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Free Shipping on All Swing Sets, Gaga Ball Pits, Basketball Hoops, and Pergolas & Gazebos
Free Shipping on All Swing Sets, Gaga Ball Pits, Basketball Hoops, and Pergolas & Gazebos
To children, a backyard playset isn’t just an addition to the yard — it’s a place where adventures come to life, imaginations run wild, and memories are made through hours of play and exploration. The best backyard playsets offer kids a safe place to burn energy, develop physical skills, and build friendships with other children.Â
Whether your kids are climbing, swinging, or role-playing, a well-chosen playset for the backyard can become a place where they can make cherished memories. Meanwhile, parents have peace of mind knowing their kids are nearby and are engaged in wholesome, fun activities in the fresh air.Â
If you’re considering adding one to your yard, read this guide to buying a backyard playset first. It walks you through the most important factors to consider when choosing a playset, from available space and safety to materials and features. By the end, you’ll be equipped with all the information you need to make the best choice for your family.
For kids, choosing a playset is easy. They’ll choose the one that looks the most fun! For grown-ups looking for the best backyard playset for their backyard, however, there are other practical considerations. Knowing what to look for in a kids’ backyard playset helps ensure you select one that fits your yard, suits your family’s needs, and provides lasting enjoyment to your little ones.Â
Before choosing a playset, assess your available yard space. Start by measuring the area where you plan to install the playset, considering both the playset’s dimensions and the surrounding space required for safe use.
Minimum Clearance: To accommodate swings, slides, and active play, allow at least six feet of clearance around the entire playset.
Ground Surface: Check for uneven terrain, slopes, or obstacles like tree roots and large rocks. These can affect stability and may require ground preparation.
Placement: Choose a location with good visibility from the house so you can keep an eye on your children while they play. A shaded area can also help protect kids from sun exposure during long play sessions.
Safety should be a top priority when it comes to backyard playsets. A well-designed playset minimizes risks and ensures children enjoy their playtime without unnecessary hazards.
Age-Appropriate Features: Select designs suited to your children’s ages and abilities. For example, toddlers may need low platforms and enclosed slides, while older kids might enjoy monkey bars and climbing walls.
Materials and Hardware: In order to reduce the risk of injury, look for sturdy construction with smooth finishes, rounded edges, and securely fastened bolts.
Budgeting for a backyard playset involves more than the upfront cost. Consider additional expenses, such as shipping, installation, and any site preparation.
Balancing Cost and Quality: While lower-priced options can be appealing, investing in a durable, well-constructed playset will often save money in the long run by reducing repair or replacement costs. Reputable brands such as Backyard Discovery, Gorilla Playsets, and KidWise offer a range of options at different price points, making it easier to find a quality playset that fits your budget.
Hidden Costs: Remember to account for extras like safety surfacing, assembly tools, and professional installation if needed.
The number of children who will use the playset and their age ranges play a big role in determining its size and features.
For Toddlers: Look for playsets with smaller platforms, enclosed slides, and bucket swings designed for younger children.
For Older Kids: Larger, more complex playsets with climbing walls, taller slides, and monkey bars offer a greater challenge and keep older kids entertained.
Shared Use: If multiple children of different ages will use the playset, consider a modular design with various features.
Not too long ago, flimsy, uncoated metal playsets were common in playgrounds and parks. Fortunately, we now have more options when it comes to materials.Â
When looking for a playset for your backyard, be sure to assess its material and construction, as these affect not just its durability, appearance, and maintenance needs but also the safety of its users.Â
Wooden Playsets: Cedar and redwood are popular choices for their natural beauty and resistance to rot. They also don’t get as hot as plastic or metal. However, wooden playsets may require periodic sealing or staining to maintain their appearance.
Plastic Playsets: Lightweight and easy to maintain, plastic playsets are best suited for toddlers and younger children. They are less durable over time but often more affordable.
Metal Playsets: Modern metal playsets are very durable and often powder-coated to resist rust. However, while the coating prevents corrosion, it doesn’t keep the metal from getting hot.Â
Weather Resistance: Consider the climate in your area and choose materials that can withstand the elements without excessive wear.
Safety Tips: Regardless of the material you choose, consider placing the kids’ playset in a shaded spot. Another option is to use shade structures, like canopies, pergolas, and sunsails.Â
A good warranty offers added reassurance and helps protect your playset for years.
Structural Components: Check if the warranty covers important parts like beams, hardware, and slides, as these are essential for durability.
Brand-Specific Benefits: Trusted brands such as Backyard Discovery and Gorilla Playsets provide generous warranties, reflecting their commitment to creating dependable and family-friendly playsets.
While playsets from known brands can be slightly costlier than those from lesser-known manufacturers, these brands are trusted for a reason. They typically have better quality control processes in place, prioritize child safety, provide reliable customer support, and, as mentioned, offer better warranties.
