Imagine having a home with a sprawling backyard where children can freely explore and create lifelong memories. While outdoor activities can be incredibly engaging, kids’ interests often shift quickly, requiring novel ideas and exciting pursuits to keep them entertained. As we’re now in the midst of summer, it’s the perfect opportunity to make the most of our own outdoor haven.
To help you do just that, we’ve curated a collection of 70 innovative DIY backyard games that children can enjoy, with you being more than welcome to join in on the fun. With this many options, you’ll have a new game to look forward to every day!
Mud Pie Dream Kitchen
Create a designated space where messiness is not only tolerated but encouraged. Consider setting up a sensory-friendly zone filled with tactile materials like rice, beans, or sand. Add some toys, containers, and plates that can be used to create and explore without worrying about making a mess. This setup will not only keep your little ones engaged for longer but also provide an opportunity for them to express themselves creatively and develop their fine motor skills.
Build Your Own Miniature Golf Holes
Transform your backyard into an interactive learning hub for kids by creating mini golf courses. This innovative approach allows youngsters to develop their golfing skills in a fun and engaging environment, blurring the line between playtime and education. By incorporating small golf yards, you’re not only promoting physical activity but also fostering a sense of excitement and curiosity about the sport.
Make A Twister Board With Paint
To enhance the overall experience, consider setting up an outdoor version of the Twister game instead of simply removing the existing one. This move can significantly increase the entertainment value and attract more participants.
Get Creative With Balloon Darts
Upgrading the classic balloon game can lead to hours of fun and learning for kids. By attaching balloons to a board, parents can encourage their little ones to develop their focus and accuracy skills while playing a thrilling game of balloon bursting. The simple act of chasing and throwing balloons in the yard is already an entertaining activity, but adding a competitive twist by using darts or arrows takes it to the next level.
This creative spin on a timeless favorite allows kids to test their aim and timing, making it an excellent way to improve their overall coordination and hand-eye coordination.
Backyard Bean Bag Toss With Ladder
To play this exciting game, you’ll need a sturdy ladder that can be labeled with point values for each step. Players will earn these points by throwing beanbags through the rungs, making it an ideal activity for kids’ birthday parties or other gatherings.
DIY Bowling Set From Bottles
Transforming family bonding time into an entertaining activity is effortless with this creative DIY project. By involving your little ones in making a homemade bowling set, you’ll not only create an exciting experience but also foster teamwork and problem-solving skills. The setup is surprisingly simple: all you need are six identical bottles, some paint for customization, and a tennis ball to get the game started.
With minimal effort and maximum fun, this DIY endeavor will surely become a new family favorite.
Creative Connected Wall Of Water
Elevate your child’s creativity, dexterity, and critical thinking skills by crafting a DIY water wall using readily available materials. This eco-friendly project not only fosters imagination but also imparts valuable lessons on environmental responsibility, as you repurpose everyday items to create a functional cycle.
Backyard Playhouse Hideaway
Transform your backyard into an enchanting outdoor space where kids can feel like they’re living in their own mini-farmhouse. Start by upcycling an old playhouse to create a cozy retreat that’s both sturdy and secure.
Sprayable Chalk Art
While traditional painting with chalks can indeed get messy, there’s a fun and creative alternative that can add an extra layer of excitement for kids – using spray paint! Not only does it eliminate the mess, but it also allows for a unique and dynamic approach to art-making.
Easy To Make Tetherball Game
Create a fun and affordable tetherball game for your kids by making your own DIY version. According to various sources, a standard tetherball set can cost around $100, which might be too steep considering the likelihood of it being relegated to the garage once its novelty wears off. By taking a hands-on approach, you can create a unique and engaging play experience for your little ones without breaking the bank.
Who Doesn’t Love Cornhole?
Elevate your cornhole game by crafting a one-of-a-kind setup that exudes style and personality. Consider adding a pop of color to the top surface with an orange paint job, complemented by crisp white lines that add visual appeal. With this unique twist, you’ll be the envy of all your friends and family when it’s time to gather around for some friendly competition.
