Atlanta's Gift Guide for Intellectuals

Home to countless museums, galleries and shops geared toward brainiacs, Atlanta is the perfect place to pick up a gift for the Renaissance woman, man and child on your list. 

History Mugs

Atlanta History Center

"Take home a piece of history" to gift this season. Stop by the Atlanta History Center's Museum Shop and peruse its selection of "inquisitive books, curious gifts and locally made goods." The Center's collection of punny mugs are the perfect present for your resident history buff. 

A Presidential Bib

Jimmy Carter Library and Museum

It's never too early to aim for the highest office. Let everyone know this baby's going to be in The Oval Office one day by outfitting them in an adorable bib from the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum. Be ready for press conference-style questions about where you bought this patriotic present. For grown-ups who dream of a presidential bid, the Library Store sells books, apparel, china, jewelry and home and office decor.

Exhibit Publications

Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia

Visit MOCA with your friend who loves to learn about contemporary art, then pick them up a copy of "L. Walker." A work of art in itself, this book documents "highly acclaimed visual artist, art professor and mentor...one of Atlanta's most treasured creative talents," Larry Walker's achievements. The shop also features T-shirts, bags, dishware, artist catalogs and more. 

Cooking Classes

The Cooking School at Irwin Street

It's never too late to learn how to throw a Creole dinner party, whip up spaghetti and meatballs from scratch or make pints of ice cream and sorbet. Whether your foodie friend is a whiz in the kitchen or can't make ice, The Cooking School at Irwin Street is an informative (and delicious) present. Purchase a gift certificate and send them off to create a family-style meal. They can choose from classes such as "Get Souped for Pho," "Key 2 Keto," "Grilling 101" and "Sushi at Home: Let's Roll." 

"Choir" Book Membership

A Cappella Books 

Branding itself "the smartest bookstore in town," A Cappella Books is a must-stop when shopping for your favorite bibliophile. Purchase them a "Choir" membership (don't worry, no singing involved). They'll receive discounts on books and merchandise, preferred event seating, pre-sale event tickets and invites to members-only parties. While perusing the shelves, grab a copy of ATL native Mark Pendergrast's "City on the Verge" for the friend who wants to learn more about the history of Atlanta and the BeltLine. 

Artful Accessories

High Museum of Art

Boasting an extensive selection of art-inspired books—on architecture, design, art education, photography and cooking—in addition to journals and sketchbooks, homeware, accessories and children-specific presents, the High Museum of Art's High Shop has something for everyone on your list. Fashion-lovers will swoon over stunning scarves inspired by works of art while art historians will flip for socks printed with "Starry Night," "The Scream" and "Mona Lisa." 

Educational Toys

Children's Museum of Atlanta 

What better way to encourage learning through play than buying a child a gift from the Children's Museum of Atlanta. Selling "educational games, fun apparel and imaginative books," in addition to bilingual products, the Museum Store invites adults to stop in, sans admission charge (and sans children—ideal for surprise gifts). Unique toys, such as the Press & Serve Waffle Set, Tea Set and Brew & Serve Coffee Set are also available for purchase. 

Stationery and an Agenda

The Merchant ATL

With so much knowledge to share, your smartest friend needs a set of fancy pens and intricate stationery. Luckily, The Merchant sells a wide range of letter-writing necessities. Pick up ink pads, notebooks, greeting cards and more. Don't forget an agenda for your friend whose life is jam-packed with classes, gallery openings and documentary screenings—now they have no excuse not to pencil you in!