Great place for small local concerts in the heart of downtown Albuquerque. Parking is pretty accessible but of course you have to pay for it. They have a seats and a full bar and an arcade area upstairs. read more

Attended a live jazz night and it exceeded expectations. Great musicians, intimate setting, and amazing acoustics. You could tell everyone in the room was just soaking in the moment. read more

I love this place have since I was a kid over forty years ago. I saw Garbage and No Doubt open there circa early 90's. One my two favorite bands f all time. So fun. Miles to Nowhere played there some short time ago. They were there w a ska band and it was amaze balls. Anyway come to the Launchpad you will be oh so glad you did!!! read more

Simply the finest 21+ establishment in which to see and hear music performed live in Albuquerque, almost definitely New Mexico, and maybe the desert southwest. Its funky dive bar foibles are easily made up for by its commitment to fans, artists, and real working music people of all stripes. Some of the most undeniably legendary moments in Albuquerque music history went down under the Launchpads infamously inadequate roof. This is the real deal. read more

Great place for local bands to get a start and be heard. Have to love this place. About 7 local bands tonight. All kinds of music going on. Love it read more

Launchpad Night Club - Project BC in concert - Dive Bars Near Me - Albuquerque, New Mexico

Went to see a band play, and the drinks where strong! as a feminine trans woman I felt safe in this establishment! I definitely will be coming back soon. read more

Launchpad Night Club - The band I decided to see - Dive Bars Near Me - Albuquerque, New Mexico

My favorite music venue in Albuquerque. Great bands. Great events. Cool dive bar vibes with a surprisingly well-stocked bar. They feature touring acts, lots of local bands and big name bands almost daily. Plus they host the huge Night of the Living Cover Bands multi-night October festival, St. Punktrick's Day, Tom Waits for Christmas, a Halloween Dance Party and other annual events. There are booths downstairs, arcade and pinball machines, a nice dance floor, and more seating upstairs with additional booths and a mezzanine overlook. It's one of downtown's landmarks. read more

This was my second or third time coming to this venue and it will certainly be my last. My friends and I came to see a band and had a horrible experience. A woman walked by while the band was playing their second song and pushed a few people, including myself and my friend. We looked at each other like "what was that about?" Well the woman walked back and pushed us so hard that my friend hit her head against the metal staircase pretty badly. We decided to go outside to get some fresh air and I decided to give the staff a heads up about the woman. I first approached the woman checking IDs and she was understanding and listened emphatically. I told her I wanted to give her a heads up that there was a woman going around pushing people and that my friend hit her head pretty badly. She called a bartender over, old guy with weird pony tails, and he was super aggressive and dismissive. I was still talking to the other staff member and he gives me attitude and tells me I need to tell him what she looks like. I tried to talk to him and he was super annoyed and impatient. I tried to describe her by saying she was short with dark hair, he interrupts me mid sentence to tell me that the description wasn't helpful. I tried to explain that it happened fast and I was just trying to give a heads up so he goes off on me telling me he can't help me if I can't describe her. At this point I just close my eyes and walk outside to comfort my friend. He follows me outside and yells telling me he can't help me if I don't point her out. I told him it was very clear that he didn't want to help and not to bother. We ended up leaving immediately after that. So if you end up getting pushed, injured, or assaulted make sure you have a photographic memory otherwise they're going to yell at you and make you feel like you're wasting their time. This was by far the worst experience I've had in a music venue and I've interacted with the guy who manages The Sunshine Theater, so that's really saying something. Thank you Launchpad for a terrible night and for not taking customer injuries seriously. I hate the fact that I spent money at your venue to listen to two songs and get yelled at by your staff. read more

Cute place! I went here for a comedy show. It gets a little stuffy in there with all the people crowded inside but it's a good place to watch a show :) read more

