Sunny days are made for outdoor play, and having the right games on hand can turn any backyard, park, or beach trip into an unforgettable adventure. Moving playtime outside encourages physical activity, social interaction, and pure, imaginative fun. From classic lawn games to exciting new twists on team sports, there’s an outdoor game perfect for every age and interest.
To help you build an arsenal of fun, we’ve gathered a selection of the best outdoor games for kids. This roundup focuses on durable, engaging sets that are easy to set up and promise hours of entertainment. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, a birthday party, or just an afternoon of active play, these picks are sure to be a hit.
The Best Outdoor Games for Kids
- SKLZ Flag Football 10-Player Deluxe Set
- Melissa & Doug Sunny Patch Happy Giddy Bowling Set
- GoSports Giant Portable 4 in a Row Game
- Franklin Sports Grow with Me Kids Teeball Batting Tee
- Champion Sports Indoor/Outdoor Horseshoe Set
- Melissa & Doug Sunny Patch Dilly Dally Turtle Target Game
- NERF Super Soaker Hydro Battle Ride-On Cruiser
- 9 Square in The Air Neon Game Set
- St. Pierre USA Professional Cornhole Set
SKLZ Flag Football 10-Player Deluxe Set
Organize the ultimate backyard or park scrimmage with this complete flag football set. It includes everything needed for two teams of five: ten belts with detachable flags in two colors and four goal line cones. The set comes with a rulebook and a convenient carry bag, making transportation and storage simple.
Built for active play, the belts feature durable nylon flags and a secure D-ring closure system designed to withstand rough games. This set is perfect for encouraging teamwork, strategy, and healthy physical competition among friends and family during any season.
Melissa & Doug Sunny Patch Happy Giddy Bowling Set
This brightly colored bowling set is ideal for younger children developing motor skills and coordination. The set includes six cheerful character pins and a mini bowling ball, all designed with the charming Sunny Patch aesthetic that kids love. It provides a simple and satisfying game for outdoor patios, driveways, or indoor playrooms.
Convenience is a key feature, as all pieces pack neatly into the included bowling bag, which has durable fabric handles. The compact size and easy storage make it a great choice for taking on trips or quickly setting up for a fun activity.
GoSports Giant Portable 4 in a Row Game
Take the classic strategy game to a larger-than-life scale with this giant portable set. The game stands an impressive 4 feet wide and is crafted from sturdy premium wood with a classic dark stain. Its innovative design allows for quick setup both indoors and outdoors, creating an instant focal point for any gathering.
This game is a social favorite for players of all ages, perfect for birthday parties, family reunions, or casual game nights. The large size makes it engaging and easy for everyone to participate, encouraging friendly competition and strategic thinking.
Franklin Sports Grow with Me Kids Teeball Batting Tee
This innovative batting tee is designed to adapt as young players develop their skills. It features a unique two-in-one design, starting as a hanging tee for beginners. The self-stick ball can be suspended between 18 and 26 inches, helping the youngest hitters practice hand-eye coordination without chasing the ball.
As players grow, the hanging attachment is removed to reveal a traditional, adjustable batting tee that ranges from 26 to 36 inches in height. This versatility makes it a long-lasting training tool for teeball and softball players, supporting their progress over several seasons.
Champion Sports Indoor/Outdoor Horseshoe Set
This rubber horseshoe set makes a classic backyard game safe and accessible for all ages. The lightweight rubber horseshoes are much easier and safer to throw than traditional metal versions, while the bright red, blue, and yellow colors make them easy to see during play.
The set includes two rubber mat targets with pegs, creating a contained playing area. The soft materials mean the game can be played indoors on carpet or outdoors on grass without risk of damage to floors or landscaping, providing year-round fun.
Melissa & Doug Sunny Patch Dilly Dally Turtle Target Game
This charming bean bag toss game features a smiling turtle target with different point-value holes. It’s designed for one or two players, making it perfect for sibling play or a child-adult challenge. The game is constructed from durable polyester fabric and has a stable metal base to keep it upright during active play.
Its portability allows for fun both indoors and out, on any flat surface. The simple, engaging concept helps children develop aiming skills and coordination while enjoying a friendly competition.
NERF Super Soaker Hydro Battle Ride-On Cruiser
This product combines an inflatable pool float with a high-powered water blaster for the ultimate pool battle. Riders sit on the cruiser and operate a built-in, pool-fed mega blaster that can shoot water up to 16 feet, eliminating the need for constant refilling.
