16 Outdoor Games to Play This Summer
Updated: Jun. 24, 2020No summer is complete without outdoor games. Enjoy the sun and have some fun out there!
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Tipsy Topple Giant Jenga
This tumbling block tower has a dozen pieces that secretly hold Jell-O shots! This is the perfect outdoor game for adults, but it can be easily adapted for a family to play—omit the vodka and the Jell-O cups become a fun mid-game treat.
Why it made our list: This giant Jenga tower has a starting height of nearly 3′ and can stack to over 5-1/2′ tall.
Beanbag Toss Game
This is easily one of my favorite outdoor party games. Get ready to work on your hand-eye coordination with this corn hole set, because tossing the beanbag into the hole is way harder than it looks. Looking for more party inspiration? This is how to host a backyard bash.
Why it made our list: We love this set’s retro design.
Giant Dominoes
Why sit inside and play with regular dominoes when you can bring a life-sized game outdoors? Take this classic to the next level with a larger-than-life set.
Why it made our list: This game was designed for 1 (or more) players.
Badminton Set
If you want to get competitive, you’ll need a net to play badminton. But, my family always just had fun hitting the shuttlecock back and forth! This badminton set is portable enough to bring anywhere, from picnicking at the park to enjoying a day at beach.
Why it made our list: This set includes two durable badminton bags that make the game easy to transport and store.
Bocce Ball
Bocce is one of those games that’s great for family gatherings, regardless of whether or not you’ve played before. The rules are easy enough to learn, so anyone can jump right in.
Why it made our list: This bocce set is built to last a lifetime.
Tug of War
Do you remember playing this as a kid? Bring back the retro game with this heavy-duty rope. Its 12-foot length lets you play with as many as four pullers per team. Feel like a kid again with these picnic foods.
Why it made our list: It includes everything you need to get started.
Water Balloons
Play the ultimate game of tag with water balloons! They’re perfect for cooling down on hot, summer days when it’s too warm to fire up the oven! Serve a refreshing Jell-O salad when you’re ready for a snack.
Why it made our list: These balloons fill quickly and self seal!
Spikeball
This four-person team game will have your entire party cheering. Think volleyball-meets-trampoline, and while it might look intimidating, playing is easier than you think.
Why it made our list: It’s a great way to get a little exercise.
Lawn Bowling
Who needs a bowling alley when you can play the game in the great outdoors? This lawn bowling set is perfect for any family game night.
Why it made our list: The inflatable pins and ball make for jumbo-sized fun.
Giant Toppling Tower
This game is like the Jenga you played as a kid, except much (much) bigger! The giant tower set starts at 2.5 feet tall, and it can grow to as tall as 5 feet before toppling over. Choose your pieces wisely…
Why it made our list: The solid pine pieces can withstand even the rowdiest game.
Giant Connect 4 in a Row
This life-sized version of Connect 4 is a must for your family’s collection of outdoor games. The board folds down to fit inside the carrying case, and all the game pieces fit inside the zippered pockets.
Why it made our list: It’s easy to set up when you’re ready to play.
Croquet
Pick up this all-inclusive set to host a croquet tournament in your backyard. If you’ve never played before, get ready to become addicted to this classic yard game. (It’s all in the wrist.)
Why it made our list: This set has enough mallets and balls for six players.
Supersized Pong
If you’ve ever played beer pong at a party, you’ll have a blast with this supersized version. The cups are collapsible and the ball inflates, so it’s easy to pack and easier to set up.
Why it made our list: Since there’s no alcohol in the cups, this version is kid-friendly, too.
Ladder Golf
Test your hand-eye coordination by tossing bolas at your next backyard barbecue. This set is constructed from wood, so it’s sturdier than the plastic versions.
Why it made our list: It looks super sleek, too.
Rubber Horseshoes
You don’t have to permanently install a horseshoe pit in the backyard to enjoy this classic game. Take this set with you everywhere you go.
Why it made our list: There’s even an option for indoor play if your party gets rained out.
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