27 Things That Will Make Your Backyard Undeniably The Best Place To Be

27 Things That Will Make Your Backyard Undeniably The Best Place To Be

BuzzFeed-Shopping·2025-07-31 05:06

1. A set of waterproof globe lights so you can make your backyard look like your favorite outdoor beer garden — and your guests will love that there's no cover charge!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Reviewers note that you should remove the bulbs before stringing up the strands and then install the bulbs.

Promising review: "These lights were perfect for my patio; I've received plenty of compliments so far. The Edison light bulbs are beautiful and offer the perfect amount of lighting for any occasion...the clips were ideal for my eaves and the overhang of the roof, which made for simple installation... Now, I just need to find a dimmer capable of handling the required wattage, and the package will be complete." —Brody Vins

Get a strand from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in six lengths and four styles).

2. An inflatable hot tub with 120 (!!!) bubble jets and room to fit up to four people. This bb is more than just a glorified blow-up pool — the puncture-resistant design can heat water up to 104 degrees, and it includes a filter and a cover, so no curious neighborhood chipmunks accidentally take a dip. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Reviewers say about two to three people is the max for the most comfortable fit.

Check it out in this TikTok.

Promising reviews: "We absolutely love our hot tub. Little maintenance and perfect. We have string lights up around the patio and go out at night to relax after a long day. My teens and their friends love it more than the pool." —Amazon Customer

"This has survived Midwest winters, wind storms and tornadoes, summer heat, and everything in between. I’ve had it outside the whole time, and haven’t experienced any issues! The heater is pretty weak, which is to be expected, but if you insulate it in winter, it holds the heat in pretty well, especially if you don’t run the bubbles." —Alice

Get it from Amazon for $447.19.

3. A fast-acting lawn repair formula if your puppy has a favorite pee spot and it shows... This stuff will get new grass growing in no time, so you can get back to hosting your legendary BBQs.

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I used this in the spring to fill out our lawn more, and it worked great! I was worried because I feel like you always hear grass seed horror stories, but I just raked our lawn good, spread seeds all over, and watered it once (sometimes twice) per day, and it filled the lawn in beautifully!" —Mariah

Get it from Amazon for $16.54.

4. A scent-free mosquito repeller that'll keep bloodsuckers at bay so you can enjoy being outside without feeling like you want to crawl out of your own skin. The gadget creates a 15-foot shield, so you don't have to hover right over it either. 

www.amazon.com, Amazon

This comes with the repeller, one 12-hour fuel cartridge, and three 4-hour repellent mats. You can get refills here.

Promising review: "New Orleans is apparently in the top 10 of cities with biting bugs/insects; however, you wouldn't notice if you bought this Thermacell. Give it a good 15 minutes to start up, then hang out outside and give it a try. In the past month (summertime), I've seen one mosquito, and it quickly flew away. That's it. It claims a 15-foot area of protection, but I think that might be a bit optimistic. I set it between my family on our back porch, and we're protected, but if any of us veers much beyond about 10 feet, the bugs will find you. It's still a testament to Thermacell's effectiveness. It works." —X8842

Get it from Amazon for $16.97+ (available in eight colors). 

5. A bubble tent to make your garden feel like an exclusive rooftop bar. A bit of wind or summer showers are no problem here!!! 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

This splurge-worthy tent pops up automatically thanks to springy fiberglass ribs. When you're done, it folds into a traveling case for later.

Promising review: "This was easy to assemble and is likely even easier with two people. I love going out in the woods to have a camping/picnic date or party with friends. It's resistant to the wind and water-resistant. When the weather is cold, it's cozy and warm inside this tent. It maintains a good temperature (review image above, left)." —jimeamezcua

Get it from Amazon for $284.97+ (available in four sizes).

6. A triangular sail that'll bring your backyard some much-needed shade *and* drop the temperature a few degrees so you can actually enjoy the outdoors instead of worrying about sprouting a sweat stache.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

The corners of the sails have D rings so you can attach them to whatever you'd like with your choice of hardware or rope.

