The teen sci-fi drama about high schoolers hiding an alien secret is set in Roswell, New Mexico – but filmed in and around Los Angeles, where a Covina cafe became the show’s famous alien-themed diner.
Where was Roswell filmed?
Roswell was filmed in and around Los Angeles, California, standing in for Roswell, New Mexico.
Every Roswell location, explained
1
The Crashdown Cafe – Covina
The alien-themed diner used Covina in Los Angeles County.
2
The desert – Agua Dulce
The desert scenes used the rocks around Agua Dulce, north of Los Angeles.
3
The high school – Long Beach
The school used a campus in Long Beach.
4
New Mexico – the setting
The show is set in Roswell, New Mexico.
Planning a visit
Los Angeles – the show’s real home – is an accessible city standing in for Roswell.
Roswell Fun Facts
1
New Mexico filmed in LA The Roswell-set show was made in and around Los Angeles.
2
A famous alien diner The Crashdown Cafe became the show’s signature spot.
3
Roswell's legend The town is famous for a supposed 1947 UFO crash.
4
Teen aliens The story follows teenagers hiding an alien secret.
5
A later reboot The show was rebooted years later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Roswell filmed?
In and around Los Angeles, California, standing in for Roswell, New Mexico.
Is it set in Roswell?
Yes – in Roswell, New Mexico, but filmed in LA.
Can you visit the locations?
Yes – Los Angeles is accessible.
What is it about?
Teenagers hiding the secret that some of them are aliens.
When did it start?
1999.
