Metro Media
Backyards are experiencing a resurgence in recent years. Driven largely by a collective desire to reduce screen time, which has surged among many age groups, particularly children, families are investing in physical play and recreational options at home.
Indeed, All About Play notes the global outdoor toy market is a growing industry valued at around $23 billion in 2026. Fortune Business Insights says outdoor play has an expected steady growth of 4.65 percent annually through 2034.
Modern outdoor spaces feature far more grass and a swing set. Such areas have evolved into activity hubs for everyone who wants to spend time in the yard. Whether a homeowner has a small patio or sprawling acreage, these games can make outdoor entertaining spaces more fun.
• Cornhole: A reigning champion of “toss” games, cornhole has legions of fans. Hard core players may want to invest in regulation-sized solid wood seats and weather-resistant professional bags.
• Pickleball: Portable pickleball nets allow for quick pop-up courts on grass or driveways. • Supersized games: Large versions of popular indoor games like Connect 4® and Jenga® enable play to be more hands-on and physical.
• Active play: The rise of digital active play systems has moved outdoors. Systems like Nex, for example, employ motion sensors to turn a backyard into a live-action video game. This bridges the gap for tech-savvy kids and adults who want to spend more time outdoors.
• Virtual reality: In a similar vein, players can take VR gear outdoors and enjoy the same rush of virtual play while outside in the fresh air.
• Modular playgrounds: All About Play says recent industry reports indicate the North American outdoor play structure market is expected to reach $850 million by 2033. Families are prioritizing one-stop play environments that include modular set-ups. Instead of single-use equipment, families are looking for systems that combine trampolines, adjustable basketball hoops and climbing frames, among other options.
Moving outdoors into the yard for recreation can be good for physical and mental health. Trends indicate certain backyard activities are particularly popular.
