Looking for cheap Flights to Roswell, New Mexico, USA (ROW) airport?

Roswell, accessible via cheap flights to ROW airport (Roswell Air Center), is a unique cultural and extraterrestrial-themed hub in southeastern New Mexico, nestled in the Pecos River Valley near the Chihuahuan Desert. Attracting over 200,000 visitors annually, it offers iconic sites like the International UFO Museum and outdoor adventures in the nearby Bottomless Lakes State Park. Explore Roswell hidden gems like the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art at 409 E College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201, and savor Roswell local culture at eateries such as Pecos Flavors Winery & Bistro at 412 W 2nd St, Roswell, NM 88201.

History of Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell’s history is rooted in the Mescalero Apache tribe, who inhabited the Pecos Valley for centuries. Founded in 1871 by Van C. Smith, it was named after his father, Roswell Smith, and became Chaves County’s seat in 1889. The Roswell Historical Society Museum (200 N Lea Ave, Roswell, NM 88201) preserves Apache artifacts and ranching history. The 1947 Roswell Incident, an alleged UFO crash, shaped its global fame. The 1890s railroad arrival boosted agriculture and trade. Annual events like the UFO Festival and Roswell Chile-Cheese Festival highlight Roswell historical exploration. Today, Roswell blends its Native, ranching, and extraterrestrial heritage with tourism and agriculture.

Early History and Native Heritage

The Mescalero Apache thrived in the Pecos Valley, using it for hunting and trade. The 1848 Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo opened the area to settlers. Roswell emerged in 1871 as a ranching hub, with early irrigation systems supporting growth. The Roswell Historical Society Museum preserves Native tools and settler records, emphasizing Roswell Native history. Tribal influence persists in place names like Hondo and cultural events at the Mescalero Apache Reservation.

• Roswell Historical Society Museum: 200 N Lea Ave, Roswell, NM 88201.
• International UFO Museum: 114 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88203.
• Mescalero Apache Reservation: 101 Central Ave, Mescalero, NM 88340.
• Chaves County Courthouse: 400 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.

Railroad Era and Founding

The 1890s Pecos Valley Railroad arrival made Roswell a trade hub, with a population of 2,000 by 1900. The railroad supported cattle and cotton transport, reflected in the Historical Society Museum. The 1891 Chaves County Courthouse establishment solidified governance, shaping Roswell railroad history. The John Chisum Home site (300 S Lea Ave, Roswell, NM 88203) honors early ranching.

• Roswell Historical Society Museum: 200 N Lea Ave, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Chaves County Courthouse: 400 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• John Chisum Home Site: 300 S Lea Ave, Roswell, NM 88203.
• Old Railroad Depot: 100 W 1st St, Roswell, NM 88203.

20th Century Development

The 1947 Roswell Incident sparked global interest, boosting tourism. The Great Depression slowed growth, but New Deal irrigation projects aided recovery. The 1960s saw military expansion with Walker Air Force Base (closed 1967). The 1990s rise of UFO tourism, led by the International UFO Museum, transformed the economy. These developments highlight Roswell 20th century history, preserved at the UFO Museum.

• International UFO Museum: 114 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88203.
• Roswell Historical Society Museum: 200 N Lea Ave, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art: 409 E College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Roswell UFO Spacewalk: 116 E 2nd St, Roswell, NM 88201.

Modern Roswell and Preservation

Since the 2000s, Roswell has grown as a UFO tourism and agricultural hub. The UFO Festival draws thousands. Preservation efforts protect the Downtown Historic District, including the 1910 Conoco Building (201 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201). The 2040 Comprehensive Plan promotes sustainable tourism, reflecting Roswell modern history. The UFO Museum and art galleries drive cultural tourism.

• Downtown Historic District: N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Conoco Building: 201 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Roswell UFO Spacewalk: 116 E 2nd St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Spring River Park & Zoo: 1306 E College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201.

