11 Ideas for Unique Souvenirs from America
Searching for the perfect souvenirs from America? From Star-Spangled Banners to New Orleans jazz records and hand-painted pottery, there are countless USA souvenirs to give you an ever-lasting kick of nostalgia, but here are just 11.
With such a vast array of great souvenirs in America, choosing just one (or a few) to pack into your suitcase can prove to be a tad difficult. Do you want something unique to the area you visited, or would you prefer something more practical for everyday life?
So, whether you’re looking for the perfect gift for a friend or want to treat yourself, read on for the best souvenirs from the USA.
1. Disney merchandise
From classic Mickey Mouse ears to trendy apparel, there’s loads of USA souvenirs to choose from at the Disneyland Resort.
Obviously you’re going to need some serious cash for this, Disney merch doesn’t come cheap. But can you really come away without some mouse ears?
Note: I did, you don’t have to pay all that money if you don’t want to. I thoroughly enjoyed my Mickey Mouse ice cream in the sun though!
2. NYPD t-shirt
If you want a souvenir that’s unique to the Big Apple, head to The Official NYPD Store to pick up an NYPD T-shirt or hat.
With one of these stylish items, you’ll have a wearable reminder of your trip. You’ll also be the proud owner of official NYPD-licensed merchandise.
On a related note, imagine waking up from a boozey night out and finding this picture on your digital camera. It’s been about 20 years since now, and I still love it!
3. Custom keychains
If you’re looking for a keepsake to preserve your American memories, how about some custom keychains?
You can incorporate memorable elements of America into your custom keychain, whether it’s the American flag or the Statue of Liberty. Combine them with your keychain to create lasting memories for when you get back home.
4. American flag
The American flag is one of the most recognisable symbols in the world. It’s also one of the most popular souvenirs from America among visitors.
American flags are available in all shapes and sizes, making it easy to find a fantastic decorative piece for your home’s style. They also make great gifts for friends and family who love the iconic design of the stars and stripes.
5. Statue of Liberty model
One of America’s most popular tourist destinations is also home to one of its most popular souvenirs – model replicas of the Statue of Liberty.
Available in a wide range of sizes and price points, these statues can serve as a lifetime reminder of your encounter with Lady Liberty herself.
6. Local specialties
Each state in the USA has its unique history and culture. As a result, there are often regional specialties that make great souvenirs. For example, New Orleans is known for its delicious pralines, while Pennsylvania, particularly the Dutch Country, is famous for its handmade quilts.
Pick up some local painted pottery if you’re in Santa Fe, records in the birthplace of Jazz New Orleans, or some Lei in Hawaii.
You might need to do a bit of homework to find out what items are specific to your destination – they can vary from state to state and city to city.
7. Hot sauce from America
If you’re heading to the Southwest, you need to grab at least a few bottles of red chili-based hot sauce.
Hot sauces also make fantastic gifts for foodies, whether given as stocking stuffers or just simple tokens of appreciation. From mild to mind-blowing, endless options exist for those looking to spice up their lives back home.
8. Baseball cards
Collecting baseball cards is a classic American hobby, making them ideal souvenirs if you want something culturally unique.
Whether you’re looking for signed memorabilia or pocket-sized reminders of your trip, plenty of options are available.
Best of all, baseball cards are relatively inexpensive and can be picked up at nearly any souvenir shop.
9. Ghirardelli chocolate
If you want to indulge in a delicious treat that’s part of the United States’ heritage, you can’t go wrong by picking up a few bars of Ghirardelli chocolate.
This iconic brand has been making delicious chocolate for over 150 years, and its products are now enjoyed worldwide.
Ghirardelli chocolates come in a wide range of flavours, from classic milk chocolate to more exotic options like dark chocolate with raspberry filling. There’s a treat for all tastes!
If you want to waste your money, you could go for Hershey’s chocolate instead. Be prepared for that surprisingly disgusting taste though!
10. Wine from the Napa Valley
If you enjoy the occasional tipple, a visit to the Napa Valley wine region in California is a no-brainer – it produces some of the most recognisable wines in the world.
Whether you’re looking for an affordable bottle or something more high-end, there’s something for all budgets in the Napa Valley.
Best of all, fine wines get finer with age, making them souvenirs you can keep for years. I still remember a bottle I bought back from a trip to California and shared with my dad. We genuinely spent the next few years googling every so often to try and find another one, which we were willing to pay for the international shipping for. It was SO good. To this day I remember it as the best bottle of wine I’ve ever had.
11. Yellowstone merch
Yellowstone is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, and it’s home to plenty of places to buy souvenir t-shirts.
Many classic t-shirts feature images of iconic Yellowstone landmarks, such as the Old Faithful geyser. If that’s too cliché for you, you can choose something more modern with an interpretive design.
If you want to forever cherish the memories of America’s first national park, you can’t beat some Yellowstone merch a to take you back.
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