What Are The Top Attractions For Roswell NM Tourism?

Roswell Nm Tourism is booming, and SIXT.VN is here to guide you through the best attractions and plan a trip that fits your interests and schedule. Explore the unique blend of extraterrestrial allure and southwestern charm that Roswell has to offer with expert advice. From museums to outdoor adventures, discover the wonders of this New Mexican gem. We provide comprehensive travel solutions, including airport transfers, hotel reservations, tours, and air ticket bookings, all designed to make your adventure smooth and memorable.

1. Uncover the Mystery at the International UFO Museum and Research Center

Is the truth really out there? The International UFO Museum and Research Center is a must-visit for anyone interested in the Roswell Incident and UFO phenomena. This museum, opened in 1992, has become an international attraction, drawing tourists and UFO enthusiasts alike. The museum encourages visitors to question, research, and learn independently, presenting information about alleged abductions, crop circles, and the infamous Blue Book.

Alt: Interior view of the International UFO Museum and Research Center in Roswell, NM, showcasing exhibits on the Roswell Incident and UFO phenomena.

Unique Sightseeing Experience: Consider taking one of the many Roswell UFO tours led by local groups. These tours often visit notorious sites such as Building 84 at the Roswell Army Air Field, believed by many to have once housed the remains of the downed UFO and its occupants.

Address: 114 N Main Street, Roswell, New Mexico

Official site: www.roswellufomuseum.com

2. Explore Other Alien-Themed Attractions

Roswell embraces its extraterrestrial fame, offering several quirky attractions for tourists.

2.1. UFO Spacewalk

The UFO Spacewalk is a popular attraction located near the UFO Museum. Created by Bryan Ward, this trippy blacklight experience immerses visitors in another world.

Beamed Up: Upon entering, you’re “beamed up by an alien spaceship” (in Ward’s words) to another planet. Here, you encounter extraterrestrial creatures, galaxies, and special effects before exiting into a gallery filled with Ward’s neon-hued, space art. A small fee is required to enter.

2.2. Alien Zone: Area 51

Located on Main Street downtown, the Alien Zone: Area 51 is a hit for social media enthusiasts.

Photo Opportunities: For a small admission fee, you can take photos with aliens dining or riding motorcycles, creating memorable and fun moments.

2.3. Iconic Signs Around Town

Don’t miss the photo opportunities at Roswell’s welcome signs. The north side sign is the most iconic, featuring a large neon green design with red letters and a flying saucer perched on top.

Alt: Neon green welcome sign to Roswell, NM, adorned with a flying saucer, symbolizing the city’s extraterrestrial theme.

South Side Sign: Sponsored by the Roswell Chamber of Commerce, the sign on the south side features an extraterrestrial family receiving a jumpstart for their spaceship from a local farmer.

2.4. McDonald’s Unique Design

A visit to the town McDonald’s is a must. The kid’s play area is shaped like a flying saucer and lit up with neon lights at night. This is the only space-themed McDonald’s in the world.

3. Immerse Yourself in Art and History at the Roswell Museum and Art Center

Looking for attractions beyond UFOs? Featuring exhibits on the history and art traditions of the American Southwest, the Roswell Museum and Art Center hosts a fine array of sculptures, artifacts, prints, paintings, and photographs.

Alt: Exterior of the Roswell Museum and Art Center, showcasing its architectural design and highlighting its role in preserving art and history of the American Southwest.

Diverse Collections: Originally a product of the New Deal Work Projects Administration (WPA), the museum’s collection includes works from early modernists, the Taos and Santa Fe art colonies, Native American arts, WPA art, and Spanish colonial works.

Historical Exhibits: The museum also houses interesting historical collections, including artifacts and exhibits exploring the history of the American West.

3.1. Robert H. Goddard Planetarium

The 120-seat Robert H Goddard Planetarium is an adjoining wing to the Roswell Museum and Art Center.