Hidden Historical Gems and Local Perspectives

Locals cherish sites like the Roswell UFO Spacewalk (116 E 2nd St, Roswell, NM 88201) and the Historical Society Museum, sharing ranching and UFO stories. The Anderson Museum showcases local art, highlighting Roswell hidden history. These spots evoke Roswell’s eclectic spirit.

• Roswell UFO Spacewalk: 116 E 2nd St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Roswell Historical Society Museum: 200 N Lea Ave, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art: 409 E College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Pioneer Plaza: 200 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.

Roswell’s legacy includes the 1947 UFO Incident and railroad expansion. Events like the UFO Festival connect past and present. The city’s extraterrestrial and ranching resilience draws visitors to explore Roswell historical legacy.

• International UFO Museum: 114 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88203.
• Roswell Historical Society Museum: 200 N Lea Ave, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Downtown Historic District: N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Chaves County Courthouse: 400 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.

Geography and Climate of Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell spans 29.9 square miles in the Pecos River Valley, near the Chihuahuan Desert. It’s 200 miles from Albuquerque and 100 miles from El Paso, connected by US-285 and US-70. Spring River Park & Zoo (1306 E College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201) offers Roswell outdoor activities. The Pecos River and nearby Bottomless Lakes enhance scenic appeal.

• Spring River Park & Zoo: 1306 E College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Cahoon Park: 1001 W 4th St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Pecos River Walkway: N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Cielo Grande Recreation Area: 1612 W College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201.

Roswell has a hot semi-arid climate (Köppen BSh), with hot summers (average high 94°F in July) and mild winters (average low 27°F in January). Record highs reach 108°F (June 1996), and lows hit -5°F (January 1977). Annual precipitation is 13 inches, with rare snow. Spring and fall are ideal for exploring Roswell nature trails, with desert views.

Key Demographics & Statistics in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell’s 2023 population is 48,000 (2020 census: 48,422; 2024 estimate: 48,100), with a median age of 35. It’s 55% Hispanic, 40% White, 3% Black, 2% Other. 92% are citizens, 85% U.S.-born. Households: 18,000 (median income $55,000). 45% married, 35% never married. Poverty rate: 18%. Workforce: 50% service-related, 10% entrepreneurs. Commute: 20 minutes. Education: 25% bachelor’s, 35% high school. Agriculture, tourism, and healthcare shape Roswell demographics.

Roswell spans zip codes like 88201, 88203, covering neighborhoods like Downtown (88201), North Roswell (88201), and South Roswell (88203), aiding navigation for Roswell neighborhood guides.

Local Neighborhoods & Districts in Roswell, New Mexico

Downtown Roswell buzzes with UFO-themed shops and history, North Roswell offers residential calm, and South Roswell supports agriculture, key for Roswell neighborhood guides. The Downtown Historic District features 1930s architecture.

• Pecos Flavors Winery & Bistro: 412 W 2nd St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Downtown Historic District: N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Spring River Park & Zoo: 1306 E College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Cahoon Park: 1001 W 4th St, Roswell, NM 88201.

Economy and Employment in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell’s economy thrives on tourism, agriculture, and healthcare, anchored by Eastern New Mexico Medical Center and Roswell UFO attractions. Unemployment is 5.0%, near national average, with growth in hospitality, boosting Roswell job opportunities. The city supports 5,000 tourism-related jobs.

• Eastern New Mexico Medical Center: 405 W Country Club Rd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Roswell Independent School District: 300 N Kentucky Ave, Roswell, NM 88201.
• New Mexico Military Institute: 101 W College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Leprino Foods: 5600 S Main St, Roswell, NM 88203.

Innovation & Technology in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell supports tech via Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell (52 University Blvd, Roswell, NM 88203), focusing on aviation and healthcare. High-speed internet via Cable One covers 90%, enabling remote work. Challenges include talent retention, but state grants foster tech, supporting Roswell remote work.

