19 Outdoor Games to Play This Summer
Updated: Feb. 07, 2024
Who's ready to play? These outdoor games are the perfect addition to backyard barbecues, picnics and beach days.
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Tumbling Timbers
This tumbling block tower is one of the best outdoor games for adults and kids alike. At 21 inches, this isn’t quite as gigantic as some models on the market. Therefore, this selection is easier to store, and the dark, smooth wash of wood makes it look slightly more sophisticated than its counterparts.
Cornhole Set
Cornhole might be a common backyard game (even if you call it Bags!), but this stunning floral set is anything but ordinary. The eye-catching boards, accompanied by coordinating patterned bean bags, are practically yard decor—they’re just that pretty.
Badminton Set
This cute-colored badminton set (sans net) is portable enough to bring anywhere, whether to the park for a picnic or the beach for a bonfire. And the purchase also scores you two durable badminton bags that make the game easy to transport and store.
P.S. Speaking of the beach, these are the best beach games to get all ages in on the fun during your summer adventures.
Bocce Ball
Roll into any family gathering with this colorful bocce set and you’ll be the MVP. The rules are easy to learn, so anyone can jump right into this classic game in no time. Lug around the heavy equipment in the sturdy canvas tote.
Yardzee
For game night, take the tabletop favorite to the lawn with this large-scale version of Yahtzee! The dry-erase scoreboards are conveniently reusable, and the collapsible bucket easily stows away. The wooden dice are burned with dots so they never rub off and the fun can last forever.
Giant Dominoes
The effect of these dominoes? Tons of fun for you and your guests! The double-six set with 28 pieces is made of acacia wood and coated in a sealant to increase its longevity. So gather around on the patio furniture because outdoor games like 42, Double Fives and Concentration are right at your fingertips.
Spikeball
This four-person team game will have your entire party cheering. Think volleyball-meets-trampoline! Although it might look intimidating, playing is easier than you think. It’s a fun item to bring to a picnic for a little exercise while enjoying the fresh air.
Hook & Ring Toss Game
Pick a spot on the fence, deck post or facade of your house for this hook and ring game that doubles as a great gift for beer lovers. Test your hand-eye coordination by tossing the hook onto the ring. Pro tip: Use the included magnetic bottle opener with discretion if you really want to win.
Lawn Bowling
This rainbow-hued bowling set with ten wooden pins, two balls and a mesh carrying bag, is right up our alley. With the same rules as the original, there’s no learning curve here, just loads of fun!
Giant Connect 4Â
This super-sized Connect 4 is a must for your family’s collection of outdoor games. The board folds down to fit inside a carrying case, and all the pieces are contained in zippered pockets. Set it up in minutes and it’s fun for all ages. The patriotic color scheme makes it a stellar Fourth of July game.
Battlechip Golf Game
Golf meets cornhole in this fun outdoor game that’s a fitting gift for retirees. Set up your Battlechip boards on the beach or in the backyard for hours of entertainment. Use the chipping mats (which can be monogrammed!) to putt your ball into the various holes for points.
Croquet
It might not fit in your picnic basket, but croquet is a picnic essential. Pick up this all-inclusive set to host a croquet tournament in your backyard. If you’ve never played, get ready to be hooked on this old-school yet quintessential pastime. There are enough mallets and balls for six players.
Ring Toss
A ring toss is a perfect team or solo game for kids (and this elevated-looking wooden version is perfect for you). The rules are simple and straightforward, so the kiddos will learn the ropes—literally!—within just a couple of rounds.
Oversized Yard Pong
If you’ve ever played beer pong at a party, you’ll have a blast with this supersized, kid-friendlier version. The plastic cups—more aptly referred to as buckets—stack, so they’re easy to pack and set up, whether you’re on the beach or in the backyard. Sip on our favorite light beers as you play.
Ladder Toss Set
Your hand-eye coordination gets a workout when you toss bolas in the backyard as part of this lesser-known yard game. The chic black and white duo is constructed from wood, so it’s sturdier than the plastic picks. Add this to the list of stylish outdoor games.
Plastic Horseshoes
You needn’t permanently install a horseshoe pit in your backyard to enjoy the classic game. Take this double-duty set, which also includes some rings that could be used on land or as a pool accessory. Subsequently, the updated color palette really sets it apart.
Jumbo Checkers and Chess
Few games are as classic as checkers and chess, and this set takes them up a notch. (Yes, that’s right—you get two sets in one!) Set up the jumbo set on the lawn or porch and have some fun. Just don’t get stuck with a checkmate!
Trail Flyer Toss Game
It’s not always feasible to lug wooden cornhole boards to your picnic, tailgate or campout. That’s why we love this portable game that sets up in seconds and provides play for two to four people. Plus, it’s weatherproof so you can leave it up at the campground the entire weekend.
Roll-Up Shuffleboard
Lastly, don’t let this time-honored source of entertainment get lost in the shuffle! The budget-friendly roll-up board is just over five feet and includes eight pucks and a carrying case. It’s safe for indoor and outdoor use, so the good times can roll—er—slide year-round.
Additional research contributed by Lindsay D. Mattison and Annamarie Higley, Taste of Home Shopping Editor
Originally Published: June 24, 2020
