If you’re on the hunt for the best Washington DC gift ideas to delight the proud locals and passionate DC fans in your life, you’re in luck! We’ve curated the ultimate list of 29 incredible DC-themed gifts that’ll make you the hero of gift-giving, even if you’re not a native Washingtonian yourself!
The nation’s capital is so much more than just politics and monuments; it’s a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and community. And what better way to celebrate the spirit of DC than with these handpicked treasures? So whether it’s for your favorite DC-loving buddy, a homesick local, or your Aunt Sally who’s been collecting DC mugs since 1987, you will find it all in here!
Are you short on time? Check out the editor’s top three Washington DC gift ideas by budget.
- Large budget: Washington DC skyline bookends (#1)
- Mid budget: Cutting board (#10)
- Small budget: Coloring book for adults (#19)
Save these gifts from DC
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Washington DC gift ideas for large budgets
#1 Washington skyline bookends
This is one of the coolest gifts from DC for someone who recently moved out of or into the District!
Bookends with the typical DC skyline.
I must say that these bookends are my favorites (probably because I love books too), but you will find a few more cool home-related Washington DC gift ideas on this list too, so keep reading!
#2 DC gifts for whiskey lovers
Are you looking for DC-themed gifts for someone who loves whiskey?
Then this Joseph Magnus Straight Bourbon is perfect!
Not only will you give a delicious aged whiskey, but also a unique taste from the capital.
#3 Etched glasses
These etched glasses are another example of great Washington DC gift ideas for someone’s home.
They work great for housewarming gifts or as a gift for a host.
#4 City skyline wooden wall art
This is my second favorite Washington DC gift idea for the home. A wooden artwork with the skyline of Washington DC. I guess I am just a big fan of city skylines. And I am pretty sure that people who love Washington DC are just as big of a fan of their city skyline as I am.
Both locals who moved out of DC and people who just moved into the city will love this piece of wood on their wall.
#5 Miniature White House DIY building
LEGO is not just for kids. Many adults actually enjoy building models as well. Especially if it’s a building from their favorite city, such as this White House building!
#6 Washington DC gift basket
If you’re looking for the perfect gift from Washington DC for your out-of-towner friends and family, this DC-themed gift basket is what you need!
It’s like sending a piece of the capital’s soul wrapped up in deliciousness! It’s the ultimate welcome to the city or a delightful taste of home for locals. From autographed books about hidden gems to snacks that can only be found in the capital, it’s a tour de force of DC treats.
#7 Georgetown University apparel
Are you looking for the best gift from DC for people who went to Georgetown University or people who are studying there now?
Then check out all Georgetown apparel on Amazon! Or go for this cute shirt they can wear to support their Uni and the Hoyas.
#8 DC experience gifts
I love suggesting experience gifts because they’re simply the best. They create fun memories and if you and the recipient take on the experience together it’s also an awesome way to bond.
Whether it’s for a DC local or a visitor, you can find awesome DC experience gifts for everyone on Tinggly. And the best part is that you can book an activity without scheduling a date, so you can pick one later together with the recipient.
#9 Skyline tealight holder
Do you need more Washington DC gift ideas for a housewarming?
Then this cute tealight holder with the skyline is perfect.
Yes, I know, another gift with the skyline. But you know what, I’m not even going to apologize because the DC skyline is truly iconic and beautiful.
Washington DC gift ideas for mid-budgets
#10 DC-themed cutting board
Are you looking for gifts from Washington DC for people who love to cook?
Then this cutting board is the best option on this list.
Besides the skyline etched, you can also add a personalized message for the recipient.
#11 Historic center jigsaw puzzle
Are you looking for Washington DC gift ideas for people who love puzzles?
Then this 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle of the city’s historic center is perfect!
Even if they are not living in the city at the moment, they can still dream away and admire their favorite city when putting together this puzzle.
#12 DC travel guides
Fodor’s Washington D.C.
Fodor’s Washington D.C. travel guide is one of the best gifts for people who are visiting the capital city soon. It’s an in-depth guide with information about the city’s history, top sights, restaurants, and the best places to sleep.
National Geographic’s Walking Washinton D.C.
National Geographic’s walking guide is a fun gift for locals as well as for visitors. It includes unique walking routes for visitors to experience the real city and for locals to see a different side of their city.
Top 10 Washington DC
The last travel guide on this list is perfect for visitors who only have a few days in Washington and who just want to see the highlights, without being overwhelmed by a book as in-depth as Fodor’s. DK Eyewitness Top 10 series was developed for exactly those types of travelers. It’s super straightforward and provides the 10 must-sees of the city.
