What’s a better excuse for a party than a retirement? We can’t think of anything!
And what are some great, thoughtful retirement gifts for the well-deserved man or woman of the hour to celebrate their years of hard work?
Well, that can leave anyone stumped for ideas.
You don’t want anything too boring or generic, but you also don’t want to get something that’s too far fetched. It can’t be something that they already have, and you certainly want to avoid the cheap imported junk (while still keeping within a reasonable gift budget).
Sounds impossible, right?
No worries. We’ve done the legwork for you. All you need to do is scroll and click, and you’ll have the perfect retirement gift for your friend, family member, or coworker in no time!
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Jump to:
- 10 Best Retirement Gifts
- Retirement Gifts for Women
- Retirement Gifts for Men
- More Unique Retirement Gifts
- Retirement Gifts by Profession
- Retirement Gift FAQS
10 Best Retirement Gifts
We’ll start out with the ten all-around best retirement gift ideas.
Further down we’ll feature thoughtful gifts for women, men, teachers, dentists, military service members, and much more.
1. Places to Go Retirement Book
If they hope to spend their golden years exploring the USA, this is the gift for them!
Now that they actually have some time on their hands (a novel idea) and are opening a new chapter of their life, inspire them with this amazing book filled 5000 ideas (nope, that is NOT a typo. Really. Five thousand!).
All 50 states are covered so they’ll never be at a loss for where to go on their new adventures, what to see, what to eat, and where to lay their heads.
Whether it’s a go-to destination for an afternoon that barely crosses their border, or a full American road trip summer, this is sure to be a hit and will be used for years to come.
2. Retro Digital Camera
Speaking of new adventures, they’ll need a way to document their experiences! That’s why this retro-styled digital camera would make the perfect gift for your favorite retiree.
Just the thing to take along on a beautiful nature hike, or to capture those sweet moments with the grandkiddos.
3. On To the Next Chapter
For the book lover in your life, this clever and punny bookmark is a great gift that will make them smile.
No more dog-eared pages (gasp) with this leather place-holder. You could even pair it with a great read, or the 50 States book described up above!
More gifts for book lovers (and haters):
- 21 Best Librarian Gifts for Book Lovers and Bibliothecaries
- I Hate Reading Books: 10 Books for Book Haters
4. Experience Gift
Nothing screams “I’m retired” like being able to take an unexpected trip at the drop of a hat, an experience from The Giftory would make the perfect getaway.
If you aren’t familiar with The Giftory, it allows you to choose from nearly 1,500 unique gift experiences to give to your loved one, be it a hot air balloon ride over scenic Nevada, taking a cooking class from an Italian Masterchef, or hiking through scenic national parks.
A great way to give them a jumpstart on their new life of adventure.
5. The Difference You Made Floral Box
This sturdy but pretty flower box will bring the recent retiree smiles for years to come. It has timeless appeal, a farmhouse chic look, and a sweet, personalized message from you.
Pair it with some freshly cut flowers and you have the perfect farewell gift for your friend or coworker!
6. “Congratulations” Harry & David Box
A fantastic upgrade on your traditional retirement gifts, this gift basket is on a whole new level. Not mention that giving someone deliciously savory snacks and sweet treats will never not be a good idea.
This gift basket of directors favorites from Harry & David features the best of the best of their delectable treats and goodies, all beautifully packaged and ready for gifting.
Such an excellent way to celebrate their decades of hard work.
7. Luggage Set
Did someone say “newfound freedom?” We’re sure someone did!
They’ll definitely be using some of that free time for traveling, so it’s the perfect time to spoil them with a great luggage set like this one.
It’s certain they’ll get many, many miles out of this great idea.
8. The Best is Yet to Come Personalized Cutting Board
It’s so true, isn’t it? Adventure is out there, and they finally have some down-time to find it!
Maybe they’ll finally have time to pursue cooking like they’ve always wanted to, or open that food truck on the beach they’re always talking about.
Or maybe their dream doesn’t have anything to do with food at all? In any case, everyone needs a cutting board at some point, so this is a good retirement gift that will certainly be put to use!
Either way, remind them that they have so much ahead of them with this bamboo cutting board, completely personalized by you. It’s a sweet and practical (not to mention useful) gift that hits all the right notes.
Related: Happy Retirement Wishes & Quotes for Coworkers
9. Personalized Bobblehead Retirement Gift
A top pick of funny retirement gifts, they’ll love this personalized bobble head that looks just like them. Even if they no longer have a work desk to display it on!
No matter, this adorable figurine will look hilarious on their bookshelf, nightstand, or windowsill, and it’s sure to get a lot of smiles and chuckles from all who see it.
