Thoughtful, Surprising Last-Minute Gifts

We will be giving you a peek at the gifts we have on our wish lists.

It is just hours until the gift exchange when the days slip away during the holidays. We have a solution for you, and we've all been there. Online gift subscriptions and memberships are some of our favorites.

Historic letters

For the politics wonk.

A history lesson is delivered to your mailbox. The company sends reproductions of real letters written by famous figures like Abraham Lincoln and Albert Einstein. Every letter has a postscript that explains how it relates to other events.

Eastern European Movies

For the film junkie.

Many of the classics from Eastern Europe are not found on other streaming services. The film lover in your life will get to see eight decades of fully subtitled films with a gift card.

Jiggy puzzles

For the puzzle pro.

Jiggy boxes contain a 500 piece puzzle featuring the work of an emerging female artist. A new puzzle is delivered each month.

Miami Fruit box

For the curious eater.

Don't settle for apples, peaches, pears, and plums when you could eat black sapotes, guanabanas, and pataxtes. A variety of delicious fruits that don't usually make it onto supermarket shelves in the US are delivered by Miami Fruit. The variety boxes can be a one-time purchase or a gift subscription where your loved one would receive a minimum of four deliveries per month.

Sealand knighthood

For the person obsessed with The Crown.

Sealand is an unrecognized micro-nation located on a WWII-era anti aircraft platform. In the 1960s, it was the base for a pirate radio station, but later became independent from the UK. You can buy a friend a noble title or even a knighthood if you want.

Design-your-own tartan

For the history buff.

Tartans have a long history and important cultural significance in Scotland. A clan tartan is a representation of your heritage. Someone on your list can use this service to make their own tartan. You can purchase gift certificates on the website and send them to the recipient via email.

Cocktail recipe box

For the mixologist.

You have to bring your own booze for the three different cocktails that come with the box. You can send gifted subscriptions to your loved ones via email at any time of the day or night.

Atlas Obscura courses

For anyone who loves learning new skills.

The Atlas Obscura courses are for people who are curious, lifelong learners, random fact-droppers, and wonder-seekers. Lockpicking, perfumery, decoding gravestones, and writing fairy tales are just a few of the topics that our courses explore. The courses are designed and taught by subject-matter experts and are available in both live and on-demand formats. Gift certificates are available from $25 to $300.

US Park Pass

For the nature lover.

The US Park Pass is perfect for the person on your list who wants to explore the country. Ownership can be shared with other family and friends, as passes are valid for a year from the time of purchase.