Kid-Favorite Repurposed Can Stilts
Developing coordination skills doesn’t have to be a chore with this engaging and eco-friendly DIY backyard game. By repurposing recycled coffee cans and yarn, you can create a unique and entertaining activity that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. With its simplicity and fun factor, this creative project is an excellent way to spend quality time outdoors while promoting hand-eye coordination and motor skills.
Cool Off With Water Balloon Pinatas
Beat the heat with a fun and refreshing outdoor activity that’s perfect for hot summer days! The ‘Water Balloon Pinata’ game is an easy and engaging way to keep kids entertained while keeping them cool. Simply inflate balloons, fill them with water, and hang them from tree branches or other sturdy structures. The goal is simple: use a water-resistant object (like a sponge or a toy) to burst the balloon without spilling too much water.
Similar to the traditional piñata game, this activity encourages teamwork and problem-solving skills while providing endless entertainment for kids of all ages.
Tic Tac Toe Lawn Game Is Endless Fun
Craft a unique and functional piece of outdoor decor with this DIY jumbo Tic Tac Toe game. Made from lumber scraps and sanded to perfection, this game not only provides hours of fun for kids but also adds a charming rustic touch to your backyard or patio. The combination of playfulness and aesthetics makes it an excellent addition to any outdoor space.
Life-Size Patio Chess Set
Transforming your patio into a multifunctional space can be a creative and practical way to enhance both your outdoor living area and provide a unique opportunity for social interaction. One innovative approach is combining the concept of curb appeal with a permanent chess playing area, where adults and kids alike can engage in this timeless strategy game.
By incorporating a chessboard into your backyard design, you’ll not only add a touch of sophistication but also create an inviting atmosphere that encourages outdoor play and quality time with family and friends. This unique fusion of form and function is inspired by DIY Network’s vision of creating functional spaces that bring people together.
Thrilling DIY Backyard Zipline
When it comes to finding the perfect games for kids, we’re looking for activities that not only provide endless hours of entertainment but also foster a sense of learning and adventure. Building on this philosophy, we’ve created a DIY backyard game set that’s sure to delight both children and parents alike. The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to assemble and won’t break the bank.
With its unique blend of fun and education, this backyard game is an absolute must-have for families seeking quality time together.
Upgrade Your Ring Toss With Flamingoes
Elevate your garden decoration with a creative twist: transform the flamingo into a fun ring toss game for kids of all ages! To level up the excitement, add labels on the buckets that showcase figures, allowing older kids to engage in friendly competition. A unique and playful way to bring people together, inspired by Building Our Story.
Fun To Make Backyard Carnival
Transforming a birthday bash into a thrilling carnival extravaganza is easier than you think! With a few creative and budget-friendly tweaks, you can create an unforgettable experience for the kids. The key lies in incorporating backyard games that will leave lasting memories.
Jumbo-Sized Bucket Yahtzee
In a twist on traditional Yahtzee, this outdoor adaptation employs larger dice, mirroring the original rules. However, procuring these custom-designed dice may prove challenging. To ensure optimal visibility when tossing them onto the lawn, it’s recommended that you create your own instead of searching for pre-made ones. This approach guarantees a solution that meets your specific needs.
Easy DIY Backyard Jenga
Jenga’s enduring popularity stems from its ability to provide a constant sense of tension and excitement throughout the game. To create an oversized, yard-friendly version that can be stacked high, you’ll need 54 carefully prepared wooden laths with smooth surfaces. Add some vibrant stains in various colors, and you’ll have an outdoor entertainment setup that’s sure to delight.
Fun For Everyone Koob Set
While describing this game as life-changing may be an exaggeration, its potential to revolutionize family entertainment is undeniable. The DIY tutorial author’s claim that it will become your household’s go-to activity might not be far off. With its unique blend of fun and interactivity, you’ll likely find yourself eager to dive in and experience the thrill for yourself.
Easy Ring Toss With Pool Noodles
Transform your outdoor space into a haven of entertainment with a creative twist! Instead of breaking the bank on expensive yard games, get crafty and use cheap noodles from your local Dollar Store. Straight noodles can be inserted directly into the ground, while round ones can be used as rings to be tossed towards the upright straight noodles. This DIY game is not only budget-friendly but also an excellent way to spend quality time with friends and family.
So, go ahead and get creative, have fun and enjoy the outdoors!
