I love exploring national parks, and, usually, I get a sticker or something small to commemorate my time there. On my recent trip to Bryce Canyon National Park, though, I found something better—a LEGO-like mini building-block set of the Thor’s Hammer Hoodoo. It now sits proudly on my bookshelf as one of my favorite decorations.
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Turns out, there are several specialty “mini building block” sets available at different national parks for any child—or adult—who likes to build with LEGOs. These would make a great gift, and they are very cute when they’re finished.
Here are seven mini building-brick sets you need in your life if you love national parks:
1. Bison
This 384-piece set is a great souvenir if you or someone you know is looking for a memory of the largest mammal in the western United States. Complete with little hooves and horns, this pint-sized replica is the perfect gift for a friend or family member—or maybe even a little gift to yourself.
2. Park Ranger Vehicle
Park rangers are awesome. They put in a lot of hard work to keep the parks running for us to enjoy. Build a 427-piece replica of a ranger truck that comes complete with little rocks and trees. All rangers in the National Park System share the same uniform and vehicles, so this one is great no matter which park is your favorite.
3. Saguaro Cactus with Mini Owl
This 753-piece mini building-block set is an iconic saguaro cactus with an adorable owl. Saguaro cacti are unique to the Sonoran Desert located in the southwestern United States and Mexico, including Saguaro National Park. The owl is based on an elf owl—the smallest owl species in the world.
4. Yosemite National Park Half Dome
Half Dome is one of the most famous sites in Yosemite National Park, and you can now bring the stunning grandeur of it home with you—at least a miniature-sized version of it. The 640-piece block set captures the details of the intricate, rocky surface.
5. Bigfoot
Ok, so Bigfoot may or may not be a real species, but when we saw this one, we knew we had to include it on this list. At 486 pieces, this set will be a fun way to commemorate your time exploring the American wilderness. The box also features several fun facts about the mysterious creature.
6. Smokey the Bear Mini Block Magnet
What could be better than a Smokey the Bear mini building-block set? How about a Smokey the Bear mini building-block set that you can hang on your fridge when you’re done building it? This miniature bear is 104 pieces and will make for a great set to build as a family.
7. Desert Wildlife Mystery Mini Block Set
Pick up one of the mystery sets, and you’ll get one of 12 surprise animals that can be found in the western United States. Perhaps you’ll get a roadrunner or a coyote . . . you’ll have to wait to find out.
Check out the website to see the full set of national park-inspired mini building-block sets.