Philadelphia Souvenirs: 13 Unique Gift Ideas from the City of Brotherly Love

Each New Year's Day for over 100 years, the Philadelphia Mummers have brought in the New Year with a musical extravaganza that parades up the length of Broad Street. It’s a remarkable tradition that pulls together generations of Philly families who work year round to create amazing costumes, floats and perfect their high stepping style.

Located in the heart of Mummer country in South Philly, is the Mummer Museum where you can watch videos of the parade and get an up-close perspective of their elaborate costumes. Learn how to do their signature strut and pick up a Mummer umbrella ($18.00) or two to better get you in the spirit of things. There is also collection of dolls for sale dressed in full authentic Mummer regalia – perfect for both, the doll lovers and doll collectors in the family. Prices range from $25.00 to $87.00.

Is someone you know a Phillies fan? Then a visit to Citizens Bank Park has got to be on your list of must-sees. The Majestic Clubhouse Store at the park is the place to go for authentic Phillies items. (For hockey fans, there are plenty of Flyers items for sale at Majestic also.) It is open year round (in case you are craving all things baseball and it is still two full months till spring training!) and is accessible from outside the stadium. Be sure and check out the second level of the store for the Phanatic Attic. Here you will find a treasure trove of gifts featuring one of baseball’s most endearing and enduring sports mascots, the Phillies Phanatic.

A nifty item is the Phanatic puppet. The beloved Phillies mascot is great fun to watch at the games and this colorful puppet captures his whimsical expression, playful nature and bright green color. Of course, he is accessorized with a Phillies baseball cap and jersey. $21.99.

Philadelphians love their Phillies, no doubt about it. Majestic store offers all kinds of logoed apparel, for humans and your favorite pet.

Collecting coins is one of the hottest hobbies around and when you’re in Philly you are at the heart of the U.S coin operations. In 1792, the Congress authorized construction of the first U.S. Mint in the nation's capitol, at the time, Philadelphia. For either lifelong coin hobbyists or youngsters just getting started, a coin collection gift from the United States Mint is a wonderful foundation to build on.

The new, multi-year America the Beautiful silver quarter collection is a must-have. High quality silver characterizes these uncirculated beauties, which can be purchased in a US Mint moneybag for a truly extraordinary gift. The quarters are all coded with a ‘P’ indicating their city of origin. Varies in price depending on the quantity but to give you an idea, 5 uncirculated America the Beautiful silver quarters are priced at $31.95, $49.95 for 100 identical coins in a U.S Mint moneybag.

Who knew a taste of heaven was available right here in Center City? Indulge in chocolates made of the finest ingredients right on the premises. There are a lot of different tastes and textures to choose from, but think twice about coming here when you are hungry! The ingredient list alone will be enough to start a major chocolate craving. These are chocolates to be enjoyed and savored, they are that extraordinary. For gifts, you might want to try a sampler of the Philly line. Decorated with iconic Philadelphia images, this chocolate selection includes: Love Park, raspberry ganache, Liberty Bell, 70% cacao, vanilla bean, Soft Pretzel, peanut-butter pretzel ganache and Philly Skyline, crispy hazelnut, milk. You’ll be hard-pressed to pick a favorite. Be sure and buy a second (or third) sampler for the folks back home. Marcie Blaines Artisanal Chocolates use only the finest locally sourced ingredients, including many organic items from Lancaster County, PA. Nine piece selection, $17.95 – 19.95. Sixteen piece box, $29.95.

This delightful collectible, handcrafted locally in Pennsylvania is exclusive to the Betsy Ross House Museum and Gift Shop. Thirteen inches high and made of clay on plaster, the Betsy Ross Byers Choice doll (with flag) is a fun way to bring history home to doll-lovers of all ages. $90.00.

Other one of a kind dolls available at the Betsy Ross House are from the Little Souls line. Handcrafted near Philadelphia, these engaging dolls are dressed in colonial garb. $70.00.

Another very special gift idea, available only at the Betsy Ross House, is to purchase the official flag that flies over the house and which is changed out on a regular basis. If you or a loved one have a special birthday, anniversary or another memorable occasion, check and see if they have the flag for that specific date. Made in America, these flags cost $75.95.

Nothing says you had a good time in Philly like a custom-made diamond ring. For generations, Campbell & Company, located on historic Jewelers Row (the oldest in the nation), has offered one of a kind, top quality jewelry. Over 80% of their jewelry consists of the original designs created in their shop. Voted the place to buy diamonds in Philadelphia, their prices are among the very best in the region, consistently beating out New York City. Whether it’s the eye-catching allure of a diamond bracelet or diamonds or the simplicity of a sterling silver Liberty Bell charm, Campbell & Company will find just the right item for you or a loved one. By the way, if you are a dog lover, you definitely have to stop by and meet Campbell’s Employee of the Month (several months running now), a wonderful golden retriever who is delighted to help make far-flung visitors feel at home. Prices vary.

Take a break at Yards Brewery, a Philadelphia brewery of prize-winning ales. Yards has garnered a sterling reputation since its inception in the 1990s, producing the award-winning Philadelphia Pale Ale, which the New York Times rated as one of the best Pale Ales in the country. Not only do they brew decent ales on the premises, but also offer a tasting room and casual dining on site.

In 2003, Yards Brewing Company partnered with the City Tavern — a favorite bar of the nation's founding fathers — to create Ales of the Revolution, a line of historic beer recreations based on the original recipes of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Ben Franklin. Prices vary. Also, if you are into cycling or just want a great-looking, ultra-comfortable shirt, check out Yards bicycle shirts for men and women with original designs and logo from their beer lines. Made in the U.S., $69.00.