Star Shows and Programs: The Planetarium presents star shows and multimedia programs, including UFO exhibitions and science programs for children.

Address: 100 W 11th Street, Roswell, New Mexico

Official site: www.roswellmuseum.org

4. Relax at Bottomless Lakes State Park

When you’ve had your fill of UFOs, move on to Roswell’s best natural attractions. The series of nine small but very deep, blueish-green lakes that make up Bottomless Lakes State Park offer plenty of things to do. This park is especially well-known for its scuba diving opportunities.

Alt: Scenic view of Bottomless Lakes State Park in Roswell, NM, highlighting the unique blue-green lakes and surrounding natural landscape.

Cenotes: These lakes are actually sinkholes, also known as cenotes, formed from ancient limestone caves that have collapsed and filled with water from underground seeps.

4.1. Lake Lea for Swimming and Scuba Diving

Lake Lea is the only body of water here that allows swimming. The water is cold but refreshing on a hot summer day.

Scuba Diving: Lake Lea is the deepest of the lakes, with depths up to 90 feet, and is one of the few places in this landlocked state where you can go scuba diving. Divers can check out endangered fish species and the large group of springs that feed this cenote.

Other Activities: Non-motorized boating is also permitted on the lake. The sandy beach is popular with sunbathers. Other activities include fishing, hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and a 3.3-mile mountain bike trail. The park campgrounds are open between mid-May and Labor Day for those wanting to pitch a tent.

Address: 545 Bottomless Lakes Road, Roswell, New Mexico

Official site: http://www.emnrd.state.nm.us/SPD/bottomlesslakesstatepark.html

5. Appreciate Art at the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art

With more than 200 pieces of art spread over nine galleries, the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art features the work of participants from the Roswell Artist-in-Residence Program, which began in 1967.

Alt: Exterior view of the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art in Roswell, NM, showcasing its modern architecture and art collections.

Diverse Collection: The museum’s collection has over 500 pieces and is a diverse and eclectic one, featuring photographs, drawings, prints, paintings, and sculptures. It offers an excellent opportunity to see the evolution of contemporary art over the last 45 years. Works of art in various mediums are spread out over 12 galleries in 22,000 square feet of exhibition space.

Address: 409 E. College Blvd, Roswell, New Mexico

Official site: roswellamoca.org

6. Discover Nature at Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Just outside Roswell lies one of New Mexico’s most unique and rare ecosystems. A mash-up of the Chihuahua desert, shortgrass prairie, and the Pecos River combine to provide a year-round supply of water that attracts a diverse array of animals.

Alt: A dragonfly perched on a plant at the Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge, highlighting the area’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty.

Bird Watching: Over 350 species of birds call the Bitter Lake area their home, drawing birders from across the country and around the world.

Odonates: The refuge is also a hotspot for over 100 species of dragonflies and damselflies, also known as odonates.

Diverse Topography: The area away from Bitter Lake is a fascinating topography of sinkholes, sand dunes, plateaus, and marshy areas.

Wildlife: Throughout the refuge, you’ll find 59 species of mammals, 20 duck species, and 24 different kinds of fish. Keep an eye out for one of the 50 species of reptiles and amphibians sunning themselves on a log or rock.

Hiking Trails: The best way to experience the refuge is to take one of the three walking trails or one of the two longer hiking trails. Most of the trails leave from the scenic eight-mile-long Wildlife Drive that starts from the main visitor center.

Official site: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Bitter_Lake/

7. Learn Military History at the McBride Museum

Named for General Douglas L. McBride, the McBride Museum includes exhibits about military history and the history of the New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI). The museum is also home to the NMMI Hall of Fame, which recognizes the institution’s most accomplished alumni.

Collections: Collections include examples of firearms, uniforms, insignia, decorations, and other historic items, as well as exhibits that further explain relevant topics. The museum is located in Luna Hall on the NMMI campus and is open to the public at no charge.

