Souvenirs are a way to prolong your vacation memories and take a piece of your trip home with you. However, knickknacks sold in Times Square could never capture New York City’s iconic style.
During your next visit, forget the “I Heart New York” T-shirts and shot glasses and, instead, snag some keepsakes that will withstand the test of time.
Here are our top picks for the best gifts you should buy on a trip to NYC.
City-Inspired Clothing
Visit a Big Apple landmark by heading to Grand Central Terminal to experience its incredible architecture and famed celestial ceiling. While you’re there, pick up a memento at New York Transit Museum Store, such as a chiffon scarf inspired by the historic building’s gorgeous interiors. The iconic constellations make a brilliant print you’ll wear for years to come.
And if you’re looking for something for the kids, New York City-subway-inspired socks make an adorable (and practical) gift.
Designer Goods
For a slightly more out-of-the-box souvenir, the MoMA Design Store should be your next stop. Choose from an array of avant-garde goodies, ranging from cutting-edge home décor (maybe balloon-shaped mirrors or an abstract vase influenced by Dutch painter Piet Mondrian) to an innovative roll-up rainbow piano for kids.
Gifts that Rock
The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s “Play It Loud” exhibit (on display through October 1) boasts a cool collection of musical mementos, including a 1958 Gibson electric guitar (“Johnny Be Good”singer Chuck Berry’s go-to) and a replica of Ringo Starr’s Ludwig four-piece drum set.
Musicians can check out a limited-edition reproduction of Led Zeppelin founder Jimmy Page’s legendary Fender Telecaster guitar, but pros and groupies alike can appreciate artsy gifts like a hand-poured, double wick candle shaped like the universal “rock on” hand gesture.
Unique Jewelry
ABC Carpet & Home is a tourist destination in and of itself. Here, you can enjoy a delectable brunch at Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s ABC Kitchen before browsing the store’s eclectic wares. While carpets and couches won’t quite fit in your suitcase, the six-floor shop has plenty of other items you can tote home.
Check out the fine jewelry department to see local brands like Elisa Solomon, whose dainty pieces channel an effortlessly chic, ’60s vibe.
We also love the wellness-inspired apothecary section here, guaranteed to elevate your beauty and mood.
Eclectic, High-End Everything
What’s more fun than discovering Blue Tree, a Madison Avenue shop full of eclectic curiosities? Learning that it’s owned by Fast Times at Ridgemont High actress (and neighborhood resident) Phoebe Cates, who often makes cameos at the store. Peruse eclectic home goods, fashionable finds or distinctive jewelry that adorn the walls from floor to ceiling — the store’s inventory is one of a kind.
For more whimsical wonders, we love Fishs Eddy near Union Square. This quirky spot also offers a seemingly endless amount of eccentric home goods and NYC-inspired merchandise, such as Brooklyn-skyline-patterned coffee mugs.
Something “Rawther” Special
Little literary fans will be overjoyed to find an entire Eloise Shop devoted to The Plaza Hotel‘s most rambunctious resident. Head to the iconic Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star gem to browse a variety of books, dolls and even character-inspired clothing.
Once you’ve made your pick, stop for afternoon tea in The Palm Court and order from a special Eloise-themed menu. Treats like classic root beer floats and blueberry s’mores will satisfy all ages.
New York’s Signature Scent
While the smells of the Big Apple may not be something you wish to remember, the inspired perfumes by local brand Bond No. 9 are something you won’t soon forget. Each bottle in the New York collection pays homage to a different neighborhood with a unique design to match.
With scents ranging from Madison Square Park and Wall Street to Hudson Yards and the Hamptons, these chic souvenirs are a great way to bring the essence of the city home with you — provided you’re checking a bag.
A Taste of New York
While NYC classics like pizza and bagels don’t tend to travel well, cookies are a relatively durable confection that will stay fresh a few days after you’ve returned home.
Levain Bakery’s Instagram-famous, six-ounce cookies are the stuff dreams are made of — these oversized treats could substitute for a meal. Given the fandom, be prepared to wait in line and don’t be surprised if you bump into A-listers like Oprah in the queue, too.
A Stylish Steal
Practical shoppers and beauty mavens should head to household appliance company Dyson’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue to nab one of the most exclusive pieces of styling equipment on the market.
Pick up one of the British brand’s notoriously hard-to-find Airwraps, a low-heat styling wand that curls, smooths and dries hair using warm air. This location is reportedly one of the only places in the country that still has them in stock. Opt for a demo to have your hair coiffed for a night on the town for free.