Looking for something extraordinary to dress up your dining room table? Choose this sophisticated dinner setting, featuring hand-drawn illustrations of Philly’s most famous attractions, such as Independence Hall, Boathouse Row and Art Museum. Each set includes 2 plates, 2 cups and 2 wine glasses; everything is dishwasher and microwave safe. $99.99 at the Pennsylvania General Store.

The Pennsylvania General Store is located at the historic Reading Terminal Market, an indoor farmers market which first opened its doors in 1892 and still flourishes today. Featuring over 80 vendors, two of them descendants from original stand holders of a century ago, it’s a vibrant, bustling place. You can find gourmet take-out, PA Dutch baked goods, local honey, handmade jewelry and clothing, and lots more. Stop by at lunchtime to enjoy real Philly food. It’s a great place for people-watching.

While at the Pennsylvania General Store, you might want to also check out their wide selection of Jonathan’s wooden utensils. This is the most gorgeous line of wooden spoons, spatulas, forks and other items you will ever see. Crafted in a small town outside of Philly, these pieces are all hand-made from cherry wood and are almost too beautiful to use. But definitely do use them, as they are smartly designed and exceedingly functional in the kitchen. See, you can have it all! Average cost $20.00. Be sure and browse the Terminal and then finish off your tour with a Philly tradition, Bassett’s ice cream!

After a full day of touring the city, nothing beats a long relaxing soak in the tub. Especially when you have laid in a supply of luxurious and heavenly scented Duross & Langel products. Developed and crafted in Philadelphia, this natural line will have your skin (and mood) in top condition in no time. Bliss out to the gorgeous colors and designs of the soaps themselves. Made in small quantities to ensure top quality, Duross & Langel products are made from the best natural ingredients available. You’ll feel like the most pampered celebrity when you use these wonderful products. $7.50 per bar.

Check out their line of hand-poured candles, too. Made of the purest soy wax, these candles burn almost forever… well, 30 hours at least. A great gift for a loved one is their LOVE candle, celebrating one of Philadelphia’s most popular pieces of public art, Robert Indiana’s LOVE statue at $18.00

Talk with almost any Philadelphia resident and sooner or later they are going to ask if you’ve visited the Pen. What Pen are they referring to? Philadelphia’s notorious Eastern State Penitentiary, considered America’s most historic prison. It was the world’s first true “penitentiary” imprisoning many of America’s most notorious criminals, including bank robber “Slick Willie” Sutton and Al Capone. Today it is no longer an active prison but a very active tourist destination and designated historic site. One of their unusual offerings in the gift store is a key chain featuring an exact replica of the front gate key. $7.00.

It is also renowned for scary nighttime tours and great Halloween festivities. Look for the limited edition Teddy Scare Bear. Exclusive to ESP, the 8-inch plush Teddy Scare is not your grandmother’s teddy bear… for one thing the brains are removable! Clearly, not meant for impressionable children under 14 (there are small parts). $14.95.

A few years ago, a photographer made a study of the doorways of the prison. The result is an intriguing poster that is, at the same time, atmospheric, chilling and architecturally arresting. It’s a one of a kind image. $11.95.

Okay, granted - the Mütter Museum isn’t for everyone, but if you or someone you know is an avid CSI fan or medical science buff, this is absolutely a must-see stop on your trip to Philadelphia. The museum’s collection began over 150 years ago when a 19th century surgeon decided to display his remarkable collection of medical oddities and unusual conditions. A favorite with David Letterman and the Discovery Channel, both have spotlighted the museum’s more macabre offerings, the museum itself is fascinating and its shop is just as amazing. The latter contains a number of items you simply won’t find anywhere else.

One of the perennial best sellers is the Conjoined Gingerbread Men Cookie Cutter, inspired by one of the museum’s best-known exhibits. $6.50. Then there is the Mütter Museum calendar, with images of the museum by a renowned group of photographers. $14.95. Where else could you find giant toy microbes or a plush anatomically correct heart pillow (a great Valentine’s Day present, by the way) than at the Mütter Museum gift shop? I Heart Guts plush heart, $18.00. Feeling a little chilly? There is a bright yellow winter scarf proclaiming a crime scene…..$16.00.

Who knew Ben Franklin was this adora-bearable? Complete with tri-corner hat, colonial attire, this plushy toy bear is outfitted with iconic Ben Franklin glasses, white wig and bear-size Liberty Bell. The packaging gives a brief overview of his prominent role in the U.S. history. It is a great way to introduce children to his amazing story. A true Renaissance figure, Franklin was a writer, publisher, diplomat, scientist, political adviser and philosopher. His impact on the nation and the city of Philadelphia, in particular, is almost incalculable. Made by a company right outside of Philadelphia, Ben Franklin Bear retails for $19.95.

At the same location, pick up your very own copy of the Liberty Bell for just $14.99. Made in Pennsylvania, it is one of the most enduring symbols of the country’s beginnings. Well, there you have it, a number of great gift ideas to help celebrate and commemorate your visit to Philadelphia. Enjoy your stay and come back soon!

Here’s an elegant silk tie that will get people talking! Beautifully tailored and understated, it comes in a variety of power colors and designs. It is a sharp looking accessory that conveys to everyone belief in the American way of government. The rest of the text is smaller and complements the powerful look of this fashion accessory. $32.99.

At the same location you’ll find a finely crafted Pilsner glass imprinted with one of Ben Franklin’s most popular sayings, “Beer is living proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy." Yep, that quote comes to us courtesy of Ben Franklin. So when you’re in Philly, raise a glass in salute to his indelible impact on a very young U.S. government. $9.99. Then of course you’ll need some coasters for those glasses, perhaps ones bearing the image of Ben himself...