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The 10 Best Gifts for Grandparents in 2026

We found 10 special gifts great for grandparents to help them feel seen, appreciated, and connected all year long.

  • We searched for the best gifts for grandparents and selected 10 unique, meaningful options we think they’ll love. 
  • The gifts in this guide range from about $20 to $220, offering options for single or group gifts for all the kids and grandkids.
  • Our gifts for grandparents focus on personalization, family connections, meaningful experiences, and usefulness. 
  • Keep reading for thoughtful gift ideas that go beyond the expected to help grandparents feel truly loved and appreciated.

While material gifts are always appreciated, especially when chosen with care, many older adults place even greater value on living a meaningful, connected life and leaving a positive legacy. The gifts in our grandparent gift guide are designed with this in mind, helping grandparents create new memories while preserving stories and moments for future generations to treasure.

Best Gifts for Grandparents in 2026

Tinggly Bucketlist Experience

Each Tinggly gift box includes an inspirational brochure listing thousands of in-person experiences the recipient can choose from, from spa visits to hot-air balloon rides. The experience is paid for by the cost of the gift. 

Tinggly Bucketlist Experience

Gift box with picture of a person with a backpack overlooking a scenic mountain view; text includes "Bucketlist" and icons for experiences like "Gourmet" and "Adventure"

Who we recommend this for

Grandparents with a sense of adventure who love to travel and try new things

  • Price: $220, depending on promotions
  • Experiences: Choose from 10,000+ bucket list experiences
  • Expiration: Never expires
  • Sustainability: 1% of the gift price helps plant trees

Pros

  • Arrives as a physical gift box 
  • Thousands of experiences to choose from
  • Locations across the country and the world 
  • Never expires

Cons

  • Experiences are location-dependent 
  • The cost of the gift does not cover travel 
  • Requires online booking

Our take on the Tinggly Bucketlist Experience Gift Box

While this is an experience-based gift, we like that the company sends a physical gift box to the recipient. The box includes an experience voucher and a brochure outlining the options and explaining how to book. Our team searched for Tinggly gifts in their respective areas and found spa trips, ghost tours, a sushi-making class, and a brewery tour. This is a great gift for grandparents to do together; for single grandparents, the gift giver can join in on the fun for a shared experience. 

Storyworth Memoirs Subscription and Book

The Storyworth Memoirs subscription helps grandparents share the stories they want to pass on to their family. The company then compiles them into a beautiful keepsake book. 

Storyworth Memoirs

Three generations of women sit on a couch reading from a book together

Who we recommend this for

Grandparents who want to share their stories and have them recorded in a keepsake book that can be passed down through generations

  • Price: $99 for one year of Storyworth Memoirs, which includes one book
  • Book Dimensions: 6”x9” hardcover
  • Subscription: One year for a one-time fee 

Pros

  • Highly personalized gift 
  • Beautiful keepsake book 
  • Creates family connections

Cons

  • Requires some work on the part of the giftee 
  • Some grandparents may need help with digital uploads
  • One book included (additional books extra)

Our take on the Storyworth Memoirs Subscription and Book

This gift invites grandparents to share their stories over one year of simple, meaningful reflection. The Storyworth Memoirs subscription delivers weekly emails with questions designed to spark memories. Grandparents can simply reply to the emails—adding photos along the way if they’d like—or choose the audio option to record their stories by phone. At the end of the year, the reflections and photos are gathered into a full-color hardcover book. You can then order extra copies for family members. You can personalize the experience by selecting or writing your own questions. We believe this gift honors the past and will become a keepsake for generations to come.

Best personalized gifts for grandparents

We love gifts personalized with family photos for grandparents because they turn everyday moments into memories they can revisit again and again. These gifts celebrate family, milestones, connection, and the joys of being a grandparent. 

Zazzle Best Grandparents Mug Set

This nesting mug set—one for Grandma and one for Grandpa—features a personalized photo and a charming heart-shaped handle. 

