Backyard Gazebo Ideas

Gazeboes are a relaxing place to get away from your daily stresses, but in your own backyard. Your mini vacation spot can also act as a hip hang-out for friends, family, or can act as your own personal getaway. In addition to the perks, the can also raise your property value as well. Whether you’re planning on constructing or just updating your current gazebo, here are some tips and ideas to make your outdoor hangout top notch.

Craft a backyard mini-bar

Everyone knows food and drinks taste better under the sun. Whether it be for drinks and cocktails, or grilling and a buffet, everyone benefits from a minibar. You can cater your guests with drinks during a sports game, or even host family holidays under the sun.

Turn your couch into storage

The empty spaces below your couches and minibar can act as storage units to hold vital gazebo accessories. You can build your own wooden chests to slide under, build seating with built-in storage, or simply purchase outdoor couches with storage spots under the cushions.

Don’t forget the bug repellant

Mosquitos and other biting bugs can ruin your time outside, don’t let them ruin a night in your outdoor pad. There are plenty of options you can take to repel night-time pests.

Bug zappers are probably the most popular route. Bugs are attracted to light, so providing a fluorescent light that is brighter than your gazebo lighting will deter bugs away from you and into the bug zapper. Unfortunately, bug zappers will not deter bugs from you if they choose to ignore the fluorescent light.

Citronella candles and torches can provide subtle lighting to your gazebo while deterring bugs. Citronella works by masking scents that mosquitos and bugs are attracted to, acting as a camoflogue, but the fragrance version.

Installing bug reflecting plants is another way to avoid pest while also adding to your backyard scenery. Just like citronella, certain plants will mask the scents bugs are attracted to or even repel them. Lemongrass, basil, and lavender can spruce up your exterior while simultaneously solving your pesky problems. Fun fact, citronella is actually made from lemongrass.

Heating and cooling accessories

Add an outdoor fan, ceiling fan, or even a swamp cooler to cool off the interior of your gazebo. Your gazebo does not have to be reserved for only the mild and warm months, but the right heating accessories can make it a winter hangout as well. A gazebo can be equipped with glass enclosures, electric heating, a nearby fire pit, or you can take even install a hot tub.

Subtle lighting and sound

Evenings, nights, and mornings can feel harmonious in a gazebo. Subtle lighting can set a tranquil mood during the times when sunlight is at a minimum. String lights and candles can provide the perfect amount of low-level lighting, and installing outdoor speakers only makes this better. Set the mood, put on some peaceful music or a podcast, and wind down after a busy week.

Create your own backyard sports bar

Football season is just around the corner, so why not create an MVP-caliber gazebo? Whether you’re cheering on your alma mater on college gameday Saturdays, rooting for your favorite NFL team, or both, get out of the house and enjoy your favorite teams outside.

The first thing you will need is a TV, obviously. Even better, pair it with some outdoor Bluetooth speakers for cordless surround sound, which will also add music to your gazebo after the games finish. You can equip your gazebo with outdoor accessories of your favorite teams, like stream lighting or outdoor rugs. Then simply add a few of the tips listed above and your football ready gazebo is complete!

The cherry on top: Your outdoor sports bar can be the prime hangout during the NBA, MLB, and NHL playoffs too.