Roswell Museum
Explore art, science, and history beyond UFOs at this free museum, featuring rocketry, Native American culture, and Southwestern art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Roswell Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore art, science, and history beyond UFOs at this free museum, featuring rocketry, Native American culture, and Southwestern art.
"Stunning museum, way more stuff on show then I ever thought. Totally worth the entry fee!"
Plan for Variety
It's more than just aliens! Explore art, science, and history too. :star2:
Check Planetarium Times
Catch the exciting laser shows! Ask at the front desk for schedules. :movie_camera:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Robert Goddard Rocketry
Science Wing
Explore the pioneering work of Robert Goddard, the father of modern rocketry. See early tools and equipment.
Native American Culture
History Wing
Discover the vibrant heritage and traditions of the region's Native American peoples through artifacts and displays.
Art Collections
Art Galleries
Admire a diverse range of art, from Southwestern landscapes to contemporary pieces, showcasing regional and national talent.
Planetarium Show
Auditorium
Experience an exciting laser show that brings the cosmos to life. Check showtimes upon arrival.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beyond the Flying Saucers
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Plan for Variety
It's more than just aliens! Explore art, science, and history too. :star2:
Check Planetarium Times
Catch the exciting laser shows! Ask at the front desk for schedules. :movie_camera:
Allow a Few Hours
You'll need 1.5-2 hours to see everything. :clock1:
Great for Families
Engaging exhibits for all ages, especially the rocketry and Native American sections. :family_ww:
Tips
from all over the internet
Plan for Variety
It's more than just aliens! Explore art, science, and history too. :star2:
Check Planetarium Times
Catch the exciting laser shows! Ask at the front desk for schedules. :movie_camera:
Allow a Few Hours
You'll need 1.5-2 hours to see everything. :clock1:
Great for Families
Engaging exhibits for all ages, especially the rocketry and Native American sections. :family_ww:
Air-Conditioned Escape
A perfect way to cool off on a hot New Mexico day. :snowflake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Roswell Museum for its surprisingly diverse and well-curated exhibits, extending far beyond the town's UFO fame. Many highlight the engaging rocketry displays, rich Native American history, and impressive art collections as standout features. While some note the layout can be a bit convoluted, the clean environment, helpful staff, and free admission make it a highly recommended stop for a few hours of enriching exploration.
"If you are going to this museum for primarily extraterrestrial related exhibits than you should really save your time and money. Now that is not to say that this museum was a waste of time. The museum was very clean and had excellent exhibits. There were a number of exhibits regarding Native Americans, weapons and the first rockets ever launched by the United States. There is also a very exciting planetary laser show in the auditorium at the museums entrance. The show is held several times a day at set times that you will be informed of at the front desk. There is also a fair amount of interesting art that is on display there. Roswell sure had a lot of extraterrestrial paraphernalia in the town but things like this museum teach you little more about the town. I believe you and your family will have a fun time navigating the exhibits."
Justin Thomsen
"Stunning museum, way more stuff on show then I ever thought. Probably one of the best small town museums I've ever been to, totally worth the entry fee and an hour to walk around in the air conditioning.
Huge exhibits to art, science and history.
Rocketry room donated by the Goddard's was a fascinating look at the early days of rocket science in America. All sorts of interesting details of the tools and equipment used.
Huge number of historical artifacts as well, from ancient New Mexico history, to early guns and weapons used in a range of conflicts, even a couple of suites of armor!
Staff was helpful and kind, entire place was clean and cool."
Jesse Crowley
"Wow. The honk if you don't exist exhibit really spoke to me .
The lay out of the bldg is ..... convoluted and the map is not to scale but it's a beautiful place and I honestly prefer to be a little lost in a museum.
The pricing is fair and the staff was friendly. There's many different exhibits on display right now, even though two of them are closed currently to be re installed .
Writing this before I get to see the planetarium movie , but I'm excited for that as well."
Megan R (Edacted)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Roswell Museum is located in Roswell, New Mexico. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. If you're driving from out of town, it's a common stop on road trips through the state.
Public transportation options within Roswell are limited. Most visitors arrive by car. If you are staying in town, consider a taxi or rideshare service.
The museum offers convenient on-site parking for visitors, making it easy to access the exhibits.
Yes, the Roswell Museum is a great addition to a day trip in Roswell, New Mexico. It's often visited alongside other local attractions like the UFO Museum.