10. Commissioned Fine Art Portrait
What an elegant gift for someone you really love! Take a much loved photograph and turn it into a stunning work of original art on canvas.
They’ll be blown away by your thoughtfulness and treasure this beautiful, customized gift for a long, long time.
Best Retirement Gifts for Women
Finding and giving the greatest retirement gift means knowing your audience.
Does she love to be outdoors, gardening and soaking up the sunshine? Or does she prefer to be inside, curling up with a good book and a steaming cup of tea?
No matter her preference, we’ve got some great gifts to help her on her way to living her best life.
11. Retirement Blanket
She finally has time to curl up on the couch and chill! Maybe even take naps?
Have her do so in comfort with this pretty and cozy blanket.
No cold toes here… She’s going to love how you personalize it and will use it every chilly day.
12. Gardening Tools
For the outdoorsy girl or the lady who loves nothing more than tending to her garden, this fantastic set of gardening tools will last and last and last.
Everything she needs to plant, till, weed, and upkeep her gardens and beds all while being conveniently contained in a handy organizer bag.
13. Relaxing “Take Care” Package
After years of working, she can finally relax with a care package that is filled with all the right stuff!
Whether it’s a soothing bath she craves, a delightfully aromatic candle, or maybe just a good cuppa tea, she’ll find her perfect match for more than just one night of relaxation.
14. Under New Management
That’s right: grandkids are the boss now! This charming and sentimental mug is sure to see a lot of use during the next few years.
15. Coloring Book
When was the last time she sat down and colored a picture? Thirty, forty, fifty years ago? Well now that she’s retiring, she’ll have ample time for The Book That Takes Its Time!
Coloring books are a perfect way to spend a cozy, quiet afternoon at home, occupy time on the airplane, or even pass the time as she waits to pick up those grandkiddos from school!
16. “Happy Retirement” Necklace
Especially great for the working gal who had to dress down for her job (like nurses, doctors, gym employees, etc.), this pretty necklace will make her feel like a million bucks.
It will match all of her outfits and is sure to be her go-to accessory.
17. Shearling Slippers
One of my personal favorites on this list of great retirement gift ideas, she’s sure to spend plenty of time in these shearling slippers.
One of the great things about being retired is that if you don’t want to leave the house, you don’t have to!
These fabulous, natural shearling slippers will keep her feet warm and toasty as she shuffles about the house enjoying her newfound freedom.
18. Smells Like It’s Not Your Problem…
This fabulous candle will definitely get lots of use. Like, every time she wakes up and thinks “Wow, I don’t have to solve anyone’s issues but my own today!”
Made from natural coconut and soy wax, she can light it and bask in its sweet, soothing scent as often as she wants.
19. I’m Done
This adorable and funny fork is sure to have a place of honor at the retirement party!
Truer words have never been spoken than these, we’re sure. It’s clever and cute and we think she’ll get a kick out of it.
20. Gourmet Cooking Courses
Has she always loved experimenting in the kitchen, but was sadly deprived of that due to her career?
Well, make up for that lost time with a gourmet cooking course! You can choose from all different types of courses to find one that suits her best, and she’ll be reaping the benefits (and maybe you will, too) in no time!
Retirement Gifts for Men
The man, the myth, the legend…has retired.
His years of experience and wisdom have now been passed down to his juniors, and it’s time for him to take a well-earned fishing trip, camping adventure, sports outing, or heck, just spend some time on the couch watching old westerns and football.
He’s earned it! He’s also earned himself a stellar retirement gift, so we’re here to help.
21. Handcrafted Personalized “Gone Fishing” Retirement Plaque
Fifty years in the making, he can now put up the sign he always wished wasn’t false advertising!
This witty hand-crafted plaque is made even better by the customizing. It’s going to be a hit with him, not only upon unwrapping, but for years to come!
Related: Fishing Retirement Gifts for the O-Fish-Ally Retired
22. Retired Personalized Tumbler
These vacuumed sealed, stainless steel tumblers come in multiple colors and are personalized so they will never be accidentally taken by someone else.
Sure, he doesn’t need to pack coffee into work every day anymore, but how about an icy beverage when he’s out fishing or hiking, or some piping hot tea when he’s bird watching?
23. Pickle Ball Set
A round of Pickle Ball, anyone? Pickle Ball is taking the sports world by storm at the moment, and we can’t have him missing out on any of the action!
This set includes everything he needs to kill it on the court.
Related: 21 Best Golf Gifts for the Golfer Who Has Everything
24. My Life Story…
Now that he’s officially entered his retirement years, he can finally sit down and write that great American novel.
But before he gets started, how about working on his memoirs? With this beautifully bound volume, he can jot down his life story thus far for future generations or just for posterity’s sake!
So much to write down, and hey, so much time to write it in.
