Best New York City Gifts
15 Incredibly Cool NYC-Themed Gifts That Make Me Fall in Love With the City Even More
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"The true New Yorker secretly believes that people living anywhere else have to be, in some sense, kidding." This John Updike quote comes to mind whenever people ask me why I live in New York or what I love about it. It tells them everything they need to know in the most hilarious way. Sure, some may think it's pretentious, but that's truly how many New Yorkers feel about the place they call home.
I'm sure you know someone who's always repping NYC, or who talks about wanting to go back there all the time. If so, consider gifting them some fun NYC-themed tokens that will display their pride or serve as sweet souvenirs, just because. From an entertaining read about the history of the Big Apple to a classic New York bagel feast, these ideas are beyond thoughtful.
A History Lesson: The Little Book of New York by Orange Hippo
The Little Book of New York ($9) by Orange Hippo is packed with trivia, historical faces, and more. For those who love the Big Apple, this manual will teach them everything they need to know — covering the landmarks, world-class museums, theatres and other iconic attractions that make New York what it is.
A Sentimental Gift: Vintage New York Journal
For those who can't wait to visit or those who are excited to return, this Vintage New York Journal ($18) will be a sweet thing to hold onto. I love when everyday objects like this remind me of a place I adore, so I might just buy this for myself.
Spring in NYC: Homesick New York City Candle
With top notes of bergamot, lemon, and grapefruit, this Homesick New York City Candle ($34) is inspired by the scents of spring days in Central Park, fine department stories, and concrete. It seems to capture the energy of the city.
Let's Raise a Toast: NYC Urban Map Glass
This NYC Urban Map Glass ($18), which is etched with the city's grid, is a toast to the hidden gems and great memories associated with possibly the most iconic city in the world (I may be biased, though).
Calling All New York Women: Prinkshop New York Woman Tee
This Prinkshop New York Woman Tee ($40) is packed with meaning as it was created in solidarity with Planned Parenthood. So it'll make a powerful statement when they wear it.
A Weekend Carryall: Miller Standard Tote
This Miller Standard Tote ($48) is cut from sturdy cotton canvas, so it will feel firm as you pack it with produce from the farmers' market or bring back new magazines from the local bookstore. It's a fun weekend companion.
A Relatable Art Print: How to Be A New Yorker Print
This How to Be A New Yorker Print ($24 and up) is not only hilarious, but any New Yorker will relate to one or more of these scenarios. In my case though, the all-black closet couldn't be further from the truth.
A Fantastic Coffee Table Book: The Encyclopedia of New York
The editors of New York magazine put together this incredible book, and it's one I'd gift to anyone who loves New York as much as I do. The Encyclopedia of New York ($25) is a collection of fun facts, unexpected origin stories, hidden histories, and useful guides about the city.
A Useful Accessory: New York City Keychain
This New York City Keychain ($12) isn't your average keychain; it'll make anyone want to take a closer look. It's so uniquely New York, plus it's actually useful.
Hometown Pride: Prinkshop New York New York Sweatshirt
If you were born and raised in New York, this Prinkshop New York New York Sweatshirt ($80) is a cool way to show your hometown pride. The city is so nice, they named it twice!
A Fun Souvenir: New York City Playing Cards
These New York City Playing Cards ($20) make a great gift for local or visitors. The package contains 52 cards with drawings of famous landmarks and neighbourhood places in Manhattan.
A Necklace That Says It All: Kate Spade New York Pendant
This Kate Spade New York Pendant ($58) may be simple, but the message packs volume. It's a sweet reminder of all the reasons one loves New York.
An Original Photograph: NYC Ivy Covered Building
Captured in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, this NYC Ivy Covered Building ($15 and up) will inspire anyone to take a leisurely city stroll. Location scouting (aka photographing pretty facades) is honestly one of my favourite pastimes.
For the Little Ones: Lucky Jade New York City Cotton Cashmere Blanket
This Lucky Jade New York City Cotton Cashmere Blanket ($59, originally $84) displays the iconic city cabs against the backdrop of its popular skyline. It makes a cosy gift for a new parent.
A Bagel Feast: Russ & Daughters New York Brunch
They say New York has the best bagels, and you only need to have this Russ & Daughters New York Brunch ($189) to see why. It contains the city's finest hand-rolled bagels and all-natural cream cheese, among other mouthwatering treats. It's a great gift to share with a group of people.
