As the sun shines brightly and the warmth of spring 2025 beckons us outdoors, there's no better way to enjoy the season than with engaging lawn games that bring friends and family together. From timeless classics to innovative new additions, the world of yard games offers something for everyone. Here's a comprehensive guide to some of the top yard games you should consider for your outdoor gatherings.
TL;DR – These are the Best Yard Games of 2025
- Cornhole
- PutterBall
- Spikeball
- Giant Jenga
- Kan Jam
- Ladder Toss
- Croquet
- Bocce Ball
- Badminton
- Yard Pong
- Horseshoes
- Pickleball
- Giant Chess
When selecting a yard game, it's crucial to consider factors like the size of your yard and the number of participants. Below, I've detailed my top picks for the best outdoor yard games of 2025, each offering unique fun and tailored to different settings.
Cornhole
GoSports Classic Cornhole Set
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Official Cornhole Rules
Cornhole remains a staple in the world of yard games due to its simplicity and widespread appeal. All you need are two boards with holes and sets of bags. It's perfect for 2 to 4 players, making it ideal for small to medium-sized groups. While there are numerous cornhole sets available, opting for a wooden set offers a smoother play experience with less bounce and better bag glide. For those on the go, collapsible sets are a convenient choice.
PutterBall
PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: PutterBall Rules
Perfect for smaller spaces like decks or patios, PutterBall combines the fun of golf and pong. Players take turns putting balls into cups on the opponent's side, aiming to fill all six cups. Its slow pace makes it an excellent choice for leisurely hangouts, and its compact design means you can set it up virtually anywhere.
Spikeball
Spikeball Standard Set
Number of Players: 4
Rules: Official Spikeball Rules
A relatively new addition to the yard game scene, Spikeball blends elements of volleyball and foursquare. Two teams of two players each spike a ball into a central net, aiming to keep it in play. It's an energetic game that's sure to get everyone's heart pumping. The official Spikeball set is the best option, offering everything you need, including a carrying case and rulebook. While cheaper knock-offs exist, the official set ensures a superior playing experience.
Giant Jenga
Giant Jenga
Number of Players: 2-6
Rules: Official Jenga Rules
For a game that tests dexterity without requiring athletic prowess, Giant Jenga is a fantastic choice. Available in various sizes, the standard version reaches over 4 feet tall. It's a thrilling twist on the classic game, best enjoyed in open spaces away from small children and pets, given the potential for a dramatic tower collapse.
Kan Jam
Kan Jam
Number of Players: 4
Rules: Official KanJam Rules
If you enjoy frisbee and team sports, Kan Jam is a must-try. Teams aim to score points by throwing a frisbee at a can, with the opposing team assisting by deflecting it into scoring zones. It's an excellent choice for larger yards or beach outings, requiring about 50 feet of space between the two cans.
Ladder Toss
GoSports Premium Ladder Toss
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Ladder Golf Official Rules
Ladder Toss, also known as Ladder Golf or Ladder Ball, is a relaxing game suitable for smaller yards. Players aim to wrap balls on a string around rungs of varying point values. It's easy to set up and play, making it a versatile option for gatherings of all sizes.
Croquet
GoSports Croquet Set
Number of Players: 2-6
Rules: Croquet Official Rules
With roots tracing back to 14th century France, Croquet is a delightful game that involves hitting balls through hoops with mallets. Its leisurely pace and customizable course make it perfect for family gatherings. You can set up a course in any yard size, making it an adaptable choice.
Bocce
Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set
Number of Players: 2-8
Rules: Bocce Official Rules
One of the oldest games on this list, Bocce dates back to 5200 B.C. It's simple yet engaging, involving teams tossing larger balls toward a smaller target ball. Its portability and minimal setup make it an ideal choice for spontaneous fun.
Badminton
Franklin Sports Badminton Set
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Badminton Official Rules
Badminton, akin to tennis and pickleball, uses a shuttlecock and long rackets. It's an Olympic sport that requires good hand-eye coordination. While setting up the net is necessary, it also doubles as a volleyball net, offering versatility. For a digital twist, you can also play badminton virtually on Nintendo Switch Sports.
Yard Pong
Yard Pong
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: House Rules
Inspired by beer pong, Yard Pong uses buckets instead of cups. The goal is to land balls in the buckets, with rules that can be customized to suit your group. It's a fun, casual game perfect for smaller spaces.
Horseshoes
Champion Sports Horseshoe Set
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules
Horseshoes can be played in a dedicated pit or simply in your yard with stakes. Teams aim to ring horseshoes around the stakes to score points. Metal sets are recommended for durability, though plastic versions are safer for younger players.
Pickleball Set
Bearwill Portable Pickleball Net
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Pickleball Official Rules
Pickleball, a popular U.S. sport blending tennis and ping pong, is easily playable at home with a portable net. It requires a hard surface for the ball to bounce and enough space for the net. This set includes the net, balls, and a carrying case, though paddles must be purchased separately.
Giant Chess Set
MegaChess Large Chess Set
Number of Players: 2
Rules: Chess Official Rules
For chess enthusiasts, a giant chess set adds a fun outdoor twist. The MegaChess set features 12-inch tall pieces and a 4x4 ft mat, making it practical for storage and play. It retains the traditional rules, just on a grander scale.
How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You
Choosing the perfect lawn game depends on various factors, including yard size, number of players, and personal preferences. For small yards, games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, and Yard Pong are ideal due to their minimal space requirements. Larger yards can accommodate games like badminton, Kan Jam, and sprawling games of Bocce or Croquet.
Ultimately, the best yard game is one that you and your group will enjoy. Consider the dynamics of your gatherings and the ease of setup and storage when making your choice.
What's the Best Yard Game for Small Yards?
For smaller spaces, opt for games that require minimal movement and setup. Giant Jenga, PutterBall, and Yard Pong are excellent choices that can be enjoyed with just two players.
What's the Best Beach Game?
At the beach, Spikeball excels due to the soft sand allowing for dynamic dives. Badminton and Kan Jam are also suitable, depending on wind conditions.
What's the Best Yard Game for Big Yards?
With ample space, consider badminton, Kan Jam, Bocce, or Croquet, which can be played across larger areas for added fun.
What Yard Games Can You Play Without Equipment?
For equipment-free fun, classic games like capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or tag are perfect for any outdoor space.
