Summertime "Ooh"s
Up Your Backyard Game with This Season's Must-Haves
Angie Lewis, WriterDue to stay-at-home orders, summer 2020 was definitely a cruel one, with most of us “bored in the house,” as TikTok would say. But after more than a year of social distancing and mask mandates, and with the majority of people getting vaccinated, much of the country is starting to get back to normal life — just in time for summer 2021!
Regardless of whether or not you’re ready to hang out in public places, there’s plenty of fun to be had in your own backyard — from jumbo-sized games and inflatables to swings and portable fire pits. (Plus, you don’t have to worry about how those extra quarantine pounds will look in your bathing suit!)
Check out these entertaining and unique outdoor toys that can enhance your summertime fun with friends and family:
Let the Games Begin
- All-American Tailgate Giant Tumbler Tower
This oversized tumbler tower (think Jenga on steroids!) challenges players to remove and restack pieces with extreme precision so the structure doesn’t collapse. Available in three sizes — from 2 feet to up to over 5 feet — the set also offers an optional playing table and carrying bag, as well as the option to have your blocks engraved. - Giantville 4-in-a-Row Connect Game
If you like classic Connect4, you’ll love this jumbo-sized version! Standing 4 feet wide and 3½ feet tall, the oversized playing board includes built-in ring holders and a convenient carrying bag. - Kan Jam
Similar to cornhole and horseshoes, this competitive team game requires players to throw a flying disc across 50 feet, trying to land it in or hit their team’s can. To win, a team must reach 21 points, which are earned with “dingers,” “deuces,” “buckets” or an “instant win.”
Blow It Up
- JOYIN Giant Inflatable Pizza Slice Pool Float
Lounging on a huge slice of pizza...? That’s amore! This novelty pool float will have you saying “cheese” in all of your Facebook and Instagram pics. Even better, each inflatable is made with connectors that allow you to tie one slice to another — so, eight floats make a whole pie! - Airso Inflatable Swimming Pool
Don’t have a pool? No problem! Whether you’re looking for a quiet, adults-only aquatic oasis or want to splash around with whole family, this large inflatable pool gives everyone a refreshing place to cool off in the summer heat. - VIVOHOME Inflatable Mega Movie Projector Screen
Take family movie nights outside with this blow-up projector screen! The inflatable screen offers both front and rear projection and is available in six sizes, ranging from 14 feet to 20 feet.
Start Swinging
- Trekassy Platform Tree Swing
This large platform swing is made with a high-quality material that is wear and UV resistant, as well as non-fading. Its sturdy steel frame, which measures 60” x 32”, can support up to 700 pounds, making it a great place to hang out for kids and adults. - Bengum Hammock Chair
Cozy up with a book in this fun hanging chair, which features a 10” x 10” stitched side pocket — a perfect place to stash your summer reading. Fitted with comfy cushions in a breathable fabric, the swing is both aesthetically pleasing and durable, and able to support up to 300 pounds. - Swurfer Orbit Saucer Tree Swing
You and your kids will spend hours swaying and lounging on this multi-person swing, which measures 40 inches wide and accommodates up to 500 pounds. The saucer-shaped swing is weather resistant, including its durable nylon mesh mat, which easily drains and quickly dries, and keeps your backside cool on hot summer days.
Those Summer Nights
- Solo Stove Fire Pit
Tired of the lingering campfire smell on your clothes and hair after a night by the fire pit? Solo Stove is the world’s favorite smokeless fire pit, which features a 360-degree airflow design that creates an efficient burn, leaving minimal ash to clean. The fire pits are available in three sizes and have a ton of optional, awesome accessories! - Frienda Cornhole Lights
No need to put the cornhole boards away when the sun goes down. With these color-changing LED lights, you can keep the competition going all night long! Each easily installed light strip, which has 16 color and four mode options, runs on three AA batteries, which provide up to 75 hours of game play. - Vidalido Dome Camping Tent
Take a camping trip — in your own backyard! Your kids will love this teepee-shaped tent, which can accommodate up to six people and be divided into two tents. The outer layer provides cover, while the inner, screened layer protects you from pesky mosquitoes and offers a nearly unobstructed view of the night sky.
No More Summertime Blues
When it comes to your free time, the thing that really matters is having fun and making priceless memories with your loved ones. Whether that involves relaxing or having a little friendly competition, summer 2021 is sure to be unforgettable!