Five Star Gift Ideas

For your son who has a passion for urban exploration and abandoned buildings, there are several unique and meaningful gift ideas you can consider. These gifts can not only enhance his experiences in this hobby but also show your support for his interests. Here are a few ideas:

1. Urban Exploration Equipment: Help your son gear up for his explorations by gifting him essential items such as a high-quality flashlight, a durable backpack, sturdy hiking boots, a GoPro camera, or a compact drone. These tools will allow him to capture and document his explorations in abandoned buildings.

2. Photography Books: Consider purchasing books that showcase captivating photographs of abandoned locations or focus on urban exploration. These books can provide inspiration and ideas for your son's own photography projects. Look for titles like "The Ruins of Detroit" by Yves Marchand and Romain Meffre or "Abandoned Places: A Photographic Exploration of More Than 100 Worlds We Have Left Behind" by Kieron Connolly.

3. Historical Maps and Guides: Help your son dive deeper into the history of the places he explores by gifting him vintage or contemporary maps and guides of abandoned locations. These resources can add an extra layer of interest and provide insight into the stories behind these forgotten places.

4. Personalized Adventure Journal: Encourage your son to document his urban explorations by gifting him a personalized adventure journal. Look for one with blank pages and a durable cover, allowing him to jot down his impressions, sketch the architectural details, or paste photographs as a personal keepsake.

5. Subscription to a Local History Magazine: Consider subscribing your son to a magazine that focuses on local history or architecture. These publications often feature articles about abandoned buildings and their historical significance, which can deepen your son's knowledge and appreciation for his hobby.

6. Abandoned Building Photography Workshop: Depending on your budget, you can surprise your son with a photography workshop focused on capturing abandoned locations. These workshops, led by professional photographers who specialize in urban exploration, can provide valuable insights, tips, and techniques to enhance your son's photography skills.

7. Custom Urban Exploration Map: Have a custom map created showcasing significant abandoned buildings and urban exploration hotspots in a specific region or country. The map can be framed or printed on canvas, allowing your son to display his favorite exploration sites as a piece of unique artwork.

Remember, in addition to any physical gifts, the best gift you can give your son is your support and encouragement for his passion. Engage in conversations about his explorations, show genuine interest in his experiences, and even join him on his adventures if you feel comfortable. These shared experiences and gestures can strengthen your bond while allowing your son to indulge in his passion for urban exploration.

Or you can get him a star map with an important date you share.

Madeline Moran Weiler says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“The map was absolutely beautiful! My grandson was thrilled with it (it was a Christmas gift) and has already asked me if I would consider getting another one for him as a graduation gift in a couple of years.”