Backyard gatherings are becoming the go-to way to enjoy time with friends and family — and nothing brings people together like great yard games. Whether you're hosting a casual hangout, a full backyard BBQ, or an evening cocktail party on the patio, adult-friendly lawn games add excitement, laughs, and a sense of friendly competition.
At Seven Summers Patio, we believe your backyard should feel like an extension of your home — comfortable, stylish, and full of personality. So today we’re sharing the top 10 adult yard games that pair perfectly with your outdoor living space.
Let’s upgrade your next outdoor party.
1. Cornhole
A classic crowd-pleaser and arguably the king of adult yard games. Cornhole boards are simple to set up, fun for all ages, and ideal for casual competitions.
Why adults love it:
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Easy to learn
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Perfect for tournaments
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Playable after sunset with LED bags or light-up boards
Best patio pairing:
A couple of Adirondack chairs, spaced so spectators can watch both sides of the boards while relaxing with drinks.
2. Table Top Tower Game
Take the intensity of tabletop tower game and multiply it by three feet — now you’ve got one of the most exhilarating backyard games out there.
Why adults love it:
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Highly interactive
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Great icebreaker for new friends
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Gets hilarious as the tower gets taller (especially after a few beverages)
Best patio pairing:
A side table or coffee table nearby for drinks + a deep seating set where others can sit and cheer (or laugh).
3. Bocce Ball
Bocce is elegant, traditional, and surprisingly competitive. It requires a long, open stretch of yard but works beautifully even on turf or gravel.
Why adults love it:
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Strategy meets relaxation
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Perfect for groups of 4–8
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Can be played with one hand while holding a drink
Best patio pairing:
A lounge set or four-chair conversation set for players waiting between rounds.
4. Ladder Toss
This simple yet addictive game involves tossing bolas at a three-tiered ladder. The scoring system makes it great for long, relaxed games.
Why adults love it:
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Lightweight and portable
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Easy to set up for any event
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Competitive without being intense
Best patio pairing:
A dining set if you’re hosting a BBQ — ladder toss works great next to food and drinks so guests can play between bites.
5. Spikeball
Energetic, fast-paced, and perfect for guests who like something more physically active.
Why adults love it:
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Fast, sporty, and social
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Great for younger adult crowds
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Fits perfectly on turf or grass
Best patio pairing:
Place a sectional with an outdoor rug nearby so players can rest between rounds.
6. Giant Four-In-A-Row Game
A nostalgic favorite that looks great and keeps guests entertained for hours.
Why adults love it:
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Strategy-based
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Perfect for cocktail parties
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Attractive game that doubles as décor
Best patio pairing:
Set it next to a bar-height table or outdoor bar cart so guests have a spot for drinks while playing.
7. Ring Toss / Hook & Ring
Minimalist, stylish, and surprisingly addictive — especially the wall-mounted versions.
Why adults love it:
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Quick to learn
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Fits small patios or covered areas
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Great for casual, low-energy fun
Best patio pairing:
Hang it on a post near your patio dining set or pergola area.
8. KanJam
A flying disc game that’s perfect for big backyards and active crowds.
Why adults love it:
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Fun and fast
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Great for four-person teams
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Perfect summer energy
Best patio pairing:
Position a lounge chair set nearby so players can take breaks in comfort.
9. Horseshoes
A classic game with a timeless feel that pairs beautifully with rustic or natural-style outdoor setups.
Why adults love it:
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Traditional and satisfying
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Can be played for hours
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Great conversation game
Best patio pairing:
Place near your fire pit lounge so players can move between games and relaxation.
10. Yard Dice (Yardzee / Farkle)
Oversized wooden dice make traditional dice games a fun and competitive outdoor activity.
Why adults love it:
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Great for groups
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Play at a table or on the lawn
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Dozens of game variations
Best patio pairing:
A patio dining table is perfect for rolling dice and keeping score.
Final Tips for Hosting Game-Friendly Gatherings
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Keep seating nearby for comfort
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Use side tables for drinks/snacks
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Add string lights for nighttime games
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Keep games in a weather-resistant storage box
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Pick games that match your crowd's energy
Whether you want high-energy competition or laid-back fun, adult yard games bring unforgettable moments to your outdoor gatherings. Pair the right game with comfortable, durable patio furniture, and your backyard becomes the perfect entertainment spot all season long.
Ready to upgrade your setup? Browse Seven Summers Patio’s outdoor seating and lounge collections to build your best backyard yet.