Roswell, New Mexico may be the universe’s most famous small city. That’s mostly due to a certain crash that may or may not have been out of this world. Truth be told, aliens are only part of the picture in Roswell. There are worlds of adventure, history and new experiences just waiting to be explored.

Whether you’re flying nonstop from Dallas, or taking a road trip, Roswell is easily accessible from Texas. And with reasonably priced hotel rooms, bed and breakfasts, RV facilities and vacation rental options, it’s an affordable adventure for any family’s budget.

Scenic landscapes in Roswell reconnect visitors with nature.Photo courtesy of City of Roswell

Visitors can experience the pristine wilderness of Bottomless Lakes and Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Take a day trip to White Sands National Park or Carlsbad Caverns National Park for unforgettable sights you won’t encounter anywhere else. Or get out and play a few rounds of golf at the Nancy Lopez Golf Course at Spring River, one of the most scenic courses in southern New Mexico. Wherever you go, you’re completely immersed in enchanting scenic beauty.

For kids and families, the Spring River Zoo provides a close-up look at wildlife, including bears, mountain lions, buffalo, coyotes and more. The zoo covers about 34 acres of parkland with five main zoo areas located on the grounds, including a Ranch Heritage exhibit. Make time to take a ride on the antique wooden horse carousel, which is open from Easter weekend through September 30. With only 100 or so left in the world, this treasure is a delight for children and adults alike. Riding the miniature train is also a popular tradition.

For shoppers, Roswell’s walkable downtown area features distinctive local retailers as well as familiar national chains. And be sure to shop our famous Roswell brand at the Roswell Visitor Center on Main Street.

The Robert H. Goddard Planetarium provides an immersive cosmic experience.Photo courtesy of City of Roswell

For museum fans, the city is home to the International UFO Museum & Research Center, the Robert H. Goddard Planetarium, Roswell Museum and other museums dedicated to contemporary art and area history. Plus, there are several galleries in town that feature original art pieces and jewelry designs from local artists.

If you’ve worked up an appetite, Roswell has plenty of food choices, from local restaurants, food trucks and New Mexico-based chains to national brands. No matter where you dine, a trip to New Mexico isn’t complete without sampling our state’s famous red and green chile for at least one of your meals.

Larger groups, reunions and corporate events have a home in Roswell, too. The recently remodeled Roswell Convention Center can accommodate events large and small, from meetings to weddings, banquets, trade shows, festivals and yes, conventions.

The Roswell UFO Spacewalk inspires curiosity.Photo courtesy of City of Roswell

And perhaps most famously, we’re known for the Roswell UFO Festival, which takes place every Fourth of July weekend. This destination festival includes plenty of immersive experiences, live music, local food, out of this world photo ops, as well as other family-friendly events happening all over the city. Visitors from all over the world (and perhaps beyond) attend this fun event. Be sure to dress the alien part—you’ll be in good company.

From rocketeers and aliens to cowboys and artists, explorers of all kinds have crossed paths in Roswell. What will you uncover? Come see Roswell, New Mexico for yourself—and believe. Visit SeeRoswell.com for a detailed list of attractions, business listings, itinerary suggestions and much more.