Most souvenir shops in New York sell the same things — cheap magnets, keychains, and “I ❤️ NY” t-shirts made in China. But if you want something better, here are real places where people shop for good souvenirs. These are gifts you’ll actually want to keep or give to someone.
1. Christmas Cottage – Ornaments
If you collect ornaments or want a small Christmas gift, there’s a little Christmas shop near Chinatown and Little Italy called Christmas Cottage. People say it has cute stuff that makes great gifts.
2. Chelsea Market – Local Shops and Food
Chelsea Market is a great place to shop for souvenirs that are actually made in New York. You’ll find:
- Local art
- Handmade jewelry
- Small gifts
There’s also great food, so you can eat while you shop.
3. Museum Gift Shops – Classy and Unique
Many museums in NYC have gift shops with quality souvenirs. They’re not cheap, but the stuff is well-made.
Some good ones:
- The Met Store (Metropolitan Museum of Art) – Art prints, books, scarves
- MoMA (Museum of Modern Art) – Modern gifts and posters
- NY Public Library Gift Shop (at 42nd & 5th Ave) – Book-themed gifts
- Transit Museum Store – Subway-themed souvenirs
- American Museum of Natural History – Science gifts and toys for kids
4. Buy an FDNY Shirt at a Fire Station
Go to a real fire station and knock on the door. You can buy a t-shirt with the FDNY logo. The money goes straight to the firefighters. It’s a good souvenir and supports them too.
5. Central Park Artists – Prints and Paintings
Inside Central Park, near Literary Walk, local artists sell paintings and drawings of NYC. These look great if you frame them when you get home.
6. 9/11 Memorial and Tribute Museum – Meaningful Gifts
At the 9/11 Memorial or Tribute Museum, the gift shop sells:
- Mugs with the Survivor Tree
- Books
- T-shirts and tote bags
Your money helps support survivors and the families. It’s a meaningful place to visit and the souvenirs are respectful.
7. Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s – Nice Souvenirs in Stores
If you’re shopping in Manhattan, go to:
- Macy’s (34th Street) – They have a New York souvenir section.
- Bloomingdale’s – Go to the top floor. You’ll usually find interesting NYC-themed items.
8. Woodbury Common – Modern Glasses
At Woodbury Common outlet mall, someone found cool wine and beer glasses with the NYC skyline on them. Frosted glass, about $15 each. They were in a small shop near the food court.
9. Street Markets – Good for Small Stuff
On weekends, check out NYC street markets. You’ll find local vendors selling magnets, t-shirts, art, and other small items.
Bonus Ideas
- Get a fridge magnet from a local shop
- Buy a book from a museum or library
- Find a stained glass apple or something symbolic
- A photo frame can be a simple but nice memory
Final Tip
Avoid the stores that sell the same cheap stuff. If it looks like it was made for tourists, it probably was. Go to places where New Yorkers actually shop or where the items mean something.
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