Transform your backyard into the ultimate hangout with our best ideas for outdoor bars.
Few things are better than a cold drink with your favorite people in the summertime.
With our collection of best outdoor bar ideas, your backyard will become the go-to hangout for the season.
Credit: Matthew Clark
A workbench-inspired design makes simple workand plenty of storage spacefor all the alfresco cocktail essentials.
Add an ice bucket and serving essentials to the top when guests are over for easy entertaining.
Tubs of ice, glasses, and a variety of beverages will easily fit on this roomy stone bar.
Credit:Kritsada Panichgul
Repurpose a Rolling Cart
Transform a stainless-steel kitchen prep station into a portable drink station.
Multiple levels and shelves are perfect for storing and serving.
Tubs of ice and drink dispensers make it easy for guests to grab their favorite drink.
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Add string lights for ambience and simpler serving after dark.
The clever design features nooks for napkins and small planters within the base.
Roll a cart inside for the perfect spot for mixing drinks or arranging an alfresco buffet.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
Large windows and a Dutch-style door allow for plenty of airflow.
Built-in appliances look intentional by using the same bricks as the house.
Make It Pool-Friendly
Your outdoor bar isn’t limited to the patio.
Credit: John Granen
Take it poolside with abar cart.
Make a splash by adding some fun decor and snacks.
Simply bring your supplies outside and place them on any available tabletop.
Credit:Ann Vanderwiel Wilde
Let the interior of your home inspire your outdoor living spaces.
Here, a faux bamboo cart in a gold finish elevates thecovered deckwith style.
Plenty of flowers, cocktail tables, and seating make for a space that serves an indoor-outdoor feel.
Credit: Bob Stefko
Add a Built-In Ice Bucket
Dave Bryce
Here, cocktails take centerpiece status.
Whatever your strategy, consider your partygoers, and the scene youre hoping to create, and plan accordingly.
Consider your time and cost constraints to create an outdoor bar youll enjoy all season long.
Credit: Adam Albright
Establish Multiple Bar Zones
An outdoor bar can include more than just a countertop and mini-fridge.
Encourage people to spill over to different spots throughout your yard for more relaxed, intimate conversations.
Supply interconnected spaces that shift in layout or material to indicate a different function.
Credit:John Granen
Cocktails on the Move
Victoria Pearson
An outdoor cocktail bar doesnt have to be a static display.
String lights overhead brighten the space once the sun goes down.
This one has all the necessary elementsseating, storage, and serving.
Credit:Jim Franco
The long concrete slab bar is perfect for entertaining large gatherings by the fire.
Plus, it’s easy to clean and can handle almost any punch in of weather.
A fridge works well for this cooking-bar combo setup, with space for both drinks and often-used condiments.
Credit:Ed Gohlich
If you have two separate areas, locate the bar’s fridge in a central spot for easy access.
One way to capture the sunlight without sacrificing overhead protection is a pergola.
It offers pretty rays and natural light for both the bar and the adjacent conversation area.
Credit:Marty Baldwin
Baskets with handles help tidy drinks and make them easy to carry.
The sleek finish of the table provides superior wipe-ability for easy cleanup.
Fortunately, there are outdoor bar options that offer both portability and function.
Credit:Dave Bryce
Here, a cleverly disguised chest cooler sits inside a large movable cart.
The cart also offers extra storage with a few open shelves.
Cold-Weather Outdoor Bar
Rebekah Molloy
Who says outdoor bars are strictly warm-weather winners?
Credit:David Tsay
Even a snowy locale can provide the perfectrespite for an apres ski moment.
Just ensure your bar is stocked with hot beverages (hot cocoa, anyone?)
and plenty of blankets for cuddling up.
Credit:Kathryn Gamble
This exuberant setup follows a tropical theme, complete with a grass skirt around the buffet table.
Small decor items like vibrant plants and leis boost the decorating theme.
When in use, a shelf lowers down to create more space for glasses and other accoutrements.
Credit:Annie Schlechter
Utilize the top of the cubby for a bit of decor and a few crowd-pleasing bar snacks.
In addition, exterior drapes made from weather-resistant fabric can help shield family and friends from intense summer rays.
Move the bar indoors during the colder months.
Credit:Dave Bryce
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Credit:Victoria Pearson
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Credit:Rebekah Molloy
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Credit: Peter Krumhardt