Promising review: "Purchased this to increase privacy and provide some shade. The color is vibrant and hasn't faded, and the loops are well-stitched. The sail has also fared well in winds, thunderstorms, monsoon rain, and the brutal heat of Vegas. The shade is wonderful, and one can definitely feel the temperature difference from full sun to being under this sail. The look and feel complement our pool area, and will certainly be purchasing an additional one." —VHC Media

Get it from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in dozens of sizes and 16 colors/patterns).

7. A square iron firepit table so you can partake in your fave outdoor pastime: making s'mores! It sure beats cooking 'em over a regular stove — let me tell you that.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "This has changed our outdoor living. Love spending time just sitting by it and watching the flames. It’s made very well, and I love how easy it is to use. One 5-gallon tank of propane lasts about four to five hours. I use it for about 30 minutes at a time in the morning and evening, having coffee or winding down... I enjoy it mainly for the ambiance it creates on my back porch. I would definitely recommend it if you want an attractive, well-built firepit as a spot to gather around on a cool evening and make s’mores or just talk. Would buy again for sure." —Derek S.

Get it from Amazon for $199.99.

8. Or a tabletop option if you don't have much room to work with but want to create the same ambience. The 1.4-pound smokeless firepit is ultra-portable, so you can even take it camping or to your friend's place when they host outdoor game night.  

www.amazon.com

This is a great option for smaller areas like balconies and gardens. It provides warmth, cozy vibes, and, of course, a place to cook s'mores. You can burn wood or pellets with its built-in pellet adapter.

Promising review: "As a piece to provide some warmth and entertainment to friends or guests outdoors, this is a great product. As someone who once owned a Biolite camp stove, I was a believer that the only way to efficiently and completely burn wood to fine ash was by using the airflow fan of the Biolite camp stove. Well, by golly, Solo Stove has proven me wrong. Fans and electricity have been proven not to be necessary. The Solo Stove Mesa is able to burn wood incredibly efficiently. A very solid product overall. I look forward to buying a wood-burning cooking stove from Solo Stove sometime in the future." —William J Blackburn

Get it from Amazon for $99.99+ (available in two sizes and seven colors).

9. Banzai Bump N' Bounce Body Bumpers so your kids can launch themselves at one another without worrying about broken bones. If your fam loves watching Wipeout together, this is like having Wipeout at home. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

PSA: Make sure helmets are worn during bump-offs.

Promising review: "Great for the kids. The kids have been playing with this for hours. One of them even asked if they could sleep in it. It’s great for winter indoor fun. I highly recommend this product." —RyanAndFaith

Get it from Amazon for $22.99.

10. A pack of 1,000 sunflower seeds (with nine unique varieties) that can absolutely transform your yard. The low-maintenance flowers bloom annually and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds so you can create your own botanical garden. 

www.amazon.com

Created by Nature is a small business based in Oregon that sells customized wildflower seed packets inspired by each of the National Parks and designed to give back to nature’s bounty. This pack offers enough seeds to cover 100 square feet. 

Promising review: "Planted a handful of the seeds in our front lawn area. A few months later, we had a spectacular color array. Great flowers!" —Shane

Get it from Amazon for $14.99.

11. And an easy-to-mount bamboo shoot bee house to attract solitary mason and leafcutter bees. In exchange for you providing them with a pretty dope penthouse, they'll return the favor by pollinating your flowers, berry plants, and fruit and nut trees.

Amazon, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I bought this for my daughter for her birthday. I thought it was so neat, I bought one for myself. I hung it outside of our shed so the wood bees would not drill any more holes in our shed frame. So far, so good. The bees are buzzing away. 🐝" —Christie

Get it from Amazon for $9.71+ (available in purple and teal).

12. A mini tiki bar you can stock with everything you need to whip up tropical drinks. Don't forget the tiny umbrella toothpicks and a tip jar if you'll be playing bartender for visitors!!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

If you're looking for something more understated, nab this affordable option.

Promising review: "The tiki bar and chairs are now the highlight of our inground pool deck. The product is good quality and should last for many years to come. Assembly is slow but doable with one person. Looking forward to our next friend get-together. It is sure to help bring some memorable good times by the pool." —JoeN

Get it from Amazon for $669.99.

13. A pack of solar-powered mushroom string lights sure to add some whimsy to any outdoor space. And since they're cordless, you don't have to worry about being in proximity of an outlet. 

www.amazon.com

There are eight lighting modes so you can pick between blinking or a steady glow. 

