Small Town Series: Roswell, New Mexico

You probably know Roswell as the site of an alleged UFO crash in 1947. Although there are plenty of alien-themed things in Roswell, it is also a town full of art and culture - and completely worth a visit.

Here’s what you need to check out:

Hiking

Both Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge and Bottomless Lakes State Park are in close proximity to Roswell and make for perfect half-day outdoor trips. Like everything else in Roswell, Bottomless Lakes State Park is shrouded in mystery. Stories range from objects being thrown into the lakes only to wash up in the Gulf of Mexico to a giant turtle monster who patrols the bottom of the lake.

Of the nine lakes (or cenotes), Lake Lea is the only one that permits swimming and at a depth of 90 feet, it is a favorite among scuba divers. The park’s campgrounds are open from mid-May to Labor Day and accessible from $5 per day.

Arts & Culture

The Roswell Museum and Art Center tells the history of the American Southwest through a series of rotating exhibits and the planetarium that offers family-friendly programming and unique events throughout the year. Admission to the museum is free and donations are welcome.

Though I am not traditionally a fan of contemporary art, I would recommend checking out the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art which features work from former fellows of the Roswell Artist in Residence Program. Admission is free and the museum was recently named one of the best art museums in New Mexico.

Aliens

Everything in Roswell is alien themed from the lamp posts to the UFO-like McDonald’s but rather than being corny, it’s actually quite charming. The International UFO Museum & Research Center provides a storied history of the alleged crash of 1947 and alien culture throughout time.

Although there are a variety of shops with awesome alien gifts to take home to your loved ones, you have to check out Alien Zone. For $3 you can head to the back of the gift shop and check out an interactive alien exhibit complete with plenty of photo opportunities.

Safe travels,

V.