Five Star Gift Ideas

For your dad who has an adventurous spirit and a fascination for ghost towns and abandoned places, there are several meaningful and personal gift ideas that could enhance his experiences and deepen his interest in this unique hobby.

1. Books: Consider getting him books about ghost towns and their histories. Some popular recommendations include "Ghost Towns of the American West" by Lambert Florin, "Deserted Villages and Towns of the West" by Harry Sinclair Drago, or "Abandoned America: Dismantling the Dream" by Matthew Christopher. These books not only provide captivating photographs but also delve into the stories and heritage behind these forgotten places.

2. Photography Gear: Help your dad capture the haunting beauty of ghost towns with a new camera or photography accessories. Look for a high-quality camera that suits his skill level, such as a DSLR or a compact mirrorless camera. Additionally, consider accessories like a portable tripod or a camera backpack, which will allow him to comfortably explore and capture stunning images during his adventures.

3. Maps and Guides: Ghost towns can be hidden gems, and having detailed maps and guides on hand can make your dad's explorations more fulfilling. Look for books or websites that provide comprehensive information, including directions, histories, and any notable features or landmarks of these abandoned places. Websites like ghosttowns.com or ghosttowngallery.com can be excellent resources to find detailed maps and information.

4. Exploration Tools: Help your dad have a safe and immersive experience while exploring ghost towns with tools like a metal detector. He can use this to search for relics or other hidden treasures that may lie beneath the surface of these abandoned places. A lightweight and waterproof model would be ideal for versatility and durability.

5. Experience or Tour: Consider organizing or giving your dad an experience or tour of a real ghost town. Many tour companies specialize in taking enthusiasts to ghost towns, providing guided tours that delve into the history and stories that make these places so fascinating. Alternatively, you could plan an adventurous road trip for the two of you, exploring different ghost towns together and creating lasting memories.

6. Memorabilia and Artifacts: Seek out unique ghost town memorabilia or artifacts that your dad can display or add to his collection. This could include old photographs, vintage postcards, or even genuine pieces of history like old signs, tools, or bottles recovered from these forgotten places. Websites specializing in antiques, vintage items, or even online auctions could be excellent sources for such items.

Remember, the best gift is one that shows thoughtfulness and demonstrates your understanding of your dad's interests. By tapping into his passion for exploring ghost towns and abandoned places, you can give a meaningful and personal gift that will continue to inspire him on his adventures for years to come.

Or you can get him a star map with the date when he was born.

Bridget Shields says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“I wanted a keepsake to give to my father for his birthday as he has terminal cancer. He was delighted by his gift. The process of ordering was easy and delivery was prompt. A great gift idea.”