25. Custom NYT Front Page Puzzle
Retirement is a major milestone, which means he deserves a majorly cool gift to celebrate!
This New York Times front page puzzle is definitely in that ballpark, and we think it would make a super cool gift idea.
Have it customized with the front page event of your choice so it reflects his hobbies, interests, or even the day he was born!
26. History By Mail Subscription
If he’s a history buff, then look no further.
The History by Mail subscription is an almost magical experience where he can traces of history in his mailbox each and every month that include exact (and extremely convincing) replicas of historic documents, letters, memorabilia, and more.
He’ll be transported back in time with each and every arrival.
27. Beer Subscription
Sure, you could just bring a six-pack to his retirement party, but doesn’t he deserve more? Like, a bunch of brewskies more? He’ll love this subscription package, and if you’re lucky, he’ll share.
Interest? Check out our review!
28. Custom Whiskey Glass
Time for him to start shuffling around in his silk housecoat and leather slippers like his inner Cary Grant. What better way to complete the ensemble than with this great whiskey glass?
It definitely will make him laugh and earn a spot of honor in the cupboard right next to the his favorite Scotch.
29. Personalized Retirement Bottle Opener
How many times have you lost your tiny bottle opener in the bottomless junk drawer of doom? No more searching while your frosty beverage gets warm (ick).
Give the retiree this amazing personalized handcrafted bottle opener!
This gift is made to order in Oregon and custom engraved with their name and date of retirement. It will look stunning in their dining room, front porch, or man cave.
And they won’t have to resign themselves to a life of screw-top caps ever again.
30. “I Am Retired… Bring Me the Remote” Socks
Encourage him to put his feet up, and while they’re up, encase them in these great socks! They’re not just funny, they’re warm and soft too. A real win-win for the retiree!
More Unique Retirement Gifts
Here are some more really creative and unique retirement gift ideas.
If you want something even uniquer, funner, and creativer (yes, those are all real words), consider some of our gag gift ideas.
31. Plant a Tree in Their Honor
What’s more meaningful than a tree planted in someone’s honor? Not much, quite frankly!
With this retirement gift, the retiree has a tree planted in their name in a much-needed area of our national forests. They get a lovely certificate, GPS coordinates, and photos of where the tree (or grove of trees, you can choose either) has been planted.
For the gift recipient that already seems to have everything, or is just particularly hard to shop for, or loves this beautiful earth like no other, this is a sweet gift that really gives back.
32. I Worked My Whole Life for This Retirement T-Shirt
Give the gift of a good laugh and then make them comfy with this cozy and amusing tee. It’s funny because it’s true, right?
They’ll find themselves reaching for this shirt over and over again, and their fellow retirees will definitely be jealous.
Just don’t let them pair it with Bermuda shorts, black knee high socks, a fanny pack, and sandals, okay?
33. Thyme Retirement Box
Nothing is yummier than some freshly cut herbs, whether the smell or the look or the taste!
They’ll appreciate the delightful thyme first, and keep the box for years after the blooms are gone (or eaten).
34. “Old Age” Vintage Wood Bar Sign
Who are you calling old?! They’re simply well-aged, after all, and this plaque cements that truth.
It looks vintage but is actually brand new and ready for a long life, hanging above a wine bar or liquor cabinet.
35. Official Retirement Papers — Gag Gift
They finally don’t have to rush the toilet time because they never have to go to work again! Make them laugh with this funny retirement gift of “official” papers.
36. I Can Wine All I Want… I’m Retired
That’s right! They aren’t answering to nobody, no how! So fill it to the brim with their favorite vino and watch them light up like a Christmas tree. If anyone has earned a bottomless glass, it’s them!
37. Keep Them Young Bicycle
This cruiser bicycle is adorable and ever so useful! She’s going to love leisurely biking around town on a sunny day, instead of being constantly stuck in that awful work commute each day.
We think she’ll get a basket and some handlebar streamers in no time.
38. Nostalgic Candy from the Decade They Entered the Workforce
Give them a bit of nostalgia with candy from the year they started their career. They’ll love remembering with their tastebuds and sharing them too.
39. Retirement Wine Bottle Labels
These labels are clever and cute and will make any bottle of wine just that much more special.
You know what wine goes good with? Parties! Send them away into retirement by hosting a going away party!
40. Retired, Ask Someone Else Funny Business Cards
Oh, you KNOW he is going to be passing these out all day long! And his friends will want some too. Too bad! These are just for him, the Retired King.
41. Teaching Old Dog’s New Tricks
With all this new found time, boredom can come easily those fresh in retirement. Help them fill their time with a new hobby.
What’s something they’ve been missing all these years, or have always wanted to try? Whether it’s some art supplies, a ballet class, or a new pair of roller skates, the sky is the limit!
