As airfare rises and cities swelter, more families turn their own backyards into go-to spaces for summer fun. It’s a way to unplug, get moving and spend quality time outdoors without spending much. From picnics to movie nights, here’s what to do in your backyard this summer.
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Start with a backyard picnic
Some of the most meaningful backyard moments come from the simplest choices. A backyard picnic is one of the easiest ways to slow down and enjoy the season. Lay out a blanket, gather a few snacks, like sandwiches, fruits, maybe something chilled, then settle into a shady spot. Even simple food feels more special outdoors.
It doesn’t have to stop at food. That same blanket can double as a reading nook or sketching spot. Unwinding with a cold drink, a good book or a sketchpad is a low-effort way to recharge. Hanging a hammock enhances the experience and transforms the space into a personal retreat within steps of your door.
Spikeball
This high-energy net game has become a backyard favorite for good reason. It combines fast-paced action with competitive play that draws people in quickly. Spikeball involves bouncing a small ball off a circular net placed at ankle level. Two teams, composed of two players, take turns serving and returning the ball, trying to keep the rally going without letting the ball hit the ground.
Control is more important than power in this game. Hitting the ball too hard can cost you a point if it misses the net. “It takes patience to learn this game,” Heidi Bruaw of Real Life of Lulu advises. “We found that everyone was used to hitting hard, so it took a little while to learn how to hit it so they could pass to their partner without going over their head,” she adds, referring to her family trying the game for the first time. “They also had to give each other space. They wanted to crowd around the net, and you actually have to spread out.”
Bruaw also shares a key setup tip to keep the game running smoothly: “Make sure the net is tight. If it’s too loose, the ball won’t bounce high enough, and the game’s pace falls apart,” she says. A properly strung net gives the ball the spring it needs to keep rallies alive, making the game satisfying for everyone.
Water play for hot days
When the heat kicks in, nothing beats water-based backyard fun. It’s playful, energizing and works for all ages. From sprinklers to bike washes, these ideas keep everyone cool without leaving home.
Sprinklers keep it simple
On hot days, sprinklers are the fastest way to cool off and have fun. All it takes is connecting one to a hose and turning it on. Kids instinctively run through the water, chase the spray and invent games as they go. It’s low maintenance and waters the lawn in the process.
Water balloons bring energy
The splash factor instantly raises the excitement level when playing with water balloons. With its simple toss-and-catch challenge or a fast-paced version of tag, the unpredictability of when a balloon will burst keeps everyone laughing. Consider reusable silicone water balloons, which reduce plastic waste and refill quickly.
Splash stations for younger kids
Not every water activity needs to be wild. For toddlers or younger kids, a splash station using a shallow plastic tub, measuring cups and floating toys can keep them happily engaged. It’s safe, hands-on play that encourages creativity and lets them cool down at their own pace.
Try a DIY bike wash
Set up a mini bike wash with pool noodles for arches, buckets of soapy water and old sponges. Kids ride their bikes through, taking turns as both customers and car wash attendants. It’s playful, slightly chaotic and offers a great way to combine pretend play with staying cool.
Backyard movie night
Movie nights outside feel nostalgic, spontaneous and special. With the right setup, you can recreate the magic of the big screen in your own yard.
Set up your screen and projector
A backyard movie night doesn’t need to be complicated, but a little planning goes a long way. Project your movie using a white sheet stretched tightly, a blank garage wall or a portable outdoor screen. Place the projector on a flat, stable surface and test it before guests arrive.
Remember that ambient light from street lamps or porches can wash out your screen. To improve visibility, position your screen away from direct light sources and wait until after sunset to start the movie.
Make the seating comfortable
Comfort matters, especially as the evening stretches on and the air cools down. Set out a mix of seating, like camp chairs, floor cushions, sleeping bags or bean bags, so everyone finds their perfect spot. Add a few small tables or overturned crates for snacks and drinks.
Keep snacks simple and fun
Snacks make the whole thing feel like a real theater experience. Pre-bagged popcorn is easy to hand out and reduces cleanup. Add some variety with trail mix, fruit skewers or candy in small paper bags. If you’re feeling playful, create a mini concession stand with a chalkboard menu and let guests grab what they like.
Why the backyard wins in summer
As families look for accessible ways to unplug and stay active, the backyard is becoming this summer’s breakout destination. It offers a mix of downtime and movement, giving people space to connect without the cost or planning of a trip. From laid-back picnics to high-energy Spikeball games, it’s a place where comfort meets creativity and, most especially, no travel required.
Jennifer Allen, retired chef turned traveler, cookbook author and writer, shares her adventures and travel tips at All The Best Spots. Living at home with her family, and the cats that rule them all, her work has been featured in The Washington Post, Seattle Times, MSN and more.