Late summer is the perfect time to host outdoors, and these 59 essentials make it easy. From comfortable seating to clever serving solutions, each pick helps you create a space that feels relaxed and ready for company. Whether it’s a casual cookout or a sunset hang, these finds set the tone for effortless entertaining.
Guide your guests stylishly through your yard with this wooden pathway
If you want a walkway that can easily go from the garden to the patio or wherever your outdoor setup calls, check out this roll-out path made from weather-resistant cedar planks. Reviewers say this inexpensive option is super simple to set up and move around.
Win with this jumbo 4-in-a-row game
Make every occasion more fun with this giant version of four-in-a-row connect game. It’s 28 inches tall, but it is easily portable and a snap to pack up or pull out. The sturdy wood is suitable for outdoor use and tough enough for the most intense battles.
This side table doubles as a cooler
Slide away the top of this side table and squirrel away your favorite brews, keeping them ice cold all day long. The fade- and crack-resistant material ensures this table is around for decades.
A multicolored floral rug to add a nice pop of color to your backyard
If you don’t want to overhaul your patio but still want to make it feel more finished, check out this floral outdoor rug. It’s an easy way to add a pop of color and give the space a cozier feel, and, as a bonus, it helps protect the stone or deck underneath it. You can even bring it indoors if you want the look to carry inside.
Beat the heat in your own inflatable swimming pool
Make a splash with the family in your own inflatable pool. Big enough for the whole family and built to last, this pool could be a staple of every summer to come.
These planters look like they would cost way more than they do
Planters can get really expensive, so save your style (and your wallet) from high-end planter prices by going for this matching set instead. This set is made from speckled-white stone, making it a reliable, modern staple for your backyard. They’re available in lots of sizes and colors.
String up these solar-powered bulbs
Bring a whimsical aura to your outdoor space this season with outdoor string lights, which can be charged via USB or with small solar panels. The 25-foot string can be hung over a deck rail, around a gazebo, or against a wall to create a twinkling appearance.
These outdoor string lights are solar-powered
Create the ultimate lighting setup with these outdoor string lights, which include 12 LED lights and a detachable solar panel. These long-lasting string lights are also weatherproof and are great for smaller spaces, as they measure 27 feet. Shoppers like their timeless and classic designs.
Light up your backyard with this outdoor table lamp
Illuminate your patio, backyard, or campsite with this battery-operated outdoor table lamp. It has a waterproof structure, durable PE shade, outdoor-grade coating, and 360-degree warm light. And you don’t need any wires, so it works wherever you go.
A comfort pro rocker that’s ideal for the ball field
‘Love this chair! I needed a new summer chair for the ball field. Easy to carry, open, and use. Love that it rocks, has a cupholder, and a pocket for my phone. I get so many compliments every time I use it, and the color is beautiful!’ That was a helpful review, but one feature the customer didn’t mention is the mesh backrest, which makes this chair an excellent choice for summer.
A garden bridge for charm
A garden bridge is such a classy and cozy element that works in any backyard. It can be positioned over grass, rocks, a small stream, or a field of flowers for a seamless appearance. Made with solid fir wood, the thick bridge offers long-lasting aesthetics.
Keep the party going long after the sun goes down with this fire pit
Instantly upgrade your outdoor setup with this fire pit with two grills that’s as functional as it is inviting. It’s an Amazon’s Choice product for a reason — it’s designed to burn with almost no smoke, keeping the air clear. It’s the perfect backyard size and makes a great excuse to end the night with s’mores.
A pop-up gazebo to add in some bug and sun protection
This pop-up gazebo is a great way to enjoy your backyard without getting eaten alive by mosquitoes. It offers 121 square feet of coverage and a top-air vent to keep things cool inside. You can drop the mosquito netting when needed or keep it open for a light, breezy atmosphere.
You two won’t know how you ever lived without this inflatable hot tub
Pretend you’re on vacation every day with this Coleman inflatable hot tub. With massaging jets and adjustable heat, it’s the perfect way to chill together and add a little luxury to your backyard. Talk about a gift that keeps on giving!
This stump table is made from reclaimed wood
Add a bit of nature to your space with this side table. Made from reclaimed cedar stumps, this table features an organic shape and is has an easy to paint surface for fun customization.
Light up your space with an outdoor floor lantern
Illuminate your outdoor space with this modern outdoor floor lamp, which uses solar power to stay charged. You get up to 10 hours of nighttime glow from a sunny day, so you don’t have to worry about plugs or recharging.
Transform your space with a hardtop canopy
You can completely revamp your backyard with this hardtop canopy designed for long-lasting use. It has a galvanized steel roof that can withstand the harsh elements, and curtains for enhanced privacy. This one item can turn a bland backyard into an oasis.
This Taco Tuesday kit keeps your toppings warm and separate
If they take their Tuesday nights a little more seriously than most, they need this taco bar setup. It keeps fillings warm, toppings separate, and rotates—it’s basically the dream setup.
Stay cool and comfortable while dining outdoors with this patio umbrella
There’s nothing more essential for sunny days than a patio umbrella. This best-selling option spans nine feet in diameter, offering plenty of shade for patio sets with four to six chairs. For its low price, shoppers were impressed as it provides “ample, deep shade that blocks rain and sun.”
