New York City, a vibrant metropolis brimming with iconic landmarks and diverse neighborhoods, is also a treasure trove of unique gift shops. Forget the generic souvenirs; NYC offers an array of stores where you can find truly special presents for everyone on your list (and maybe a little something for yourself too!). Whether you’re a local looking for the perfect housewarming gift or a visitor wanting to bring back a memorable piece of the Big Apple, this guide to the best Nyc Gift Shops will lead you to the most delightful and distinctive finds the city has to offer.
Table of Contents: Your Guide to NYC Gift Shops
Exploring NYC’s Premier Gift Stores
A display of NYC books at the New York Transit Museum shop, Best Gift Shops NYC
The Metropolitan Museum of Art Store (The Met Store)
Website: The Met Store
Neighborhood: Upper East Side
Location: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
For those seeking gifts that exude sophistication and artistic flair, The Metropolitan Museum of Art Store, affectionately known as The Met Store, is an unparalleled destination among NYC gift shops. While it leans towards the higher end of the price spectrum, the store’s offerings are well worth the investment for truly exceptional souvenirs. Imagine gifting a loved one jewelry inspired by ancient Egyptian artifacts or home décor adorned with motifs from famous paintings. The Met Store transforms everyday items into pieces of art, providing a memorable and culturally enriching shopping experience.
Beyond the main location, The Met Store also caters to diverse budgets with its online presence. Savvy shoppers can explore a dedicated section featuring gifts under $25, proving that artistic treasures are accessible to everyone. Whether you’re searching for a statement piece or a smaller token, The Met Store ensures you can find a gift that resonates with beauty and history.
Window display of books and trinkets at a NYC gift shop called Pink Olive in the West Village, one of the best gift stores in NYC
Pink Olive
Website: Pink Olive
Neighborhood: West Village
Location: 30 Charles St, New York, NY 10014
Nestled in the picturesque West Village, Pink Olive stands out as one of the most delightful and whimsical gift stores in New York City. Stepping into this charming boutique is like entering a world of creativity and joy, where each aisle promises to spark inspiration. Pink Olive is renowned for its curated selection of handmade candles that fill the air with enchanting scents, fun and stylish tote bags perfect for city living, and artful prints that add a touch of personality to any space.
This local NYC gift shop is also a haven for those seeking trendy souvenirs with a playful edge. Pop culture enthusiasts will appreciate the subtle nods to current trends, including a delightful array of Taylor Swift-themed merchandise. Pink Olive is particularly beloved for its greeting cards; the intricately designed cards are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just to brighten someone’s day. And for those shopping for baby showers, Pink Olive offers an adorable collection of baby clothes that are guaranteed to elicit “oohs” and “aahs.”
A spinning display at the New York Transit Museum Shop with subway-themed hats and keychains
New York Transit Museum Store
Website: New York Transit Museum Store
Neighborhood: Midtown
Location: 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10001
The New York Transit Museum Store is a true hidden gem among NYC gift shops, offering a unique and often overlooked selection of presents. For those in the know, it’s a go-to destination for quirky and memorable gifts. The store is famous for its collection of vintage and modern subway maps, perfect for history buffs and urban explorers. Transit-themed toys are a hit with children, making it an excellent stop for holiday stocking stuffers or birthday presents. You’ll also find a variety of metro-inspired items, from mugs and t-shirts to home décor, all celebrating New York City’s iconic transit system.
Visiting the New York Transit Museum before browsing the gift shop enhances the experience, adding a layer of appreciation for the city’s transportation history. Picking up a souvenir after exploring the exhibits becomes a meaningful way to remember your visit, especially for families with children. The New York Transit Museum Store offers gifts that are not only fun but also educational and reflective of NYC’s unique character.
Girls walking through the Columbus Circle Holiday Market near where a mother and a daughter are buying jewelry from a local vendor, best gift shops NYC
Holiday Markets (Seasonal NYC Gift Shops)
For visitors fortunate enough to experience NYC during the holiday season, a magical world of gift-giving opportunities awaits. New York City’s holiday markets are a vibrant and festive tradition, overflowing with unique NYC gift shops and stalls. These seasonal markets offer an unparalleled shopping experience, filled with handcrafted goods, artisanal foods, and holiday cheer.