Zazzle Mug Set

Set of mugs with photos of grandparents and heart handles. Text says “Best Grandpa Ever” and “Best Grandma Ever”

Who we recommend this for

Grandparents who enjoy a cup of morning coffee or tea and love having photos of their grandchildren

  • Price: $20 for both mugs
  • Personalization: Add your own text and photo to design 
  • Capacity: 8 oz 
  • Material: 100% ceramic 

Pros

  • Personalized with pictures and names of grandkids
  • Microwave and dishwasher safe
  • Affordable gift

Cons

  • Digital uploads required 
  • The handle may not be comfortable 
  • Awkward shape on the second mug

Our take on the Zazzle Best Grandparents Mug Set 

For the grandparent who cherishes their morning cup of coffee or tea, this gift helps wake them up in the best way. Grandparents can enjoy starting their day with the faces of their grandchildren or other family members. The mugs can be personalized with a photo (one unique photo per mug) and the name of the grandchild or family member in the photo. The nesting nature of the mugs, combined with the heart-shaped handle, makes this set decorative enough to leave out on a kitchen shelf or countertop. 

Aura Digital Picture Frame

Aura digital picture frames are simple to set up and offer an attractive display of rotating photos uploaded by family members to the Aura app.

Aura Digital Picture Frame

Framed photo of two children playing peek-a-boo”

Who we recommend this for

Grandparents who love seeing photos of grandchildren, children, and extended family, especially when family lives far away

  • Price: $150-500, depending on style
  • Display: Varies by style; most fit on a side table or shelf.
  • Storage: Unlimited cloud storage, no subscription fees
  • Connectivity: WiFi required 

Pros

  • Simple to set up and share photos 
  • No ongoing subscription 
  • Attractive display 

Cons

  • Requires a reliable Wi-Fi Connection 
  • More expensive than a traditional picture frame

Our take on the Aura Carver Picture Frame 

We love that Aura digital picture frames have a classic look, just like a traditional picture frame. Different color options are available for both the frame and the surrounding mat. It’s simple for multiple family members to upload their photos to the Aura app, giving Grandma and Grandpa a rotating display. It’s a great way to keep grandparents connected to their family members' everyday lives, no matter where they live. 

Best useful gifts for grandparents

Practical gifts are also a great option for grandparents, as they add thoughtfulness and ease to everyday routines. The gifts in this section of our guide are designed for daily use, adding comfort, warmth, and a little extra care to the rhythms of your grandparents' everyday life. 

Kismile Single Serve Coffee Maker

The Kismile Single Serve Coffee Maker is a practical upgrade, offering customized convenience and quality with minimal effort. 

Kismile Single Serve Coffee Maker

Black single-serve coffee maker, making a cup of coffee in an orange mug”

Who we recommend this for

A grandparent who lives alone and doesn’t need to make a full pot of coffee, or grandparents who have different morning routines

  • Price: $110
  • Dimensions: 11.14”D x 5.51”W x 12.09”H
  • Coffee Type: Ground coffee or K-cups
  • Features: Digital display, auto-clean function, permanent filter 

Pros

  • Brews coffee in less than two minutes
  • Supports K-Cups or ground coffee 
  • No paper filters required

Cons

  • Only makes one cup at a time 
  • Small capsules are not the best option for limited dexterity

Our take on the Kismile Single-Serve Coffee Maker 

This coffee maker is a great gift for grandparents who enjoy a fresh cup of coffee throughout the day without the fuss of brewing a full pot. Its compact size and simple operation (no paper filter required) make it appealing for solo coffee drinkers or grandparents with different morning routines. Pair it with a book of crossword puzzles for a great “coffee break” gift. 

Layla Kapok Pillow Set

Made from luxurious plant fibers and memory foam, a set of Layla Kapok pillows is the ultimate upgrade for grandparents looking to get a better night’s sleep. 

