Our Favorite Things To Do in Roswell, New Mexico

When mentioning Roswell, New Mexico you inevitably think of aliens, right? Well, of course, there was the world-famous UFO sighting in 1947 but there’s also so much more! It’s a must-see town when passing through southern New Mexico and we hope you take the time to check out a few of our favorite places along the way! Whether you’re searching for things to do in Roswell, NM or looking for Roswell, New Mexico attractions, here are some highlights!

EMBRACE THE ALIEN PRESENCE

In the summer of 1947, the US Air Force sent out a press release stating they recovered a “flying disc” near a ranch in Roswell. This sparked all kinds of speculation and of course the only answer was extraterrestrial activity. Until 1994 when an explanation came out stating this was a spy device created for a special project by our own government. Lucky for us, Roswell has truly embraced being the epicenter of extraterrestrials in our country and has everything from alien-shaped lamp posts and a yearly UFO festival to a spaceship-shaped McDonald’s. Be sure to carve out some time to check out the International UFO Museum and Research Center where guests are encouraged to ask questions with all the information provided. The Roswell UFO Spacewalk allows you to feel like you’re the pilot of a spaceship and transports you to the world of these strange green men. Embracing the alien presence is just one of the many things to do around Roswell, NM.

LEARN ABOUT THE CULTURE AND ART

Roswell is a mecca of art and history. Formed at the confluence of three rivers Roswell was originally the home to Mescalero Apaches before 1869 when two adobe buildings were constructed by Van C. Smith. Since then, it has continued to grow with deep roots within the southwestern culture. Be sure to visit the Roswell Museum and Art Center which holds workshops, guided tours, a 96-seat planetarium and more! Children of all ages and adults alike can expand their knowledge of local history and take in a multitude of different art exhibits. Then be sure to check out the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art containing over 500 works from Roswell’s Artist-in-Residence program. Every year Roswell appoints an artist to spend a whole year creating pieces through their interpretation of the surrounding area, people, and philosophy. Additionally, there is a museum of miniatures, a museum of fossils as well as an aviation museum. This rich cultural scene is one of the standout Roswell, New Mexico attractions.

EXPLORE THE SURROUNDING LAND

The semi-arid climate means enjoying outdoor activities is possible year-round! Outdoor recreation in Roswell includes numerous golf courses, a zoo, wildlife refuges and many trails for hiking, biking, and ATV riding. Spring River Park and Zoo is New Mexico’s only free zoo and park featuring programs for little ones and brew at the zoo for adults. There are also lots of things to do around Roswell, NM. Just a bit outside of Roswell is New Mexico’s first State Park, Bottomless Lakes. It comprises of 9 very deep lakes from the Pecos River valley. You can enjoy non-motorized boating, hiking, scuba diving, fishing, birding, camping, and more. These activities are among the most recommended things to do around Roswell, NM. You’ll be unable to run out of family-friendly and pet-friendly outdoor things to do while in Roswell, NM.

This is a small glimpse into the bountiful options when visiting Roswell, NM. Make sure to indulge in the culinary scene serving authentic New Mexican and fusion dishes as well as the local wineries, Pecos Flavors and Brewery, Black Cock. If you have some extra time and are looking for a New Mexico River Adventure, check out our rafting, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding trips. We hope you find plenty of things to do in Roswell, NM and enjoy your time – just don’t get abducted!