See inside a Cold War bunker for rent on Airbnb

This fallout shelter was built as a short-term refuge — now it’s available as a short-term rental. 

For those traveling through New Mexico and looking for a quirky place to stay overnight, it’s hard to beat this unusual Airbnb. Built as a Cold War bunker, this former safe haven is now renting as a one-bedroom, one-bathroom for up to two guests a night. 

“Learn what it took to operate one of these amazing sites,” the listing says. “Prepare for one of the most awesome tours included with the cost of your stay.”


This quirky Airbnb in New Mexico has been extensively renovated -- and has put the Cold War firmly in the past.
This quirky Airbnb in New Mexico has been extensively renovated — and has put the Cold War firmly in the past.

Much of the original flooring is intact in the space, where a utility tunnel leads 186 feet underground to a missile silo. A portion of the property has been renovated into a home and office with all the fixings of a normal above-ground dwelling, including cell service and Wi-Fi. The only thing missing is natural sunlight. 


airbnb cold war bunker roswell
The stay asks $450 per night.
Jam Press/Airbnb

airbnb cold war bunker roswell
An aerial view of the property.
Jam Press/Airbnb

airbnb cold war bunker roswell
A red staircase connects the bunker’s floors.
Jam Press/Airbnb

airbnb cold war bunker roswell
The owners live on the lower level of the facility.
Jam Press/Airbnb

airbnb cold war bunker roswell
The unit is thematically decorated.
Jam Press/Airbnb

airbnb cold war bunker roswell
The Airbnb can accommodate up to two guests a night.
Jam Press/Airbnb

The private apartment is located in the upper level of the former launch control center and is decorated with “numerous books and displays showing the early days of our Missile Heritage as well as a complete living suite.” The owners of the compound live below, on the lower level of the launch center. A red staircase connects both levels, and while the owner’s floor is private, guests may explore the rest of the bunker via a separate tunnel. 

The listing notes that guests will have access to in-unit laundry, a fully functional kitchen, free parking on the premises and a shared back garden equipped with a BBQ grill and fire pit. Pets are welcome. 

The abode rents for $450 a night and is located in the city of Roswell, known for being home to the New Mexico Military Institute, the site of an alleged UFO crash and much alien-themed tourism.