Roswell’s tech grows in aviation and agritech. The university mentors entrepreneurs. Broadband expansion aids telecommuting. Priorities include smart agriculture, shaping Roswell technology trends.

Government & Public Services in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell operates under a council-manager system with seven council members. Services include police, fire, water, and waste via City Hall. Police has 100 officers; fire operates four stations. The city maintains 30 parks, 20 miles of trails, and a library. Development focuses on tourism via the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, supporting Roswell public services.

Legal & Civic Services in Roswell, New Mexico

Chaves County Courthouse (400 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201) handles cases; legal aid via New Mexico Legal Aid (575-623-9669). Civic engagement via Roswell Chamber (131 W 2nd St, Roswell, NM 88201). Voter registration at City Hall (425 N Richardson Ave, Roswell, NM 88201). Library hosts forums. Elections every two years via NM Secretary of State.

Roswell encourages participation through boards like the Parks Board. Elections offer multilingual materials. Volunteers join Friends of Spring River Park. Meetings at City Hall are virtual-accessible, fostering Roswell community resources.

Infrastructure and Utilities in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell’s infrastructure supports tourism and agriculture. City manages water and electricity, with 15% renewables. High-speed internet via Cable One covers 90%. Weekly waste with recycling. Maintains 150 miles of roads, 30 parks, 20 miles of trails. Recent US-285 upgrades enhance connectivity, supporting Roswell infrastructure.

Educational Centers & Learning Opportunities in Roswell, New Mexico

Higher Education and Trade Schools in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell’s education includes a university campus supporting aviation and healthcare, ideal for Roswell school districts.

• Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell: 52 University Blvd, Roswell, NM 88203.
• New Mexico Military Institute: 101 W College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Roswell Technical Institute: 1000 E Poe St, Roswell, NM 88203.
• Southeastern New Mexico College: 600 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.

K-12 and Adult Education in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell Independent School District serves 10,000 students across 20 schools with 14:1 ratio. Adult ed via ENMU-Roswell offers aviation, healthcare certifications.

• Roswell High School: 500 W Hobbs St, Roswell, NM 88203.
• Goddard High School: 701 E Country Club Rd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Sierra Middle School: 615 S Sycamore Ave, Roswell, NM 88203.
• Mesa Middle School: 1601 E Bland St, Roswell, NM 88203.

Deeper Cultural and Community Content in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell’s murals celebrate UFO and ranching heritage. The Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art (409 E College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201) features local works. Tours start downtown, showcasing Roswell art tours.

• Downtown Murals: N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art: 409 E College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Roswell UFO Spacewalk: 116 E 2nd St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Pioneer Plaza: 200 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.

Roswell’s roots include Apache culture and UFO lore. The International UFO Museum and Anderson Museum highlight these, supporting Roswell cultural heritage. The UFO Festival draws thousands.

• International UFO Museum: 114 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88203.
• Roswell Historical Society Museum: 200 N Lea Ave, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art: 409 E College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Roswell UFO Spacewalk: 116 E 2nd St, Roswell, NM 88201.

Local Artists & Creatives in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell’s scene thrives with artists at the Anderson Museum, inspired by the Pecos Valley, highlighting Roswell local artists.

The UFO Festival features artisans. ENMU-Roswell mentors youth. Events like the Roswell Art Walk showcase 50+ creators, celebrating Roswell cultural events.

Notable People and Culture in Media in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell’s culture blends Apache traditions and UFO fame. Notable figures include rancher John Chisum. Featured in films like "Roswell" and UFO documentaries, it reflects vibrant Roswell local culture.

Hidden Gems and Local’s Perspective in Roswell, New Mexico

Beyond the UFO Museum, locals love Roswell secret spots like Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge and Cielo Grande Recreation Area.

• Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge: 4200 E Pine Lodge Rd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Cielo Grande Recreation Area: 1612 W College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Spring River Park & Zoo: 1306 E College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Cahoon Park: 1001 W 4th St, Roswell, NM 88201.