Make Your Own Racetrack With Obstacles
Transform your outdoor space into an exciting racetrack using simple yet creative materials! The process begins by envisioning the track’s layout, allowing you to effectively remove any grass in the designated area. Next, place the plastic liner over the site and use a white paint pen to draw the median strip, setting the stage for an exhilarating racing experience.
To add an extra layer of realism and challenge, consider incorporating old tire pieces, wood scraps, or other creative materials as bridges or tunnels. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide an additional obstacle for racers to navigate.
Summer Fun Slip And Slide
Plan an unforgettable birthday party for kids this summer by transforming your backyard into an ultimate water playground! Start by laying down a spacious nylon sheet on the lush green grass, ensuring a safe and clutter-free zone. Before you do so, make sure to clear the surrounding area of any hazardous items that might pose a threat to the kids’ fun-filled adventure.
Keep Cool With Yard Water Blob
To begin crafting this DIY yard game, identify a flat surface that’s suitable for play. Next, prepare the necessary materials by folding one large roll of plastic sheet in half and securing it with duct tape, leaving a small opening unsealed to accommodate the water reservoir. This simple setup will allow you to fill the container with water, setting the stage for a fun and refreshing outdoor experience.
Clever Vertical Ball Toss
One of the most intriguing aspects of this game concept lies in its versatility, as it can be easily repurposed into a functional garden planter when kids lose interest or become disengaged. To create this unique planter, simply stack three descending metal buckets on top of each other and secure them to a tall wooden beam, readily available at home improvement stores like Lowe’s.
Make Your Own Jumbo Bubble Wand
As children watch their creations take shape, the excitement builds. A direct correlation exists between the size of the wand and the inflated balloon’s magnitude. With each larger wand, a proportionally bigger balloon will emerge, delighting youngsters with its vibrant hues and whimsical shapes.
Exciting Cup Race With Water Guns
By transforming ordinary water guns into projectile-driven cups, you can create a fun and engaging activity that’s perfect for kids. To get started, simply punch a hole through the center of a plastic cup’s bottom, then thread a string through it. Secure the string to both sides using supports, making sure it’s taut. The objective is straightforward: use the water jet from the gun to propel the cup across a surface.
Not only does this DIY project require minimal materials and effort, but it also promises hours of entertainment for your kids.
Teamwork Water Balloon Volleyball
For a fun-filled family gathering, this game is an excellent choice. Played with two-player teams, each pair is equipped with a towel, adding a unique twist to the experience. The inclusion of a badminton set takes teamwork to the next level, as it divides players into pairs and amplifies the excitement of water balloon volleyball.
Life-Size DIY Four In A Row
The Evergreen Game has been reimagined as an expansive playset, inviting the entire family to engage in fun-filled activities and bonding experiences. A visit to Home Depot brings this imaginative concept to life.
Use Scrap Wood For DIY Lawn Dominoes
One effective way to repurpose lumber scrap is by creating a set of identical wooden blocks. To ensure uniformity, strive for precision in their construction. Once completed, sand the surfaces to smooth them out and then stain or paint them black if you’re aiming for an authentic domino look. Next, apply the dots according to the standard alignment pattern.
Lawn Game DIY Scrabble Set
The behemoth Scrabble set in question boasts an impressive 144 tiles, all expertly crafted from a single masonite sheet. What’s crucial to its success is the precise balance of each letter, ensuring that the mental game remains both thrilling and intellectually stimulating.
Fun DIY Backyard Kerplunk
Beat the heat this summer with a fun outdoor family game that’s easy to set up and requires no specialized tools. The DIY giant Kerplunk game is a great way to spend quality time together outside. All you need are a tomato cage, pool noodles, and some balls. This creative project from Design Dazzle is perfect for a hot summer day or night.
Bean Bag Toss For Distance
To spice up your backyard gatherings, try this simple DIY game that requires minimal equipment: four saucers marked with scoring points and bean bags. To ensure the game is age-appropriate for your little ones, adjust the distance of the smallest saucer according to their age group. For older kids, place it further away, making the challenge more exciting.