Each holiday market in NYC offers a diverse array of vendors, ensuring something special for everyone on your gift list. From charming holiday trinkets and ornaments to handcrafted jewelry and unique clothing, the markets are a treasure trove of gift ideas. Food lovers will rejoice in the edible treats available, from gourmet chocolates to international delicacies, perfect for gifting or enjoying on the spot.
Here are a few must-visit holiday markets for exceptional NYC gift shops:
- Union Square Holiday Market: A sprawling market known for its diverse vendors and handcrafted goods.
- Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park: Features a European-style market with charming stalls and an ice-skating rink.
- Columbus Circle Holiday Market: Located at the southwest corner of Central Park, offering a picturesque holiday shopping experience.
People shop the many vendors, including painters, clothing designers, and photographers, at Artists & Fleas Chelsea Market, one of the best gift shops for souvenirs in NYC
Artists & Fleas
Website: Artists & Fleas
Neighborhood: Chelsea
Location: 88 10th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Connected to the renowned Chelsea Market, Artists & Fleas is a vibrant and eclectic marketplace that operates daily from 11 AM to 7 PM, making it a consistently accessible NYC gift shop destination. This bustling market is a haven for unique and handcrafted items, offering a refreshing alternative to typical retail stores. Artists & Fleas showcases a diverse range of vendors selling everything from original art pieces and vintage clothing finds to handmade jewelry and unique crafts.
Shopping at Artists & Fleas is not only a great way to find special gifts but also supports small businesses and independent creators, contributing to the vibrant artistic community of Chelsea. Compared to the often-generic souvenir shops found in tourist hotspots like Times Square, Artists & Fleas offers gifts with character and authenticity. Purchasing a gift here ensures you’re giving something truly one-of-a-kind and memorable.
Tables full of books and beyond that aisles of Bookshelves at The Strand, one of the best bookstore and souvenir shops in New York City
The Strand Bookstore
Website: The Strand
Neighborhood: East Village
Location: 450 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024
While bookstores might not immediately come to mind when thinking of NYC gift shops, The Strand Bookstore is a notable exception and a must-visit for unique souvenirs. This iconic bookstore, with multiple locations throughout the city, extends its offerings beyond just books, providing a delightful selection of gift items.
The Strand boasts an entire section dedicated to unique souvenirs and bookish merchandise. Here, you can find everything from mugs adorned with literary quotes (some of which, like the author’s 8-year-old mug, are built to last), to journals for aspiring writers, quirky keychains, stylish tote bags, and beautiful photography books capturing the essence of New York City. Not only will you discover exceptional souvenirs, but you’ll also be experiencing one of the most beloved and iconic bookstores in NYC, adding a touch of literary charm to your gift-shopping experience.
Sweaters and shirts from Saturday Night Live at the NBC store in the Rockefeller Center, one of the best gift shops in NYC
NBC Store (Rockefeller Center)
Website: NBC Store
Neighborhood: Midtown
Location: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112
NYC gift shops are abundant, but the NBC Store in Rockefeller Center shines particularly brightly for television enthusiasts. Located on the lower level of Rockefeller Center, this store offers a curated selection of souvenirs perfect for TV lovers and pop culture aficionados. Visitors can even pose on a mock set of the Today show, creating a fun photo opportunity alongside their gift shopping. The store features a wide array of merchandise from beloved NBC shows, including classics like Friends and The Office, allowing fans to take home a piece of their favorite TV series.
Local’s Tip: For a truly unique experience, plan your visit in advance and try to attend a taping of The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. Audience members occasionally get lucky with giveaways like t-shirts, and some might even get to shake Jimmy Fallon’s hand (known for being surprisingly soft, according to local accounts!).
