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There’s something about the pure joy of swinging that transcends the decades and fills kids of all ages with a sense of glee. But in case you weren’t aware, backyard swing sets have undergone a major transformation since we were kids. In addition to swings, they often include a whole lot of other fun features like slides, climbing walls, monkey bars, forts, trapeze bars and more.
It’s like having a park in your own backyard! And they also come in a variety of materials and sizes to fit your space and meet the needs of your kids and family. Our list of the 20 best swing sets will fill you in on the latest and greatest when it comes to backyard playsets.
Not only will they keep your kids active and entertained, but they’ll also help you skip the trip to the park by bringing the playground to you! And as an added special bonus, we’ve included some swings that adults will love too!
Let’s start the fun!
Editor Favorites:
Wooden Swing Sets
Wood swing sets are a great option because of their durability and overall appearance. The wood material elevates them past traditional playground equipment. And with a little maintenance, they age well and come in every configuration you can think of.
When choosing a wooden swing set, look for cedar or redwood, which are more resistant to the elements as well as bugs. And be sure to maintain the stain on your set in order to increase its durability and longevity.
1. Creative Playthings Spring Hill Swing Set
Dimensions: 15 x 14 x 11 ft
Ages: 2 months to 15 years
Overview
We love that this swing set is made from dense yellow pine and treated with Sherwin Wiliams water repellent stain for extra protection from the elements. It also has nice safety features like non-slip ladder rungs and Plastisol-coated swing chains.
But your kids will love it because of all of its variety of fun features like two swings, a trapeze, a slide, a picnic table and a covered clubhouse up top. The company also offers attachments that you can add or swap over time, like a standing swing, steering wheel and more.
Pros
Extremely sturdy and quality swing set
Good safety features
Variety of attachments that can be swapped out
Things to Keep in Mind
Yes, it’s a quality set, but it comes with a hefty price tag.
2. The Backyard Discovery Skyfort II
Dimensions: 16.6 x 22.6 x 12.4 ft
Ages: 3 to 10+
Overview:
With its crow’s nest lookout, sandbox, wave slide, monkey bars and rock climbing wall, it’s easy to see why everyone is losing their mind for The Backyard Discovery Skyfort II. It’s an all-in-one playhouse with an extras situation.
However, it is a beast, so you’ll need plenty of room to accommodate it. And assembly is understandably challenging, so you may want to check out the interactive assembly instructions and bring in reinforcements.
Pros
Tons of features will keep kids of all ages entertained
Made of attractive and durable cedar wood
Things to Keep in Mind
Assembly could be challenging
Taller features are a safety concern, so supervision is recommended.
3. The KidKraft Andorra Cedar Wood Swing Set
Dimensions: 10.25 x 9 x 7.75 feet
Ages: 3 to 10
Overview:
Featuring a sandbox, chalkboard, shaded canopy and two belt swings, the Andorra Swing Set will keep your kids happy without taking up the whole backyard.
Pros
Multiple features
Smaller footprint
Things to Keep in Mind
This design needs to be staked into the ground, so it’s not suitable for hard surfaces
Some buyers found that the vinyl chalkboard is difficult to tighten
4. Little Tikes Real Wooden Adventure Bobcat Ridge Outdoor Playset
Dimensions: 26.5 x 15.9 x 10.5
Ages: 3+
Overview:
With its multi-tiered clubhouse, suspended rope bridge, rock wall, cargo net and monkey bars, the Bobcat Ridge Swing Set is ready for some serious adventure play. It also includes two classic rope swings, a nest swing and the cutest picnic table you’ve ever seen.
Pros:
With tons of features, this swing set offers endless entertainment for kids
Buyers like the solidity and quality of this set
Things to Keep in Mind
This set is gargantuan, so you’ll need lots of space
Due to its size, assembly is a big job (be sure to check out the interactive instructions)
5. KindKraft Falcon Ridge Swing Set
Dimensions: 20 x 11.4 x 11
Ages: 3 to 10
Overview:
If fun features are what you’re looking for, the Falcon Ridge Swing Set should be on your shortlist. While it does have two belt swings and a glider swing, what we’ve got here is essentially a clubhouse with a deluxe kitchen, dormer, shiplap and lots of windows.
Throw in the coveted Twist ‘N Ride Tube slide, a rock climbing wall and two wave slides, and this backyard set has basically every accessory known to swing sets.
Pros
The unique clubhouse and features make this swing set super entertaining.
Things to Keep in Mind
All those features come at a pretty heavy price.
Assembly can be a bear, so you’ll need to set aside some time and help from a buddy.
6. Backyard Discovery Beach Front Wooden Swing Set
Dimensions: 5.5 x 5.7 x 3.9 ft
Ages: 3+
Overview
Hello, beachfront property! Okay, more like kiddie pool adjacent property, but that’s how you’ll feel under the striped canopy umbrella in the Backyard Discovery Beach Front Wooden Swing Set. A steering wheel and telescope mean your little ones can set sail on the high seas and still be home on time for dinner. And the swing beam holds two belt swings and a trapeze bar.
