ALEX’s Holiday Gift Guide 2024

2024 science gift guide collage

Get Up Close to Science

Gift special, interactive experiences for the science enthusiast in your life! The Atlanta Botanical Garden offers a variety of classes that connect plant lovers with topics like botanical art, cooking with garden ingredients, and sustainable gardening techniques—perfect for green thumbs or aspiring gardeners.

In one of the more unique experiences, the Amphibian Foundation’s Master Herpetologist Program dives deep into the world of reptiles and amphibians. This immersive course, led by experts, is ideal for anyone passionate about ecology, conservation, or simply fascinated by these extraordinary creatures.

Science That Keeps on Giving

Make the planet a kinder place with a gift of conservation through a Birds Georgia membership! This membership offers exclusive event access, quarterly newsletters, and conservation opportunities. It’s a perfect way to inspire young birdwatchers and families to engage with nature, all while protecting Georgia’s diverse bird species.

A popular gift for a reason! Zoo Atlanta memberships are ideal for families with animal lovers young (and young at heart)! It provides unlimited access to the zoo’s exhibits, discounted tickets, and invitations to special events and member-only experiences.

Move With Science

Share Atlanta’s greener side with a gift of a Sustainability in Action tour from Bike Tours of Atlanta! Riders can pedal through the city to uncover how Atlanta is leading the way in sustainable practices and innovations, from eco-friendly architecture to urban gardens and community-driven green spaces.

And of course our very own Science ATL’s Discovery Walk maps make the most beautiful stocking stuffers! These thoughtfully-designed maps, made by a local artist, guide families through six unique, science-themed walks with ten fascinating stops each. Explore Atlanta’s coolest neighborhoods and parks, from Cascade Springs and Sweet Auburn to Emory University, Decatur, and the Beltline. And while you’re at it, grab some of Science ATL’s fun shirts and stickers to make your adventure complete!

For The Kids!

Representation in science is at the heart of our mission at Science ATL, which is why we love the products from Brown Toy Box, a Black-owned company based in Atlanta that creates STEAM toys to empower kids, and foster creativity and curiosity.

For The 21+

Pour Up Atlanta’s cocktail classes make a great gift for the drink connoisseurs in your life. From mastering the basics to diving into molecular mixology, each class offers hands-on fun with a touch of chemistry, teaching everything from flavor balance and extraction to using local ingredients. The classes are great for both beginners and the discerning sipper who enjoys experimenting with new techniques and ingredients.

Read Your Science

Gift the joy of learning with books written by some of Atlanta’s most well-known science enthusiasts. If you are able, stay local with your purchases. Little Shop of Stories, A Capella Books, Brave and Kind Books, and Virginia Highland Books are some of our favorites in the metro Atlanta area.

He’s got books about sharks! Bugs! Dinosaurs! Outer space! And…he’s a local! Mike Lowery has been making us laugh for years with his quirky illustrations while he teaches us everything awesome about science. You may have caught him at last year’s Atlanta Science Festival, and [spoiler alert], you’ll get to see him again at the Festival in 2025! But in the meantime, snag one of his books for your kids!

Emory University Professor Derrick Howard’s book Omnis: Last Man of Earth is a thought-provoking work of science fiction that takes readers on an immersive journey into a post-apocalyptic world. With themes of survival, identity, and humanity, it’s an ideal gift for readers who enjoy dystopian tales and complex, emotional storytelling. Find more about the book and purchase it here: Omnis: Last Man of Earth.

Cowpuppy: An Unexpected Friendship and a Scientist’s Journey Into the Secret World of Cows is one of the most heartwarming tales of unexpected friendships and the science behind animal behavior. This memoir from Emory University neuroscientist Gregory Berns captures the surprising bond between a scientist and his cows, offering a personal perspective on animal intelligence. Grab a copy here: Cowpuppy.

We’ve all had many moments in our lives where it feels like we got lucky, or unlucky. Agnes Scott College professor, Barbara Blatchley’s book What Are the Chances? Why We Believe in Luck is the kind of book that will have you asking yourself, is it fate or fortune, as it explores how psychology and neuroscience play a role in the idea of luck. Find out more here: What Are the Chances? Why We Believe in Luck

Gift Stars Beneath Us to anyone who loves philosophy and wants to see it viewed through a different lens. Agnes Scott College Professor and astrophysicist, Paul Sutter explores how humanity looks to the universe to understand and answer life’s biggest questions.

If you have joined Science ATL on one of our Discovery Walks, then you know Park Ranger, Jonah McDonald and his encyclopedic knowledge of the city’s naturescapes and wildlife. Well Jonah has put his knowledge to paper and his books like, Hiking Atlanta’s Hidden Forests: Intown and Out and Secret Atlanta: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure, make the perfect gifts for the hikers and explorers at heart who want to learn more about the city’s history, quirky sites, scenic trails, and more!

Miscellaneous Science

We are fans of Colette’s creative classes in Atlanta—where food and science meet fun! From bread making to cocktail classes, Colette offers a variety of workshops that make for special gifts. These classes often sell out fast, so be sure to follow them on Instagram to stay updated and secure your spot.

Bugging out with this one ;)! Insects are a rich source of nutrients in many cultures and WunderGrubs is on a mission to make it more accessible for everyone. In addition to products like protein powder and baking mixes, WunderGrubs regularly hosts unique events in the community that help teach more people about the health benefits of a grubby diet!

Donate Science

With a donation to Science ATL, you can bring more people together through the wonder of science. Make your donation in honor or memory of a loved one, and the tribute becomes a unique and memorable gift that won’t gather dust on the shelf.

The world needs leaders who are scientifically literate, and citizens of all identities and interests who value science. Join Science ATL in fostering a love of science among children and adults, empowering youth to lead through STEM, and building a more equitable community of science lovers.