I haven't even begun to think about gifts yet, and if you're in the same boat, we thought we'd share some of our favorite ideas for New York City centric gifts. Lots of them can be given and received instantly, perfect if you're a procrastinator like me. 

Tenement Museum membership: I cannot say enough amazing things about the Tenement Museum. Their tours are engaging and a lot of fun, led by a really great group of museum educators. Plus, with a membership, you get to use the Friends hotline to make advance reservations, something that seems like quite a perk considering how busy it can be.  

If your giftee doesn't live in New York City, but still loves the Lower East Side, check out this history of 97 Orchard Street, the Tenement Museum's building. 

Turnstile Tours gift certificates or tours - I've been on several tours with Turnstile and loved every minute. They're the exclusive tour guides for some of the city's most fascinating but hard to visit sites, like the Brooklyn Army Terminal and the Brooklyn Navy Yard, so you're practically guaranteed to visit a place you've never been before. 

Maps! - Everyone loves maps, and this one of Brooklyn from Etsy is quite pretty. The Museum of the City of New York also has a nice collection, with lots in color. 

If you're studying up for an NYC-themed trivia night, check out What Happened Here?: New York City Knowledge Cards. Also good for impressing your friends with your knowledge of the city. 

For something a little different, our friends at Gothamsmith have a great tie bar inspired by a building at the corner of Lafayette and Howard Streets in Manhattan.