While the museum itself is accessible, large RV parking might be limited. It's advisable to check with the museum directly if you plan to arrive in a large vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Roswell Museum is typically open Wednesday through Sunday, with hours often extending into the late afternoon. It's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most current operating hours, as they can vary.
Admission to the Roswell Museum is generally free, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone.
Since admission is free, advance booking is usually not required for general entry to the Roswell Museum. However, for special events or planetarium shows, it's wise to check their policies.
As the museum offers free admission, specific discounts are not typically advertised. However, always check their website for any potential special offers or group rates.
The museum usually allows last admission about 45 minutes before closing. It's recommended to arrive earlier to fully enjoy the exhibits.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Roswell Museum features diverse exhibits including Native American culture, the history of rocketry (especially Robert Goddard's work), fine art collections, and historical artifacts. It's not solely focused on UFOs.
Yes, the museum offers engaging exhibits for children, particularly the rocketry section and interactive displays. The planetarium show is also a hit with younger visitors.
Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the Roswell Museum, though you could easily spend longer if you delve deeply into each exhibit.
Yes, the Roswell Museum has an auditorium that hosts exciting planetarium laser shows. Check the schedule upon arrival for showtimes.
While both are in Roswell, the Roswell Museum is distinct from the International UFO Museum and Research Center. The Roswell Museum focuses more broadly on art, science, and history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Roswell Museum does not typically have an on-site cafe or restaurant. Visitors are advised to explore dining options in downtown Roswell before or after their visit.
Roswell offers a variety of dining, including Mexican cuisine, diners, and cafes. Many are located in the downtown area, a short drive from the museum.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum galleries to protect the exhibits. There may be designated areas for snacks.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is usually permitted in most areas of the Roswell Museum, but flash photography is often prohibited to protect the artwork and artifacts. Always look for signage or ask staff.
Yes, the diverse exhibits, from historical artifacts to art, offer many interesting photo opportunities. The planetarium show can also be visually striking.
The rocketry exhibits, Native American displays, and the art galleries often provide visually appealing subjects for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond science, the museum's displays on Native American culture and historical artifacts can spark curiosity and learning. It's a great way to introduce children to the diverse history of New Mexico in an accessible and interactive environment. The free admission makes it an excellent budget-friendly option for a family outing.
🚀 Space & Science Enthusiasts
While not a dedicated space museum, the planetarium shows provide an immersive astronomical experience. Combined with the historical context of early rocketry, it offers a comprehensive perspective on humanity's journey into space. It’s a chance to connect with the scientific achievements that have propelled us beyond Earth.
🎨 Art & History Buffs
The museum also delves into the rich history of New Mexico, presenting artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the land and its people, including significant displays on Native American heritage. This blend of artistic expression and historical depth provides a nuanced understanding of Roswell's cultural landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art and Science of Roswell
The museum also boasts a significant collection related to science and technology, most notably the Robert Goddard Rocketry Collection. This exhibit details the pioneering work of Robert Goddard, considered the father of modern rocketry, and displays early tools, equipment, and insights into the dawn of space exploration. It's a fascinating look at human ingenuity and the quest to reach the stars, offering a different kind of wonder than the UFO narratives.
Furthermore, the Native American exhibits are a cornerstone of the museum, offering a respectful and informative exploration of the indigenous cultures that have inhabited this land for centuries. Through artifacts, traditional crafts, and historical accounts, visitors gain a deeper understanding of their enduring legacy and contributions. The museum's commitment to preserving and presenting these diverse aspects of Roswell's identity makes it a truly comprehensive cultural destination.
Beyond the UFO Hype: A Deeper Look
Instead, the Roswell Museum serves as a repository for the history of New Mexico, featuring artifacts that span from ancient times to more recent eras. This includes significant displays on Native American heritage, offering a glimpse into the lives, art, and traditions of the region's indigenous peoples. The rocketry exhibits, particularly those dedicated to Robert Goddard, are also a major draw, showcasing the scientific advancements that have shaped our understanding of space.
For those interested in visual arts, the museum houses a commendable collection of fine art, with a particular emphasis on Southwestern artists. This blend of history, science, and art ensures that a visit to the Roswell Museum offers a well-rounded cultural experience, enriching your understanding of Roswell beyond its most famous extraterrestrial association.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit