As the warmth of spring arrives in 2025, the allure of the outdoors beckons us to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. Engaging in fun lawn games is a fantastic way to gather friends and family for some outdoor fun. Whether you're drawn to classic games or eager to try something new, there's a perfect yard game for every occasion. Here's a curated list of the best yard games to elevate your outdoor gatherings this year.
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
Choosing the right yard game depends on several factors, such as the size of your yard and the number of players. Below, I've detailed some of my top picks for 2025, offering insights into what makes each game a great choice for your outdoor space.
Cornhole
GoSports Classic Cornhole Set
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Official Cornhole Rules
Cornhole remains a staple at outdoor gatherings, known for its simplicity and fun. This game involves tossing bags at a board with a hole, aiming to score points. It can be played with 2 or 4 players, making it versatile for different group sizes. Wooden sets are preferred for their durability and better play experience, although collapsible sets are great for those on the move.
PutterBall
PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: PutterBall Rules
Ideal for smaller spaces like a deck or patio, PutterBall combines the fun of golf and beer pong. Players take turns putting golf balls into cups, making it an engaging game for all skill levels. Its slow pace and easy setup make it perfect for casual hangouts.
Spikeball
Spikeball Standard Set
Number of Players: 4
Rules: Official Spikeball Rules
A relatively new addition to the yard game scene, Spikeball blends volleyball and foursquare. It's a fast-paced, active game that requires teamwork and quick reflexes. The official set includes everything needed to play, with options to upgrade for a more durable experience.
Giant Jenga
Giant Jenga
Number of Players: 2-6
Rules: Official Jenga Rules
For a game that tests dexterity without needing much space or athletic ability, Giant Jenga is a must-have. The larger scale adds excitement, and it's perfect for all ages. Just ensure safety by keeping young children and pets at a distance when the tower falls.
Kan Jam
Kan Jam
Number of Players: 4
Rules: Official KanJam Rules
If you enjoy throwing frisbees and competitive play, Kan Jam is your game. It requires more space, making it ideal for larger yards or beach outings. The goal is to score points by hitting or throwing the frisbee into the cans.
Ladder Toss
GoSports Premium Ladder Toss
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Ladder Golf Official Rules
Ladder Toss, or Ladder Golf, is a relaxing game that's easy to set up and play. It's perfect for smaller yards, and the game's simplicity makes it enjoyable for everyone. The goal is to toss bolas onto the rungs of a ladder, scoring points based on where they land.
Croquet
GoSports Croquet Set
Number of Players: 2-6
Rules: Croquet Official Rules
A timeless game with roots in 14th-century France, Croquet offers a leisurely and customizable experience. Players use mallets to hit balls through hoops, making it a great choice for family gatherings. It requires minimal space and is perfect for a relaxed day outdoors.
Bocce
Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set
Number of Players: 2-8
Rules: Bocce Official Rules
One of the oldest games on the list, Bocce is simple yet engaging. Players aim to get their balls closest to a smaller target ball, making it a strategic and fun game. Its portability and ease of setup make it a great choice for spontaneous play.
Badminton
Franklin Sports Badminton Set
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Badminton Official Rules
Badminton is an Olympic sport that's easy to set up and play at home. It requires hand-eye coordination and can be enjoyed by players of all ages. The set doubles as a volleyball net, offering versatile use. Note that it's also playable virtually on Nintendo Switch Sports.
Yard Pong
Yard Pong
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: House Rules
Yard Pong takes the beloved beer pong game outdoors with larger buckets. The rules are customizable, adding to the fun. Just remember to keep it family-friendly by avoiding actual beer in the buckets.
Horseshoes
Champion Sports Horseshoe Set
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules
A classic game that's simple to set up, Horseshoes involves throwing horseshoes to ring around a stake or land close to it for points. While a pit is ideal, you can easily set it up in your yard. Metal sets are recommended for durability, with plastic options suitable for kids.
Pickleball Set
Bearwill Portable Pickleball Net
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Pickleball Official Rules
Pickleball, blending elements of tennis and ping pong, is surging in popularity. This portable set allows you to enjoy the game at home on any flat surface. Paddles are sold separately, but the set includes everything else needed to play.
Giant Chess Set
MegaChess Large Chess Set
Number of Players: 2
Rules: Chess Official Rules
For chess enthusiasts, a Giant Chess Set brings the classic game outdoors. The MegaChess set is practical for storage and play, with pieces that are easy to manage. It's a great way to enjoy strategic gameplay in the fresh air.
How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You
Selecting the perfect lawn game hinges on several factors, including the size of your yard, the number of players, and their preferences. For smaller yards, consider games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, or Yard Pong, which require minimal space. If you're heading to the beach, Spikeball, Badminton, and Kan Jam are excellent choices, depending on the wind conditions. For larger yards, games like Badminton, Kan Jam, Bocce, or Croquet can fully utilize the space.
For those seeking equipment-free options, classic games like capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or tag are timeless and require only space and imagination.
By considering these factors, you can find the perfect yard game to enhance your outdoor experience in 2025.
