Parents tend to feel a little left out of college life as the phone calls and visits home become less and less frequent. Give mom or dad a little piece of Austin to make them feel special. 

Austin-themed coasters, Austin Gift Company, $10 each 

Locally crafted at the South Austin Gallery, these colorful coasters capture the spirit of Austin by converting iconic images of the city into coasters, including shots of the Austin City Limits festival entrance, the UT tower and Magnolia Cafe.

 — Hillary Hurst

Waterloo Records T-Shirt, Waterloo Records, $10-$15

Support one of Austin’s beloved record stores and get your parents a Waterloo Records t-shirt. It will boost their indie cred, and project to the world, “I don’t buy my music off of iTunes like you consumerist sheep. I buy my music authentically,” even if it’s because they don’t understand how to use iTunes. 

— Kris Ohlendorf

Kerbey Lane Pancake Mix, Kerbey Lane Cafe or online, $4.99

Serving the city for over 30 years, Kerbey Lane Cafe has become a staple in the diet of locals and out-of-towners alike. So, naturally, there is no better gift than the legendary pancakes now available as dry mixes for buttermilk, gingerbread, apple wheat, pumpkin and lemon poppy seed, to name a few. Gluten-free options are also available.

— Lauren L’Amie