Treasure Excavation
Introduce your little ones to the thrill of excavation with this engaging activity! The ‘icebox treasure hunt’ is perfect for young explorers, providing hours of fun and excitement. Provide a set of tools that will help them dig into the ice and uncover hidden toys, frozen in time. But that’s not all – let their curiosity shine by experimenting with different methods to melt the ice, such as adding salt or warm water.
This interactive experience is sure to spark their sense of adventure and creativity!
Impressive Backyard Bowling Setup
If you’re fortunate enough to have a spacious backyard, why not consider building your very own bowling lane? Not only will this create a unique entertainment space for you and your loved ones, but it’s also an eco-friendly option. By repurposing scrap lumber, you can reduce waste while still achieving the perfect lanes for a fun-filled game of bowling.
Challenging Squirt Gun Race
For a fun twist on the classic water gun fight, consider upgrading to a yard game that can be enjoyed by multiple participants. To set up this activity, stretch strings with plastic cups inserted across different areas of your backyard. As kids progress through the course, the challenges become increasingly more difficult. The excitement and laughter are sure to be amplified as they navigate each new obstacle, making for an unforgettable summer experience.
Easy DIY Velcro Tic Tac Toe
To bring the excitement of Tic Tac Toe to your backyard, we’ve adapted the game into a fun toss ball game. To create the playing surface, cover a foam board with felt, then use duct tape to draw the lines separating each section. Take it to the next level by adding some clever details: attach small pieces of cut and peel velcro to both sides of ping pong balls so they stick to the board when hit well. Inspired by Frugal Fun 4 Boys and Girls, this DIY game is perfect for a day of outdoor fun.
Giant Lawn Jenga
Crafting a vibrant and playful jumbo Jenga game requires 54 uniform wooden blocks, which can be achieved by cutting lumber into precise, identical pieces. To add an extra layer of fun, consider painting each block in a unique color, allowing players to create their own personalized game experience.
Wood Slice Bug Tic Tac Toe
In a unique twist on the classic Tic Tac Toe game, the theme takes a spring-inspired turn through the use of cheerfully painted rocks. Two distinct designs adorn the rocks: ladybugs and bumblebees. Meanwhile, the play surface is transformed into a wooden slice with carefully drawn lines, providing a rustic yet engaging backdrop for the game.
Pretty Painted Jenga
The modern rustic design of this giant Jenga game features a unique blend of blue, grey, blonde brown, and brown blocks stacked in a sturdy tower. The DIY game comes with a storage cart crafted from plumbing parts, complete with casters that allow it to be easily moved to any desired location – whether that’s the backyard or another room altogether.
DIY Viking Chess Kubb
The term ‘Viking chess’ might be unfamiliar to some, but this traditional game has been delighting players for centuries with its simplicity and endless entertainment value. For those eager to learn how to play, a brief rundown of the rules follows below.
DIY Lawn Game Yahtzee
To craft a set of oversized dice, you’ll require 4×4 wooden posts that have been trimmed down to a length of approximately 3-1/2 inches. A total of five pieces will suffice for an exciting game of Yahtzee on the beach or lawn, as described by DIY Montreal.
Giant Memory Matching Cards
While often perceived as a children’s activity, this creative pursuit is surprisingly accessible to people of all ages. To get started, select your preferred material for the game pieces – cork tiles are traditional, but cardboard or plywood can also produce excellent results. Once you’ve chosen your medium, use stencils to transfer your desired patterns onto the tiles.
Challenging Outdoor Obstacles
For an unforgettable birthday boy party, consider incorporating games that allow kids to unleash their inner wild child! Boys love getting messy and exploring their surroundings, making this a fantastic opportunity for them to do just that.
The obstacle course, in particular, is designed to push the kids’ limits with challenges that feature tires, strings, tunnels, and heights.
This unique setup will keep the partygoers engaged and entertained, ensuring everyone has a blast celebrating the birthday boy’s special day.
DIY Life Sized Angry Birds
Create an immersive Angry Birds experience at home with this budget-friendly DIY project! To start, gather plenty of cardboard boxes – ideally sourced for free from local stores. Once you have your collection, get creative by transforming some of them into ‘ice cubes’ using white and blue spray paint. For a more realistic touch, use grey paint to turn other boxes into stones. This interactive game is sure to delight the whole family.
