NYC Gift Guide for Kids
The holiday season is fast approaching, which can seem daunting when you think of all the events you have to attend, family members you’ll see, and gifts that need to be purchased. With everything on your plate, picking the best gifts might seem extra tricky. Luckily, New York City is filled with presents that are waiting to be wrapped. Here is our guide to find the city’s best stores and gifts this holiday season.
FAO Schwartz STEM Gifts
Image via FAO Schwarz
We have to start our list with arguably the most iconic NYC holiday store! FAO Schwartz is filled to the brim with toys for every age. Among plush animals and a big piano, they feature STEM gifts that focus on construction, education, science, and robotics, suitable for any young space cadet or engineer. These not-so-typical gifts may be a highlight for you and your family. If you find the time, we also highly recommend a trip to the store—the perfect place to make some holiday memories.
Books and Games from The Strand
Image via Strand Books
If you are from New York or have been to the city, chances are you’ve heard of the The Strand bookstore. With a massive collection, it is easy to get lost in all of the stories. Some of our favorite gift ideas for children can be found here. “SUBWAY” by Christoph Nieman is a great illustration book for young kids that are fascinated by our underground trains. For older children who love games, Bananagrams is the way to go. A fun, interactive word puzzle is a great time for the whole family. Have a child on your list who loves to travel? A giant coloring poster of the U.S. may be perfect to let them explore the country. And while reading the childhood classic series, “Olivia” by Ian Falconer, it might be helpful to have a real Olivia in the room to help you narrate her story.
Holiday Treats from Dylan’s Candy Bar
Image via Dylan's Candy Bar
One of New York’s favorite candy stores has an array of festive treats that are great for anyone with a sweet tooth. Our favorite is the Gingerbread House that is ready to be frosted and decorated. This could turn into a great new holiday tradition for your family, as it’s a great way to get the family together and make a delicious treat. If the gingerbread house is a little small for your family, the Ultimate Christmas Cheer Gift Tower that holds 7 different treats, will be sure to cure any sugar cravings this holiday season.
Customizable American Girl Experience
Image via American Girl
While visiting the vast number of holiday decorations in midtown, the American Girl store is the perfect place to take an aspiring Kit or Josefina. Getting to see the classic doll characters is great itself, but make the trip extra special with a customized gift experience that lets you pick and choose every accessory that your child’s doll may need. And of course, the stories of the American Girl will bring inspiration and happiness this holiday season.
Music from Theatre Circle’s Music Collection
Image via Theatre Circle Shop
If your children love to sing, read, or anything to do with the drama, Theatre Circle is the place to find music that might spark their creative talent. With scores from Frozen, The Lion King, Matilda, and more, this is the perfect place to give the gift of song. Among these books, they have show souvenirs and Broadway memorabilia. Pop in after your next matinee performance and come up with some gift ideas for Santa.
Swag from the Knicks
Image via NY Knicks Store
Tickets to your favorite team’s games are a great way to get the family together and cheer on the players! The Knicks’ store is the best way to get the newest gear for all ages, even infants! Give the gift of being a true fan this year with any number of jerseys, shirts, and sweatshirts.
What presents are on your to-buy list this holiday season? Share with us on Facebook and Instagram, and you might just be featured on our social channels! Want more holiday tips? Make sure you sign up for our newsletter for all the latest info coming from our team!