Layla Kapok Pillow Set

Two pillows with gray and white hexagonal patterned fabric and black and red tags reading “Layla”

Who we recommend this for

Grandparents who could use a sleep upgrade, especially if they are seeking relief from back pain

  • Price: $164
  • Warranty: 5-year warranty + 30-night trial 
  • Shipping: Free
  • Dimensions (Queen): 18” W x 28” L

Pros

  • Silky, plush outer fabric 
  • Adjustable loft for all types of sleepers
  • 30-night trial period

Cons

  • May be too soft for some sleepers
  • Custom fill/loft may require some trial and error

Our take on the Layla Kapok Pillow Set 

Our top pick in Best Pillows for Back Pain, the Layla Kapok pillow does a great job of balancing support and comfort. It’s adjustable, which means you can add or remove the fill to suit your favorite sleeping position. The right pillow can not only make sleep feel like a treat, but it can also help lessen everyday aches and pains. This is a thoughtful gift to show grandparents you care about their comfort. 

YETI Sip 'N Stack Cup Set

These durable, double-wall insulated YETI cups are stackable for better storage and keep hot or cold beverages at the right temp for camping, hanging out on the patio, or taking to the pool. 

YETI Sip ‘N Stack Cup Set

Multicolor stainless steel YETI cups stacked on top of each other in sets of two

Who we recommend this for

Grandparents who enjoy spending time outdoors and appreciate rugged but attractive gear for their adventures

  • Price: $100 for a set of four
  • Dimensions: 3.5” W x 5” H
  • Capacity: 16-oz
  • Features: Stackable; cup holder compatible 

Pros

  • Durable and double-wall insulated
  • Comes in mix-and-match colors 
  • Works for hot or cold drinks
  • Dishwasher safe

Cons

  • Only available in one size 
  • Limited color options (four)

Our take on the YETI Sip ‘N Stack Cup Set 

We are big fans of YETI for durability and overall quality, and we love that this set of insulated cups comes in four mix-and-match colors. For grandparents who enjoy RV life, camping, or time outdoors, these cups can accompany them on adventures in any season. Great for hot chocolate, coffee, cocktails, iced tea, and more. 

Best gifts for grandparents who have everything 

If your grandparents insist they already have everything they need, this section of our gift guide is for you. We selected thoughtful keepsakes, delicious treats, and unique experiences to help them connect with others and make more memories. Instead of adding more stuff, these gifts focus on creating more joy.  

myDaVinci House Portrait

Send DaVinci a photo of your parents’ or grandparents’ current or former home, and myDaVinci will create an authentic keepsake portrait beautiful enough to become a family heirloom.

myDaVinci House Portrait

Framed watercolor portrait of a colonial-style house with inset of a photograph of the same house

Who we recommend this for

Grandparents who treasure their longtime family home, especially if they have recently downsized to a different location

  • Price: Starting at $149
  • Size: Available in 5x7, 8x10, 11x14, 16x20, and 20x24
  • Guarantees: 100-percent money-back guarantee and free online preview 
  • Shipping: Free for orders $149 and over

Pros

  • Hand-painted by real artists
  • Free revisions after online preview 
  • Paintings are true to the original photo

Cons

  • Must have a photo of the house 
  • Longer turnaround than other gifts

Our take on the myDaVinci House Portrait

These custom home portraits make a meaningful gift for grandparents who have recently downsized after years in their family home. The artwork honors the memories and family history tied to that space, creating a keepsake that can be proudly displayed and passed down for generations. Choose from several artistic styles—including watercolor, pencil sketch, or oil—and select a frame to suit their home.

American Spoon Entertainer Gift Box

This box of sweet and savory delights from American Spoon is essentially a party in a box—a great gift for grandparents who enjoy fine food and love to entertain.

American Spoon Entertainer Gift Box

Display of American Spoon preserves, crackers, cheese and other food items for entertaining

Who we recommend this for

Grandparents who love a high-quality charcuterie spread for entertaining friends and family in their home

  • Price: $125
  • Includes: Selection of preserves, cheese, and meat
  • Shipping: $15-$18

Pros

  • Shelf-stable before opening
  • Beautifully packaged
  • Ingredients for a complete charcuterie board

Cons

  • Taste preferences vary 
  • More expensive than other snack baskets

Our take on the American Spoon Entertainer Gift Box

Handcrafted in Michigan, American Spoon preserves are high-quality and delicious. This box includes their Sour Cherry Preserves, Jalapeno Pepper Jelly, Whole Seed Mustard, and Apple & Onion Jam, plus salami and cheese sourced from other local producers. We love that this box contains everything grandparents need to create a charcuterie board for their next gathering.

