A long layover in Roswell is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Roswell International Air Center Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 35 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at ROW:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Rideshare takes about 35 minutes into Roswell, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
What’s Worth Seeing in Roswell
Two recommendations for your time in Roswell:
Start with International UFO Museum and Research Center. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare. Then, if time allows, make your way to Roswell Museum and Art Center. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at ROW, check out Airport Waiting Area or Window Viewing & Tarmac Observation to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Roswell, local travelers recommend Martin’s Capitol Cafe. If you have time for a second stop, The Pecos Flavors Winery and Bistro is another popular pick.
Back at ROW, Roswell Snack Bar is the go-to. Vending Machine Zone rounds out your in-terminal options.
How to Get Into Roswell
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Rideshare | ~35 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~55 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi/Rideshare is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Roswell might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$9 USD
- A meal: ~$18 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$37 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage is available at Not available. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Roswell.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at ROW, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Roswell itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for United States that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at ROW include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in United States also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Roswell genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.