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The gift of travel has a bigger price tag than most tangible items, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find unique souvenirs for loved ones that fit the budget. How about some American relics for all the history buffs in your life? Collette Tour Manager Wesley Glass specializes in United States travel and shares a list of items to be on the lookout for. If you’re planning on visiting the United States to deep dive into some American history, you won’t want to miss out on these gifts.
Souvenirs from Charleston, South Carolina
Sweetgrass baskets are more than just beautiful decor pieces; they’re a living piece of history from the Gullah Geechee people. You can find these works of art in South Carolina on our Southern Charm tour. For centuries, these communities have been crafting intricate baskets from dried grasses since their ancestors were brought to the plantations of the Carolinas as enslaved workers. This tradition, passed down through generations, is one of the oldest African art forms in America. Not only do these baskets make a stunning gift, but the contribution supports local artisans with a deep history rooted in resilience, creativity, and cultural survival.
Souvenirs from New Orleans
One of the best ways to understand history in a new place is through its food, and New Orleans is a prime example. The city's rich culinary traditions reflect its complex history, shaped by the French, Spanish, African, and indigenous Americans who have called it home over the past 300 years. A cookbook as a souvenir from New Orleans is not just a collection of recipes — it’s a passport to exploring the cultural and historical secrets of the city. On America’s Music Cities tour, find the perfect cookbook for the history and foodie crossovers in your life. From spicy jambalaya to iconic beignets, they’ll love to learn about the unique blend of ingredients and techniques that have made New Orleans cuisine world famous. And if they’ve ever wondered about the differences between Cajun and Creole cultures, a cookbook from here will clear up any misconceptions, offering a delicious insight to the heart of the city’s past.
Souvenirs from Washington, D.C.
Every year since 1981, the White House Historical Society has released a Christmas tree ornament that honors U.S. presidents in order of their terms. These ornaments are highly collectible and packed with historical significance, making them the perfect addition to a history buff’s holiday collection. Each ornament comes with a story, transforming a decorative piece into a lesson on American leadership and history. The current ornament celebrates Jimmy Carter, making him the first president still alive when his ornament was released. You can look for these timeless pieces for the history enthusiasts in your life on the Spotlight on Washington, D.C. tour.
Souvenirs from Mackinac Island, Michigan
For those with friends and family fascinated by darker historical tales, consider picking up a copy of “Devil in the White City” by Erik Larson. This gripping book tells two intertwined stories from the 1893 Chicago World's Fair — one of the grand transformations that the city underwent and the other of the infamous serial killer, H.H. Holmes, who preyed on fairgoers. It's a compelling narrative that offers a deep dive into the ambitions of the Gilded Age, urbanization, and the dark corners of human nature. This book is the perfect souvenir for those who love a blend of architectural history and true crime, all set against the backdrop of one of America's most famous historical events. Find it at a local bookstore or souvenir shop on our Mackinac Island tour.
Let’s wrap it up for the history buffs
Whether it’s the handmade beauty of a sweetgrass basket, the delicious history of New Orleans’ diverse cultures, a presidential ornament rich with American history, or a thrilling read that explores both innovation and darkness, these souvenirs are perfect for the history lovers in your life. They’re more than just objects — they're doorways to the past, offering a tangible connection to the stories and legacies that have shaped our world. And best of all, they’re gifts to remember.
Next time you’re Travelling, don’t just pick up a magnet or a tshirt. Choose a souvenir that tells a story and brings a piece of history home to your loved ones.