Roswell’s independents offer authentic New Mexico experiences, from bistros to bookstores.

• Pecos Flavors Winery & Bistro: 412 W 2nd St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Books Again: 209 W 3rd St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Stellar Coffee: 315 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Farley’s Food & Fun: 1315 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.

UFO Festival and Roswell Chile-Cheese Festival highlight Roswell cultural events. Venues like the Roswell Civic Center host performances.

• Roswell Civic Center: 912 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Roswell Public Library: 301 N Pennsylvania Ave, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art: 409 E College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Roswell UFO Spacewalk: 116 E 2nd St, Roswell, NM 88201.

Wine & Culinary Culture in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell’s scene includes local wines at Pecos Flavors Winery & Bistro (412 W 2nd St, Roswell, NM 88201). Markets connect to farms. The Chile-Cheese Festival celebrates flavors, boosting Roswell culinary experiences.

Emphasizes Southwestern flavors with local chiles and beef. Pecos Flavors sources local ingredients. Cooking classes at ENMU-Roswell teach regional dishes. Festivals highlight chefs.

Festivals & Events in Roswell, New Mexico

UFO Festival in July and Roswell Chile-Cheese Festival in September highlight Roswell annual events, drawing crowds for extraterrestrial fun and local flavors.

• UFO Festival: N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Roswell Chile-Cheese Festival: 912 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Roswell Farmers Market: 400 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Roswell Christmas Village: Pioneer Plaza, Roswell, NM 88201.

Museums to Explore in Roswell, New Mexico

Museums offer UFO, art, and Native exhibits, ideal for Roswell museum tours.

• International UFO Museum: 114 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88203.
• Roswell Historical Society Museum: 200 N Lea Ave, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art: 409 E College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Roswell Museum and Art Center: 1011 N Richardson Ave, Roswell, NM 88201.

Outdoor Recreation & Adventures Near Roswell, New Mexico

Spring River Park offers hiking and picnicking. Bottomless Lakes State Park provides kayaking, Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge birdwatching, ideal for Roswell outdoor adventures. Carlsbad Caverns, 75 miles away, offers caving.

• Spring River Park & Zoo: 1306 E College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Bottomless Lakes State Park: 545 Bottomless Lakes Rd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge: 4200 E Pine Lodge Rd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Cahoon Park: 1001 W 4th St, Roswell, NM 88201.

Fishing & Hunting in Roswell, New Mexico

Bottomless Lakes is renowned for bass; access at Bottomless Lakes State Park. Bitter Lake allows quail hunting (permits from NM Game and Fish), key for Roswell fishing spots. Annual tournaments draw anglers.

• Bottomless Lakes State Park: 545 Bottomless Lakes Rd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge: 4200 E Pine Lodge Rd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Pecos River: N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Hondo River Access: US-380, Roswell, NM 88201.

Unique Places & Wildlife in Roswell, New Mexico

Pecos Valley and Bitter Lake host pronghorn, herons, and turtles; viewing at Spring River Park. Bottomless Lakes showcases desert ecology. Cielo Grande offers trails, supporting Roswell wildlife viewing.

• Spring River Park & Zoo: 1306 E College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Bottomless Lakes State Park: 545 Bottomless Lakes Rd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge: 4200 E Pine Lodge Rd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Cielo Grande Recreation Area: 1612 W College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201.

Sports and Recreation in Roswell, New Mexico

Spring River Park offers fitness and fields. Roswell Invaders promote baseball. Bottomless Lakes hosts fishing events. Youth sports via Roswell Parks. Roswell Civic Center supports performances. Rodeos encourage fitness, boosting Roswell sports activities.

Wellness & Lifestyle in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell’s scene includes yoga at Spring River Park and resources at Eastern New Mexico Medical Center (405 W Country Club Rd, Roswell, NM 88201). Events like health fairs promote fitness.

Hospital offers classes. Trails encourage activity; free yoga at markets. Fairs boost Roswell wellness programs.

