Summer is here! So we ranked the 10 best backyard games of all time.
Quick Disclaimer: Any list like this is going to be subjective, and personal preference comes into play. But that being said, we friggin’ nailed it. So if you disagree with these rankings, you might need to take a long look in the mirror and ask yourself, “Have I lost touch with my inner child? Do I still know how to have fun? Am I dead inside?”
Without further ado, here are the 10 best backyard games of all time, ranked according to fun, accessibility, and overall popularity.
1. Cornhole
It’s the undisputed king of the backyard. Whether you’re at a barbecue or a tailgate, cornhole is almost guaranteed to be there. Modern cornhole originated in Cincinnati in the 1960s, but a similar game with square holes was patented way back in 1883. History aside, it’s easy, addictive, and oddly competitive even before you start drinking. (Bonus points for being able to play with a beer in one hand.)
2. Bocce
The beauty of bocce? You don’t need a perfect lawn or even grass. A patch of dirt or gravel works just fine. It’s perfect for all ages, and vibes somewhere between lawn chess and bowling for grownups. (Pro tip: beach bocce sets are lighter and easier for kids.)
3. Wiffle Ball
A dad in Connecticut came up with it in the summer of ’53 and made backyard baseball possible. If you haven’t swung one of those skinny yellow bats in a while, it makes you feel oddly strong. There were also the big fat red ones – the perfect weapon for toddlers looking to attack Dad’s knees, ankles, and groin.
4. Two-Hand Touch / Flag Football
An American classic. All you need is a ball (preferably a Nerf one) and maybe a couple rags to tuck in your waistband. Bonus points if you have that one cousin who takes it way too seriously.
5. Kickball
A gym-class hero that never lost its charm, it’s a game played worldwide. Brits call it “football rounders,” Canadians call it “soccer baseball.” 😑 But everyone everywhere calls it a great excuse to sprint around your yard like it’s third grade again.
6. Horseshoes
A little more advanced and not quite kid-friendly (those things are heavy). But if you’ve got a sandpit setup, horseshoes are peak chill-and-throw fun.
7. Badminton
Not as trendy as it once was, and setup takes a minute. But it’s a whole lot of fun if you’re willing to go through the hassle of putting up the net. Once you’re rallying, it’s hard not to get competitive, and the boing sound of a shuttlecock hitting your racket is just oddly satisfying. (Plus, who doesn’t love saying “shuttlecock.”)
8. Ladderball
Invented by a Pennsylvania mailman and made mainstream by Ladder Golf LLC in 2005, ladder toss has carved out a permanent spot on the backyard game roster. It’s simple, weirdly strategic, and totally addictive.
9. Lawn darts
Yes, the OG version was basically a weapon. But honestly, wasn’t that a plus? The lawn darts of today are kid-safe and just as fun. (Lies.) Toss them into a target circle to start racking up points – and memories.
10. Croquet
Sure, it’s old-school… and no one plays it anymore. But croquet was incredibly popular in its heyday and still brings a fancy twist to the backyard. It’s low-impact, slow-paced, and ideal for those sipping something out of a glass with a garnish.
It’s undoubtedly the fanciest pick on the list – the type of game that makes you feel like a member of the aristocracy. But while the word is French, the game actually originated in England in the 1800s. So… not as fancy.
Honorable Mention: Playing Catch
It’s not exactly a “game,” but throwing a ball back and forth has always been part of the backyard DNA. Maybe not Top 10 material, but definitely top vibes.
The Snubs
A few more games that almost made our cut include hide-and-seek, tag, Spikeball, Kan Jam (a.k.a. “Garbage Can Frisbee”), and beer pong if your backyard hangs are more 21+. Ultimate Frisbee also rules if your yard is a full acre.