Address: 101 W College Blvd, Roswell, New Mexico

Official site: https://www.nmmi.edu/mcbride-museum/

8. Step Back in Time at the Historical Center for Southeast New Mexico

This institution is located in the century-old home of Mr. and Mrs. James Phelps White, one of the most important families in the history of southwestern New Mexico. The house has been restored to its original condition and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Insight into History: This museum offers a valuable insight into life on the southern prairies in days gone by. A new building, located right next door to the museum, hosts a priceless collection of historical archives, including 11,000 photographs.

Address: 200 N Lea Ave, Roswell, New Mexico

Official site: www.roswellnmhistory.org

9. Enjoy Family Fun at the Spring River Park and Zoo

Covering about 34 acres, the Spring River Park encompasses several habitats, a children’s zoo, a miniature train, an antique wooden horse carousel, and a trail system that features native species.

Alt: A family enjoying a visit to the Spring River Park and Zoo, highlighting the various animal exhibits and recreational activities available.

Capitan Trail: The Capitan Trail educates visitors about the Pecos River system, native wildlife, and the southern Great Plains ecosystem, including prairie dogs and burrowing owls.

Children’s Zoo: The children’s zoo has a variety of animals, including lemurs, miniature horses, and pygmy goats. The zoo’s ranch area includes miniature horses and Texas Longhorn cattle, while South American llamas graze around the perimeter.

Address: 1306 E College Blvd, Roswell, New Mexico

Official site: https://roswell-nm.gov/1382/About-the-Zoo

10. Stroll Through the Roswell Historic District

The Historical Society for Southeast New Mexico offers a free walking tour brochure that leads visitors past some of the city’s most remarkable historic homes.

Alt: Architectural detail of the Chaves County Courthouse in Roswell, NM, showcasing its Neoclassical design and historical significance.

Architectural Diversity: Roswell’s oldest homes represent a surprisingly diverse range of architectural styles, including Hipped Box, Queen Anne, Tudor, Colonial Revival, Italianate, Mission Revival, and Spanish Pueblo Revival.

Significant Buildings: Roswell is also home to some architecturally significant public buildings like the Gothic revival First Presbyterian Church. The Neoclassical Chaves County Courthouse on Main Street opened in 1911 and is known for its green tiled dome and tile floors, enormous entry doors, and decorative plasterwork. The New Mexico Military Institute is also an impressive site, designed in Military Gothic style with crenelated parapets and decorative brick designs.

Official site: www.roswell-usa.com/historic

11. Explore Aviation History at the Walker Aviation Museum

Located in a wing of the Roswell International Airport, the Walker Aviation Museum is a fun place to visit while waiting for a flight or heading to your hotel.

Focus on Walker Air Force Base: The museum’s exhibits focus on the role of Walker Air Force Base as an arm of the Strategic Air Command during the Cold War between 1945 and 1955 while the base was active.

Collections: Although small in size, the museum is packed with interesting artifacts and information. Collections include an extensive number of model military aircraft, a flight jacket, and an array of WWII-era firearms, including Japanese rifles and bayonets, as well as German and Russian weapons.

Exhibits: Other exhibits feature flight and communications equipment, uniforms, videos, and documents. There are also displays that focus on daily life at the Roswell Air Base, featuring mementos like movie ticket stubs and other memorabilia from the 1940s and 1950s.

Address: 1 Jerry Smith Circle, Roswell, New Mexico

Official site: www.wafbmuseum.org

12. Planning Your Trip to Roswell: Weather and Climate

Understanding Roswell’s climate can help you plan the best time to visit.

13. Essential Travel Services for Exploring Roswell NM Tourism with SIXT.VN

Planning a trip to Roswell, New Mexico, can be an exciting adventure, but organizing all the details can be challenging. That’s where SIXT.VN comes in, offering a range of essential travel services to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

13.1. Tailored Travel Itineraries

SIXT.VN provides personalized travel itineraries to match your interests and schedule. Whether you’re passionate about UFOs, art, history, or outdoor adventures, we can create a plan that maximizes your time in Roswell.