Backyard Discovery: This brand offers a wide selection of designs at fair prices. Its playsets are well-constructed and have many features kids love.Â
Gorilla Playsets: If your top priority is durability, consider a Gorilla Playsets product. Their wooden backyard playsets are built to last and provide excellent value.
KidWise: Fun and functionality define KidWise, a brand that stands out for its innovative playset designs and unique features.
Playsets come in three main configurations: fixed, modular, and upgraded. Â
Fixed Designs: Simple and sturdy, these playsets are ready to use right out of the box and work well for families who want a reliable, no-fuss option.
Modular Designs: Modular playsets let you start with the basics and add features like swings, slides, or climbing walls as your kids grow and their interests evolve.
Upgraded Playsets: These include extras like built-in playhouses, shade canopies, and picnic tables, providing added versatility and fun for the whole family.
With so many options available, finding the perfect playset is easier when you know what features to prioritize. Each addition enhances the play experience and serves a specific purpose, such as encouraging physical activity, creating a space for imaginative play, or providing a place to relax.
The following are some of the most popular features and how they can create an exciting and functional play area for your family.
Swings are a timeless favorite that provides fun and relaxation for kids of all ages. Playsets come with one or more types of swings, such as belt, bucket, and tandem.Â
Belt Swings: Ideal for older children
Bucket Swings: Provide the safety and support younger kids need
Tandem Swings: Allow siblings or friends to swing together, encouraging cooperative play
When choosing a playset with swings, make sure the chains are sturdy enough to support the weight of the intended users. Some brands offer children’s playsets with swings strong enough to support adults so kids can play with their parents and older loved ones.Â
Other safety considerations for swings are:Â
Coatings: Chains with smooth coatings help prevent pinched fingers
Seat Durability: Choose swing seats made from durable materials like reinforced plastic or rubber, which resist cracking, fading, and weather damage over time.
Swing Spacing: Proper spacing between swings helps ensure kids can play without risk of collisions.
Young thrill-seekers will definitely enjoy a playset with a slide. Apart from the fun factor, slides also encourage physical activity as well as help improve coordination and balance as kids climb and descend.
There are many types of slides incorporated into backyard playsets. Options include wave slides for added fun, spiral slides for a longer descent, and tube slides that feel like a secret passage. Choose a height that matches your kids’ comfort levels.
Safety Tips: Non-slip steps and secure handrails make climbing up safer, while a proper landing area at the bottom minimizes the risk of injuries. Ensure the slide material stays cool in direct sunlight to avoid burns.
Climbing features challenge kids physically while building strength, balance, and confidence. They’re especially great for energetic children who love to explore.
Popular climbing features include the following:Â
Ladders
Climbing Walls
Monkey Bars
RopesÂ
When choosing a set with climbing features, be sure to match them with your child’s age and skill level. For instance, younger children might prefer low-angled walls or soft-grip ropes, while older kids can tackle taller climbing walls or overhead monkey bars.
Inspire imaginative play with a playhouse! These miniature houses provide kids with a place to pretend play and act out adventures. They also offer a cozy, shaded space for rest, giving kids a break from more physically demanding activities.
Some playsets have basic playhouses, while others have playhouses with features like doors, windows, mail slots, and play kitchens. What’s more, some playhouses even come with themed designs, such as castles and kitchens.
Elevated play areas add an extra layer of excitement to any playset. Kids love the thrill of climbing to a higher vantage point.
Railings, lookout points, and shade canopies make these spaces safer and more comfortable. Some play decks include attached slides or climbing features for easy access. Whether it’s a pirate ship’s crow’s nest or a lookout tower, elevated spaces spark imagination and add a sense of accomplishment.
Picnic tables are a practical addition that transforms a playset into a multi-use space. They’re perfect for snacks, crafts, or even doing homework in the fresh air.
Playsets with built-in tables save space and keep everything in one area. Larger playsets may include separate picnic areas with benches and shade.
While not essential, certain accessories can take a playset to the next level, making it even more enjoyable and unique. Features like telescopes, steering wheels, lights, and tic-tac-toe boards add variety to a playset. These accessories are often inexpensive and easy to install. Meanwhile, small add-ons like a play phone or a periscope can ignite a child’s imagination and create lasting memories.
When it’s time to choose the perfect playset, turn to The Backyard Guys. We carry top playset brands like Backyard Discovery, Gorilla Playsets, and KidWise at low prices. What’s more, if you see the “Call for Better Price” link under a product you like, just call us at 866-725-4054. We’ll give you a coupon code to get a discount at checkout.Â
We offer free shipping to all lower 48 states, with no minimum orders. Our goal is to make shopping for a kids’ backyard playset as pleasant and stress-free as possible!
Explore the wide selection of playsets on The Backyard Guys website, and order today!
