16 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 10.
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?
Perhaps you’re looking for something that will serve as a reminder of your trip, or maybe you want to find a souvenir that’s inexpensive and easy to transport.
There are plenty of terrific souvenir options available in the United States, from quirky handicrafts to local delicacies that the family will love (if you choose to share). With a little inspiration, it’s easy to find unique souvenirs that will serve as a lifetime reminder of your trip.
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.
15 Best Souvenirs from America
To help you avoid endlessly searching through shops, markets and megamalls, here are 15 USA souvenirs that’ll put a smile on your face each time you see them.
1. Disney merchandise
From classic Mickey Mouse ears to trendy apparel, there’s loads of USA souvenirs to choose from at the Disneyland Resort.
If you’re looking for more than just t-shirts and hats, you might want to peruse elevated items like Dooney & Bourke bags and Alex and Ani bracelets.
No matter what you’re budget is, you can find the perfect souvenir at the ‘Happiest Place on Earth’.
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.
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 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 complement the décor of just about any home. They also serve as a lifetime reminder of your encounter with Lady Liberty herself.
6. Mackinac Island fudge
If you’re planning to visit Michigan, I highly recommend nipping over to Mackinac Island – even if just to pick up some delicious fudge.
Made fresh daily, this sweet treat comes in a wide variety of flavours, making it easy to find one (or two… or three…) the entire family will relish.
7. Custom pen
Get yourself a really cool classic American pen design to remember your trip.
Add the design you want on these custom pens and incorporate American elements. This is a great way to fully demonstrate your creativity!
8. 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.
You might need to do a bit of homework to find out what items are specific to your destination – they can vary from city to city.
9. 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.
Red chili sauce adds a whirlwind of flavour to dishes ranging from French fries and hot dogs to chicken salad. From mild to mind-blowing, endless options exist for those looking to spice up their lives back home.
Hot sauces also make fantastic gifts for foodies, whether given as stocking stuffers or just simple tokens of appreciation.
Remember – when it comes to the hot sauce, the spicier, the better!
10. 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 for a great souvenir from America.
11. 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!
Mmmm, the ultimate souvenirs from America. Although, if you want to waste your money, you could go for Hershey’s chocolate instead. Be prepared for that surprisingly disgusting taste though!
12. Painted pottery from Santa Fe
For souvenirs that reflect the creative culture of Santa Fe, I recommend picking up some painted pottery.
Santa Fe is known for its vibrant art scene, and pottery is one of the most popular souvenirs from this southwestern city.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional Navajo design or a more modern style, Santa Fe pottery will be a staple of your home’s décor.
13. New Orleans jazz record
History buffs and music lovers alike will appreciate a traditional New Orleans jazz music CD or vinyl.
New Orleans is known as the Birthplace of Jazz, and there’s no better place to experience this legendary music than in the city where it was born.
From famous street musicians to world-renowned jazz clubs, New Orleans is full of spirited places to enjoy jazz. And what better way to remember your trip than by bringing home a CD of some of the best jazz musicians in the world?
14. Hawaiian lei
If you want to keep the spirit of Hawaii alive long after you trip, a traditional Hawaiian lei is a must-have souvenir.
These beautiful necklaces are made of colourful flowers and symbolise friendship and love. Best of all, they’re lightweight and easy to pack, making them an ideal accessory to take home.
Whether you choose an authentic Hawaiian lei or a more affordable version made with artificial flowers, you’ll be able to remember your trip in style.
15. 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. Definitely one of the best souvenirs from America on the list!
16. Yellowstone t-shirt
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 a t-shirt to take you back to that first time.
Best souvenirs from America
Unique souvenirs provide you with a lasting way to remember your time in the USA. From delectable edibles like Ghirardelli chocolate and apple pie to homewares like painted pottery and Lady Liberty models, there’s a souvenir that’ll serve as a lifetime memento of your stateside adventure.
Of course, the list of amazing souvenirs from the USA is endless, but I hope my favourites have given you a little inspiration. If there’s anything unique you think other fellow globetrotters should know about, let me know in the comments below.
Quick list of best souvenirs from the USA
- Disney merchandise
- NYPD t-shirt
- American flag
- Statue of Liberty model
- Mackinac Island fudge
- Local specialties
- Hot sauce
- Baseball cards
- Ghirardelli chocolate
- Painted pottery from Santa Fe
- New Orleans jazz record
- Hawaiian lei
- Wine from the Napa Valley
- Yellowstone t-shirt
PIN THESE AMERICA SOUVENIRS FOR LATER