Promising review: "These are so cute and fun. We use them on our walkway and our friends love them. They last forever. Perfect lighting and easy to assemble. Great price." —Rob and Amanda

Get a strand of 15 mushrooms from Amazon for $15.98.

14. An electric power washer with a 2,000-watt motor you can use to blast crud off of your car, garage door, fence, patio, or outdoor furniture. Plus, it's a perfect excuse to throw on the Wellies you've been wanting to wear.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Check out the rest of the review pics to see even more power washer art!

Promising review: "This pressure washer is amazing. It's super easy to put together, is lightweight, and does an excellent job. I cleaned my slate patio in one day, and my concrete driveway the next!" —Debbie S.

Get it from Amazon for $169.

15. A soft hammock because taking a nap outdoors just hits different. With this, you'll basically feel like you're using a mattress topper.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Plus, the stand is easy to assemble, disassemble, and pack up in the included carrying case for storage or travel.

Promising review: "The cotton fabric is sturdy and breathable. I never feel stuck to it the way I do in a nylon hammock. The setup/take down is super easy, and the frame is very sturdy — we have definitely put 300+ pounds in it. The ability to raise and lower the hammock with the different hook positions might be the best feature. I have bad knees and like to get into the hammock from a higher position... no problem. My kids like it lower so they can reach the ground to swing it... No problem. It works great as a traditional hammock. It works as a 'swing' to sit on. It has enough fabric to cover up if you're cold or want to block out light or bugs. We have accidentally left it out in the rain several times, and it dries great, hasn't faded from the sun, hasn't had any mold, and hasn't developed any weird smell." —Mary

Get it from Amazon for $69.30+ (available in 17 colors).

16. A weatherproof Wi-Fi extender you can easily mount outdoors so you can take your WFH setup and convert it into a WFO (work from outside) setup without worrying about your internet speed. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

The extender features a durable, waterproof enclosure so you can mount it almost anywhere outdoors. 

Promising review: "I must say, I was a bit skeptical when I first purchased this, but after setting it up, I was absolutely amazed. I hooked it up just outside the back door at our main house, and I have incredible service in the garage apartment. Can run all computers, TV. It really is a wonderful device and definitely worth the money!" —Texas 

Get it from Amazon for $34.99

17. Interlocking teak tiles for renters who can't exactly rip out old pavers or remove their lawn to install sod. This solid wood solution requires no tools and can even be installed over uneven surfaces. Reviewers note that they last through years of use and can even be stained if you're going for a specific look. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Living in Hawaii, you have to select wise items that are weather-, salt-, and red dirt-proof, etc... In total, I ordered 11 boxes to complete my yoga deck. I have a few left over to make steps on the back. Very pleased and happy. May order more for an outdoor shower project!" —Adelia

Get 10 tiles (covers 10 square feet) from Amazon for $77.48 (also available in smaller packs).

18. A battery-operated patio umbrella light that'll provide overhead light so you can continue your alfresco gossip sesh long after sunset. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

The tool-free installation is as simple as opening the unit and clamping it onto the umbrella pole. It requires four AA batteries to run, which are not included. 

Promising review: "This light is great!!! It has three settings to adjust the amount of brightness you need. The lowest level is great for just sitting around your patio table and having a couple of drinks with friends. The brightest setting is PERFECT for playing cards! We play cards a few times a month. There are two 70+-year-olds who did not complain that they couldn’t see. So, works great in my book! 😁" —Mandie Jordan

Get it from Amazon for $9.99.

19. A ring toss game if family gatherings bring out your competitive nature. Round up the cousins and get to playing — winners get out of dish duty and get to sleep in grandma's guest bedroom instead of on the pullout couch. 

JnJ Handmade / Etsy

JnJ Handmade is a family-owned Etsy shop in Wisconsin that specializes in a variety of handmade items, including yard games, home decor, and DIY kits.

Promising review: "Better than I thought it would be! This is a great game to get the family going at a backyard gathering!" —Ayoka

Get it from JnJ Handmade on Etsy for $49.99+ (available in three stains).

20. And a giant stacking game that'll provide hours of entertainment and even attract those who say they "don't play games."

www.amazon.com

Giantville is a small business that designs oversized versions of classic children's games.

