habitats such as wetlands, meadows and woodlands! Visitors can take in the breathtaking sights of native avian species like hawks, owls, eagles or songbirds while traversing on foot or by bike; for those eager to learn more about bird watching there are educational programs available for both adults & children alike that cover topics from identification techniques all the way through conservation efforts – don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity!
9. Historical Society For Southeast New Mexico
Experience the vibrant history of southeastern New Mexico and discover a wealth of historical artifacts at The Historical Society For Southeast New Mexico. Established in 1932, this non-profit organization dedicates itself to preserving and celebrating local heritage through educational activities such as its research library with 15,000 volumes related to regional topics or museum featuring rare objects from Native American pottery to Civil War relics that date back centuries. Visit today for an immersive journey into Southern culture!
10. Miniatures And Curious Collections Museum
Discover the captivating world of miniatures and curious collections at Roswell’s Miniatures And Curious Collections Museum. Home to over 1,000 pieces from around the globe – ranging from sculptures to dioramas – there is something here for everyone! Marvel at iconic replicas like The Eiffel Tower or explore one-of-a-kind works such as Mona Lisa in breathtaking detail. Moreover, interactive exhibits delve into their fascinating histories so you can get a closer look at these intriguing miniature masterpieces!
11. Walker Aviation Museum
Founded in 1962, Walker Aviation Museum features an extensive collection of aircraft from all over the world that span different eras, such as World War I and II or the Cold War. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits that feature vintage planes like the F4U Corsair or learn more about famous aviators like Amelia Earhart. The museum also houses an impressive library with over 7,000 volumes related to aeronautics and astronomy topics. With its wealth of information available year-round, the Walker Aviation Museum is sure to be one stop you won’t want to miss while visiting Roswell!
12. Hangar 209
Hangar 209 is a souvenir store like no other – while shoppers peruse the unique “Roswell Experience” items, they can enjoy free coffee and excellent customer service. Visitors can get anything from an awesome selection of UFO-themed jerkies, shirts, and books to funny stickers, magnets and other unique items.
The whole shop is dedicated to the mysterious crash back in 1947 and conspiracy theories about the secret event. So be sure to pay a visit and chit-chat with the owners to find out interesting details and facts about aliens visiting Roswell.
13. Spaceport Roswell
This state-of-the-art facility offers visitors an opportunity to explore its vast collection of space crafts and other related artifacts from around the world. The spaceport boasts over 50 active launches per year, with a more than 90% success rate since it opened in 1995. It also houses a library that contains thousands of volumes related to aerospace topics that provide guests with additional insight into this fascinating field. With its wealth of information available year-round and its impressive array of spacecraft ready for launch, Spaceport Roswell is sure to be one stop you won’t want to miss while visiting Roswell!
14. Bottomless Lakes State Park
Situated on the eastern edge of the Chihuahuan Desert, this park boasts nine pristine lakes formed by underground springs and sinkholes. These unique bodies of water range from depths of 10 to 90 feet and are home to various species of fish, such as bass, catfish, and sunfish. Visitors can explore over 9 miles of hiking trails or take a leisurely stroll along one of the many scenic overlooks located around the lake beds. With its tranquil beauty year-round, Bottomless Lakes State Park is sure to be one stop you won’t want to miss while visiting Roswell!
15. Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge spans over 40,000 acres of pristine wetlands and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including various species of birds, mammals, and reptiles. Visitors can explore the refuge’s extensive network of trails ranging from easy walks along boardwalks to more challenging hikes through its diverse ecosystems. With its wealth of flora and fauna year-round, Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge is sure to be one stop you won’t want to miss while visiting Roswell!
16. Roswell German POW Iron Cross
Roswell’s Iron Cross stands tall as a reminder of the 5,000 German prisoners who were detained at Camp Roswell during WWII. This impressive monument is an evocative tribute to those brave individuals whose sacrifices secured America’s freedom and serves today as both a source of remembrance for its historical significance and encouragement in honoring their legacies. Inscribed on its steel frame with bronze plaque lies Pope Pius XII’s message that continues to be inspiring generations past and present alike.
