Running out of ideas for family fun? Don’t worry! With the kids home from school or just you and your partner spending quality time together, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut. But fear not – we’ve got you covered with a list of super fun backyard activities to keep everyone busy, learning, and having a blast.
Whether you’re looking for ways to entertain the kids on a rainy day or wanting to mix things up for a romantic evening at home, this list is packed with unique ideas to get you started.
So take a look and get ready to create some unforgettable memories.
Lawn Games
Supersize Your Lawn Games! Take your favorite outdoor activities to new heights – literally. Imagine a gigantic Jenga set, or oversized cornhole boards that dominate your backyard landscape. This DIY project is an effortless way to create unforgettable memories with friends and family alike. The kids will be begging to join in on the fun too. So why settle for ordinary lawn games when you can turn them into epic experiences?
Gossip and Swing
In the charming coastal town of Tulum, Mexico, it’s not uncommon to find yourself enchanted by the laid-back atmosphere and stylish decor that permeates every corner. Amongst the trendy establishments, one trend that has gained immense popularity is the art of macrame. And for good reason – it’s a fantastic way to add a touch of bohemian charm to your outdoor space.
Imagine lounging on your patio with a warm cup of coffee, sipping in the sunshine and snapping adorable photos with friends and loved ones. Creating your own macrame swings is a fun and creative activity that’s perfect for spending quality time outdoors.
Set Up a Hot Tub
Indulge in a tranquil oasis, complete with a steaming hot tub nestled among the stars. Transform a humble stock tank into a DIY hot tub haven, where you can unwind with a glass of wine and leave your worries behind.
Bubble Wrap Twister
Twirl your way to excitement with a backyard Twister game that adds a surprising twist – literally! Covering the mat in bubble wrap takes the classic game to a whole new level of fun. And, who says kids have all the fun? Try playing as an adult and put your yoga skills to the test. It’s a hilarious way to challenge yourself and get some laughs with friends. So, why not give it a go and experience the thrill of Twister like never before?
Tiki Bar
Transform your backyard into an island oasis by crafting a tiki bar and hosting a lively luau. This creative endeavor allows you to unleash your imagination and create a unique experience for yourself and your loved ones. To set the scene, design and prepare food, drinks, and decorations that evoke the spirit of Hawaii. As you work on this project, put on some tropical tunes and let the gentle breeze carry you away to a sun-kissed beach.
Cornhole
While a friendly game of cornhole is a fantastic way to spend a leisurely afternoon with loved ones in the comfort of your own backyard, it’s also a great opportunity to inject some healthy competition into your family gathering. Whether you’re looking for a lighthearted and fun-filled experience or a more spirited contest, cornhole has something for everyone.
So why not invite the gang over, grab some cold drinks, and enjoy the warm sunshine on your skin as you take turns tossing beanbags and cheering each other on? It’s the perfect way to make memories that will last long after the game is over.
Sketch Birds
Imagine the sweet serenade of birdsong filling the air in your own backyard! Why not take it up a notch and engage your little ones in an interactive adventure? Grab some paper, pencils, and let’s get creative! Together, sketch out the diverse feathered friends that have been sharing the space with you. This fun-filled activity is the perfect opportunity to introduce your children to the fascinating world of ornithology, teaching them the names of the very birds they’ve been enjoying alongside.
Have a BBQ
Leave your kitchen behind and bring cooking outdoors for a refreshing change. Hosting a backyard BBQ is an excellent way to get everyone outside, enjoying quality time together, and savoring delicious flavors. To take it to the next level, set up a mini party zone with balloons, colorful cups, and a few rounds of board games played out on the picnic table. This fun-filled activity will create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Lawn Dominos
The excitement from our previous giant Jenga lawn game has us craving even more oversized fun! That’s why we’re thrilled about these enormous domino tiles, which can be crafted using scrap wood from around your home. While 2×6 boards are the recommended choice, don’t worry if all you have available are 2x4s – they’ll still work beautifully for this engaging backyard activity.
Backyard Chalkboard
Transform your entire yard, including the fence line, into an entertainment hub. Every nook and cranny can be turned into a source of delight.
Consider installing a large chalkboard on the fence, paired with buckets filled with colorful chalk. This unique setup encourages creativity to flourish, as kids (and adults!) let their imagination run wild.
This activity is just one way to bring excitement and joy to every corner of your backyard.