Pros
This swing set comes in at a lower price point than many on our list but still provides a good amount of entertainment.
Things to Keep in Mind
Although the manufacturer states this set is suitable for kids up to 10, many parents claim it’s too small for taller kids (so you may want to think more like 3 to 7 years).
7. Backyard Discovery Caribbean Swing Set
Dimensions: 16.4 x 20.5 x 12.3 ft
Ages: 3+
Overview
This swing set gets extra points for style with its adorable Caribbean style clubhouse. Kids will also get a kick out of the extra-long 10-foot slide, the rock wall, two belt swings and a trapeze.
But perhaps what sets this model apart is that there are actually some fun places to chill, like the hammock underneath the clubhouse where kids will have it made in the shade. And even parents will enjoy the two-person bench swing.
Pros
A good combination of both fun and relaxing features
Cons
The large footprint makes this set unsuitable for small backyards.
Like many sets on the list, assembly can be time consuming.
8. Ranger Wooden Swing Set
Dimensions: 8.8 x 7.8 x 6.10 ft
Ages: 2 to 10 years
Overview
Coming in it at just over $200, this classic A-frame swing set is made of durable cedar and comes with two swings and a trapeze. And to avoid pinched fingers and rust, the chains are coated with plastisol. No, there aren’t any added features, but this set’s simplicity makes it a great budget buy.
Pros
Great Price
Plastisol-coated chains
Things to Keep in Mind
No extra play features
Best for younger children
Related: Our 10 Favorite Inflatable Water Slides You Need This Summer
9. Cedarworks Frolic Swing Set
Dimensions: 15 x 14 x 12
Ages: 1 to 12 years
Overview
If you want a super high-quality swing set that you can customize for your kids and your backyard, be sure to check out Cedarworks. These sets are crafted from extremely durable and low maintenance cedar that is splinter-free.
Customize a set to your space and budget with features like swings, trapeze bars, rock walls, forts and much, much more. The sets can even be updated as your little ones get bigger.
Pros
Made from extremely durable and splinter-free cedar
Customizable
Sets can be updated over time
Things to Keep in Mind
Although the price will vary depending on the design, expect to pay premium for all that quality.
The Best Metal and Plastic Swing Sets
While metal, vinyl and plastic may not be quite as durable as wood, the affordable price point and their low-maintenance aspect make them a solid choice for playsets and swing sets. Plus, no splinter to worry about for your little ones.
When choosing a metal swing set, try to find one with a protective coating in order to make it more resistant to rust. And although plastic tends to fade in the sun, finding a UV resistant model will help it to maintain its good looks longer.
10. The Monkey Adventure Swing Set
Dimensions: 13.9 x 18.7 x 7.9
Ages: All Ages
Overview
This well-reviewed swing set is made from powder-coated, galvanized steel to make it extra durable and rust-resistant. Of course, what your kids will go crazy for are the wave slide, three swings, monkey bars, trapeze bar and fireman’s pole.
Pros
This weather resistant and sturdy set comes with a 5-year warranty and has plenty of features to keep kids entertained and active.
Buyers like the easy assembly.
Things to Keep in Mind
This baby has a large footprint, so it’s for big yards only.
11. Fitness Reality Kids Sports Series Metal Swing
Dimensions: 13 x 8.9 x 6 ft
Ages: 3 to 8
Overview
This swing set takes your standard A-frame design and turns it into a personal fitness center for your little ones. It features 8 activity stations, including a trampoline, flying saucer swing, glider, trapeze bar, traditional swing, a basketball hoop and soccer goal and a wave slide.
Each station in the Fitness Reality Sports Series metal swing set has a weight capacity of 80 pounds.
Pros
Diverse features make this a great all-around fitness and entertainment center for your kids.
Great price point
Things to Keep in Mind
Some parents wish this set seemed a bit sturdier and say that it seems more suitable for younger and lighter children.
Related: The 11 Best Soccer Nets For Scoring Goals
12. Lifetime Big Stuff Adventure Swing Set
Dimensions: 15.5 x 13.9 x 11 ft
Ages: 3 to 12
Overview
With two belt swings, a trapeze bar and a spider swing, this Lifetime Swing Set can accommodate your kiddos no matter how they like to swing. But the fun doesn’t stop there. Other cool features include a clubhouse with a chalkboard, climbing walls, two wave slides, a ship’s wheel and binoculars.
Pros
Tons of features make this set highly entertaining.
Things to Keep in Mind
All of those features come at a high price.
Assembly (surprise, surprise) can be challenging.
13. Little Tikes Tree House Swing Set
Dimensions: 11.5 x 7.8 x 6.75
Ages: 3 to 8
Overview
If you have younger children, you may want to consider the Little Tikes Tree House Swing Set. It features two small slides, a climbing wall, two swings and a lookout tree with a steering wheel for a little kiddie role playing.
Parents will appreciate the UV resistant plastic that’s both sturdy and makes cleaning up spills a cinch. You also don’t have to worry about splinters or rusty metal!
Pros
Made of sturdy, UV resistant plastic
Decent price point
Things to Keep in Mind
Although the age range is officially 3 to 8, many parents think this swing set is more appropriate for kids 3 to 5.
