At the heart of the Midwest, Chicago thrives with a vibrant city culture and the breezy shores of Lake Michigan. It’s a city steeped in iconic architecture, storied neighborhoods, and an unwavering love for its sports teams.
Shopping for the perfect gift for someone enchanted by the charm of the Windy City is a chance to bring cherished memories and heartfelt emotions. That said, choosing the ideal present takes work, and you can be easily overwhelmed by the numerous options.
Here’s a guided tour through Chicago gift ideas for those deeply interested in all things Chicago.
Give a Chicago Gift That’s Helpful and Handy
Chicago-inspired gifts falling under this category serve a dual purpose. They exude Chicago's character and serve as functional tools in various settings. These gifts make mundane tasks more enjoyable and add a unique flair to their living spaces.
Here are some cool recommendations:
Birchwood Trays: These beautifully crafted trays act as versatile tools for serving guests or organizing personal items. They feature Chicago-themed designs, celebrating the city’s iconic landmarks or cultural symbols.
Dish Towels: These make for practical yet decorative gifts. They bring a touch of the city to kitchen spaces while serving their functional purpose with style.
Coasters: They act as protective accessories for furniture and as miniature canvases featuring Chicago’s breathtaking skyline. They’re practical and decorative, adding a touch of urban sophistication to any table.
Thermal Tumblers: A tumbler featuring notable landmarks is a practical companion for commuting or daily travel. It keeps beverages hot or cold while showcasing the beauty of Chicago.
Wall Calendars: A wall calendar adorned with Chicago’s landmarks, seasons, or local events is both practical and visually appealing. It helps the giftee stay organized while enjoying glimpses of Chicago throughout the year.
Tote Bags: A durable tote bag with Chicago-themed prints is environmentally friendly and handy for daily errands, trips to the market, or carrying essentials. It also showcases the city’s charm while being a useful accessory.
Other items you can include in your gift box that would be a great idea for a housewarming or Christmas would be a snow globe, stickers, gift cards, the Chicago flag, etc.
Give a Gift That Can Be Taken on Chicago City Tours
Tour-friendly gifts reflect the essence of Chicago while catering to the needs of an on-the-go explorer. They’re designed to be functional, stylish, and convenient. This makes them perfect for visits to famous landmarks and attractions.
Think about gifts that match must-visit destinations. You’ve got options like the amazing views from Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) to the cool Cloud Gate sculpture in Millennium Park, the lively Navy Pier and The Bean, the cultural oasis of the Art Institute of Chicago, or the historic Wrigley Field.
Some of the recommended gifts include:
Thermal tumblers: A chic thermal tumbler featuring Chicago’s skyline keeps beverages at the desired temperature during city tours. Ideal for sipping coffee while admiring the views from the Skydeck at Willis Tower or strolling through the scenic Millenium Park.
Zip Pouch: A compact zip pouch adorned with iconic Chicago landmarks is a great gift for storing essentials like keys, cards, and cash. It’s a convenient accessory while exploring bustling locations such as Navy Pier or Wrigleyville.
City Map: A detailed folding map of Chicago’s attractions and streets is invaluable for navigating the city’s neighborhoods and sites. It’s handy when exploring places like the Magnificent Mile, Illinois, or Grant Park.
Portable Power Bank: A sleek portable charger featuring Chicago-inspired designs ensures uninterrupted phone usage for capturing every memorable moment like the Art Institute or a game at Soldier Field.
Umbrella: A compact rain poncho or a small folding umbrella with Chicago-themed prints protects against unpredictable weather conditions while visiting outdoor spots like Buckingham Fountain or the Lincoln Park Zoo.
T-shirt or Jersey: A stylish tee or sports jersey featuring Chicago’s sports teams, such as the Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, White Sox, Chicago Bears, and Blackhawks, can be a perfect holiday gift for your loved ones. It’s a statement piece for casual outings or game days that displays pride in Chicagoan sports culture.
Scarf: A versatile scarf showcasing the city’s landmarks adds style and serves as a functional accessory, offering warmth or protection from the sun during tours.
You can add keychains to your gift set and Frango Mints if your giftee is a foodie.
Pick a Gift That Helps Grads Celebrate Their Illinois Alma Mater
When commemorating their time at an Illinois alma mater, consider gifts that honor this significant achievement. These gifts are tokens and cherished reminders of the transformative years spent at the university.
They serve as visual testaments to academic achievements, fostering a sense of belonging and gratitude for the educational foundation provided by the alma mater. Additionally, these gifts become prominent reminders of the giftee’s scholarly accomplishments and personal growth.
Collegiate Dish Towel: Dish towels adorned with the University of Illinois logo or symbolic representations serve as practical and decorative items. This adds a touch of alma mater pride to the kitchen.
University Emblem Embroidered Pillow: Picture a pillow with the University of Illinois emblem or mascot embroidered on it. It’s a beautiful addition to any space, giving a touch of pride and coziness wherever it sits.
Glassware: Drinking glasses engraved with the university’s logo or motto are functional gifts for daily use. They make each sip a moment of academic pride.
University of Illinois Wall Art: Think of art prints or canvases that depict the university’s iconic landmarks, such as the Alma Mater Statue or the Memorial Stadium. They’re attention-grabbing pieces that honor the university’s heritage.
University Logo Throw Blanket: Imagine wrapping up in a cozy throw blanket featuring the university’s logo or colors. This offers warmth and acts as a symbol of connection to the university.
Shop for The Perfect Chicago Gift
As you search for the perfect Chicago souvenir, consider these gifts' aesthetic appeal and significance for your recipient. They can be tokens of appreciation or reflections of shared experiences.
Ready to find the best Chicago-themed gift? Explore our collection of curated Chicago presents. You’ll discover a range of items designed to capture the heart and soul of Chicago while bringing joy to those who hold this incredible city dear.