#13 Cookbook
This is another great Washinton DC gift for people who love to cook. A cookbook with recipes from famous Washington D.C. chefs.
It’s a cool gift to pair with the cutting board (#10), so the receiver can cook in Washington D.C. style!
#14 Washington-themed monopoly
Are you looking for fun gifts from DC for people who love board games?
Then this DC version of Monopoly is perfect! It includes famous streets and buildings of the city, as well as typical DC annoyances such as traffic jams, parking tickets, and taxes.
#15 Bracelet
Are you looking for Washington DC gifts for her?
Then this cuff bracelet with a personalized message is perfect!
#16 Candle
Ever wondered what smell is related to the Capital City?
Then check out this Washington DC-scented candle!
Lighting this one up will make the recipient feel like they’re strolling through the Tidal Basin, surrounded by cherry blossoms, with a hint of rain in the air. It’s like sending a piece of the city’s soul, perfect for anyone who wants a whiff of D.C. magic right at home.
#17 Books about the city
Empire of mud: The secret history of Washington D.C.
Are you looking for gifts from Washington DC for people who love history? Then this book is the perfect gift for you. It covers the not-so-glamorous past of the capital city, and how it affects the current city.
Secret Washington DC: A guide to the weird, wonderful, and obscure
If you are looking for Washington DC gift ideas for someone who is interested in the city’s dark past, but for whom a complete history book seems a bit too much, this is the perfect book. It contains weird, yet true stories about Washington DC that are fun and easy to read, even for people who are not particularly interested in history.
Murder in the White House (Capital Crimes)
“Murder in the White House” is about a juicy murder mystery set in DC’s political heart. It’s just the beginning of a thrilling series, so if your friend loves it, you can give more books next time!
#18 Map of the city
I promised you there would be quite a few gifts from Washington DC for the home, and here is another one; a poster of the map of the city.
Again, I think this poster works great for people who currently live in Washington DC as well as for locals who just moved out and who miss their homes.
Washington DC gift ideas for small budgets
#19 DC coloring book for adults
Several studies have shown that coloring books for adults can help to reduce stress and anxiety. And ever since I discovered that I always try to add coloring books to my gift guide. And for Washington D.C., I was not disappointed.
This coloring book includes 24 iconic sights from the city, such as The White House, The Capitol, and The Jefferson Memorial. It’s a very satisfying way to wind down for people who love Washington DC.
#20 Fun socks
I absolutely love happy and colorful socks, and I think they are awesome small gifts. Especially if you buy socks in the recipient’s favorite theme, such as these Washington DC socks!
Now, I know that not everyone shares my love for happy socks, so just make sure your recipient is as crazy about them as I am.
How do you know they are?
Easy, next time you see them, just have a look at what kind of socks they are wearing. Are they plain? Then perhaps this is not the best gift. Are they colorful? Then I guarantee that these socks will be highly appreciated!
#21 Capital City mambo sauce
Whether you’re looking for gifts from Washington DC for locals who moved out of the city, or for foreign friends, a bottle of Capital City mambo sauce is always a good idea.
It’s a lip-smacking, sweet, and tangy condiment that DC locals smother on everything from chicken wings to fries. It’s like bottling up the city’s flavor and sending it as a tasty envoy.
#22 Coasters
Give your favorite Washington DC’er a mini cityscape tour with every cup of coffee, with these gorgeous skyline slate coasters.
They’re not just coasters; they’re stylish pieces of functional art and a classy way to remind someone of their favorite monuments while saving their coffee table from ring stains – a win-win!
#23 Christmas ornament
I know this is probably the cheesiest Washington DC gift idea, but truth be told, it’s also one of the best gifts for Christmas.
So if you are looking for cute Christmas gifts, this White House ornament is perfect!
#24 Keychain
Are you looking for small Washington DC gift ideas?
Then this keychain with the city’s historic sights is perfect!
#25 Tote bags
Tote bags with a DC-themed design are perfect gifts for people who care about the environment. It’s a better alternative to plastic bags, plus it comes with a design that is related to their favorite city.
Can you think of a better gift?
I know I don’t. So check out Zazzle to find over 400 different options, or go for this relatively simple but cute one with “DC”.
Save these gifts from Washington DC
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Final note on gift ideas from Washington DC
Alright, these were the 29 best Washington DC-themed gifts for people who are obsessed with the district!
Do you need more help picking the best gift? Have a look at the editor’s top three.
- Large budget: Washington DC skyline bookends (#1)
- Mid budget: Cutting board (#10)
- Small budget: Coloring book for adults (#19)
