Roswell, New Mexico: International UFO Museum

I was a little disappointed with the museum. Don't get me wrong, there is lots of information to be read (mainly on the walls of the museum), and it can be very informative. I think I was hoping for "hands on" exhibits -- just things that were more interactive. If you're interested in the whole "Roswell incident", then you should stop here.

I can see where this might be a treasure trove of information for a person who wanted to research UFOs. But frankly, we all found the International UFO Museum rather boring and did not spend much time there. That being said, I am still glad we visited the Museum, just because of its uniqueness.

The town of Roswell itself was well worth the trip. It is an amazing little town with a lot of free and inexpensive attractions to visit. We especially enjoyed visiting the zoo and the public library.

The best time to visit the UFO Museum by far is July 4th weekend. Every year the museum hosts the Roswell UFO Festival during this weekend, and for the price of museum admission you get to hear lectures by self-proclaimed abductees, UFOlogists, and a variety of scientists who believe in the UFO phenomenon. Some of the biggest names in the UFO community stop by for this event. The city of Roswell has other events during this weekend, such as an alien costume contest (for pets and humans), and as of 2011, a wine festival. There are people roaming downtown in foil hats and a variety of alien costumes. Be sure to book lodging early, as this event sells out Roswell's hotels and RV parks every year. I have gone every year for the last four years (in costume!) and it's a blast.

If you don't visit during the festival, it's still an interesting place. Be sure to check out the rest of downtown and ask about the walking tours of the former air base.

No trip to Roswell is complete without some time spent at The International UFO Museum & Research Center. It's a fascinating museum (and research center; make sure you check out the expansive library and periodical room on the lower level) put together by passionate folks.

A recent featured exhibit is a replica of the carved sarcophagus lid of the Palenque Astronaut, K'inich Janaab' Pakal.

Wow, was this place disappointing. Poor quality displays. Very amateurish. A total waste of money.