This weather-resistant speaker with a hidden stake
Enjoy your favorite playlists without worrying about conventional speakers. This powerful outdoor speaker blends right into your space with an adjustable stake that keeps it secure in the ground, and it even features LED light modes to match the vibe. We love its multiple color options.
A fan that’s made to work outside
Looking for a fan that will give your backyard a hotel feel? This outdoor option from Lasko is built to handle the elements, featuring UV- and weather-resistant features that make it excellent for summer gatherings. It offers four-speed settings to help you beat the heat so you and your guests can stay comfortable well into the evening.
This satisfying ice cube tray with a lid and a bin
What better way to show your parties extra love than with an ice cube tray that’s fun and practical? This one makes popping out ice cubes feel like the satisfying experience of popping bubble wrap—but with the bonus of perfect ice cubes. It also comes with a storage bin so that you can make loads of ice at once.
A versatile blanket full of vibrant colors to add joy
Eat s’mores under the stars or sip tea by the fire with this handmade blanket that’s perfect for cool outdoor evenings. Reviewers say it’s soft, warm, and just the right weight, whether you’re draping it over your outdoor chairs or keeping a few folded in a basket nearby. We love its colorful Mexican design.
This checked tablecloth is stain-, weather-, and UV-resistant
If you want a tablecloth that just screams summer to your gathering, opt for this red-and-white plaid number. The classic checked pattern is perfect for barbecues or Fourth of July celebrations. According to the brand, it’s stain, weather, and UV-resistant, so it’ll hold up for years to come.
This stove cover adds extra counter space
Need more counter space? Add it with this acacia wood stove cover that protects your stovetop while adding farmhouse charm to your kitchen. You can also use it as a serving tray, charcuterie board, or bathtub snack tray.
These burner covers keep your stovetop spotless
Keep your stovetop sparkling clean with these gas stove burner covers. Grease, spills, burnt-on food—they’re no match for these handy protectors. Simply trim them to fit your burners and easily wipe them down as needed.
Tabletop firepit makes s’mores
Your friend who loves s’mores will go crazy when they see you got them this mini fireplace. Working as a stylish centerpiece for winter and a way to have campfires in the summer, it also comes with a kit for roasting treats.
This handy sun sail that creates shade where you need it
If your backyard doesn’t have a ton of shade, consider making your own by hanging up this sun sail. It’s made from high-density polytethylene that allows wind and water to pass through, so there’s no need to worry about having to empty it out after a rainy day. Stainless steel D-rings at each corner make it easy to hang up. And with 16 colors to choose from, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one that suits your backyard.
These solar-powered lights are easy to install
Simply stake these lights to enjoy added lighting right where you need it. The solar panels mean there’s no need to run wiring and the IP65 waterproofing keeps them yard-worthy for years.
Create your dream outdoor space with these mason jar lights
Some mason jar lights will not only add a cozy glow to your backyard but also help keep your space safely lit after dark. As a plus, these solar-powered jars are designed to handle all kinds of weather, so you can hang them high or low without worrying about cords or sudden rain ruining the vibe.
Enjoy a well-deserved moment in the sun in this three-person swing chair
This three-person swing is the ultimate way to unwind with loved ones right in your backyard. It features a built-in canopy to keep you shaded during sunny days and offers plenty of space to lounge. Better yet, its metal composition is easy to clean if your kids spill anything on it.
The flickering LED torches that look like they’re filled with real flames
While tiki torches a fun addition to any backyard, constantly having to fill them with fuel can be a real pain. Enter: these LED torches. The bulbs on the insides flicker just like real flames, giving them an oh-so realistic look — even when up close. But if that isn’t enough? A solar panel built into the top of each one keeps them lit for up to 12 hours at night.
There’s a cozy vibe to this 3-piece outdoor wicker bistro set
Be it for company, a friend, or you and your partner, a three-piece outdoor wicker bistro set provides a lovely and comfortable place to relax outdoors. And like any good outdoor set should be, each piece is weather-resistant to keep it in good condition outside.
Soak some rays in these chaise lounge chairs
Yes, yes, a towel on the grass works in a pinch, but if you’re looking to truly relax under the sun, opt for these foldable chaise lounge chairs. They’re perfect for soaking up rays in comfort, and they even come with a handy little side table — just the right size for your SPF and water.
Get value out of both forms of this 2-in-1 transforming picnic table
If you think about it, a 2-in-1 transforming picnic table is double the bang for your buck. In one form, this clever wooden furniture is a picnic table with two benches for chowing down. And transformed, it becomes a bench for basking in the summer sun.
This waterproof storage box is just what you’ve been looking for
Enjoy keeping a large amount of your favorite outdoor items safely tucked away in this waterproof storage box. Made to be kept out in all sorts of weather, this box is durable and long-lasting. Large enough to house many of your favorite outdoor materials and strong enough to take a beating, you’ll love the durability of this outdoor storage box.
An above-ground pool that will make your house super fun
You can save money and still enjoy a pool with this above-ground steel swimming pool, complete with a ladder, filter, and pool cover. The puncture-resistant design can be set up on a wide range of surfaces, and the pool has a spacious design so multiple people can dive in.
