The Best New York Souvenirs: 12 Ideas to Get Started

Are you planning a trip to New York and unsure about what souvenirs to bring back? With so many options available, choosing the perfect memento can be a daunting task. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, New York is filled with souvenir shops, but the best keepsakes often go beyond the typical trinkets. Here are twelve unique ideas for souvenirs that will help you capture the essence of the Big Apple.

1. Souvenirs Don’t Have to Be Bought in a Shop

A great tip for souvenir hunting is that some of the best items can be found through experiences rather than purchases. The memories of a local activity can make for the most unique keepsakes. Whether it’s attending a Broadway show or taking a walking tour, these experiences stay with you long after the trip. Don’t forget to snap lots of photos throughout your visit, and consider turning them into a digital photo album or a video that you can enjoy for years to come. It’s a personal and one-of-a-kind souvenir!

2. Buy Something You’ll Actually Use

When picking out a souvenir for yourself, think practical. Opt for something useful that will remind you of your trip every day. For instance, a fridge magnet with a thermometer or a vintage bottle opener can be both functional and sentimental. Other great options include nail clippers, pins, or even a dinner bell – all items that you’ll actually use and enjoy at home.

3. Bring Home Some New York Food

New York is home to some of the world’s most iconic food scenes. From world-class restaurants to local street food, the city offers endless culinary delights. For a sweet reminder of your time in the city, consider picking up some artisanal chocolates from Brooklyn’s bean-to-bar chocolatiers. Or, treat yourself to some quirky desserts from Christina Tosi, such as crack pie or compost cookies, which are as addictive as they are unique.

4. Explore American Supermarkets

If you’re looking for quirky and affordable souvenirs, head to one of New York’s many supermarkets. These stores often have local snacks and packaged goods that you won’t find anywhere else. From local jams to exclusive packaged foods, supermarkets are an unexpected but great place to pick up souvenirs. Be sure to leave some room in your suitcase for these delicious finds.

5. Bargain Hunt Like a Local

While Times Square is filled with tourist-centric shops offering “I (Heart) NY” T-shirts, venture a little further to find something more original. The United Nations gift shop is an excellent place to pick up unique and meaningful souvenirs. If you’re a fan of music, Academy Records and CDs in New York’s Village offers vintage records and music memorabilia, perfect for music lovers.

6. Get Souvenirs Inspired by the NYC Skyline

The New York skyline, with its iconic buildings like the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center, is one of the city’s most recognizable features. Many souvenir shops sell crafts and artwork inspired by the stunning skyline. These items, whether paintings, models, or photographs, make beautiful and personal mementos from your visit.

7. Free Public Transport Souvenirs

Don’t underestimate the value of a New York subway ticket stub or metro card. These seemingly insignificant items can make for a nostalgic and meaningful souvenir. Collect subway maps, museum pamphlets, or event tickets as a way to remember the places you visited. These are perfect for creating a scrapbook or adding to your travel journal.

8. Yankees Memorabilia

If you’re a sports fan, a souvenir from the legendary New York Yankees is a must. The Yankees Clubhouse Shop in Times Square offers everything from jerseys to memorabilia for die-hard fans. Whether for yourself or as a gift for a friend, these items are a perfect way to take a piece of New York’s sports culture home with you.

9. Visit Iconic Film Locations

New York is known as the backdrop to countless famous movies. If you’re a film buff, take a stroll through Central Park and visit the bench that has appeared in several Woody Allen films. Another must-see is Tiffany’s, made famous by Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. These locations provide the perfect opportunity to take home a piece of movie history.

10. Artistic Souvenirs from MoMA

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is a cultural treasure trove and an excellent place to pick up creative souvenirs. Known for its stunning collection of artwork, MoMA’s gift shop is a fantastic spot to find items like artisan holiday cards or unique home decor. These artistic keepsakes will remind you of the city’s vibrant arts scene.

11. Broadway Show Memorabilia

No trip to New York is complete without experiencing a Broadway show. After the show, visit the Broadway flea market for a chance to purchase signed posters, actor memorabilia, and other theater-related keepsakes. If you visit during the summer, the flea market offers a great selection of rare and collectible items from past performances.

12. Festival-Themed Souvenirs

If you’re in New York during the holiday season, or during an iconic festival like Halloween, take the opportunity to buy special seasonal souvenirs. From Christmas snow globes to pumpkin-themed decorations for Halloween, these festive items can serve as charming reminders of your visit to the city.

In conclusion, New York offers a wealth of unique souvenirs that go beyond the typical tourist shops. Whether it’s a piece of the city’s skyline, a collectible from a Broadway show, or a local food treat, there’s no shortage of ways to take home a piece of this iconic city.