21 Best Gifts for History Lovers | Unique & Educational Ideas

Finding gifts for history lovers is all about making the past feel real and exciting.

When my son was younger, he went through a phase where he was obsessed with ancient Egypt—he had books, toys, and even an excavation kit that left sand everywhere.

But that’s what made history fun for him! The right gift can spark a child’s imagination, whether they love ancient civilizations, famous explorers, or the mysteries of the past.

Over the years, we’ve found books that transport kids to different eras, board games that bring history to life, and hands-on projects that make learning feel like an adventure.

If you’re looking for a present that blends fun with education, this gift list has something for every young history buff.

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Table of Contents

Gifts for History Buffs

Trekking Through History

This history board game is a favorite in our house because it turns learning into an adventure. Players travel through different historical eras, visiting key moments and meeting famous figures along the way. Each turn introduces a new event or milestone, sparking curiosity and encouraging discussion.

What makes it stand out is how seamlessly it blends strategy with history. We’ve had games where one player focuses on ancient civilizations while another jumps ahead to modern discoveries, leading to all kinds of interesting conversations. It never feels like a traditional history lesson, but by the end of the game, we’ve all picked up new facts and connections.

If you’re looking for a way to make history engaging for the whole family, this game is a fantastic choice.

CHRONOLOGY

This game challenges players to arrange historical events in chronological order, testing their knowledge while making history feel like a puzzle. With over 1,000 event cards, no two games are the same, and the variety of topics—from ancient empires to modern inventions—keeps things interesting.

One of the things I love most about this game is how it naturally gets kids thinking about cause and effect. They start making connections between events, recognizing patterns in history, and developing a better understanding of how different moments shaped the world.

We’ve played this game on family game nights, and it’s amazing how quickly kids pick up on key historical moments just by playing. It’s competitive, educational, and always sparks great discussions.

Mysteries in Time

A monthly history subscription box designed for kids, Mysteries in Time delivers adventure stories, puzzles, and hands-on activities right to your doorstep. Each month focuses on a different historical period, allowing kids to immerse themselves in the time period through a mix of storytelling and interactive learning.

My son loved getting these boxes—each one felt like a mini time capsule filled with surprises. The illustrated stories were fun, but it was the hands-on activities, like ancient writing or secret codes, that really made history feel alive for him. It was an effortless way to keep him engaged with history beyond books and documentaries.

For kids who love learning through stories and hands-on experiences, this is a gift that keeps history fresh and exciting month after month.

Ancient Egyptian Pyramids Dig Kit Gem Excavation Set

If your child is fascinated by ancient Egypt, this dig kit is a great way to bring that interest to life. It comes with a block of clay that hides gemstones, fossils, or artifacts, allowing kids to chip away and excavate treasures just like a real archaeologist.

When my son got this, he was determined to uncover every single piece. It was messy, but that’s part of what made it fun—he felt like he was on a real dig site, brushing away dust and making discoveries. As he worked, we talked about how archaeologists uncover real artifacts and what those finds tell us about the past.

This kit is a hands-on way to introduce archaeology while keeping kids engaged and excited. It’s a great option for history lovers who like to get their hands dirty while learning.

History of the World Mad Libs

Mad Libs have always been a fun way to play with language, but this history-themed version adds a hilarious twist to learning. Kids fill in the blanks with different types of words, creating silly versions of historical events, famous speeches, and ancient myths.

We’ve had so many laughs playing this, especially when the results turn serious moments into complete nonsense. What’s great is that, while kids are having fun, they’re also getting exposure to real historical events and figures. It’s a sneaky way to build vocabulary, encourage creativity, and make history more memorable.

If you’re looking for a history gift that’s fun, interactive, and great for group play, this one is a winner.

The HISTORY Channel This Day in History For Kids

This history book introduces kids to important historical events by showing what happened on each day of the year. Instead of flipping through a typical history book, kids can turn to today’s date and discover something fascinating that happened on that exact day in the past.

We started using this book as a way to add a quick history lesson to our mornings. Over breakfast, we’d read the day’s event, then talk about what was happening in the world at the time. Some days, it was about a groundbreaking discovery, while other times, it was a surprising or funny moment from history.

It’s an easy way to build historical knowledge without feeling overwhelming, and because it’s broken up into short sections, it’s perfect for kids who prefer quick, engaging facts over long history lessons.

Junior Metal Detector

A great gift for kids who love treasure hunting and hands-on exploration. This metal detector allows them to search for buried objects, teaching them about history in a way that’s active and exciting.

When my son first used his, he was thrilled to find a rusty old coin. It led to an entire afternoon of researching what time period it might have come from and imagining who might have used it. Even when he didn’t find anything valuable, the experience itself was exciting—every beep of the detector felt like a potential discovery.

For kids who love history and adventure, this is a great way to encourage exploration while giving them a taste of real-world archaeology.

If History Repeats Itself Ornament

This whimsical ornament, featuring the phrase "If history repeats itself, I am so getting a dinosaur!" is perfect for history buffs with a sense of humor. It makes a great conversation starter during the holidays and adds a unique touch to any tree.

I can easily imagine it hanging on a history teacher’s tree, bringing a smile every year.