Jumbo Backyard Chalkboard
Transforming outdoor chalk play into a more organized and clean experience is definitely achievable! One effective way to do this is by attaching a large, easily accessible chalkboard to a fence. This not only contains the colorful chaos but also provides a dedicated surface for kids to unleash their creativity. To take it up a notch, consider storing the chalks in a convenient basket or container nearby, making it easy to grab and go.
Squirt Gun Art Easel
Embark on an exciting outdoor adventure with your kids, fostering their creativity and honing their accuracy skills through a unique game. Set the stage by providing them with sheets of white paper or even canvases to create lasting squirt gun masterpieces that will be treasured as memories. This activity is sure to spark imagination and provide hours of fun!
Make Your Own Musical Xylophone
Gather your little ones and embark on a fun-filled adventure to create a gigantic xylophone together! To get started, you’ll need just a few basic materials: some wooden laths or bars, strings to attach them to, and two sturdy posts for support. With these simple components, the possibilities are endless!
Box-Breaking Giant Slingshot
Imagine a giant game of Jenga, but instead of wooden blocks, you’re stacking boxes of varying sizes to construct a formidable wall. The objective is to use a powerful slingshot to bring it all crashing down. And since this outdoor activity takes place in the great wide open, the components are understandably larger than life.
Fun Portable Tic Tac Toe
This portable version of Tic Tac Toe offers a unique advantage – it’s always ready to entertain the whole family on-the-go. The game components, which include the playing pieces and board, are neatly packaged in a single bag that doubles as the game base, minimizing storage space requirements. As such, it’s an ideal companion for family outings, trips, and picnics, providing endless hours of entertainment without taking up valuable luggage or picnic blanket real estate.
Wood Pallet Carnival Basket Throw
To set up a fun and affordable backyard game, you’ll need just a few simple materials. Start by gathering one pallet, some paint, four baskets, and ping pong balls. This easy-to-play game is perfect for birthday parties or carnivals, providing hours of entertainment for kids and adults alike.
Inset Concrete Scrabble
Transform your patio into an outdoor oasis with this DIY game project, where the floor becomes a dynamic surface for an exciting game of Scrabble. The concrete square has been carefully scored into 3¾-inch squares separated by ¼-inch joints, creating a unique and functional playing area. To bring it to life, baseboard trim is used to create the tiles, which are then embellished with vinyl letters and numbers that have been sealed for added durability and weather resistance.
This innovative project turns your backyard into an entertaining hub, perfect for family gatherings or friendly get-togethers.
Easy DIY Ball Jenga
While the individual components used to construct this tower may seem straightforward, their collective impact yields a delightful and engaging experience reminiscent of Jenga. This clever combination allows for an enjoyable activity that can be shared among a group of children.
DIY Treehouse Playset
A busy playhouse, also known as a busy board, is an outdoor structure built around a tree. This unique design provides shade, making it possible for kids to play outside even during the hottest hours of the day. Not only does it offer a comfortable playing area, but it also supports an elevated platform featuring various attractions and games.
Simple Inexpensive Frisbee Toss
While a dash of imagination is required, it’s surprisingly easy to turn pool noodles and creativity into an entertaining outdoor activity. A simple yet effective way to do this is by linking the pool noodles together using duct tape, as depicted in the image, and transforming them into a target for a frisbee game.
Backyard Tic Tac Toe With Pool Noodles
When it comes to creative play ideas using pool noodles, one fun concept is to arrange them in a net pattern reminiscent of the Tic Tac Toe board. This setup provides a unique framework for kids to engage in strategic thinking and problem-solving exercises. Small stones, ping pong balls, felt balls, or even baseballs can be used as game pieces, adding an extra layer of excitement and challenge to the competition.
Pool Noodle Javelin Throw
To create an engaging and challenging game for kids, the pool noodles are connected using duct tape, forming six distinct targets that players must aim for by tossing another pool noodle. This setup bears a resemblance to the Frisbee target game, where accuracy and skill come into play.
Colorful Upcycled Tin Can Bowling
Replace traditional balls with cans in this unique outdoor baseball game. The pre-game preparation takes on a creative twist as you get to unleash your inner artist through painting. Make it an interactive experience for your kids by letting them take charge of this DIY task, amplifying their excitement for the game.
