Madison Square Park, though small, is a truly top-notch park in New York City. There’s always an art installation, which is notable because the park is relatively small and open. Right now, you can see Teresita Fernández’s Fata Morgana, which entirely morphs the mood of the park through its multiple, foliage-reminiscent suspended mirrors.
 

The park is always lively, too, with places for children and canines to play (separately) and a Shake Shack at the southeast corner. Concerts and other summertime festivals take place here (Kanye even made an appearance when it was still frigid outside), many of which involve food and music. Overall, it’s an easy-to-access park surrounded by trains, and it’s not too far away from a number of decent places to drink, either, like…

Near both Madison Square Park and the 6 train, Snafu always seems to be the darkest bar with the loudest music at the earliest hour in the immediate area. If you feel like going straight from daytime to a nighttime vibe, this is your spot. Standing room mostly. (37 E 28th St.; 212-481-3100)

This rooftop bar, though pricey because it’s part of a hotel, lets you keep your party outdoors in a relaxing atmosphere and amongst a wide array of delicious, fruity drinks (the cocktail list leans towards sweet). You also get a more than decent view of the city below you. (420 Park Ave. South; 212-317-2900)

Quaint décor and a cute, comfortable ambience makes this place a tempting after-park gathering place, but not so much so as its proximity. It’s basically kitty-corner from the park. It offers happy hour oysters along with $5 beers and wines. (254 5th Ave.; 212-203-7772)

With an emphasis on whiskey and a club-type atmosphere without the club-type annoyingness, this bar will make you feel like you’re doing something classy and eventful with your post-park evening. The whiskey list is truly never-ending. (37 W 26th St.;212-725-3860)

Another one (very) near the 6 train, this British bar offers the laid-back air of a pub (if you’re going on any old night, as opposed to, say, brunch, which it does on weekends) with the accoutrements of a themed establishment, including a mini bust of Churchill himself. Brunch entrees come with a complimentary Mimosa or Bloody Mary. (45 E 28th St.;646-476-8419)

If want to go somewhere for good music after your day at the park, you don’t have to go far if you’re into jazz. The acts here tend to be top quality, while the beer and wine list is extensive enough to feature any type you might desire. The place seems like it’s trying to class itself up, though, by offering said beers for higher prices—but, it’s Midtown Manhattan, so you can’t expect otherwise. (116 E 27th St.; 212-576-2232)

Whiskey Rebel
If you’re looking for no pretension whatsoever and simply a place to get drunk, go to Whiskey Rebel. It’s a fraction more of a trek, several blocks to the northeast, but it’s worth it for the dark, no-frills interior and heavily boozy drinks. It seems like it’s a place that gets a lot of regulars. You’ll smell the whiskey all the way from the street as you walk by. (129 Lexington Ave.; 212-686-3800)