Great ways to have outdoor fun
IN THIS ARTICLE:
There’s no doubt that cornhole and horseshoes are fun games to play. Both have been enjoyed in backyards, parks and beaches for generations. However, other yard games are just as effective at bringing friends and family together to show off their strategy and skills. The best yard games are simple, intriguing to play and appeal to competitors of all ages.
What makes a yard game fun?
When family and friends gather to spend time together for backyard fun, they often reach for yard games. These games aren’t meant to be taken too seriously. Rather, they are ideal for lighthearted competitions. Like cornhole and horseshoes, other games intended for backyard play have several things in common.
- Easy-to-follow instructions: No one wants to spend time figuring out complicated rules when getting together for leisure time. Games playable out of the box generate instantaneous excitement.
- Competitors can score: Games with scoring systems let players keep track of their progress. This also determines a clear winner once the competition is over, which adds to the excitement of playing.
- Durable components: Yard games with flimsy pieces don’t last long after rigorous play. A well-made set can last for years.
- Elements of excitement: A boring game isn’t likely to be a crowd-pleaser. A game that encourages a little competition and plenty of activity is the way to go.
- Age-appropriate: This is especially important if kids join in the competition. Versatile games playable by people of various ages are perfect for gatherings such as family reunions and birthday parties.
- Easy to transport. Many yard games get played at home in your backyard, but they are also suitable for the beach, park, campgrounds and other places where people gather.
Yard game categories
The best yard games fall into three categories — classic, unique and trendy.
- Classic yard games enjoyed by your parents and grandparents are still relevant. Many modern versions are playable with traditional rules and include the same types of components as prior versions. Bocce ball, ring toss, badminton, yard darts and croquet are some classic yard games still enjoyed today.
- Unique yard games have unexpected rules or eye-catching components. Some were originally played indoors but got updated for outdoor play. Others feature oversized components, such as large dice.
- Trendy games such as spikeball and pickleball are simple but fascinating and have been on trend in recent years.
Yard game tips
From choosing yard games to playing them with the gang, following a few tips helps you make the most of your outdoor game time.
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Poll your family and friends: The best games are appealing to your opponents and partners.
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Variety: Having several games to play prevents players from tiring of the same game over and over again.
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Number of players: Most yard games come with components for multiple people to play.
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Game rules: Be ready to get the fun started by familiarizing yourself with the rules before game day.
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Keep it friendly: Backyard game competition should be entertaining and not result in hard feelings.
Top classic yard games
This bocce ball set comes with the necessary components to play the classic yard game and includes a carrying case. It includes four red balls, four green balls and a pallino ball.
Sold by Amazon, Home Depot and Wayfair
Baden Champions Series Badminton Set
With rackets, shuttlecocks and a complete net setup, this badminton set has everything competitors need to play the game. A case is included for stashing the components after the competition is over.
Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods
GoSports Six-Player Croquet Set
With colorful components and easy-to-read instructions, this croquet set is ideal for players of all ages. It includes balls and mallets for six players and comes with a case for transport and storage.
Top unique yard games
Topbuy Jumbo 4-to-Score Game Set
This cool game plays like the classic board game Connect Four, but in giant size. It’s made of durable materials built to withstand frequent play. It has holders for the game pieces, so they are easy to access and keep track of during play.
Sold by Wayfair
Kids and adults enjoy testing their skills with this challenging building game. It includes 60 blocks made of pine wood that are both lightweight and durable.
Sold by Amazon, Home Depot and Wayfair
JST Gamez Giant Wood Yard Dice
Playing dice games in the yard is easy with these gigantic dice. They’re strong pine, so they hold up well to outdoor play. The set also includes scorecards.
Sold by Amazon
Top trending yard games
Spikeball is likely to become your new favorite outdoor game. This comprehensive set includes well-made balls, a net and a carrying case. It’s a challenging game that’s exciting for kids and adults.
Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods
Amazin’ Aces Wood Pickleball Set
This pickleball set comes with easy-to-maneuver paddles made of strong wood. It includes components for four players and a bag for transport and storage.
Sold by Amazon
This game is like Spikeball. The set is well-made and features bright colors. The net is easy to set up and works well on almost any outdoor surface. It also comes with three balls.
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Jennifer Manfrin writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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