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36 Backyard Investments That Turn Every Weekend Into A Staycation
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We hope you love our recommendations! While every product is independently chosen by our editors, BuzzFeed and our publishing partners may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. You can read more about how our affiliate partnerships work in our Editorial Standards & Ethics Guide. Like your mom always said, we have playgrounds, pool toys, and fire pits at home. Champion Sports is a family-owned and operated small business that's been operating out of New Jersey since 1961. Promising review: "I bought this for the kids to play during cookouts. We have corn hole and other games as well, and I find myself playing this as much, if not more, than corn hole. Great quality, and it comes with a carrying bag to put away for easy storage and clean up." —Alan Rich Get it from Amazon for $119.99+ (available in two sizes). Promising review: "As the sun sets and the evening breeze gently rustles through your garden, these lights come to life, casting a warm, enchanting glow that transforms your outdoor space into a magical haven." —April Get it from Amazon for $11.39+ (available in five pack sizes). 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!! It only took my hubby and me 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). Make sure you get a fertilizer spreader to use this! Promising review: "This product works. Our lawn was yellow and brown. We followed the instructions to the letter. Watered the lawn after application. After the third day, our neighbors noticed how green the lawn was. Happy to have purchased this product, and we bought another bag for the spring project." —dilimanqc "I have been using this fertilizer for the past four years; has not burned the lawn, has a quick green up within couple of days. Proud of the way it makes my lawn look. I highly recommend." —hellbent Get it from Amazon for $33.24+ (available in two sizes). Promising review: "This is a great product for any outdoor space. It provides extra privacy whilst adding beauty to my balcony. The leaves were all intact and it was easy to install with the zip ties that came in the box. The fence has been stable, never falling down nor loosen up its grip. During rain, I've never experienced the leaves coming off/apart. If you're looking to spice up your outdoor area with faux greenery, this product is a great quality fence and highly recommend!" —C.C. Promising review: "Was actually a little bigger than I expected to be for the price. Beautiful and well worth the money. Sounds beautiful." —Ashleigh Yates Get it from Amazon for $16.19+ (available in two sizes). Promising review: "I cannot understand how something this size can possibly produce such amazing, loud, clear sound and bass. It is a truly incredible device that I intend to use daily because it works well outside, too. Do not be deceived by the affordable price. It is significantly better than a $400 JBL. The battery life is great, too. If I want it loud, half the volume is all you need. If I want to blast my neighbors, 80%. I haven’t needed to push it further. The bass-up function is awesome. You’re gonna love this thing." —Rob and Piper Get it from Amazon for $99.99+ (available in three colors). SWOOC Games is a small biz specializing in game sets, many of which are outdoor-safe. Promising review: "Our family loves Yahtzee, but Yardzee was so much more fun! It is like a giant lifesize game. It was so much fun to play outside as a family. We had ages 7–65 playing and enjoying the game. As a homeschooler, I also love that it sneaks in math and writing." —The Waldock Way Get them from Amazon for $52.70+ (available in two dice sizes). Promising review: "This patio furniture is great for the price. One of the better-known brands would sell a set like this for about $2,500–$3,000. It took a long time to put together by myself, but it was well worth the effort. My sister is on the market for patio furniture, and I recommended this set to her." —Ant Rico Get it from Amazon for $879.99+ (available in two colors and with or without arms on the side chairs). Promising review: "Delivered exactly as described. This is a really beautiful outdoor rug that adds coziness and pop to my deck. I put heavy items around the rug's perimeter for a day to help flatten the edges. Great price for a great quality rug." —Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $42.64+ (available in nine sizes and three colors). Promising review: "We've had this swing hanging in our tree out back for two years now. Our kids, and their friends, LOVE it. I love that it's large enough to accommodate a number of kids/people, and that it's held up so well over time. Would totally recommend." —Krystal Brightech is a small business in Los Angeles that sells indoor and outdoor lighting for the home. Promising review: "I have had these lights up since the end of September 2022. They lit up right out of the box. They have been through a snowstorm, ice storm, and massive rain and are still perfect. They are pretty easy to hang. They are shatterproof, which I love. —D Kelly Get it