Best Gifts for…
Retired Teachers: #RetiredTeacherLife Tote
How relaxing must it be to be a (finally) retired teacher?
They will love this tote and will want to use it for everything: from the farmer’s market, to the library, to the grocery store.
Retired Police Officers: Personalized Retirement Sign
Commemorate their amazing achievement with the police force with this great looking sign.
Totally customized with their names and dates served, this will be given the spot of honor in no time.
Retired Doctors: Vintage Physician Sign
Perfect for the doctor who is retiring, this colorful and personalized plaque has a vintage look but is 100% modern.
It has enough colors to fit in with any décor and looks timeless with its witty words and charming shape.
Related: The 13 Best Retirement Gifts for Doctors
Retired Nurses: Vintage Nurse Practitioner Sign
This “vintage” nurse practitioner sign will be the bell of the ball at her retirement bash. It’s lovely colors and well-worn look will cheer up her wall, and the personalization makes it extra special.
Retired Lawyers: See You Later Litigator
If this doesn’t earn a chuckle, they might be a lost cause.
While technically intended for whiskey, this funny glass will serve up any beverage of their choice with a smile.
Related: 21 Gift Ideas for Lawyers, Attorneys, & Law Students
Retired Dentists: The Dental Times
Personalized with your dentist’s feats of accomplishments, they are going to be gobsmacked with this amazing poster. Read all about it!
Also consider: Classy Retirement Gifts for Dentists
Retired Military Service Member: Personalized American Flag Sign
This shop creates beautiful personalized signs for each of the 5 branches of the military. Simply choose which one, and supply them with your retiree’s information.
The result is a stunning work of art that will last a lifetime.
Retired Co-Workers: Signed Coworker Retirement Gift
This is can also be a DIY gift to make it more personal. They may get a little misty-eyed seeing the handwriting of each beloved coworker, but we think that’s a perk!
Related: 11 Retirement Gifts for Co-Workers
Retired Fishing Enthusiast: O’Fish’Ally Retired Fishing Lure
Perfect for the fisher in your life, this lure is personalized and clever. They’ll love the sentiment and the look of this gift.
Retired Bird Lover: Personalized Bird Feeder
Bird watching and feeding is the perfect activity for the new retiree! They’ll love seeing their name displayed almost as much as seeing the birds get their tummies full.
Retirement Gift FAQS
So you may be asking, “What’s a good retirement gift?” How much you should spend on retirement gifts? How about if there are certain types of gifts that would be acceptable for your uncle but not necessarily your boss? Well, you’ve come to the right spot!
We’re here with answers to some frequently asked questions concerning retirement gifts.
What is an appropriate gift for a retirement party?
Good question! This depends greatly on the environment in your particular office.
If you work in a straight-laced law office and one of your firm’s founders is retiring, you’re going to want to shoot for something more distinguished or polished.
Perhaps an elegant set of brandy glasses with their initials? Or a nice, hardback copy of their favorite novel or biography?
If you work in a super chill, free-spirited graphic design office where you cut up with your coworkers all day long, then maybe go for something more relaxed like a funny t-shirt or a gift that caters to their interests or hobbies?
At the end of the day, a lot of it comes down to common sense and your gift recipient. What do think they would receive the most enjoyment from? Trust your instincts.
Gifts for retirees who have everything?
Ahhhh yes, the challenge individuals! They come in all shapes and sizes are equally difficult to shop for. In these instances, experiences make great gifts.
Sign them up for a cooking class, feed their hobbies with some new tools or equipment, take them on a camping trip, or give them a gift card or certificate to their favorite restaurant.
They may have too much stuff, but there’s no such thing as too many good memories.
How much should I spend on a retirement gift?
That can depend on a few factors.
How close are you to the retiree? Did you just meet them two weeks ago? Or is it your Uncle Freddy who you’ve known your whole life and who mentored you into the family business?
Generally speaking, the average to spend on someone’s retirement gift is between $20-$80. Don’t overextend yourself, though. There are plenty of wonderful gift ideas out there for every budget.
Sometimes offices will also pool funds from employees to go in on one big gift, so be sure to check with your coworkers to see what the plan is!
What is a customary retirement gift?
If you want to go super traditional with your retirement gift, there several options to choose from. The first one that comes to mind is a nice mantle clock, pocket watch, or wristwatch.
Timepieces became token retirement gifts as they represent the time dedicated to the company, as well as the free time the retiree gets to look forward to.
Other classic gifts include an engraved ring, and elegant fountain pen, and fine spirits.
Now that you’ve found the perfect retirement gift, next up is to plan the retirement party!
Read Next: Retirement Messages for Your Boss
