Top Harlem-themed Gifts and Souvenirs to Buy

As the pandemic begins to settle, we’re slowly seeing more tourists in our shop and across Harlem. The neighborhood is full of independent stores and creators but if you don’t know where to look it can be hard to find.

Here are some of our recommendations for Harlem-themed gifts and souvenirs.

Books - The Schomburg Shop

Schomburg Shop associates Malaika Temba (left) and Virginia Mixon at the store © Flo Ngala

Located on 515 Malcolm X Boulevard, The Schomburg Shop is a must-see for products related to the global black experience. Pop in and you’ll have a positive shopping experience and find a selection of books on black culture aimed at young readers and adults. The Schomburg Research Center Hayes is full of black artefacts and the store features products that tell the stories of the artefacts for you to share with others or bring home. The Schomberg Research Center solidified Harlem as the epicenter for black culture and history, and its gift shop is the perfect place to find a suitable souvenir.

Clothing - Harlem’s Underground

You can’t visit a new place without leaving with a new t-shirt to remember it by! Harlem Underground has a great range of stylish clothing including their classics featuring Harlem underground “U”, Black Superheroes and black legends collection. No doubt, its a space to find high quality apparel that represents the essence of Harlem culture. Designs include iconic Harlem-themed prints and black legends. One trip here and you’ll have a whole new wardrobe to take home with you!

Kids Gifts - Grandma’s Place in Harlem

If you’re visiting Harlem with little ones or you want to find a special gift to bring home for them, Grandma’s Place in Harlem has the largest selection of games and toys for the BIPOC community. The shop was created by an NYC school teacher with the aim of helping young children blossom. The store sells everything from ethnic-focused books to traditional toys for all ages. For children who love role play, you can choose from a wide range of fancy dress outfits and role-play toys like doctor's costumes and pretend kitchen toys.

Women’s Fashion - The Brownstone

Princess Jenkins, owner of The-Brownstone celebrates 22 years in Harlem

One thing that Harlem is known for is fashion. The Brownstone has been in Harlem for over 25 years offering luxury boutique clothing with an edge. If you’re looking for an statement peices, sizes 12-20, thats classic and stylish unusual piece to bring home with you, head over to the store for bright, bold Harlem-inspired clothing and even book a consultation so you walk away with an item that suits you perfectly. The store has dressed celebrities and the Harlem neigborhood for years. All designs are completely unique including their bold printed jackets that will quickly become a treasured item in your wardrobe.

African Diaspora Goods - Malcolm Shabazz Harlem Market

For more than 30 years, the Malcolm Shabazz Harlem Market has sold a whole range of cultural gifts and items from vendors across the city. Hand crafted items often make the best gifts. Here you can buy African soap, jewellery, clothing and more so you won’t walk away empty-handed!

Plants - Plant Corner NYC

Houseplants are more popular than ever and they make amazing gifts. Plant Corner NYC sells a great range of common and rare plants to the community. The dedicated team will help you find the right plant for your needs so you can add a touch of green into your own or someone else’s home.

Finish off your trip to Harlem with a souvenir from one of these amazing sellers. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or your loved ones, you can find something special in the neighborhood.