Artwork, plates, silverware, postcards, and trinkets on display at Fishs Eddy
Fishs Eddy
Website: Fishs Eddy
Neighborhood: Flatiron District
Location: 889 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
Established in 1986, Fishs Eddy began its journey by selling vintage and surplus dishes, some dating back to the early 20th century. Over time, Fishs Eddy transitioned into creating their own unique and timeless dishware, solidifying its place as one of the most distinctive NYC gift shops. The store is renowned for its quirky and often NYC-themed designs on plates, mugs, and other kitchenware, making it a go-to for memorable and functional gifts.
Even for those not intending to purchase, a visit to Fishs Eddy is a visual delight. Wandering through the aisles, admiring the stunning vintage-inspired dishes and whimsical oddities, is an experience in itself. This NYC gift shop is particularly ideal for housewarming gifts, offering items that can be purchased in sets or individually, allowing for customization and flexibility.
Locals Tip: Fishs Eddy also houses a small museum within the store, offering tours led by the owner, Julie. These tours delve into the company’s history, sharing fascinating stories behind the vintage pieces and designs that have made Fishs Eddy a beloved NYC institution and one of the best gift shops in New York City.
A woman walking into Lockwood in Greenpoint, Brooklyn
Lockwood
Website: Lockwood Shop
Neighborhood: Astoria, Queens
Location: 32-15 33rd St, Astoria, NY 11106
For a truly special and personal gift-shopping experience, Lockwood in Astoria, Queens, is a standout among NYC gift shops. This local gem, with two storefronts across the street from each other (one focused on fashion, the other on gifts), truly shines in its gift offerings. Lockwood operates like a curated market under one roof, showcasing artisanal products from various small businesses and vendors.
Inside, you’ll discover a delightful array of artisanal candles with unique scents, cozy mugs perfect for everyday use, soft throw blankets for home comfort, artistic postcards, and a curated selection of books. When searching for a gift that’s both unique and reflective of local craftsmanship, Lockwood is a top recommendation. The store’s eclectic and thoughtfully chosen items ensure you’ll find something inspiring and perfectly suited for any recipient.
Spinning display of buttons in front of a wall of hanging posters and totes at Posman Books in the Chelsea Market, one of the best gift shops in New York City
Posman Books (Chelsea Market)
Website: Posman Books
Neighborhood: Chelsea
Location: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Located within the bustling Chelsea Market, close to Artists & Fleas, Posman Books is another exceptional NYC gift shop. While also a bookstore, Posman Books distinguishes itself with a vibrant selection of souvenirs and NYC-themed trinkets, making it an ideal stop for visitors and locals alike. The store offers a diverse range of items, including books, magnets, tote bags, and more, all with a distinctly New York City vibe.
Posman Books is particularly known for its affordability, offering budget-friendly souvenir options. You can easily find a stylish poster or tote bag for around $20, or smaller items like pins and magnets for under $5. Compared to typical tourist-oriented shops, Posman Books stands out with its better quality merchandise and irresistibly cute and well-designed finds, offering excellent value for your money.
Window display at Citystore NYC, with three beanies that read I love New York, a New York Tote, New York Legos, and New York Jewelry
CityStore
Website: CityStore NYC
Neighborhood: Financial District
Location: 1 Centre St, New York, NY 10007
For those with a deep affection for the Big Apple, CityStore is an essential destination among NYC gift shops. As the only official city store in New York, operated by the New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services, CityStore is entirely dedicated to celebrating all things New York City. This store is a true haven for anyone wanting to take home a piece of NYC pride.
CityStore serves as a hub for tourist information, alongside its impressive array of gifts and souvenirs. It’s a particularly fun and meaningful place to find keepsakes, especially for first-time visitors wanting to commemorate their trip. Expect to find merchandise related to iconic NYC institutions like the NYPD, NYFD, Subway, and Taxis, offering authentic and officially licensed souvenirs.
Locals Tip: CityStore’s location is conveniently close to the Brooklyn Bridge entrance, just a 5-minute walk away. Make sure to visit CityStore before walking across the Brooklyn Bridge to pick up some NYC-themed gear and enhance your experience with epic skyline views.
