7 Best Live Music Venues in New Mexico!
New Mexico’s music scene is as inviting and varied as the state. Music can be as integral to our moods as, say, our favorite foods. It lifts our spirits, brings us to-gether and, based on what we like listening to, defines who we are. So, if you find yourself in New Mexico, sing, hum, clap along with other music lovers at these best music venues in the state.
Sunshine Theater, Albuquerque, NM
A step into this popular live music venue blends the past with the present. The 1924 building, on the National Register of Historic Places and a landmark in downtown Albuquerque, has been a place of entertainment since its inception. This small, intimate site draws national artists and notable acts. A great place to see your favorite independent, rock touring bands up-close-and-personal. General admission and standing room only on concert nights. No smoking.
Cowgirl BBQ, Santa Fe, NM
Just blocks from the rail yard near downtown Santa Fe, you’ll find a casual dining restaurant that serves up outstanding live music six nights a week. A wide variety of performers includes bands and singers from the local music scene, as well as national touring musicians, who rock the courtyard for diners and dancers alike Tuesday through Sunday. Award-winning lunch and dinner options paired with on-tap handcrafted beer round out the experience. Plus, Monday is karaoke night!
The Mine Shaft Tavern, Madrid, NM
This coal mining town is full of history and the Tavern sits right in the middle of it. Once considered a ghost town, it’s now a thriving community that brings folk and blues bands, rock, bluegrass and New Mexico roots music to the terrace of this distinctive bar and restaurant. The music happens on weekends, inside, outside and in their amphitheater, from a wide-ranging selection of solo and group per-formers, both local and those just coming through. Don’t miss the Crawdaddy Blues Fest every May. Open seven days a week. Open mic night for aspiring musicians.
The Dirty Bourbon Dance Hall & Saloon, Albuquerque, NM
From its western name to its western themed environment—staff dresses in period costume—to the bands that perform here, this place stays true to its country western focus. You’ll find live music from new and popular country bands and solo performers, as well as performances from favorites that have been around awhile. Plenty of room to belly up to the two 54-foot main bars and to do a little line dancing or country two-stepping on the 1,300-square-foot dance floor. Dance lessons on certain nights. Open Tuesday through Saturday.
Pecos Flavors Winery, Roswell, NM
Just like the wine found here, the live music offerings are representative of the flavor of New Mexico. In this intimate setting, hand-picked performers, the likes of which you won’t find elsewhere, play in this welcoming setting. On any given night, you’ll hear the cool vibe of anything from country to folk to blues to rock in the friendly and inviting atmosphere of this wine and beer bar. Pull up a chair and stay and listen for a while.
El Farol Restaurant & Cantina, Santa Fe, NM
This night spot and restaurant basks in the warmth and light that comes from being the city’s oldest eating establishment. It brings the best of Santa Fe’s musicians to its intimate stage, along with touring blues, rock, soul, Latin jam, reggae and salsa bands. The late-night music scene happens seven days a week, wrapping up around midnight. On the weekend, the flamenco dancing performance will have you toe-tapping along. A landmark in the Santa Fe entertainment scene. A place where a love for music brings locals and visitors together.
Taos Mesa Brewing, Taos, NM
A Quonset hut with great acoustics, an indoor and two outdoor stages, a dance floor and a spectacular view of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains makes this venue just east of the Rio Grande Gorge an amazing spot for music lovers. Factor in an amphitheater that can accommodate big crowds and you’ve got a great place for the diverse bands, both local and visiting, that come to play here. Whether you like blues, country, rock and roll, alternative, reggae or jazz, you’ll find your music niche here … and some great beer. Open seven days a week.