Keep the table lit all night with this light
Simple and easy to install, this Edison bulb umbrella light attaches to almost any type of umbrella and ensures you and the family can enjoy the backyard, no matter how late it gets.
Add style and storage with this firewood rack
This firewood storage rack is elegant, stylish, and just funky enough. The weather-resistant bronze frame features a rust patina to offer an antique look and keep it from showing signs of aging.
This sturdy hammock that won’t break the bank
Not only is this hammock available for less than $100, but its sturdy frame can easily hold up to 450 pounds, so feel free to let two people lounge on it at the same time. “Comfortable, easy to install, and doesn’t take up too much room,” wrote one reviewer. “It’s perfect for my small deck.” Choose from six colors: beige stripes, sunset orange, green, and more.
An outdoor heater that makes it possible to hang out in the yard even in the fall
Covering up to a 9-foot radius, this outdoor heater is the perfect way to extend your patio season into the chillier months. It has a safety auto-shutoff and is also on wheels, making it easy to move around. It’s excellent value for money, especially if you plan on spending a ton of time outside.
A sleek raised garden bed to house all your plants and vegetables in style
Your patio setup just got so much better, thanks to this raised garden bed on wheels. It’s perfect for showcasing blooming flowers and winding vines, while the elevated design adds a stylish touch. Bonus: with a tall trellis, it serves as elegant décor for displaying your fresh-cut bouquets
This strap-laden patio furniture cover isn’t going anywhere
If we really couldn’t convince you to upgrade your current patio set, you can at least invest in an affordable patio furniture cover to protect what you have now. Using the buckles on each corner, as well as velcro straps, this durable cover will hug your furniture snugly to keep the weather off. And it’s available in no fewer than fourteen sizes.
These lounge chairs come with a side table
Ergonomic lounge chairs are outdoor classics for a reason: They turn your backyard into a personal retreat. Thanks to its zero-gravity design, which features a smooth range of motion that supports your entire body, you can comfortably kick back or sit straight up. Plus, it comes with a neck pillow and a side table for drinks or snacks.
Use food covers to keep snacks safe
These pop-up mesh food covers are must-haves for outdoor parties and backyard BBQs, as they keep bugs away from food, but still show off the tasty treats and let heat out. Your food can stay fresher for longer without flies buzzing around it.
A grill caddy to keep all of your supplies together
Whether you’re camping, chilling at home, or out for a picnic, this grill caddy is the essential carrying kit for all of your grilling must-haves. This strong black metal caddy includes a paper towel holder and has seven compartments for all of your grilling tools and spices to be organized.
This countertop dishwasher doesn’t need to be plumbed in
This countertop dishwasher is great for small spaces. It has a five-liter water tank, so you can use it anywhere without plumbing. It can wash over 30 items on a normal, rapid, steam, or glass setting. It also has one dedicated to washing fruit.
An electric warming tray that keeps food fresh and hot
Whether you’re a frequent host or just want to enjoy your meals at the perfect temperature, this electric warming tray is a valuable addition to your setup. It features nine temperature settings to keep your food from slightly warm to piping hot and even has a roll-up design for easy storage.
Host in style with an oversize rattan tray
The large rattan tray is a multifunctional favorite—perfect for serving drinks, organizing coffee table items, or anchoring decorative pieces. Its woven texture brings warmth and casual elegance to both indoor and outdoor settings.
Solpex solar deck lights are a safe addition that’ll spice up your outdoor space
A set of subtle Solpex solar deck lights can contribute to both the safety and aesthetic to your deck or patio. With their right angle shapes, these lights can be attached right to the edge of a deck handrail, spreading warm light to the floor below.
Stay cool with friends beneath a sizable beach tent
Simple, yet effective, one of these beach tents is set to make your seaside vacation a lot more comfortable. After a simple setup, this shelter can cover up to eight people, offering shade from the sun on the spot.
Make appetizers even more appetizing with these mini slate charcuterie boards
This 6-pack of mini slate charcuterie boards gives hosts a fun way to serve up cheese and snacks. They even come with chalk, so you can label everything and make your holiday spread look delish.
Turn your home into a pizza parlor with this outdoor oven
Whether you’re planning to elevate your dinners or host a backyard feast, you can’t go wrong with this wood-fired outdoor oven. It can operate on charcoal or wood, allowing you to customize your cooking experience. While the double-layered design is specifically designed for making pizzas, you can make everything, and it is versatile enough to grill up smoky foods.
Keep the party going on chilly summer nights with this fire table
Fire pits tend to attract big crowds on cool summer nights, but with this 28-ich fire table, you can create that cozy atmosphere right in your own backyard. It has rave reviews because it is “easy to assemble” and designed to hide a propane tank so that it will see you through many occasions. Plus, the screen keeps errant sparks contained.
Firefly lights for a magical summer
Invite some playfulness into your space with these enchanting garden lights that are meant to mimic fireflies. The flexible bases can be twisted anyway to create a uniform or more natural appearance. They’re waterproof and charge automatically during the day to last all night.