Colorful plates and cooking utensils on display at the Moma Design Store in SoHo
MoMA Design Store
Website: MoMA Design Store
Neighborhood: Midtown & SoHo
Location: 44 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019 & 81 Spring St A, New York, NY 10012
While gifts from the MoMA Design Store might come with a higher price tag, the unique and artistic pieces you’ll find here are truly unforgettable, making it a premier destination among NYC gift shops for distinctive items. The store’s selection of one-of-a-kind items is magnificent and cannot be easily replicated, ensuring your gift stands out. Expect to discover a wide range of souvenirs, from stylish mugs and desk accessories to creative furniture pieces and artistic home décor. The MoMA Design Store is simply one of the best NYC gift shops for those seeking exceptionally unique and design-forward souvenirs.
Although not a traditional NYC gift shop in the typical tourist sense, the MoMA Design Store offers treasures that are meant to last a lifetime and make the recipient feel truly special for years to come. The SoHo location is particularly appealing, offering a curated and inspiring shopping environment that’s hard to surpass for design enthusiasts.
Honorable Mentions: Edible NYC Souvenirs
Interestingly, some of the best gift shops in NYC are also bakeries, offering delicious and edible souvenirs. Who could resist receiving a tasty treat as a gift? Here are a few top bakery picks that offer treats that are not only delicious but also travel-friendly:
Hands holding a sstack of chocolate and double chocolate cookies from Levain, one of the best souvenirs from NYC
Levain Bakery
Home to arguably the most famous cookie in New York City, Levain Bakery is guaranteed to impress with its decadent and oversized cookies. These cookies have earned a cult following for good reason – their rich flavor and perfect texture are simply irresistible. For many, including the author’s family, a box of Levain’s walnut chocolate chip cookies is a must-have NYC souvenir, requested time and time again when visiting from out of town.
A cut piece of chocolate babka sitting on a brown paper bag from Breads Bakery
Breads Bakery
Breads Bakery earns its place among the best NYC gift shops thanks to its exceptional pre-packaged baked goods, perfect for taking home as souvenirs. Their babka is widely considered among the best in the city, and conveniently, it’s available pre-packaged, making it easy to grab and go. A loaf of Breads Bakery babka is a no-fuss gift that’s universally loved and guaranteed to be a delicious treat.
Hand holding a cup of the Red velvet seasonal banana pudding from Magnolia Bakery, one of the best gift shops in NYC
Magnolia Bakery
No trip to the Big Apple is truly complete without indulging in the world-famous banana pudding from Magnolia Bakery. This dessert is iconic for a reason, and fortunately, Magnolia Bakery offers a unique gift option: a DIY banana pudding kit. This kit is designed for travel, excluding fresh bananas (which you purchase separately), ensuring it stays fresh during your journey. The Magnolia Bakery banana pudding kit allows you to share a taste of NYC with friends and family back home, making it a truly special and interactive souvenir.
NYC Gift Shops: Summary of Top Picks
- MoMA Design Store
- Posman Books (Chelsea Market)
- Lockwood
- Fishs Eddy
- NBC Store (Rockefeller Center)
- The Strand Bookstore
- Artists & Fleas
- Holiday Markets (Seasonal)
- New York Transit Museum Store
- Pink Olive
- CityStore
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art Store
- Levain Bakery
- Breads Bakery
- Magnolia Bakery
Further Exploration: Gifting Guides for NYC
Souvenir Ideas: 10 Foolproof New York City Souvenir Ideas
Best Gifts for New Yorkers: Ultimate New York Christmas Gift Guide | For New Yorkers & Die-Hard NYC Lovers
Fun New York City Books: 25 PREMIER New York City Books (For All Interests)
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Free Things to Do: 20 Unique Free Things to Do in New York City to Keep Your Wallet Happy!
Best Things to Do in NYC: 30 Best Things to Do in New York City
Map of the Best Gift Stores in New York City
That concludes our guide to the best gift shops in New York City! If you have a favorite spot we missed, we’d love to hear about it in the comments.
Happy Gifting!
