Merchandise is a memory
Gift shops and souvenirs have always been a favorite part of vacation for me. Ever since I was a kid, I have been drawn to finding the perfect memento. Merchandise is a memory that can be kept forever- especially when it’s purchased to commemorate a special moment.
One of the questions I get as a Disney-parks merch-fiend is what is the most classic Disney Parks souvenir? What items are the must-haves when it comes to finding a symbol to remember that perfect trip? After some thinking, here are the souvenirs you must bring home on your next trip!
Mickey & Minnie
Nothing is more classic than Mickey and Minnie! If you’re looking for something to bring home for a small child or a stuffie lover, this is it. Another bonus is that these are some of the only park items that go on sale! More often than not, you can find these cuddly mice 2 for $40 (depending on size). These cuties come in all different sizes and of course, are 100%, Disney! You know what Walt said, “it all started with a mouse!”
Sign here for fun
An autograph book is a great souvenir because it’s an activity too! If you’re in the parks yourself and are looking for something fun to brighten your trip this is the way to go. No matter how old you are, meeting Disney characters is a whole lot of fun. As you collect autographs from your favorite Disney friends, you’re sure to collect memories as well!
Edible souvenirs
Whenever I’m bringing home something special for my man after my trip- or for someone who’s not a huge Disney fan, snacks are my go-to. Disney has the best of everything, and cute, tasty treats are no exception! I tend to go for the character apple to cure my post-park sadness, but everything from the cupcakes to the Rice Krispy treats are fantastic! My favorite spot to pick up my treats is at the Confectionary on Main Street U.S.A. in the Magic Kingdom, but you can find these souvenirs in many sweet shops around the parks!
Without a shadow of a doubt
This item is an irreplaceable Disney souvenir that’s created just for you. With two locations in the Magic Kingdom alone, you can create a silhouette of yourself or one that encompasses your entire family! I would suggest this if you’re on a family trip and want to surprise your parents with a gift to last a lifetime! Also great for someone who is looking to complete their Disney gallery wall.
I personally don’t have a silhouette yet- I’m waiting for my next trip to Disneyland where I can get one of me and Mickey Mouse together! How adorable and classic is that?
Crystal Arts souvenirs
This under-rated shop on Main Street U.S.A has some awesome, affordable, quintessential Disney souvenirs. What I like best about them is that they are practical items that can brighten every day! Plus, with so much going on, a trip to this shop is an experience itself.
At Crystal Arts, you can watch as glass creations are made right in-house! An expert glass-blower creates one-of-a-kind gifts that everyone will love.
These classic glass mugs come in many different varieties with almost any character on the front. With so many to choose from, there is a drinking glass that fits everyone! This piece of dishware will be an everyday reminder of the perfect trip- you can even add a name or a monogram to the back! How fun? I’m waiting for a special day to get one for myself!
Another item you can customize to fit a special friend, family member, or trip is a customized wooden frame. Highlight the best moments of your trip, favorite characters, and more on the frame, and add your favorite vacation photograph inside!
Commemorative pins
These popular Disney souvenirs can start out as an affordable token of your trip, but watch out, they’re addictive! At this point, I have more pins than I would like to count. The best part is that each one still represents a special memory for me. With pins for special events, parks, resorts, rides, and even characters, there is bound to be one that represents your favorite part of the trip!
This souvenir doubles as an activity if you get involved in Disney Pin Trading and is a great collection for any Disney fan to start. I’m always jealous of the people at the parks who have accumulated pins since they were small, so kick off a collection for the little one in your life ASAP! They will have solid reminders of wonderful childhood memories to look back on
A must-have in Disney souvenirs
Every person needs a pair of mouse ears. If you’re only going to get one pair, the classic hat style is the way to go. Don’t forget to add your name! Did you know that these fashionable, felt ears have been embroidered since the opening of Disneyland in 1955?
I have a few pairs myself, but the pair showcased below are my favorite. While my mom was sick, I brought Walt Disney World home to her, including her very own pair of ears, gifted from Mickey Mouse himself! After she passed away, I had her name sewn into the back. I have them displayed in my room and I look at them and think of her and our wonderful Disney memories every day.
It’s about the memories
I know some of us die-hard Disney fans might seem a little merchandise obsessed, but at the core of it all, it’s about memories. Disney is our happy place, a place where all are welcome and the most magical and bright days take place. To have a bit of that to bring home with us or for our family and friends is something magical for sure!