National Parks Passport: Collector's Edition

Fuel your grandparents’ love for the great outdoors with this collector’s edition of the National Parks Passport, complete with area maps and stamps for more than 400 national park sites.

National Parks Passport: Collector’s Edition

Black spiral-bound book with picture of an eagle and American flag, reading “Collector’s Edition Passport to Your National Parks”

Who we recommend this for

Grandparents who love the great outdoors and enjoy visiting America’s National Parks

  • Price: $30
  • Includes: Official maps of all park sites
  • Shipping: Free

Pros

  • Large format 
  • Park maps included 
  • Weather-resistant cover 
  • Affordable gift

Cons

  • Best for people who enjoy travel 
  • Larger than smaller passport editions

Our take on the National Parks Passport: Collector’s Edition

This Collector’s Edition of the National Parks Passport makes a thoughtful and engaging gift for grandparents who love exploring the outdoors, reminiscing about past trips to national parks, or planning new adventures. It offers generous space for stamps and includes beautiful regional maps. While it is a great gift for people who enjoy traveling within the United States, it may feel less useful for those who rarely leave home or who prefer to travel abroad. 

How to choose the best gifts for grandparents

When choosing the best gifts for grandparents, focus on thoughtfulness over trendiness by choosing items that reflect their routines, interests, and hobbies. Consider these categories for the best gifts for grandparents: 

  • Comfort gifts that bring ease and a little luxury to everyday life, like premium pillows and sheets, slippers, or other home essentials. 
  • Experience gifts to get them out of the house—classes and outdoor adventures are great ideas. 
  • Personalized gifts to help them feel connected to family, such as photo calendars or mugs, custom artwork, or even a thoughtful letter. 
  • Practical gifts to promote health and peace of mind, such as a medical alert watch that also tracks steps, helpful kitchen tools and appliances, or a home blood pressure monitor. 

Above all, the best gifts are those that show you’ve truly thought about who they are and what brings them joy.

How to choose a gift for Grandpa

When choosing a gift for a grandfather, avoid traditional stereotypes and instead focus on his specific interests, routines, and personality. For example, many grandpas enjoy golf, but perhaps your grandpa would prefer a yoga mat or a bird-watching guide. The best gifts will reflect who he is, not just the role he plays as father or grandfather. 

Find more ideas in our guide to the Best Gifts for Grandpa

How to choose a gift for Grandma

When choosing a gift for a grandmother, consider items that bring her comfort, joy, and a sense of connection to family and friends. We particularly love wellness-focused gifts such as herbal teas, spa days, and natural remedies to promote better sleep. Whatever you choose, avoid cliches about what all grandmas like and focus on your grandmother’s unique interests and lifestyle. 

Find more ideas in our guide to the Best Gifts for Grandma

Frequently asked questions

What are the best birthday gifts for grandparents?

The best birthday gifts for grandparents avoid stereotypes about what all grandparents like and instead focus on more personalized hobbies and interests. Gifts that promote family connection—like a digital picture frame or a family outing—also make great gifts. 

When is Grandparents Day?

In 2026, Grandparents Day will be celebrated on Sunday, Sept. 13, in the United States. 

What are good last-minute gifts for grandparents?

For a last-minute gift for grandparents, consider a thoughtful letter paired with a favorite book or food item. You can also offer to cook them a meal, treat them to a movie, or let them pick a special outing. 

How much should I spend on a gift for my grandparents?

You can find great gifts for grandparents for as little as $20 and as much as $200 or more. For special events, like a big wedding anniversary, you may go in on a more expensive gift with family members. A thoughtful gift that shows you care is more important than the price tag. 

Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.

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