This one’s for the people who give you more reliable subway directions than HopStop, who can describe to you, in detail, the metro map in any given city, and who want to ride the bus “just because.” These transportation-themed gifts will fare well for any and all overzealous public transit enthusiasts in your life. Just don’t get them started on that new light rail line to the airport.
lineposters City Transit Maps
We’ve raved before about these beautiful maps strip away everything except the routes themselves, rendering a rail system into almost an abstract nervous system. Most major cities available.
[clear]
Subway Map Melamine Plates
The only subway that’s so clean you can eat off of it. These melamine plates are perfect for a loved one who’d like to plan their commute over breakfast. DC’s system looks especially good centered on the round plate, but there’s also a version for New York City.
[clear]
Posters57
What transportation method could be more glamorous than Disneyland’s PeopleMover, presented by Good Year? This reproduced poster celebrates yesterday’s public transit that never made it to tomorrow.
[clear]
Metro Magnets
To hell with the other transit systems: Build your own! This refrigerator poetry for strap-hangers allows them to assemble their own transportation empire and create service delays whenever they feel like it.
[clear]
Metro Wine Map of California
Because subway addicts are also likely to be wine addicts, this transit-inspired map can help an oenophile learn the lay of the land and discover new varietals. There’s also a version for France.
[clear]
Embroidered Transit Maps
Cozy on up to your favourite transit system with these embroidered maps. This one’s of San Francisco’s BART system, but she takes custom orders, and can even add local landmarks if you ask nicely.
[clear]
London Underground By Design by Mark Ovenden
Everyone knows London has the best transportation system ever, and this book by the author of Transit Maps of the World explains why: Great design, of course. Filled with luscious historical imagery, it’s a lovely Underground romp.
[clear]
Brio Monorail Airport Set
Monorail! Monorail! Monorail! For transit-savvy kids (or kids at heart) who fantasise about endlessly circling airport terminals on America’s last truly great transportation idea.
[clear]
Stress Bus
Yes, Los Angeles has a transit system, and they even have merchandise. This “stress bus” can double as a toy for a young commuter.
[clear]