Health Care & Wellness in Roswell, New Mexico

Eastern New Mexico Medical Center (405 W Country Club Rd, Roswell, NM 88201) provides 160 beds for emergency, cardiology, and oncology. Telemedicine aids rural patients. Spring River Park offers fitness. Hospital provides mental health support. Fairs screen, supporting Roswell healthcare services.

Homes for the Elderly & Senior Living in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell Senior Center (1120 S Adams Ave, Roswell, NM 88203) hosts programs. Peachtree Village (1301 W Country Club Rd, Roswell, NM 88201) offers assisted living. Home health via hospital supports seniors, ideal for Roswell senior living.

Childcare & Parenting Resources in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell offers care at Little Stars Daycare (1100 S Main St, Roswell, NM 88203). Parenting groups meet at library. Spring River Park has playgrounds. ENMU-Roswell offers kids’ programs.

Roswell Public Library (301 N Pennsylvania Ave, Roswell, NM 88201) hosts storytimes. Parks provide sports. Festivals include kid zones. Community programs offer support, aiding Roswell family resources.

Pet-Friendly Spots in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell welcomes pets at Spring River Park and Cielo Grande trails. Petco (4300 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201) provides supplies. Vet care at Roswell Veterinary Hospital (1109 E Poe St, Roswell, NM 88203). Shelter (401 N Sycamore Ave, Roswell, NM 88201) hosts adoptions. Trails ideal for Roswell pet-friendly spots.

Shelter facilitates adoptions. Pet-friendly eateries like Pecos Flavors welcome dogs. Training at local clubs. Hotels like La Quinta Inn are pet-friendly.

Best Shops & Boutiques in Roswell, New Mexico

Farmers Market and downtown offer local goods, enhancing Roswell boutique shopping.

• Roswell Farmers Market: 400 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Books Again: 209 W 3rd St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Alien Zone: 216 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Roswell UFO Gift Shop: 113 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88203.

Top Dining Options in Roswell, New Mexico

Camping & Lodging in Roswell, New Mexico

Bottomless Lakes State Park offers camping with lake views. Lodging ranges from UFO-themed to modern.

• Bottomless Lakes State Park Campground: 545 Bottomless Lakes Rd, Roswell, NM 88201.
• La Quinta Inn & Suites: 200 E 19th St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Hampton Inn & Suites: 3607 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.
• Best Western El Rancho Palacio: 2206 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201.

Real Estate & Cost of Living in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell’s real estate is affordable, median home $190,000, below U.S. $350,000. Appreciation 3%. Rentals $900/month one-bedroom. Index 85, below average, driven by low housing costs. Median income $55,000. Market favors buyers, key for Roswell real estate.

Urban Development & Future Plans in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell pursues growth via the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, focusing on downtown revitalization and green spaces. Projects add tourism spaces. Aims for sustainable tourism, river preservation.

Downtown Plan expands Historic District. Airport upgrades connectivity. ENMU-Roswell drives tech innovation. Challenges include housing, but grants fund projects, shaping Roswell urban development.

Travel Tips for Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell Air Center (ROW) serves American, with flights to Dallas, Phoenix. Downtown walkable; free parking at sites. US-285, US-70 connect Albuquerque, El Paso. Spring-fall ideal for activities; summer for desert hikes. Pack sunscreen, sturdy shoes. Check events for tickets. Stations, ATMs available. Respect Native sites. Book early for UFO Festival, key for Roswell travel tips.

Transportation and Getting Around in Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell Air Center (ROW) serves American, to Dallas, Phoenix. Pecos Trails Transit buses $1 fares. Taxis, Uber available. US-285, US-70 access regions. Trails support biking. Free parking abundant. Bike rentals at Roswell Bike Shop (108 S Main St, Roswell, NM 88203) enhance Roswell transportation options.

Article Published on August 27, 2025, Last Modified on September 25, 2025. Content subject to change at any time.