Looking for the best New York souvenirs to bring home or give as a reminder of your study holiday? Here is what to buy, and where to find it.
Being in New York City for a study holiday is an unforgettable experience for any student. If you have chosen it as one of our programmes, you will not want to return home without a good collection of memories for yourself and thoughtful gifts for family and friends.
If you are unsure what to buy or where to shop, here you will find the ten best New York City souvenirs, so you can spend less time browsing aimlessly and more time exploring the city itself.
The best places to buy souvenirs in New York
It will not take long to notice that Times Square is packed with souvenir shops on almost every corner. If you are in a hurry, these stores are ideal for quick and affordable purchases, and they are certainly convenient.
That said, surrounded by bright lights and shelves full of trinkets competing for your attention, it can become overwhelming very quickly. If you have a little more time, it is worth heading somewhere with a more distinctive atmosphere.
There are five places in particular where you can find memorable New York souvenirs without spending a fortune.
The Strand Bookstore
The Strand Bookstore has an entire section dedicated to creative souvenirs, including mugs, notebooks, keyrings, tote bags and photo albums.
Not only will you pick up one of the best New York City souvenirs here, you will also step inside one of the most iconic bookshops in the city. It is difficult not to love it.
New York Transit Museum Store
New York Transit Museum offers everything from classic underground maps to miniature train models and objects inspired by the city’s transport system.
It is an ideal stop if you want something original that reflects everyday New York life rather than a generic tourist item.
Metropolitan Museum of Art Store
Metropolitan Museum of Art souvenirs are more expensive than the previous options, but if your budget allows, they are worth considering.
You will find unique, well-designed gifts that feel far more thoughtful than a typical souvenir shop purchase.
MoMA Design Store
MoMA Design Store is another excellent option if you are drawn to design-led pieces.
Prices are higher, but the selection is curated and distinctive, which makes the gifts feel more special.
Holiday markets
If you are lucky enough to visit New York during the Christmas season, you can explore some of the city’s festive markets. They offer handmade crafts, decorations and seasonal treats that make truly special souvenirs.
The best souvenirs you should definitely buy in New York
When people look for souvenirs, they often choose decorations, magnets, postcards, handmade local crafts, mugs and branded items.
Tea towels, menus, cookbooks, shot glasses, posters, keyrings, tote bags, snow globes, blankets, figurines and “I Love NY” products are also popular choices.
In short, anything that fits easily into your suitcase and travels well can become the perfect gift. Here are ten of the best souvenirs to buy during your study holiday in New York:
A classic New York Yankees baseball cap
The New York Yankees cap is almost synonymous with The Big Apple. As you walk around New York, you will notice thousands of these caps worn on the streets.
You can find them in most tourist areas, from Times Square to the Brooklyn Bridge, and they are usually reasonably priced. It is a simple, recognisable and practical souvenir.
An iconic New York mug
Is there anyone who does not start the day with a cup of coffee or tea? A New York mug is a thoughtful gift that will be used daily.
The most iconic design is the blue and white “We Are Happy To Serve You” cup, often seen in films and television series set in New York. It is instantly recognisable.
Statue of Liberty or yellow taxi figurines
For an affordable New York souvenir, a small Statue of Liberty figurine or a miniature yellow taxi is a safe choice.
They are easy to display on a desk and take up very little space, making them suitable for colleagues or friends.
New York inspired LEGO for children
If you are travelling with children, a visit to the LEGO Store Fifth Avenue is almost impossible to resist. It is located in Midtown, directly opposite St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
One of the best souvenirs here is the LEGO New York skyline set, which recreates the city’s most famous landmarks in miniature form.
A New York City tote bag
A canvas tote bag with a New York print is both practical and stylish. Most people use tote bags for shopping or everyday errands, so this is a gift that will not be forgotten at the back of a cupboard.
A New York luggage tag
A luggage tag inspired by the yellow taxi or the classic MetroCard is one of those practical souvenirs that continues to be appreciated long after your return.
Each time you travel, it will remind you of your study holiday in New York.
For the dedicated New York fan
If you know someone who adores New York and is difficult to buy for, consider a photography book such as Pretty City New York.
It is filled with striking images of the city and makes a thoughtful keepsake.
The best edible New York souvenirs
If you want to bring home something delicious, stop by Levain Bakery for their famous cookies, often described as some of the best in the world, or try the chocolate babka from Breads Bakery.
These treats are always appreciated and may even be requested again on your next visit.
A New York snow globe
A snow globe may feel nostalgic, but many parents and grandparents still love them. Even in the worst case, it becomes a charming paperweight that captures one of the world’s most famous cities inside.
A New York City T-shirt
Beyond the classic “I Love NY” design, you will find T-shirts featuring underground maps, the The Notorious B.I.G., or landmarks such as the Empire State Building.
They are easy to pack and a simple way to bring a piece of the city home with you.
Before you set your heart on a particular shop or product, always check opening times and availability during your stay.
And if you are still planning your study holiday, why not discover our New York programmes and start thinking about which souvenir you will choose to remember it by?
