It's a sad fact that the city's biggest tourist attractions are rarely in close proximity to places we like to grab a drink. But when your friends and family come in from out of town and insist on going to Times Square or visiting the Statue of Liberty, here's where to take them drinking afterwards. Or before. It's the holidays, indulge a little. 

Metropolitan Museum of Art 
Bemelmans Bar
After a jaunt around Central Park and the priceless works at the Met, it is time for something a little classy. Bemelmans Bar is an iconic New York experience in The Carlyle that's actually worth experiencing—white-jacket waiters, a gold leaf ceiling, live piano all surrounded by murals from Ludwig Bemelmans, the man who created the Madeline series. Cover is $30 after 9:30 p.m. so get in early. (35 E. 76th St., 212-744-1600) 

Times Square
The Rum House
Escape from the bright lights and consumerist hoopla that is Times Square and head for a different kind of consumption. This retro-inspired cocktail bar from the folks behind Ward III celebrates the liquor of southern locales. Whether it's a classic cocktail like an expertly made Mojito, or a contemporary original like The Barrymore (Islay Scotch, Ramazzotti and Yellow Chartreuse). (228 W. 47th St., 646-490-6942) 

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island/South Ferry
Route 66
Whether it's a snack before hopping on the Staten Island Ferry for a jaunt around the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, or a drink after, your out-of-town visitors will surely enjoy a stop at this all-American spot. Even those picky and particualr family memebers that are so hard to please. Route 66 draws inspiration from regional American dining. Drinks range from whiskeys, beers and soda pop (like Cheerwine and Dad's root beer). (79 Pearl St., 212-943-1602) 

9/11 Memorial
The Wooly
Appealing for both the drinks made by dapper and skilled bartenders as well as the people watching, The Wooly feels like a Lower East Side bar in the Woolsworth Building. It's definitely on the dim side but the candles add a lounge-y allure, and a sense of danger when guests start getting sloppy. Dancing later on. (11 Barclay St.) 

Rockefeller Center 
Betony
It ain't cheap but if you or your family has ever yearned for a glimpse of the New York luxe life, Betony is a lovely (and comfortably unpretentious) way to do it. The team behind fantastic small plates—and bigger plates—as well as the bar are Eleven Madison Park vets. And with drinks that range from smart takes on old classics (think a Pisco Sour mellowed down with egg whites) and the extraordinary, clear Milk Punch. Just ask how they make it. (41 W 57th St., 212-465-2400) 

Grand Central Terminal 
Campbell Apartments
And sometimes you don't have to flee at all. While the masses inside Grand Central Terminal are a buzzing, enjoy the buzz from one of Campbell Apartment's vintage cocktails while gazing at some stained glass and intricate woodwork. (15 Vanderbilt Ave., 212-953-0409) 

Photo: Flickr user petercruise