If you’re hosting friends and family from Chicago, you want to give them a gift that celebrates the city. Skip the boring neighborhood map posters and try something more unique, like a bottle of Koval whiskey or a snow-globe version of Millennium Park’s Cloud Gate. Al Capone was a notorious crime boss in Chicago, so a model of his famous car makes for an exciting souvenir. The city’s skyline is also represented in a Lego package that includes historical and modern buildings.
Stickers
If you’re looking for a fun way to help your gift recipient commemorate their trip to Chicago, consider the framed poster by local artist Evan Miller. The print features 100 neighborhoods, outlining the city’s distinct neighborhoods, and is sure to make their walls pop with colorful pride. Another excellent option for great gifts Chicago is a skyline snow globe. A thorough portrayal of the Willis Tower (formerly Sears) and other city landmarks makes it a wonderful gift for children and adults. A jar of honey from the city’s hives is also a tasty treat to bring home. Purchase one from a local market or online.
Posters
The city’s iconic skyline and landmarks are popular souvenir choices for visitors. You can find numerous prints and renderings of the Chicago cityscape in various price ranges online. Sports fans can pick up a customized Bears, Blackhawks, or Bulls jersey. A musical snow globe featuring the city’s skyline may be just the ticket if you’re looking for a more whimsical souvenir.
Candles
Whether shopping for a welcome-to-Chicago gift or a parting gift for someone moving away, candles are a classic souvenir that adds a warm glow to any home. For a unique twist, buy one with a design drawn from the city’s transportation and advertising history. A whirling snow globe is a Chicago staple. Still, you can also pick up one with a design of Millennium Park’s Cloud Gate sculpture by Anish Kapoor or one that features Sue, the 40-foot-long Tyrannosaurus dinosaur skeleton, on display in the Field Museum atrium.
If you know a foodie, a jar of locally produced honey from the
T-Shirts
A souvenir t-shirt is a must for anyone visiting the Windy City. Stylish options include the Daisy Cutter and Over Ale tees from Half Acre Beer Company.
A jewelry lover can take home a replica of Chicago’s famous Cloud Gate sculpture (aka “the bean””) via the Elsa Peretti Bean Pendant sold by Tiffany & Co. The 9-millimeter-wide sterling silver pendant rests on a 16-inch chain and costs USD 100. Fans of Chicago’s sports teams can score a home run with a tour of Guaranteed Rate Field. The ivy-covered stadium boasts a fantastic history, and tours cost a minimum of USD 50.
Games
Whether the baseball fan in your life lives in Chicago or is celebrating from afar, tickets to Wrigley Field will score a touchdown. This unique gift will allow them to step on the field of this iconic coliseum and take home some excellent souvenirs. This beer pong table is perfect for any die-hard Chicago fan and makes an excellent souvenir for any traveler. It is simple to move and assemble for on-the-go gaming because it has integrated cup holders and a carrying case. The Lego fan in your life will appreciate this set based on the city’s skyline, including the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), the John Hancock Building, and the mini Bean in Millenium Park.
Chocolate
Chocolate is a staple souvenir from Chicago, with several famous candy companies getting their start in the Windy City. Local chocolatier Compartes has a gift box for every kind of chocolate person: a celestial advent calendar for your astrologically inclined cousin, vegan chocolate bars for your hipster aunt, and a holiday-themed set for your dad, who enjoys all things sweet. Edible Chicago souvenir shops offer the spicy and vinegary mix of peppers, a signature condiment on Italian beef sandwiches. A bottle of Chicago wine is also an excellent culinary souvenir.