Mason Jar Lid Jumbo Checkers
This DIY project yields a versatile outcome, serving not only as a checkerboard game but also as a contemporary outdoor table. The foundation can be adapted to utilize either a barrel or a wire bin for added functionality. A piece of plywood forms the board, which has been tastefully painted with a recognizable pattern. To complete the set, mason jar lids are repurposed as figures, adding a touch of whimsy to this functional creation.
Repurposed Bottle Ring Toss
The classic ring toss is a timeless favorite that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age. What’s more, it’s an excellent example of creative reuse – most items found in daily life can be repurposed to create the game components. This innovative take on the traditional ring toss transforms glass bottles into targets and wooden circles into rings, making it a unique and engaging experience.
Movable Dartboard Planter
To create an outdoor dartboard without breaking the bank, repurpose an old flower pot as the base. Start by inserting a post into the center of the pot and creating a circular surface for the dart circle. For added stability, consider screwing the dart target onto a plywood board before attaching it to the pot.
Simple Rock Tic Tac Toe
Transform your outdoor space into a fun zone with a DIY Tic Tac Toe game set! Using readily available materials like flat wood and stones, you can create a unique and engaging game area. Start by applying lines to the wooden surface using a stencil and spray paint. Then, use a white pen to label the stones, designating them as ‘X’ or ‘O’ markers.
With minimal effort and expense, you’ll have a Tic Tac Toe game set that’s perfect for family gatherings, outdoor parties, or simply a fun afternoon in the sun.
Backyard Grass Twister
To create a backyard Twist board, you’ll need just a few simple materials: a stencil with a circular shape and some spray paint. Simply place the stencil on the grass and spray it with paint, creating a series of visible circles that will serve as the game’s playing surface. With this minimal setup, you can start enjoying the fun of Twist in your own backyard, just like the examples shown via One Good Thing.
Colorful Dowel Ring Toss
As the wooden dowel takes shape, it assumes its role as the foundation for a fun and interactive game. The vibrant rope rings, wrapped in durable duct tape, become the focal points for players to aim at and toss towards. This clever combination of materials and design sets the stage for an engaging experience.
Summer Toys Bowling Set
Create a makeshift bowling lane using everyday summer items like pool noodles, a beach ball, a mat, and even Coca-Cola bottles! Arrange these items in a creative way to replicate the classic bowling setup. And just like that, you’ve got yourself a fun and quick game set. Check out Polkadot Chair for more inspiration!
DIY Twister Spinner
When it comes to enjoying outdoor activities with kids, having the right tools can make all the difference. If you don’t have a Twister game at home or prefer not to use a commercial one, fear not! You can easily create your own DIY version using cardboard and some paint. With this simple hack, you’ll be able to enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of color-coded fun with the little ones, all without breaking the bank.
PVC Backyard Skee Ball
The vintage carnival game remains a beloved fixture in modern times, boasting a timeless appeal that transcends eras. Its retro aesthetic, characterized by striking design and ornate signage, continues to captivate audiences of all ages. The allure of this aged ball game endures, attracting new fans as well as loyal enthusiasts from years past.
Inventive Ring Toss Board
Transforming the classic ring toss game into a vertical version offers a convenient solution for when kids need to stay on the porch due to inclement weather or harsh sunlight. This modified version provides an entertaining way for children to enjoy themselves without having to venture out into the elements. Each holder is carefully labeled with a unique number, serving as a reminder of the score that player will earn upon successfully landing their toss.
Summer Baseball With Water Balloons
Imagine a refreshing twist on traditional outdoor games, where the excitement of a ballpark battle meets the thrill of a summer splashing spree! In this version, instead of balls and bats, players wield plastic bats and tiny water balloons, creating a delightful and invigorating way to beat the heat during the hottest hours of the day.
Giant DIY Yahtzee
Transforming the outdoor Yahtzee experience, tracking scores can elevate the excitement level significantly. Consider utilizing a visual medium like a whiteboard, chalkboard, or a simple sheet of paper to record results. This minor tweak can have a profound impact on the overall enjoyment of the game.