Launchpad is one of the smaller venues I've been to. The 21+ entrance is in the front while people under 21 enter through the back. For the concert I went to, I didn't actually pick up a ticket at will call. They just had my information and checked me off a list to get in. Only people who are 21+ are allowed on the balcony. There were only about 10-12 seats up top. Anyone is allowed on the main floor. The sound is pretty good all over, and the venue provides an intimate concert experience. It got really stuffy and hot by the middle of the opener's set. I felt like I was going to pass out as the show went on, so I went back to the bar to get some water. I'm not sure how people under 21 could've gotten water because there was someone monitoring who could enter the bar area. I didn't see/notice a water fountain anywhere. If I felt like I was going to pass out just standing on the side of the venue, I can't imagine how people in the middle of the packed crowd felt. I also saw the main singer give out two water bottles to the crowd, probably because he noticed they were looking pretty dehydrated as well. There was also a sketchy speaker with the bottom barely hanging on by a thread. Looked like a hazard if you asked me. The staff was nice and receptive while I was there, so I hope they take this feedback into consideration too. read more

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Awesome venue. Cool staff and great place to see a show! Sound system is good and was nice to chill on the front patio. Can't wait to return

First time coming to Lunchpad to see Demon Hunter. Venue is too small for a band like Demon Hunter. Between the merch stand and all the people, we couldn't find a place to see the band, both main floor and top floor viewing area were packed. All we we're able to do was sit at a table on the top floor and listened. If I wanted an experience like this, I would just got to a bar, play pool, and listen to my ear pods at full value. Very disappointed in the venue size..., don't plan on returning... read more

I went to the Bowling for Soup concert a few years back with my friend . Parking was easy and we felt safe here (despite stories of the Sunshine Theatre down the street). Fun artwork on the walls. Small venue, but that made it easier to interact with the band and for them to sell their tickets at not outrageous prices (I mean, $15 for a concert?? Come on) read more

Launchpad Night Club - (Jaret Reddick) Bowling for Soup - Dive Bars Near Me - Albuquerque, New Mexico

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I've loved Launchpad since I was in college. It's been a red hot minute since then, but this place still has the same feel. It's been redone since those days, of course (a fire if I recall created the need). The booths up front are fantastic and the waitresses are great. A lot of places water things down, I haven't had that problem here when I order alcohol. They also don't charge for tap water like some other clubs I've been to. Music is always fun, sound system is good enough, and best seats in the house are along the top balcony overlooking the stage. read more

Launchpad is my home away from home. I've both gone to shows and performed here for years. The staff and owner are fantastic people. Drinks and show tickets are reasonably priced as well. I've always had a fabulous time here and look forward to coming back. read more

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Saint Bruno rocked!!! Definitely will be back when they are. Bartender was working his butt off that night. read more

Rusty shackleford loves the launchpad ...excellent service and venue for all types of shows ...cool people good spot

Super cool bar in ABQ. The music is dope, they've got Pacman and Galaga, and they pour drinks strong. A friend just happened to invite me out to Hip-Hop night and I was glad he did. Had such a great time! Would definitely come back here. read more

Launchpad Night Club - Dive Bars Near Me - Albuquerque, New Mexico

Perhaps I'm biased. . .This is my regular going out spot. Best happy hour in town: From five to seven (eight if it's a 21+ show) the whole bar is half price - top shelf and all. It was out of commission earlier this year when a dumb box left linseed oil soaked rags in an enclosed space at the adjacent bar, but it's back with an even better sound system. Get to know the bartenders, and they'll treat you right. They lower a garage door between the stage and the bar areas during an all ages show, so you have to leave your drink behind or go upstairs to the balcony if you want to see the band. Thanks to this security measure, the Launchpad has fewer citations for minors drinking than almost any other spot downtown. This translates to no cops hanging around waiting to bust folks in the parking lot, as you'll find further down Central Ave. Oh. . .And they have great shows. read more

Launchpad Night Club - Happy Hour - Dive Bars Near Me - Albuquerque, New Mexico

I've yet to go to a bad show at the Launchpad! It's always a great time and the acoustics are surprisingly on point as of late. Nestled right on Central, parking is convenient and there's plenty of food and drink options in the vicinity. They have a good selection of beer and drinks are strong. Any night at the Launchpad is a night very well spent. read more

