International UFO Museum and Research Center photo 1
© kbcool · CC BY-SA 2.0
International UFO Museum and Research Center photo 2
© transitpeople · CC BY 2.0
International UFO Museum and Research Center photo 3
© Jirka Matousek · CC BY 2.0
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International UFO Museum and Research Center

📍 114 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88203

Housed in a historic 1930s movie theater, this quirky museum is the epicenter of the 1947 Roswell UFO incident lore. It features timeline exhibits, alien models, and crop circle theories, making it a must-visit for believers and skeptics alike. Don't miss the delightfully retro animatronic alien display in the center of the room.

Admission
$7 adults, $5 seniors and military, $2 children aged 5-15, free for children under 5
Hours
Daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Duration
1-2 hours
Parking
Free street parking along Main Street and nearby public parking lots
Access
Fully wheelchair accessible with ramp access and wide exhibition pathways
Read more

Established in 1991, the International UFO Museum and Research Center serves as the hub for information regarding the famous 1947 Roswell incident. Located in a historic former theater on Main Street, the museum explores the mystery of the crash alongside broader UFO phenomena.

Visitors can expect a mix of historical documents, eyewitness testimonies, and quirky dioramas, including a popular animatronic alien display. The museum maintains an educational tone about the event while embracing the kitschy roadside appeal that has made Roswell world-famous.

Beyond the exhibits, the site houses an extensive research library dedicated to ufology, attracting serious researchers from around the globe. It stands as a unique cultural landmark that perfectly captures America's mid-century fascination with the extraterrestrial.

Ratings

museum
Historical Significance
4/5
Cultural Relevance
5/5
Fun Factor
4/5
Accessibility
4/5
Photo Worthiness
4/5
Interactivity
2/5
Kid Friendliness
3/5
Popularity
5/5
Good for Kids ✓Nearby Food Options ✓

Visitor Tips

  • ◆ Allow at least one to two hours to fully read the exhibits, as the museum is highly document- and text-heavy.
  • ◆ Be sure to catch the animatronic alien display in the center of the main hall, which activates on a regular timer.
  • ◆ Check out the extensive gift shop for unique, alien-themed souvenirs and local New Mexico crafts.
  • ◆ If you are a serious researcher, you can request access to the museum's extensive reference library in advance.

Heads Up

  • ◆ The museum's text-heavy layout and retro displays may not hold the attention of very young children.
  • ◆ Crowds and parking can be extremely challenging during the annual Roswell UFO Festival in early July.

Common questions

How long does it take to go through the Roswell UFO Museum?

Most visitors spend between 1 and 2 hours exploring the exhibits and reading the documentation.

Are dogs allowed inside the International UFO Museum and Research Center?

Only designated service animals are permitted inside the museum; pets are not allowed.

Can you take photos inside the Roswell UFO Museum?

Yes, photography and video recording for personal, non-commercial use are permitted throughout the exhibition spaces.

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