10 Backyard Projects That Are Actually Worth Doing This Summer

Some backyard projects are a giant waste of time. But some? Totally worth it. The right projects actually make your yard easier to maintain, more enjoyable, and even boost your home’s value. The trick is knowing which ones are worth the effort and which ones won’t hold up.

Here are 10 backyard projects that are actually worth doing this summer—and will pay off long after.

Putting in a Fire Pit

A fire pit adds year-round use to your backyard. Whether it’s summer s’mores or a chilly fall evening, you’ll actually use it more than you think.

It’s one of the cheapest upgrades that feels high-end. Concrete pavers, gravel, or even a steel fire ring can pull it together without much money or skill needed.

Adding Raised Garden Beds

If you’ve ever thought about growing your own food, raised beds are worth every bit of effort. They make gardening easier, cleaner, and more productive.

Plus, they look way better than plants stuffed in random corners. A few boards, some screws, and good soil are all you need to start.

Installing a Gravel Patio

Gravel patios are cheaper, faster, and way easier than poured concrete or pavers. They still look clean and finished but take way less prep.

They’re perfect for setting up an outdoor dining area or a spot for lounge chairs. Plus, drainage isn’t an issue like it is with concrete.

Putting in a Shade Sail or Pergola

Backyards without shade don’t get used as much. A shade sail or a basic pergola totally changes that.

It makes sitting outside bearable in the summer, and it adds structure that makes the whole yard look more put together. Bonus—it’s cheaper than building a full patio cover.

Laying a Simple Stepping Stone Path

A basic path from your patio to the garden or shed does more than keep your shoes clean. It makes the yard look finished, intentional, and more functional.

Stepping stones are easy to install and don’t require much more than a level, some sand, and a weekend.

Building a Compost Bin

If you’ve got a garden or even flower beds, compost bins are worth it. They cut down on trash, feed your soil, and save money on fertilizers.

They’re also one of the cheapest DIYs you can tackle. You can build one out of scrap wood or pallets in an afternoon.

Hanging String Lights

String lights are one of the fastest ways to make your backyard feel like an actual hangout spot. It’s low effort with a huge payoff.

You don’t need an electrician or expensive fixtures. Run them between trees, poles, or your fence and watch the whole space feel different.

Installing a Privacy Screen

If you’ve got a nosy neighbor—or even if you don’t—privacy screens change everything. You can build one from wood slats, lattice, or even hang outdoor curtains.

It makes your patio or deck feel like an outdoor room instead of something that’s wide open and exposed.

Building a DIY Outdoor Bar

An outdoor bar doesn’t have to be fancy. A basic counter setup, a mini fridge, or even a rolling cart turns your patio into the go-to spot for gatherings.

It’s a small project that gets a lot of use in summer, especially if you like having friends or family over.

Fresh Mulch and Edging

It’s not glamorous, but nothing cleans up a yard faster than fresh mulch and crisp edges. Beds look neater, plants pop, and the whole space feels maintained.

This is the lowest-cost, highest-impact project on the list. A day of work makes the yard look 10x better without spending a ton.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.