Piñatas
Imagine unleashing your daily stress and emotions onto a vibrant, oversized paper mache cocktail, only to be rewarded with sweet treats and delightful surprises. The idea alone is enough to bring a smile to anyone’s face! This creative DIY piñata project not only provides an entertaining outlet for emotional release but also promises to yield some amazing Instagram-worthy moments. So why not give it a try and turn your backyard into a hub of fun and excitement with this engaging activity?
Smores Station
Create a magical ambiance in your own backyard by setting up a S’mores station around a roaring bonfire. As you indulge in the gooey, marshmallowy delight, let the warmth of the flames cast a cozy glow over the night. Take it to the next level by adding some mystical flair with tiki lamps and share spine-tingling ghost stories that will leave everyone shivering with excitement. Warm up with a rich, comforting cup of hot cocoa as you make memories that will last long after the embers die out.
Bird Watching
If you’re eager to engage in some serious bird watching, there’s one crucial step that can make all the difference: creating a welcoming environment for our feathered friends. And what better way to do so than by setting up tantalizing bird feeders in your own backyard? As it turns out, a simple feeder filled with succulent treats can be a powerful magnet, drawing in birds of every hue and color. So why not give it a try?
Set-Up Camp
Transform your backyard into an intimate retreat by setting up a charming canvas teepee. Add some whimsy with twinkle lights, plush blankets and pillows, and don’t forget the warm glow of hot cocoa. It’s the perfect setting for a romantic date night with your partner. This fun activity is sure to bring you closer together.
Lawn Matching Game
Get ready to challenge your memory and enjoy a unique outdoor experience! A giant matching game for your lawn is an excellent way to combine entertainment with physical activity.
The setup process itself can be quite the adventure, as you spend an afternoon crafting the squares. The anticipation builds until it’s time to start playing. With the tiles in place, it’s now or never – put your memory to the test and see how well you can match!
Bug Hunt
Transform your household chores into an exciting adventure for your kids! Send them on a bug-hunting mission while you tackle those pesky household tasks. This dual approach will not only keep the little ones engaged but also give you some much-needed me-time.
To make it even more enjoyable, create a list of common backyard bugs with pictures or descriptions and have your kids set out to find them using a magnifying glass and pencil.
As they discover each bug on their list, they can check it off and learn about its unique characteristics. Just remember to emphasize the importance of releasing the bugs back into their natural habitat, ensuring a bug-free home and a fun-filled experience for everyone involved.
This activity is not only an effective way to keep your kids entertained but also provides an opportunity to teach them about the importance of respecting and preserving our environment.
Have a Picnic
Transform your own backyard into a tranquil oasis by hosting a family picnic! Spread out the blanket, stock up on bite-sized treats like sandwiches and fruit, and refresh with chilled water. Don’t forget to ensure everyone’s safety by applying sunscreen and donning stylish sunhats. This delightful activity is sure to create lasting memories for you and your loved ones.
Natural Dying
Transform the vibrant hues of your backyard blooms into a stunning work of art! Gather an assortment of flowers in your favorite colors and set them aside for our creative endeavor. The pigments from these petals can be transferred onto delicate silk, yielding a versatile material perfect for crafting unique pieces, such as clothing, table runners, or wall hangings. Embark on this delightful backyard adventure!
Upgrade the Tree House
Are you looking to breathe new life into that old treehouse in your backyard? Or perhaps you’re eager to start building one from scratch? Whatever the case, we’ve got you covered! Not only do we offer DIY treehouse plans for those just starting out, but also provide inspiration for upgrading an existing treehouse. For instance, consider installing a pulley system that allows kids to easily send and receive items, such as snacks or toys, making it a fun and interactive experience.
And when you’re looking for more ways to keep the kids entertained, why not try some exciting backyard activities? The possibilities are endless!
Pick Up Sticks
While classic games like Pickup Sticks often evoke memories of nostalgic family gatherings, we’ve put our own spin on the traditional lawn game by creating a supersized version that’s just as enjoyable for modern families. To make it, simply gather and tie together wooden sticks with a decorative ribbon or yarn, making storage a breeze.
Even if you haven’t played Pickup Sticks in years, this backyard activity is sure to bring back fond memories and create new ones – especially when enjoyed in its supersized form.