Launchpad Night Club - Metalachi - Dive Bars Near Me - Albuquerque, New Mexico

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Launchpad is my favorite concert venue in ABQ. The shows almost always sound good and it's small enough to always have a good view and feel up-close to the music. They have a good bar selection and a nice balcony for chillin' while you have your drink. The crowd here always seems really relaxed, and I've never had a bad experience here. The bouncers/security are also really courteous and helpful, as opposed to the Sunshine where you get molested before entering and either ignored by security when you need them, or hassled for no reason. I definitely turn up for shows here more than any other place in the city! read more

What do 7 Seconds... RL Burnside... Supersuckers... Deadbolt... June of 44... Melt Banana... Pavement... the Donnas...Mojo Nixon... Nashville Pussy... the Dropkick Murphys... have in common? They have all played the Launchpad and I was lucky enough to be there. I remember ABQ (night)life before the Launchpad... and what was in its place... a seemingly innocuous and forgettable venue by the name of Time Out.... Good shows were a rarity... at least the out-of-state ones were. When it first changed ownership I remember a gasp from the community... what's it gonna be? What's a'gonna happen? I'll tell ya what happened... the stage improved, the sound system became a'hundred times better, there were places to sit... and - Reborn was the Launchpad. Aptly named... for it shot many an unfounded Albuquerque band into the limelight. Flake Music, anyone? You know them better as The Shins. Or how 'bout the Eyeliners... or Scared of Chaka? Ahhhh.... Those were the days. So, anyway... I moved to California in 2001. I can try and describe the place... what with the 50s style booths in glitter and formica tables that held many an empty pint... the upstairs that boasts a few pool tables, couple of video games, and long bench for resting your weary, angst ridden yet very musical self. There's also a small private room up there where I smoked a blunt with RL Burnside, Cedric Burnside, and Robert Cage many, MANY years ago... and then missed half the show cause I had to go to the car...I spent half the show with my face pressed against the cool glass window cause I thought I was effing dying. WTF was that, Cedric? Da Mempis Chronic? Good times. I mean, really... some of the best. read more

Launchpad might be the venue that compares to that of Austin, TX. I lived in Austin and it's no joke, they are the kings of the small music venues. Launchpad has a bar immediately when you walk in. Beyond that you have the choice of passing a makeshift beer stand to get to the dance floor/ front of the stage. Or you can go upstairs where you can casually sit with friends or lean over the edge to watch the entertainers. Make no mistake, you can hear the music from anywhere in the bar. I went for a private social so I can't quote the venue on drink prices. But atmosphere and layout get an A+ from me!! read more

I say "good" to the previous. The only thing that sucks is when they let underage kids in for concerts, thus restricting the drinking area. If you are a big puss or preppy then you won't like this place. I say it kicks ass!! read more

Such an awesome spot! My fiancee and I were doing a road trip and stopped in Albuquerque for a couple nights. We dug through Facebook to see if any shows were happening in the area and found that Prayers was playing here so we came by. We were not disappointed in the least! I mean, if we lived here, we would be at this bar all the time. It was rad. It's divey and we were surrounded by a bunch of metalheads, punks and goth kids. I will definitely be stopping by again the next time we are in Albuquerque. read more

Its pretty nice inside, the beer is at a good price, show I saw was amazing, they have pinball pool and other arcade games, outside sit area and parking across the street. read more

Divey and rocking- the venues sound is pretty good too. Mostly a metal crowd, as that is the most frequent genre they book. No food, just drinks prices are on par with most of downtown. The best thing about metal shows besides the music is there was no line to use the woman's restroom. I joked there was a 5 cocks to hen ratio. My boyfriend corrected me and said no it is like 15. That said if you are a metal chick looking for a metal head smelly greasy boyfriend this is prime territory to scoop one up. read more

Best live venue in town. Period. Period. Stop. All the best bands in the world play the Launchpad. If William Hung had played here he'd still be famous. If Fallout Boy had played here they would have stopped sucking. You get the idea. It's also a few blocks down from downtown's main bar strip, so you don't have to put up with drunken a-holes on the street, and it's easier to find parking. read more

