Planning a road trip with a UFO focus? We get it, and we know where to send you: Roswell, New Mexico, home of the alleged alien aircraft crash in 1947, known as the Roswell Incident, and the world-famous International UFO Museum and Research Center. Founded by Walter Haut, former public information officer at Roswell Army Air Field in 1947 and Roswell incident participant Glenn Dennis, the museum opened its doors in 1992, and has been a worldwide sensation ever since. 

The museum houses numerous exhibits dedicated to the Roswell Incident, including written, audio and visual materials. There’s even a display depicting an alien autopsy, plus large-scale figures of the aliens described by witnesses. Other exhibits focus on crop circles, Area 51 and ancient astronauts. The center also hosts workshops, lectures by leading researchers and other public events. There’s an extensive library and fascinating gift shop to peruse. The museum is open daily, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., except for select holidays.

What to bring to help set the scene: Colorado UFOs by Richard Estep, a comprehensive and entertaining look at recent UFO sightings across the state; 48 Hours, by William R. Forstchen, to get your blood pumping; and Dragon’s Heir, by Glenn Parris, for getting into an otherworldly state of mind.