The design allows for strategic play, as the cruiser itself acts as a shield while the rider aims and soaks opponents. It creates an exciting, active centerpiece for pool parties and turns any swim session into a thrilling water battle.
9 Square in The Air Neon Game Set
This game is a dynamic mix of volleyball and four square, played in a grid of nine elevated squares. The set is height-adjustable, portable, and waterproof, making it fantastic for outdoor events. The neon colors even glow under a blacklight for unique nighttime play.
It supports up to nine players at once, keeping a large group actively involved and moving. The game is known for its fast-paced, inclusive fun that suits a wide range of ages and skill levels, encouraging constant participation and laughter.
St. Pierre USA Professional Cornhole Set
A high-quality cornhole set is a staple for outdoor gatherings, and this professional-grade option is built to last. The boards are typically constructed from sturdy wood with a smooth, finished playing surface and regulation-sized holes. The bags are often made from durable, weather-resistant fabric filled with plastic pellets for consistent play.
This set is perfect for family barbecues, tailgating, or casual tournaments in the backyard. It offers a timeless game that is easy to learn but challenging to master, providing entertainment for teenagers and adults alike for many seasons to come.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in Outdoor Games for Kids
When I’m picking out the best outdoor games for kids to try on a sunny day, I think about more than just what looks fun in the box. The goal is to find games that will actually get played, keep everyone engaged, and survive more than one afternoon. Here’s what I always consider before making a choice.
First, I look at the age range. A game that’s perfect for a 12-year-old will likely frustrate a 5-year-old and vice versa. For younger kids, I stick to games with simple rules, large pieces, and a focus on basic skills like throwing, running, or matching. Think bean bag toss or a simple scavenger hunt. For older kids, I can introduce games with a bit more strategy, teamwork, or complexity, like capture the flag or a more elaborate obstacle course.
Next, I consider the space and player count. How much yard do I have? Is this for a solo child, two siblings, or a whole birthday party crowd? Some games, like a frisbee or a kite, are wonderfully flexible. Others, like a badminton set, need a bit more room and are best with two to four players. I always check the recommended number of players on the box to make sure it fits our usual crew.
Durability is a huge factor for me. Outdoor toys take a beating from the sun, grass, and enthusiastic play. I look for sturdy materials like thick plastic, treated wood, or heavy-duty fabric. I avoid games with lots of tiny, easily lost pieces or flimsy components that will snap on the first use. The best outdoor games are built to last through many sunny days.
Finally, I think about the type of play. Do I want something active that burns energy, like a relay race or soccer? Something creative, like sidewalk chalk or bubble wands? Or a game that encourages teamwork and social interaction? Having a mix of options means I can match the game to the kids’ mood, whether they’re feeling hyper, competitive, or collaborative. The perfect game is one that gets them outside, moving, and laughing together.
FAQ
What if I don’t have a big backyard for these games?
No problem! Many of the best outdoor games for kids to try on a sunny day can be adapted. Sidewalk chalk games, hopscotch, jump rope, and bubble blowing are perfect for driveways or patios. A simple scavenger hunt can happen in a small yard or even a local park. For games like catch or frisbee, you just need a clear, safe space at a park or school field.
How can I make these games fun for a wide age group?
Team-based games are your best friend here. In games like capture the flag or relay races, you can mix older and younger kids on the same team. The older ones can take on more strategic or physically demanding roles, while younger kids can have important but simpler tasks, like guarding a base. You can also modify rules, like moving the throwing line closer for younger players in a bean bag toss.
Are there good options that don’t require buying special equipment?
Absolutely. Some of the best games need little more than imagination. “Red Light, Green Light,” “Simon Says,” “Tag,” and “Hide and Seek” are timeless classics. You can create an obstacle course with garden hoses, lawn chairs, and cardboard boxes. A “nature bingo” sheet can be drawn on a piece of paper, and kids can hunt for leaves, rocks, or flowers.
What are some safety tips for outdoor play on a hot day?
Sun protection and hydration are key. I always make sure kids have sunscreen on, wear hats, and take frequent water breaks in the shade. Schedule play for cooler parts of the day, like morning or late afternoon. Also, check the play area for hazards like holes, sharp objects, or excessive bee activity before starting.
How do I handle competitiveness and keep the games fun for everyone?
I focus on the spirit of play rather than just winning. For younger kids, I often avoid keeping strict score. Emphasizing teamwork, cheering for everyone’s efforts, and maybe even having silly, non-competitive “just for fun” rounds helps. If a game is causing frustration, it’s okay to switch to a different activity. The goal is happy memories, not trophies.