Great Gifts for 21

A well-chosen gift makes turning 21 even more special.

The 21st birthday is a serious milestone -- one that is often celebrated with wild and extravagant festivities. Here are several ideas for gifts that will not only amuse and entertain the recipient, but will also fit conveniently into the lifestyle of a person about to begin his 20s.

Housewarming and Apartment Decor

Twenty-one is an age where many have moved on from their childhood homes, but may not have fully established themselves in their new and independent lifestyle. Gifts that make a new apartment, dorm or shared house feel more like home will be much appreciated. Consider quirky posters, ironic statuettes, and unusual coffee table books -- objects that symbolize a step up from white walls and egg crate furniture, and that add personality to a young adult's space.

Adventure-Experience Gifts

For many, the 20s represent a phase of life where adventurous undertakings suddenly become feasible. Equipped with complete independence and an adventurous attitude, a person turning 21 may still lack the funds to take on a new adventure. Adventure-experience gifts like whitewater rafting excursions, fencing lessons or even a day of bungee jumping that make for unforgettable experiences. The advent of daily deals sites like Groupon.com allow attentive gift-givers to snag these kinds of experiences at dramatic discounts.

Drink-Related Gifts

Though not everyone may choose to partake in the typical festivities that come with finally reaching legal U.S. drinking age, gifts of alcohol or accessories can be a fun way to acknowledge this milestone. Mugs, shot glasses and flasks can all be personalized and decorated to make festive gifts. An upscale bottle of champagne or liquor can also be an appropriate gift to contribute to the celebration.

Music Gifts

At the start of their 20s, many people have already gone through many phases of musical exploration and have arrived at a set of tastes and preferences. Finding an album that stretches or expands upon these comfortable favorites will provide new listening material for a new decade of life. Vinyl is also witnessing a resurgence among 20-somethings, and many people are seeking to start or expand a record collection. If your friend has a turntable, consider visiting a local record shop to find a unique album that serves as both listening material and a conversation starter.

References

• New York Times: Coffee Table Books
• Cloud 9 Experience Gifts
• Groupon: How Groupon Works