13.2. Airport Transfers

Start your trip stress-free with SIXT.VN’s reliable airport transfer service. We offer convenient and comfortable transportation from Roswell International Air Center to your hotel, ensuring you arrive relaxed and ready to explore.

13.3. Hotel Booking Assistance

Finding the perfect accommodation is easy with SIXT.VN. We offer a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference, from cozy motels to luxurious hotels, all conveniently located near Roswell’s top attractions.

13.4. Tour and Attraction Tickets

Skip the lines and make the most of your visit by booking tours and attraction tickets through SIXT.VN. We provide access to the best experiences in Roswell, including UFO tours, museum visits, and outdoor activities.

13.5. Air Ticket Booking

SIXT.VN simplifies air travel by offering competitive prices and flexible booking options. Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, we can help you find the best flights to Roswell.

13.6. Comprehensive Tour Packages

For a hassle-free experience, consider SIXT.VN’s comprehensive tour packages. These packages include everything from accommodation and transportation to guided tours and activities, allowing you to relax and enjoy your trip to the fullest.

14. Benefits of Using SIXT.VN for Your Roswell Trip

Choosing SIXT.VN for your travel needs offers several advantages that can significantly enhance your vacation experience.

14.1. Convenience and Speed

SIXT.VN provides a one-stop solution for all your travel needs, saving you time and effort. Our user-friendly platform allows you to book flights, hotels, tours, and transportation quickly and easily.

14.2. Reliability and Trust

With SIXT.VN, you can trust that your travel arrangements are in good hands. We partner with reputable service providers to ensure high-quality and reliable services.

14.3. Dedicated Support

Our dedicated support team is available to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. Whether you need help with booking, itinerary planning, or any other aspect of your trip, we’re here to provide prompt and helpful assistance.

14.4. Cost-Effectiveness

SIXT.VN offers competitive prices and exclusive deals on flights, hotels, and tours. We help you save money without compromising on quality or convenience.

14.5. Personalized Experience

We understand that every traveler is unique, which is why we offer personalized travel solutions tailored to your individual preferences and needs.

15. Addressing Common Travel Challenges with SIXT.VN

Traveling to a new destination like Roswell can present certain challenges, but SIXT.VN is equipped to help you overcome them.

15.1. Language Barriers

Communication can be a challenge for international visitors. SIXT.VN offers multilingual support to ensure smooth communication and understanding throughout your trip.

15.2. Cultural Differences

Navigating cultural differences can be daunting. SIXT.VN provides cultural insights and tips to help you respect local customs and traditions.

15.3. Transportation Difficulties

Getting around a new city can be confusing. SIXT.VN offers reliable transportation options, including airport transfers and car rentals, to help you explore Roswell with ease.

15.4. Accommodation Concerns

Finding safe and comfortable accommodation is crucial. SIXT.VN offers a curated selection of hotels and other lodging options that meet our high standards for quality and safety.

16. How to Book Your Roswell Adventure with SIXT.VN: A Step-by-Step Guide

Planning your trip to Roswell with SIXT.VN is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to book your adventure:

16.1. Visit the SIXT.VN Website

Start by visiting the SIXT.VN website. Our homepage provides easy access to all our travel services.

16.2. Select Your Desired Services

Choose the services you need, such as flights, hotels, tours, or transportation. You can select multiple services to create a comprehensive travel package.

16.3. Enter Your Travel Details

Provide your travel dates, destination (Roswell, New Mexico), and any other relevant information.

16.4. Browse Available Options

Review the available options and compare prices, amenities, and reviews.

16.5. Make Your Selections

Select the flights, hotels, tours, and transportation options that best fit your needs and budget.

16.6. Review Your Booking

Carefully review your booking details to ensure everything is accurate.

16.7. Confirm and Pay

Confirm your booking and proceed to payment. SIXT.VN accepts various payment methods for your convenience.