17. Robert H Goddard Planetarium
The Robert H Goddard Planetarium offers visitors an opportunity to explore the universe through its impressive collection of artifacts and interactive exhibits. The planetarium houses over 100 displays featuring information about the solar system, galaxies, planets, stars, asteroids and comets. Guests can also take part in engaging activities such as stargazing sessions using powerful telescopes or observe live demonstrations presented by knowledgeable staff members.
18. Mescalero Sands North Dune OHV Area
Mescalero Sands North Dune OHV Area is an off-roading paradise for outdoor adventurers looking for a thrilling ride. Spanning over 2,400 acres of terrain and situated at the base of the majestic Sierra Blanca Mountains, this area offers visitors access to miles of trails with rolling dunes and spectacular views. The terrain varies from flat sandy areas to rocky hillsides perfect for ATVs or dirt bikes.
19. Enchanted Lands Park Playground
Take the little ones to Enchanted Lands Park Playground for an unforgettable adventure! Spanning 10 acres, this playground boasts thrilling activities such as zip lines and rope bridges alongside interactive attractions. Kids can frolic in a giant sandbox with two giant sand castles or cool off at the fun-filled splash pad featuring multiple water jets on those hot summer days!
20. Roswell Christmas Railway
This festive railway offers visitors a unique holiday experience with its vintage locomotives and charming carriages decorated for the season. The train departs from the old depot in downtown Roswell and travels along a scenic route that winds through picturesque countryside and past quaint villages. Along its two-hour journey, passengers can enjoy hot chocolate and cookies while listening to classic holiday tunes on board or take in the breathtaking views of snowcapped mountains, lush forests, and rolling hillsides as they pass by.
21. Cheap Skates
With over 25,000 square feet of skating space, the rink offers plenty of room to practice your moves or just glide around the floor with friends. The facility also features an arcade area, snack bar and even a rock climbing wall for those who want to add an extra challenge! Cheap Skates also hosts regular family-friendly events such as Roller Disco Night and Glow Skate Party that draw large crowds every week. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out or just some time on the rink with loved ones, Cheap Skates in Roswell has something for everyone!
22. Eastern New Mexico State Fair
The Eastern New Mexico State Fair is a popular annual event that draws thousands of people from all over the state. Held each year at the Chaves County Fairgrounds since 1947, this family-friendly celebration features carnival rides and games for all ages, as well as live music, food vendors and a variety of contests. With its mix of traditional fun activities combined with modern attractions such as virtual reality experiences and laser tag arenas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the Eastern New Mexico State Fair! Last year’s fair saw more than 60,000 visitors come through the gates over its 8 day run.
23. Pioneer Plaza
Pioneer Plaza covers sprawling 5 acres and features numerous attractions such as a large amphitheater, interactive fountains, walking paths and several sculptures that pay homage to local history. With its mix of traditional fun activities combined with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi access throughout the area, Pioneer Plaza offers something for everyone! On any given day you can find people playing chess on giant boards or lounging by one of the many benches located around the park while taking in views of nearby mountains and lush greenery.
24. BrickTown: Alien Attack
BrickTown: Alien Attack in Roswell, NM, is an exciting and unique attraction that offers visitors a chance to experience the thrill of battling aliens in a simulated environment. This one-of-a-kind interactive game takes place inside an expansive 3,000 square foot facility that features numerous obstacles and challenges for players to overcome. Players can choose from three levels of difficulty as they battle their way through hordes of alien invaders using laser guns and other weapons. With its state-of-the-art technology, BrickTown: Alien Attack provides hours of fun for everyone, from kids to adults! Moreover, the game also has statistics such as accuracy rating and highest score displayed on large screens throughout the venue – making it even more exciting for participants.
25. Roswell Welcome Sign
Roswell Welcome Sign stands at an impressive 28 feet tall and features an eye-catching design with bright neon lights spelling out “Welcome to Roswell”. It has been delighting passersby since its installation in 1999 and has become a symbol of the city’s vibrant spirit. Moreover, it was built with sustainable materials such as recycled steel and solar-powered LED lights – making it both visually stunning and environmentally conscious. Not only does this iconic sign greet everyone who enters the city, but it also serves as a reminder to cherish our planet while enjoying all that Roswell has to offer!