from Brightech on Amazon for $29.99+ (available in warm or soft light). Promising review: "My whole family and I recently went to Miami for a quick vacation, and we had a barbecue, so I decided to order this grill for my house to cook on my back porch. One of the best things about this grill is it’s so easy to move — anyone can move it from one place to another. My wife and I assembled this, and it took us about 35–40 minutes to put together, and it was so easy to assemble. I cannot wait to use this grill with my family and friends." —NP We've been seeing people's pets enjoying these all over TikTok! It is designed for kids ages 3–8. Promising review: "I was pleasantly surprised with the quality of this item and the matching picnic table and chairs. However the cabana is much more difficult to assemble then the picnic table set. There was a step in which two people were absolutely required and you need a cordless screwdriver and hammer. My granddaughter loves them and I absolutely would recommend this purchase to anyone." —Terri Get it from Amazon for $139.99+ (available in two colors). Promising review: "This thing is great and perfect to start off the spring/summer. We dumped a giant bag of ice in there and kept our drinks cold all afternoon. The swivel top is convenient and fun. Love that it’s a table and an aesthetically pleasing cooler." —Shana Get it from Amazon for $119.99 (available in four colors and other styles). Promising review: "These are great lights. We use them in our front and backyard. They are long-lasting and create a resort-like appearance." —Michele Get it from Amazon for $35.69+ (available in three styles and packs of four or eight). Promising review: "Was looking for something to keep us busy and cool in our backyard. This is incredible, and my son (20 months) absolutely loves it! There's so much to keep us busy, from the ball toss to the misting slide. I even laid on it to sunbathe, and it was comfortable, lol. Really excited to use this for the summer and have people over to enjoy it with us!! If you’re on the fence, let this be your sign to buy! ☀️" —Ashley Edberg Get it from Amazon for $59.99 (also available in many other styles). Promising review: "I’m shocked by how comfortable this is. It has more cushion to it than my couch. I’m someone who will spend hours on my patio for meetings and such. I put it together by myself. The trick is to put the screws all in before tightening them. Otherwise, it will seem like they don’t fit. Put the screws in and twist a few times. Once you have them all in, then go back and tighten them. Trust me, it’ll save you doing extra work. This set is actually bigger than I expected, the table included. Very pleased with this purchase." —Brooke D Each light cycles through red, blue, white, and green. Promising review: "My pool is so old school and boring that I bought these to liven it up, and what a difference!! My pool went from 'meh' to WOW! The balls are easily inflated by mouth like a beach ball. Once inflated, a few hours in the sun, they are charged and ready to go. They light up after dusk (it has to be rather dark). There is no manual way to power them on or off; they glow all night. The changing colors are vibrant and very beautiful. They have a loop at the top if you want to hang them. They would be magical, hanging in a tree or from a pergola. I really liked how easy these were to fill and charge, and I like the solar power and the amazing color display. They make my inner child happy." —J. Matheson Get a set of four from Amazon for $59.96. Promising review: "This set was just what I needed to add a pop of color to my porch. It seems sturdy and tolerant of extreme weather conditions. My friends and neighbors love the bright yellow." —Judith J. Get it from Amazon for $94.29+ (available in seven colors). Promising review: "I love the size and the fact that it takes five minutes to set up and five minutes to take down. Very portable and lightweight to carry. Very sturdy. I would highly recommend." —Kathi Get it from Amazon for $99.95 (also available in a larger size). You can get the canopy here and the stand here! What's included: One pillow, two chains, and two S-shaped hooks. Promising review: "There is nothing more comfortable than being cradled and rocked in a hammock that is comfortable with its padded quilted canvas, built-in pillow, and the size built for two. The craftsmanship and anchors give you a secure feeling." —Just.Rob.Stone Get it from Amazon for $59.89+ (available in eight colors). 