History Channel This Day in Military History Boxed Calendar

For those fascinated by military history, this daily calendar provides intriguing insights into historical battles, key events, and important military figures. Each day offers a new historical fact, making it an engaging way to start the morning.

I’ve seen friends eagerly flip through to find out what happened on their birthday or other significant dates. It’s a simple but thoughtful way to keep history at the forefront all year long.

National Geographic Ultimate Visual History of the World

This beautifully illustrated book is more than just a history lesson—it’s a stunning visual journey through time. Covering everything from ancient civilizations to modern events, it’s packed with high-quality images and engaging narratives.

I’ve had this book on my coffee table for years, and it has sparked countless discussions with guests. Whether for a dedicated historian or a casual history enthusiast, this book makes a fantastic gift.

Who Knows Better?

A fast-paced, family-friendly trivia game packed with 500 questions about world history. Easy to play and great for ages 5+, this one’s perfect for sparking conversations, learning fun facts, and adding a little friendly competition to game night. A solid pick for history-loving kids or families who enjoy learning while they play.

F*cking History: 111 Lessons You Should Have Learned in School

This book takes a fresh, witty approach to history, offering irreverent yet insightful lessons on events that should have been taught in school. It’s the kind of book that makes you laugh while actually learning something new.

This has been a hit among my friends who love history but don’t take it too seriously. It’s a great gift for anyone who enjoys a more entertaining take on the past.

Timeline World History Wall Art History Chart Poster Data

A beautifully designed history timeline, this poster isn’t just decor, it’s a conversation piece. It features a detailed chronological layout of key historical events, making it perfect for classrooms, home offices, or history lovers who want to visualize how different eras connect.

I love having it in my workspace because it’s both educational and aesthetically appealing.

Presidents Dress Socks

History buffs can show off their love for the past in a subtle yet fun way with these socks featuring famous historical figures. They’re perfect for history teachers, professors, or anyone who enjoys a quirky twist on everyday fashion.

These socks always get a reaction when worn, making them a great conversation starter.

The New York Times Complete Front Pages: 1851-2018

This book is a fascinating glimpse into history as it was originally reported. Featuring front pages from major historical events, it provides a unique perspective on how news coverage has evolved over the years.

I’ve spent hours flipping through this book, reliving major moments from different eras. It’s an ideal gift for those who love journalism, history, or just enjoy seeing the past through the lens of original reporting.

Don’t Make Me Repeat Myself History Teacher Shirt

A humorous and relatable gift for history teachers, this t-shirt features the phrase "Don't Make Me Repeat Myself" along with an image of a historical figure. It’s a fun way to add personality to the classroom and makes for a lighthearted gift that teachers will appreciate. I’ve seen it get plenty of laughs among colleagues, making it a great conversation piece.

Personalized Historical Portrait Custom Artwork

One of the most unique gifts for history lovers, this personalized artwork transforms someone into a historical figure. Whether they’d like to be a medieval knight, an ancient ruler, or a Victorian noble, this portrait makes a one-of-a-kind keepsake. I gifted this to a history-loving friend, and they were absolutely thrilled to see themselves as part of history.

First Lines of Literature Coffee Mug

This literary-themed mug is a perfect gift for history buffs who also love classic literature. Featuring the iconic opening lines from 24 famous novels, like 1984, Pride and Prejudice, and The Great Gatsby, it blends timeless storytelling with a touch of nostalgia. It’s both a conversation starter and a daily dose of inspiration, ideal for enjoying a warm drink while reflecting on the words that shaped generations. Comes boxed and ready to gift.

Historian Sign

This quirky historian street sign is a fun way to showcase a love for history. Whether placed in an office, a home library, or even a teenager’s bedroom, it adds personality and sparks conversation.

I’ve gifted this to a history-loving friend, and they loved how it made their space feel a little more personalized.

U.S. History Typography Personalized History Teacher Poster

This custom poster makes a thoughtful and meaningful gift for history teachers and professors. With a unique typography design incorporating historical terms and names, it adds a personal touch to any classroom or office.

I’ve given similar personalized gifts, and they’re always well received because they show thoughtfulness and appreciation for the recipient’s passion.

Coat of Arms & Family Name History

For those interested in genealogy and family history, this framed coat of arms print offers a meaningful connection to the past. It includes historical information about a family name, making it a great keepsake for future generations.

I gifted this to a family member, and it became a treasured piece in their home, sparking conversations about our ancestors and heritage.

More Gift Ideas for Every Interest

If you’re still searching for the perfect gift or want to explore more unique options, here are some thoughtful ideas tailored to different interests:

Gifts for Shakespeare lovers: For those who appreciate the Bard, consider gifts like beautifully illustrated editions of his plays, creative adaptations, or even themed merchandise that brings his work to life.
Gifts for kids who like to draw: Encourage creativity with art supplies, interactive art books, or subscriptions to art classes that inspire young artists to explore their imagination.
Back to school gifts for homeschool kids: Support your favorite homeschooler with educational tools, fun learning kits, or engaging books that enhance their learning experience throughout the school year.
Thank you teacher gifts: Show appreciation for teachers with thoughtful gifts such as personalized stationery, inspiring books, or unique classroom decorations that brighten their day and acknowledge their hard work.

Last Updated on 8 April 2025 by Clare Brown

Gifts for History Buffs

More Gift Ideas for Every Interest

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