Hotel bars aren’t just for tired businesspeople looking for a nightcap. They’re where the hip, sophisticated and thirsty go to see and be seen, and what better city to be seen in than New York. Hotel bars in the Big Apple are infused with as much charm and pizzazz as the signature cocktails they’re serving up. From trendy, celebrity-favorite lounges to the quintessential rooftop bars, New York City hotels are ready to quench your thirst.

Whiskey Blue at W New York

Located in Midtown Manhattan, Whiskey Blue is one of the many bars in the portfolio of nightlife entrepreneur Rande Gerber. This trendy, candle-lit lounge calls the names of New York professionals who are looking to loosen up their collared shirts and enjoy an extensive selection of libations. From 30 types of tequila to specialty cocktails such as the Bubblicious (bubblegum flavored vodka mixed with a dash of pomegranate), Whiskey Blue has all the right stuff.

541 Lexington Ave., New York, NY 10022 at 49th St. 212-407-2947. www.starwoodhotels.com/whotels.

Bar D’eau at Trump Soho

While we might question his hairstyle, there’s no questioning Donald Trump’s hotel expertise—the man knows how to make a hotel the talk of the town. Trump Soho’s Bar D’eau opened its doors in the beginning of August, just in time for rooftop-bar hoppers to relax by the 7th-floor pool and bocce court before summer draws to a close. Sip on eccentric spirits such as the Bourbon Tea with Woodford Reserve, which is infused with a house-made tea blend, fresh lemon and honey, and be sure to try the curry lobster roll.

246 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013. 212-842-5500. www.trumpsohohotel.com/Food-And-Wine/Bar-dEau.

Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle

This classic watering hole has been satiating politicians, movie stars, socialites and business execs for more than 50 years. The bar’s namesake, Ludwig Bemelmans, was commissioned to paint a large mural of charming Central Park scenes on the walls of the bar and did so in exchange for a year and a half of accommodations at The Carlyle. Bemelmans is the perfect bar for those looking for a classy, old New York experience. The ceiling is coated in 24-karat gold leaf, the glass tables are nickel-trimmed and the single malt scotch selection is divine.

35 East 76th St., New York, NY 10021. 212-744-1600. www.thecarlyle.com/dine4.cfm.

A60 at 60 Thompson

You might want to book a room or don your “Members Only” jacket if you plan on checking out this ultra swanky rooftop bar—access is restricted to hotel guests, members and private parties—but it would certainly be worth it. With unmatched views of the Manhattan skyline, A60 is serving up more than just delicious cocktails made with exotic fruits; if you manage to score security clearance, you might as well order a drink or one of their Thai hors d’oeuvres.

60 Thompson St., New York, NY 10012. 877-431-0400. www.thompsonhotels.com/hotels/nyc/60-thompson/drink/a60.

The Bull and Bear at the Waldorf Astoria

If rooftop bars and chic lounges aren’t your style, come mingle and drink scotch with the Wall Street types; chances are you won’t see any twenty-somethings drinking oddly named cocktails. Named after the statues on Wall Street, The Bull and Bear exudes masculinity and class. Stop by for a drink with co-workers or stay to indulge in one of their mouthwatering steaks.

301 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10022. 212-872-4900. www.waldorfnewyork.com/dine-in-style/restaurants.