What makes a great neighborhood bar? The people. The casual atmosphere. The unpretentious vibes. All of these great local watering holes in New Mexico have that in common. For hanging out and sharing stories over a cold one with your community, check out our favorite neighborhood bars in the state.
If you’re looking for place to enjoy an inexpensive, cold beer, go here. It’s not glamorous, but it’s not trying to be. This local spot is warm, friendly, and features music that really brings the bar to life. Package liquor on sale Monday through Friday. Wall art includes a Coors sign with rules of the bar—leave your drama at home. This is a cozy place to hang out.
Once inside Palacio, there are three distinctive rooms—a jungle mural wall backs the stage area, the bar area has a blue sky painted on the ceiling and a horse drawn wagon painted wall rounds out the decor in the final room. It’s a comfy place with friendly bartenders, a good selection of beer and music and dancing on the weekends.
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Step inside this bar with its wood floors, branded wooden bar, funky jukebox, free pool tables and beer on tap, and sit a spell on any bar stool. Bottles of beer, shots, and well drinks round out the selection of beverage choices. The huge patio is a hot spot in summer. Music every day and live bands on the weekends.
More than 80 years of local history is represented by this bar, originally opened as Cerrillos Bar. The name changed when Mary, daughter of the owner, took over in the 1970s. A stop along the Turquoise Trail if you’re out exploring. Only open during the day. No restrooms. Cash only. A local landmark.
Pretty far off the beaten track today, but at one time travelers on Route 66 passed right through this town. Now, it gets those in search of this iconic highway. The family who owns this bar is friendly and welcoming. Cold beer, snacks, ice, homemade beef jerky—doesn’t get much better than that.
A long stretch on desolate highway just north of the Texas border runs right through this town. This spot is a welcome stop for a cold beer or something stronger at the full-service bar. Live music. Pool tables, ping pong, and jukebox are all a great diversion before heading back out on the road.
This nondescript hole-in-the-wall brings locals together with passersby. Lots of room at the bar encourages hanging out. Inexpensive drinks and cold beer helps too. Pool tables, TV screens, and a place where everyone has a story to tell.
Tucked inside this refurbished hotel is the Caravan Bar that’s known for potent drinks, a great selection of beer and wine, all at a reasonable price. Billiards and TV for amusement. A local hangout where you’ll hear the scoop on what to see and do in the area. Cash only.