Launchpad Night Club? Okay, I can understand the Night part--shows can go into the wee hours--but Club? Nope, not in my experience. While this place manages a DJ set and a bunch of clubbers as well as just about any spot, the Launchpad is BEST when it ROCKS, and this place has been outright rocking as long as I've lived here. I'm talking rocking in every genre, too: hip hop, rockabilly, glam, indie, electronic... I'm not sure about smooth jazz. It's a small music venue that can give an avid music fan their first personal taste of a band set to blow up. I've seen plenty of these over the years, from a collective which went on to form the Shins to underground rappers who struck paydirt after their first great tour. It's the kind of place where you'll probably find the band sitting down at the bar after the set. In summary, thanks Launchpad Night Club--er, ROCK GARDEN. You make life in the 505 so much better. read more

I go to the launchpad very frequently. It is one of my favorite places to go for live music. The staff is always awesome! The drinks are affordable. The venue is large and allows for a lot of area to sit or stand. You can either be where the band is playing or enjoy the music by the bar. There is even a patio to cool off after some good fun dancing. Always a fun time to be had here! read more

This place has some really fun unique bands and usually decently low prices for them. It was a little frustrating with the cash only cover but that is very typical. Just remember cash. The beers are a little pricey and it's impossible to meet people and talk but it's a fun venue anytime you want to see a live band and have a good time. read more

Love coming to the launch pad to see dirty deeds burlesque and the concerts that accompany them. Bartenders and employees are kind and helpful. Great beer variety, good prices and stiff drinks! read more

Launchpad Night Club - Dive Bars Near Me - Albuquerque, New Mexico

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Launchpad! The name itself entices. Who doesn't want to be rocketed into orbit, coming down several hours later, walking out, feathers strewn wildly in hair, wondering what just happened. Killin' it, Launchpad, undeniably. Check their calendar for the lineup. There something for everyone-- chose your own space odyssey! read more

Get here early to find a spot on the upper level!

When I lived in Albuquerque, many a night were spent at the Launchpad. It all began when I was 19. We started listening to local bands (at the time, Starsky, the Concentrators). We used to wait outside for someone to help us sneak in. This is the place where my relationships of my Young Adult(s) (another band at the time) life began; with beer and boys who play in bands. I once fell asleep at a show (Versus). I also carried a drunk Marty from the Shins (they are from ABQ, don't let them fool you) around like a baby before helping to hoist him up to the balcony. I saw many shows here. While it's pretty divy and I've moved away since I have a fondness for the Launchy (but I really hate calling it that) and how it figures its way into the awesomeness that I have grown up into. read more

Small venue. Band mix was muddy and hard to hear clearly while way too loud for the size of the room. Bartender was friendly and poured a good drink. read more

It seems pretty lame to keep comparing this venue to places from out of state because guess what, you're in New Mexico now, this is what you've got. This venue is awesome, lots of floor room where the stage is, reasonably priced beer, a cool balcony to hangout if you want to go relax and get out of the crowd. The staff is pretty friendly, the bathrooms are surprisingly not that gnarly considering. It's my favorite venue in the city, and a good place to hangout even if you're not there to see any bands. read more

I like to atmospehere in this place. It brings in good local and indie stuff, and it was my favorite venue for the 2005 National Poetry Slam. It does seem to get cramped pretty easily, but the beer selection is good and the prices are great. And it's been a while since my last visit, but do they still have the pinball machines upstairs? Honestly, I would kill to have a place this cool in my hometown. read more

There's not a lot I can say about how special the launchpad is to so many locals here. The sound, the bartenders, the staff, the shows, pinball, arcade games, a pool table, you can't really have more to ask for in a charming dive read more

Judging from the state of touring in this day and age, Launchpad goes above and beyond for both the performing bands and the patrons who call it home. Where else can you spend an hour drinking with (rip) The Epoxies, MDC, VNV Nation, or Imperative Reaction after they get off stage? Granted, the floor is "kid-friendly", but this venue is so not like Gilman Street (which I am way too familiar with) and geared towards some of us older music fans that I have to rate it as nearly top-notch... If the bands play it cool, the kids leave due to the 11:00pm curfew, and all the older more seasoned fans hang out in the bar area and talk shit, just like it should be... I ding this venue a star because the sound logistics of this venue are "difficult"... Get there early, and please, do a sound check. read more