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 compliments our pool area, and will certainly be purchasing an additional one." —VHC Media Get it from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in a variety of sizes and 16 colors/patterns). Promising review: "Bought this for my 2-year-old's birthday. It was a HIT at her party. She uses every section regularly. We set it up outside for the summer and just brought it in for the fall! It can be used by several kids at once. As a buy-nothing queen, I was hesitant about the price but am satisfied." —Jonathan D Get it from Amazon for $499+ (available in two sizes). Promising review: "Very fun for garden decor. Have held up nicely through summer rain storms and continue to shine bright. Worked really well for a garden party." —Melissa Get a nine-pack from Amazon for $34.19+ (available in three pack sizes). Promising review: "My favorite purchase for our deck. I LOVE this fire table. It's a good size and great value compared to what is out there. Packaged nicely. My husband put it together alone in 30–45 minutes with no frustration and easy-to-follow directions. Puts out a decent amount of heat. Enough rocks to adequately cover. Just add your propane tank. I love that it has a lid as well. You will find sturdier fire tables, but not at this price. Excellent value." —Bellium Get it from Amazon for $209.99+ (available in two sizes). Promising review: "These playing cards are a HIT. I take them out with me for social events and when visiting people, even to the beach. We just play and play. So you can get them wet, and they won't soggy up and tear. It just becomes a little hard to shuffle. It is so cool that they look like you can see right straight through them, but you can't." —Tabitha Promising review: "I am pleased with this product so far. The cushions are comfy and it's a good height for sitting. Assembly was easy and didn't take long. I can't wait to enjoy more days on my porch with this set." —Kathrin Kimmons Get it from Amazon for $199.99+ (available in four cushion colors). Shop Cornhole is a small business specializing in unique and personalized cornhole sets. I recently moved into a home with a backyard that's great for entertaining, and as soon as winter ended, I knew I needed this cornhole set. It's surprisingly lightweight, nice to look at, and sturdy enough to handle a bunch of excited kids. Speaking of which, mine think it's the greatest thing since sliced bread. A solid investment in our backyard fun! Promising review: "We love our new cornhole set! We used it for the first time yesterday and were pleased with the quality and appearance of the boards. They're beautiful and I love the natural colors. We look forward to using it at my sister's wedding in a couple of weeks. Thank you!!!" —Vanessa Weseman Get it from Shop Cornhole on Etsy for $199.99 (available in 20 bag colors). 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!" —Adazzle Pick up a sturdy, rust-resistant curtain rod while you're at it! Promising review: "These curtains are AMAZING! Beautiful and elegant. Hangs beautiful, very light blocking, keeps rain out of our Tiki bar, we can sit out there in the rain, and keeps the heat in on a cool fall evening when we have the fireplace on!" —Sara Bushendorf Get it from Amazon for $30.95+ (available in eight sizes and 16 colors). Promising review: "Its sturdy construction and classic design make it a standout piece for any patio. The robust cast-iron and steel frame ensure longevity, while the generous size accommodates comfortable seating. Elevate your outdoor space with this timeless and reliable garden bench." —Zhang_Shawn Get it from Amazon for $179.99+ (available in four colors). 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. 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 HBeeFire is a small business based in Toronto, Canada making metal firepits. Promising review: "It’s exactly as described, beautiful quality, and great communication from the seller. Super happy with this firepit. It works really well and is so unique :)" —Gabrielle ONeill Get it from HBeeFire on Etsy for $177.59. Beach State is a small business specializing in premium, high-quality beach umbrellas. Check out a TikTok of the umbrella in action. Promising review: "This is exactly what we were looking for! An umbrella that's not only sturdy but easy to carry (comes with a backpack carrier), easy to set up, and provides excellent protection from the sun. It’s perfect for casual sunbathing in your backyard or a full day at the beach. Highly recommend!" —Sheila Get it from Amazon for $140.21+ (available in six colors). Note: It has three different brightness settings and requires AA batteries. 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. We decided to try and play outside. There are two 70+-year-olds who did not complain that they couldn’t see. So, works great in my book! 😁" —Mandie Jordan * Clever Ways To Hide All The Eyesores In Your Home You’ve Been Glaring At For Ages * Your Bedroom Is Your Sanctuary — Treat It Like That With These 31 Products * Inexpensive Tweaks You Can Make To Your Home For Under $10 A Pop * Products That'll Make Your Friends Think, "Wow, Your Place Looks *So* Nice" * Things To Make Your House Smell Amazing 24/7 * Products That’ll Help You Automate Your Home Beyond Clapping To Turn On Your Lights * These 31 "Dream House" Products Are Surprisingly Affordable * Things That’ll Improve Your Kitchen So Much You’ll Think You Entered The Twilight Zone * Easy Upgrades For Anyone Who Spends A *Lot* Of Time In Their Home Office * Products That’ll Help Revive All The Things In Your Home That Are Currently On The Chopping Block Plus, options for your WFH space, and finds from Anthropologie, Etsy, Ikea, Urban Outfitters, Walmart, and Wayfair. Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity. BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.