5 Thoughtfully Made Backyard Games For A Better Summer
Bocce, Bowling, Cornhole and More!
We may not be able to go to stadiums or tailgates at the moment, but we can still safely have fun in our own backyards this summer! And we plan on taking up that opportunity every chance we get.
From dominoes to paddleball, we’ve rounded up five sustainably made yard games for hours of fun. (And for a zero-waste version, you can also upcycle and DIY your own lawn games—like cornhole!)
If you’re also building your backyard summer oasis, check out our decor ideas and favorites for outdoor furniture. And for those rainy days, you can pick up one of these board games, too.
May we all have the opportunity to embrace this upcoming season of rest, relaxation, and play.
1. Yard Dominoes
Made In | Minnesota, USA
Age | 3+
Brand Ethics | Handmade, sustainable jute fiber bag
Price | $60
Take the fun of dominoes outdoors with these jumbo Yard Dominoes from Jeremy Exely. Available via Uncommon Goods, a certified B Corp, each set is handmade in Minneapolis using solid pine wood. You’ll receive 28 individual dominoes, neatly packed in a sustainable jute fiber bag. A perennial favorite, you can play with little ones at a family picnic or with friends at the park!
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2. Indoor Outdoor Bocce Set
Made In | Guatemala
Age | 5+
Brand Ethics | Handmade by fair trade artisans, recycled fill
Price | $40
This Indoor Outdoor Bocce Set from Uncommon Goods is one of our top picks thanks to its versatility, portability, and durability. Each colorful bocce ball is crafted with cotton and recycled pellet fill, and handmade by fair trade artisans in Guatemala. We like keeping this sustainable set in our back pocket (literally) for some friendly competition. Like all Uncommon Goods purchases, a dollar from this bocce ball set goes back to nonprofit causes.
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3. Outdoor Wooden Bowling Set
Made In | Utah, USA
Age | 3+
Brand Ethics | Handmade, nontoxic paint
Price | $30
When going to the bowling alley is out of reach, pick up an Outdoor Wooden Bowling Set, ideal for little ones! Etsy carries all kinds of sets for kiddos, but we love this one from Lola and Pip Shop thanks to its nontoxic paints and finish. At just five inches tall apiece, even toddlers can get in on the fun.
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4. Paddle Ball Wood Set
Made In | Spain
Age | 10+
Brand Ethics | Handmade from marine plywood
Price | $99
Ping pong who? This Paddle Ball Wood Set from Culdesac Design Studio is perfect for outdoor games at the beach, the park, and anywhere in between. It’s made using marine plywood from the coast of Spain, designed with ergonomic handles for comfort. This set—while an investment—comes with two paddles, two balls, and a carrying case for hours of endless play.
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5. Tabletop Cornhole
Made In | Ohio, USA
Age | 13+
Brand Ethics | Handmade with solid wood
Price | $50
Ah, cornhole—the standout star of yard games. If DIYing your own game isn’t your thing (it’s easier than it looks, we promise!), you can also pick up this Tabletop Cornhole from Ohio woodworker Scott Shelton. This set comes with mini bean bags, adjustable launchers, and a sturdy board for a miniature version of the classic game. Bring it on your next visit to that summer cabin or lake house.
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