16.8. Receive Confirmation

Once your payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation email with all the details of your booking.

17. Top Travel Tips for Visiting Roswell, New Mexico

To make your trip to Roswell even more enjoyable, consider these helpful travel tips:

17.1. Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Roswell is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and pleasant.

17.2. What to Pack

Pack comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for outdoor activities. If you plan to visit in the winter, bring warm layers.

17.3. Local Transportation

Consider renting a car to explore Roswell and its surrounding attractions. Alternatively, use ride-sharing services or taxis.

17.4. Dining Options

Roswell offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants. Be sure to try local Southwestern cuisine.

17.5. Stay Hydrated

Roswell’s desert climate can be dry, so drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

17.6. Respect Local Culture

Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting Native American sites.

18. What to Expect: Entry Procedures and Local Transportation in Roswell

Navigating a new city requires knowledge of entry procedures and local transportation. Here’s what you need to know about Roswell.

18.1. Entry Procedures

Visa Requirements

Ensure that you have the necessary visa to enter the United States. Check the U.S. Department of State website for the most up-to-date information.

Customs and Immigration

Upon arrival at Roswell International Air Center, you will need to go through customs and immigration. Have your passport and visa ready for inspection.

18.2. Local Transportation

Car Rental

Renting a car is a popular option for exploring Roswell and its surrounding areas. Several car rental agencies are available at the airport.

Ride-Sharing Services

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in Roswell, providing convenient transportation options.

Taxis

Taxis are available at the airport and throughout the city.

Public Transportation

Roswell has a limited public transportation system. Check local schedules for routes and times.

19. Top 5 Search Intentions For Roswell NM Tourism

Understanding what people search for when planning a trip to Roswell can help tailor your itinerary. Here are the top five search intentions for “Roswell NM Tourism”:

1. Attractions: Users want to know the must-see attractions in Roswell.
2. Accommodation: Visitors are looking for hotels and places to stay.
3. UFO Experiences: People are interested in UFO-related activities and museums.
4. Outdoor Activities: Tourists seek outdoor adventures like hiking and exploring parks.
5. Travel Planning: Users need information on how to plan their trip, including transportation and itineraries.

20. FAQs About Roswell NM Tourism

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip to Roswell:

20.1. What is Roswell known for?

Roswell is best known for the “Roswell Incident,” an alleged UFO crash in 1947.

20.2. Is Roswell worth visiting?

Yes, Roswell offers a unique blend of extraterrestrial attractions, art, history, and outdoor activities.

20.3. What are the top attractions in Roswell?

Top attractions include the International UFO Museum and Research Center, Bottomless Lakes State Park, and the Roswell Museum and Art Center.

20.4. When is the best time to visit Roswell?

The spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather for visiting Roswell.

20.5. How can I get around in Roswell?

Renting a car is the most convenient way to get around, but ride-sharing services and taxis are also available.

20.6. Are there any good hiking trails near Roswell?

Yes, Bottomless Lakes State Park and Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge offer excellent hiking trails.

20.7. What kind of food should I try in Roswell?

Try local Southwestern cuisine, which features dishes like enchiladas, tacos, and green chile stew.

20.8. Are there any family-friendly activities in Roswell?

Yes, the Spring River Park and Zoo and the Robert H. Goddard Planetarium are great for families.

20.9. What should I pack for a trip to Roswell?

Pack comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for outdoor activities.

20.10. How far is Roswell from other major cities?

Roswell is approximately 200 miles from El Paso, Texas, and 200 miles from Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Don’t let the challenges of planning a trip hold you back. SIXT.VN offers tailored itineraries, reliable airport transfers, hotel booking assistance, and comprehensive tour packages. We address language barriers, cultural differences, and transportation difficulties, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Ready to explore the mysteries and wonders of Roswell, New Mexico? Contact SIXT.VN today to start planning your unforgettable adventure!

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