Hula Hoop
Ditch the traditional floor aerobics in front of the TV and take your exercise routine outside where the whole family can get involved. One surprisingly effective way to do just that is with hula hooping. Put some upbeat tunes on, grab a hoop, and start moving those hips. To make it even more fun, come up with friendly competitions against your little ones – who can keep their hoop spinning the longest, for instance?
This backyard activity is sure to bring everyone together and get those endorphins pumping.
Decorate your Fence
Transform your ordinary wooden fence into an extraordinary focal point by adorning it with vibrant marbles that radiate warmth and energy. Those seemingly insignificant marbles stashed away in old drawers can now take on a new purpose, bringing joy and visual appeal to your outdoor space.
Plant a Fence Garden
Add a splash of vibrancy to your outdoor space by repurposing old cans as planters and lining them along your fence. The pop of color will instantly elevate your backyard’s ambiance. To make it an engaging experience for your little ones, involve them in the process of nurturing their favorite flowers. Educate them on the importance of regular maintenance tasks like weeding, deadheading, and watering.
This interactive activity not only teaches valuable lessons but also fosters a sense of responsibility and appreciation for nature.
Photoshoot
Transform a lovely day into a memorable family photo shoot by incorporating unique props and getting creative! Consider using vintage or decorative items like an antique couch, beautiful lanterns, or even a statement piece of furniture to add visual interest to your photos. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and use everyday objects in innovative ways. The end result will be a personalized and treasured family album.
Connect Four
Giant Connect Four, an epic DIY project, brings the classic strategy game to life in a massive way! With some fundamental woodworking skills and basic power tools, you can create a game that will provide endless hours of entertainment for years to come. This backyard activity is perfect for family gatherings, parties, or just a fun day with friends.
Tin Can Bowling
Transform your outdoor space into a unique bowling alley using creative recyclables! This eco-friendly DIY project transforms used tin cans into colorful pins, perfect for a fun-filled family game night. Simply paint the cans in vibrant hues, stack them up, and get ready to knock ’em down. This innovative activity is an excellent way to spend quality time with loved ones while promoting sustainability.
Outdoor Movie Theatre
Transform your outdoor space into a cinematic haven that’s sure to delight both kids and adults. Before you begin, decide on a movie that everyone can agree on – or take the reins yourself! To set up an unforgettable backyard cinema experience, gather the following essentials: a projector, a DIY screen (consider repurposing PVC pipes for a budget-friendly option), comfortable seating, and of course, a generous supply of freshly popped popcorn.
With these simple yet effective components in place, you’ll be ready to roll out the red carpet and create lifelong memories with your loved ones.
Water Blasters
Imagine the thrill of a classic water battle, elevated by the versatility of pool noodles. These humble heroes of hydration can be transformed into trusty water blasters, perfect for soaking friends and family in your very own backyard. To take it to the next level, why not set up a DIY sprinkler system using PVC piping and add some colorful pool noodles to the mix? The result is a fun-filled activity that’s sure to bring laughter and excitement to anyone who participates.
Obstacle Course
Transform your backyard into a vibrant playground that encourages everyone – including kids and adults alike – to stay active, energized, and healthy. One innovative way to do this is by setting up an obstacle course that challenges participants to burn energy and boost their overall well-being. And the best part? It’s an inclusive activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages!
By incorporating outdoor play into your daily routine, you’ll not only ensure a fun-filled day for the kids but also help them wind down effortlessly at night. Why not turn your backyard into a dynamic hub of physical activity and create lifelong memories with loved ones? Try setting up an obstacle course in your very own backyard today!
Backyard Scrabble
For those who delight in the thrill of wordplay, imagine a patio floor that doubles as a Scrabble board – a truly one-of-a-kind experience! The idea is genius: create your own custom tiles and Scrabble set to host an unforgettable outdoor tournament. Whether you’re a seasoned wordsmith or just looking for a fun backyard activity to spice up your gatherings, this unique concept is sure to bring out the competitor in everyone.
Create a Protected Sand Pit
Heidi from Stately Kitsch cleverly adapted an Anna White design to create this charming outdoor space. The genius of the design lies in its multi-functionality – not only can it be transformed into a closed sandpit, but the lid also doubles as benches, perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun. I can almost picture myself reclining on one of those benches with a good book, feeling like I’m transported to the beach… For some fun outdoor activities to enjoy with loved ones, look no further!
Whether you’re looking for inspiration or seeking new ways to spend quality time together, our list has got you covered. From giant games and photo shoots to water fights and more, there’s something on this list that’s sure to delight.
