Best States for UFO Enthusiasts (2025)

Best States for UFO Enthusiasts: Sightings, Events, and Alien-Themed Attractions

For UFO enthusiasts and alien hunters, some states stand out for their history of sightings, UFO-themed events, and unique attractions dedicated to extraterrestrial lore. Whether you’re chasing lights in the sky or attending festivals celebrating alien life, these states offer unforgettable experiences for those fascinated by the unknown. Here are the best states for UFO enthusiasts in 2025, where the extraterrestrial meets the extraordinary.

1. Nevada

Nevada is a must-visit for UFO enthusiasts, thanks to its connection to Area 51 and the mysterious desert skies.
Sightings: The area around Rachel, Nevada, near Area 51, is famous for frequent UFO sightings and unexplained phenomena.
Events: The annual Alien Research Center Conference attracts UFO researchers and enthusiasts from around the world.
Attractions: The Extraterrestrial Highway (State Route 375) offers scenic drives with quirky stops like the Little A’Le’Inn diner and gift shop.
Why It’s Great: Nevada’s alien lore and iconic attractions make it the ultimate destination for UFO enthusiasts.

2. New Mexico

New Mexico is steeped in UFO history and extraterrestrial intrigue.
Sightings: The infamous 1947 Roswell UFO incident put New Mexico on the map as a hotspot for sightings.
Events: The Roswell UFO Festival is a highlight, featuring parades, alien costume contests, and expert talks.
Attractions: The International UFO Museum and Research Center in Roswell is a must-see for anyone interested in extraterrestrial history.
Why It’s Great: New Mexico’s rich UFO history and vibrant community events make it a top pick for alien enthusiasts.

3. Arizona

Arizona’s vast deserts and clear skies make it a prime location for UFO sightings and stargazing.
Sightings: The Phoenix Lights incident of 1997 is one of the most well-documented UFO sightings in history.
Events: UFO-themed gatherings and skywatching events are common, especially near Sedona and Phoenix.
Attractions: Sedona’s vortex sites and UFO tours attract visitors looking to connect with otherworldly energies.
Why It’s Great: Arizona’s blend of natural beauty and UFO lore creates a unique destination for alien enthusiasts.

4. California

California’s diverse landscape and open-minded communities make it a hub for UFO sightings and events.
Sightings: Hotspots like Joshua Tree and Mount Shasta are known for frequent UFO sightings and strange occurrences.
Events: The Contact in the Desert conference in Joshua Tree is one of the largest UFO-related events in the world.
Attractions: Alien-themed roadside stops and tours, like the Integratron near Joshua Tree, draw in curious visitors.
Why It’s Great: California’s open skies and thriving UFO community make it a great state for alien enthusiasts.

5. Texas

Texas offers a mix of historic UFO sightings and modern events for alien enthusiasts.
Sightings: The 2008 Stephenville UFO incident is one of the most famous sightings in recent history.
Events: Texas hosts several UFO-themed conventions and gatherings, particularly in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Attractions: Marfa Lights in West Texas are a mysterious phenomenon often linked to UFO lore.
Why It’s Great: Texas combines intriguing UFO sightings with unique attractions for alien hunters.

6. Washington

Washington is a hotspot for UFO sightings, with a history tied to the origins of the term “flying saucer.”
Sightings: In 1947, Kenneth Arnold reported seeing flying objects near Mount Rainier, coining the term “flying saucer.”
Events: The McMenamins UFO Festival in nearby Oregon draws many Washington residents and visitors interested in extraterrestrial life.
Attractions: The state’s stunning skies and UFO history make it a key destination for enthusiasts.
Why It’s Great: Washington’s rich UFO history and natural beauty make it a perfect place for alien seekers.

7. Utah

Utah is gaining attention for its eerie skies and mysterious happenings.
Sightings: The Uintah Basin, including the infamous Skinwalker Ranch, is known for frequent UFO and paranormal activity.
Events: UFO conferences and paranormal events often feature Utah’s unique sightings and lore.
Attractions: Skinwalker Ranch and the surrounding areas are focal points for UFO researchers.
Why It’s Great: Utah’s mysterious and unexplained phenomena attract UFO enthusiasts from all over.

8. Florida

Florida offers a mix of UFO sightings and space-related attractions.
Sightings: The state’s wide skies and frequent rocket launches make it a natural hotspot for UFO reports.
Events: Alien-themed parties and conferences are held in cities like Orlando and Miami.
Attractions: Cape Canaveral combines UFO interest with humanity’s exploration of space, providing a unique blend of science and speculation.
Why It’s Great: Florida’s mix of space exploration and UFO culture makes it a fun and intriguing destination.

9. Alaska

Alaska’s remote location and clear skies create a perfect setting for UFO sightings.
Sightings: The Alaska Triangle, a region known for strange disappearances and UFO sightings, is a hotspot for enthusiasts.
Events: Small gatherings and local lore keep UFO culture alive in Alaska.
Attractions: Stunning views of the Northern Lights and the mysterious landscape add to the allure for UFO seekers.
Why It’s Great: Alaska’s remote beauty and unexplained phenomena make it a unique destination for alien enthusiasts.

10. Michigan

Michigan’s Great Lakes and vast skies are home to intriguing UFO stories.
Sightings: The 1994 Lake Michigan UFO incident involved dozens of witnesses and radar confirmation of unexplained objects.
Events: Local UFO gatherings and discussions keep the community engaged in alien lore.
Attractions: The state’s natural beauty adds to the experience for UFO enthusiasts.
Why It’s Great: Michigan’s mix of water-based and sky-based UFO sightings offers a unique angle for alien hunters.

Conclusion

For UFO enthusiasts, the best states offer a combination of frequent sightings, community events, and alien-themed attractions. Nevada and New Mexico lead with their iconic histories, while states like Arizona and Utah provide stunning landscapes tied to extraterrestrial lore. Whether you’re a casual believer or a dedicated researcher, these states provide an out-of-this-world experience for UFO fans.