10 Fun Outdoor Projects for the Family

You’ve spent a lot of time and thought decorating the inside of your home with personal touches that make it unique to you and your family. Why not give the same attention to your backyard? Summertime is all about getting outside and enjoying the sunshine. Convert your backyard into your favorite outdoor hangout by turning some simple outdoor projects into fun activities to do with friends and family.

Check out some easy summer weekend projects that you’ll actually look forward to doing!

1. Start a Garden

It doesn’t take a professional or even a large backyard to grow your own private stash of delicious fruits and vegetables. Set aside a little area to plant some tomatoes, blueberries, zucchini or whatever else will make the perfect compliment to your next cookout. Gardens are easy and fun to maintain, and you’ll definitely enjoy the fruits of your labor.

2. Set up a Game Day

Take advantage of your yard by organizing a game day.  Whether you’re building your own wooden corn hole set or simply setting up bocce ball or horseshoes, you’ll have a day full of fun for the whole family. 

3. Build a Tree Bench

There’s nothing like finding a shady spot to enjoy a good book during those hot summer days.  This project lets you create your own comfy spot in your backyard with a clever seating idea that will fit your style and landscape. 

4. Set Up an Outdoor Eating Space

Give yourself a nice space to host family and friends for picnics and parties.  Lay out bluestone or slate slabs for a custom patio space, or simply drag the picnic tables into the grass to accommodate crowded family cookouts. Set up the grill close by and get cooking!

5. Hang Decorative Lights

Stringing lights over the back patio or deck is a super easy, yet really effective way to add a little “wow” factor to your backyard.  They’ll brighten your space while adding visuals of your landscape long into those summer nights.

6. Plant Flowers in a Window Box

Everyone appreciates bright, fun flowers during the summer.  Freestanding pots are nice, but window boxes go a step further with a pop of color AND decorative flare.  They’ll add character to your home that can be seen inside and out.

7. Make a Mosaic

This decorative element gives you a chance to get creative and customize your yard with whatever design you choose. Build a pebble mosaic into your stone patio, or construct a mosaic birdhouse to welcome birds into your yard!  These pieces can really become focal points of your outdoor space.

8. Build a Tool Shed

Leaving your gardening tools out in the yard is a great way to end up with rusty, wet equipment. And, it also looks messy.  Sheds are great organizers that can also help free up yard and garage space. Constructing a wood lean-to shed against the house is simple and quick.

9. Add Landscape Lighting

Give your home some curb appeal with some lighting accents that make a big statement to guests and visitors. Lining your front walkway, steps or driveways with fun light fixtures not only adds a nice design element but a measure of safety as well.

10. Hang a Tree Swing or Hammock

No play set for the kids?  No problem.  Add a fun tree swing to an overhanging branch so they have a place to play without cluttering the yard.  Or if a nice, relaxing space is more what you’re going for, set up a hammock for mom and dad to enjoy.