Promising review: "Perfect game for the family! Everyone really enjoys it. Perfect size and quality." —Julka

Get it from Amazon for $37.99+ (available in three sizes and five set styles).

21. A sandbox with built-in bench seats that'll convert into a cover so when the kiddos are done playing, it doesn't become a big ol' cat box for neighborhood felines.  

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I ordered this for my granddaughter's fourth birthday. It was easy to assemble and has that great cedar smell — it's also lightweight but well-made. My granddaughter, along with her 1.5-year-old brother, has already gotten a lot of playtime in the sandbox. They love it!! It is beautiful, and my son loves the fact that it closes up to protect the sand and then opens up for benches for the children to sit on. He has sent me a couple of pictures and videos of them playing in it. I highly recommend this sandbox." —lisa burroughs

Get it from Amazon for $109.99.

22. A weather-resistant cedar pathway you can use to connect your patio to other outdoor areas like your garden or hot tub. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I've just installed these wooden garden pathways along the side of my house. Everyone just loves them. They give the entrance to the backyard a tropical resort feel. I highly recommend them. Sturdy and durable as well." —Tom Sokolowski

Get it from Amazon for $44.99+ (available in five sizes/styles).

23. A massive inflatable screen from which you can watch all your fave programs. Bust this out for all of your summer Bachelor in Paradise viewings, and I guarantee no one will be late.

www.amazon.com

And if you need a projector, this one is affordable and loved by reviewers!

Promising review: "Well worth the money! The screen is crystal clear and is so easy to put up! The mirror screen is an added bonus! We use it at the campground for movie and football nights, and everyone loves it. Only downside is you can't see it during daytime hours." —Amazon customer

Get it from Amazon for $79.99+ (available in two sizes).

24. A propane patio heater so you can extend your backyard time even when the sun sets and summer wraps up. The 47,000 BTU output heats up an area of about 10 feet, so you can fit your table and chairs comfortably within reach.

Wayfair

PS: If it tips over, there's an auto-shutoff feature. It fits a 20-pound propane tank, which is not included, so grab one at your local hardware store. 

Promising review: "We have used this outdoor heater a couple of times now for gatherings, and it heats up really well. Don’t have to be right next to or under it to be warm." —Michelle

Get it from Wayfair for $189.49 (available in three finishes). 

25. A canopy swing that basically looks like a Fisher-Price baby rocker — just for adults. If only it came with a motor to automatically rock you to sleep...

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "We love this lounge chair!!! The price was fabulous!! (And just a note... If you take care of your things — i.e., cover up the swing with a tarp and bring the cushions in when not using it — It will stay like new. Sun and rain can age anything! Easy-peasy!!) This lounge swing is so comfortable, and made very well!! And it only took my hubby and me only 25–30 minutes to put together. Take my word for it... You are not going to find a nicer lounge swing at this price!!" —Marash

Get it from Amazon for $199.99+ (available in 16 colors).

26. A fully adjustable portable backyard mister you can coil along a railing, or umbrella, or even just prop up on the ground next to you. It might not look like much, but it can cool areas off by up to 20 degrees!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Works exactly how I want it to. Provides a fine, cool mist on the patio, allowing us to enjoy the backyard until sunset without breaking a sweat. Easy to set up. It was out of the box and cooling us off within minutes." —Debra L. Kusek

Get it from Amazon for $20.33+ (also available in multipacks). 

27. And an aluminum patio gazebo sure to make you feel like you're in an exclusive VIP cabana at your favorite resort. Now to hire someone who can handle bottle service...

Casey / Wayfair, Anonymous / Wayfair

Some reviewers said they struggled to put this together (I mean, it's huge), so you might want to consider hiring someone or inviting over a neighbor to help if you're not handy. 

Promising review: "For the price, it was totally worth it. I live in Chicago and can’t wait to use it this winter. It’s spacious and feels really solid. I’m 53, and my son, who’s super handy, helped me put it together. It took us a whole day. You definitely need a ladder to get the roof on. We also used an electric drill, which made things way easier — I can’t imagine doing it without one. Wayfair did a fantastic job with the shipping." —Dawn

Get it from Wayfair for $516.

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity. 

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