Does not come with a toddler swing.
Related: The 10 Best Tablets for Kids [Buying Guide]
The Best Swing Sets for Small Spaces
If you’re working with a standard city lot or less, your backyard probably doesn’t have room to spare. That’s why we rounded up some space-saving options that are small but mighty and still make playtime exciting.
14. Costzon Toddler Climber and Swing Set
Dimensions: 5.6 x 4.11 x 3.11 ft
Ages: Toddlers
Overview
This compact, plastic swing set and activity center is great for keeping toddlers entertained without taking up a lot of space. The high-backed swing has a t-bar for added safety, and the gently-sloped swing won’t give little ones too wild a ride.
And to keep your wee ones entertained while improving their coordination, there’s also a basketball hoop and a ring toss.
Pros
Good price point
Made from easy-to-clean plastic
Easy to assemble
Things to Keep in Mind
Only appropriate for very young kids
15. Soumya Unicorn Swing with Chains
Dimensions: 60 x 10 x 25 inches
Ages: 3 to 8
While not technically a swing “set,” this was just too fun and funky not to include in our list for small backyards. Made from mold and chip resistant plastic, you can hang this majestic unicorn from a tree or any swing beam.
Pros
Low price point
Unique design
No need to worry about splinters or rust
Things to Keep in Mind
Two swing chains are included, but additional hardware may be needed, so be sure to look through things before you purchase and install.
16. Backyard Discovery Mini Brutus Metal Swing Set
Dimensions: 8.9 x 6.6 x 6.5
Ages: 3 to 10
Overview
Heavy-duty steel A-frame design and coated steel swing chains make this simple Discovery Metal Swing Set a durable and long lasting contender. It also includes an optional bonus toddler swing for your littlest swingers.
Pros
Weather resistant and extremely sturdy.
Things to Keep in Mind
No extra play features
Some parents reported that the instructions are not easy to follow, but really are they ever?
17. Treekassy 40” Saucer Swing Set with Metal Swing Stand
Dimensions: 5.6 x 6.75 x 5.9
Ages: 6 months and up
Overview
This giant saucer style swing has a 440-pound weight capacity and is an updated approach to a traditional tire swing. The swing set is made from UV-resistant Textilene fabric and high-quality PE webbing hanging rope.
Pros
Good price point
Small footprint
Easy assembly
Things to Keep in Mind
No extra play features
Kids Don’t Get to Have All the Fun
Adults don’t just want to sit in Adirondack chairs and sip iced tea all summer. There is nothing better to help you feel younger than a little playtime, with or without your little ones.
And while these aren’t technically considered swing sets, they will certainly make your backyard play space enjoyable for kids of all ages.
18. Personalized Wooden Tree Swing
Dimensions: 24 x p.25 x 1.5 inches
Ages: 3 and up
Overview
This tree swing is made from a solid piece of yellow pine and is customizable with one line of text. A shout out to anyone looking to create that “I’m casually swinging in a ball gown in a moonlit garden” scene from Cinderella, this is the swing of your dreams.
The swing also includes a hanging kit with multiple options for installation.
Pros
It doesn’t get simpler than this
Includes a hanging kit
Things to Keep in Mind
This isn’t a toddler swing, so very young children will need to be supervised.
19. Adventure Parks Air Surfer Stand Up Swing
Ages: 8 and up
Overview
“Surf the Air- Where Big Waves Grow on Trees” isn’t the description of this swing for nothing. Made from solid maple and mold-resistant ropes, this swing challenges your physical skills and keeps your body moving.
Pros
Fun and challenging swing for adults and older kids
Things to Keep in Mind
Installation is not complicated, but due to the nature of its use, you’re going to want to make sure to follow all instructions correctly when setting up the Adventure Parks Air Surfer Stand Up Swing.
Not suitable for very young children.
20. Montana Woodworks Glacier Country Collection Lawn Swing
Dimensions: 6.25 x 7.3 x 6.4 ft
Ages: All Ages
Overview:
When you want to enjoy some ice tea, the Montana Woodworks Lawn Swing will let you relax and enjoy the outdoors in an heirloom-quality piece of outdoor furniture. Handmade in Montana from solid pine and utilizing mortise and tenon joinery for durability, this is one swing you don’t want to miss out on.
Pros
Beautiful, quality piece
20-year limited warranty
Things to Keep in Mind
You may need two people to assemble, as the swing is a bit heavy.
You may also be prone to falling asleep in it because it’s so relaxing!
Some Swing Set Tips
These swing set tips will help you to choose the right set and keep your kids safe.
Be Sure to Measure Your Space
It seems obvious, but be sure to measure your space in order to get the right size swing set. That also means allowing an area for a fall zone and considering the height of the swing set to avoid tree branches and other hazards from above.
Be Sure the Swing Set is Age Appropriate
Although it’s tempting to choose a set that your child can grow into, be sure to purchase a set that’s appropriate for your kid’s stage of growth in order to avoid accidents on sets that are intended for older kids.
Install Your Set on Even Ground
Make sure the ground where you put the swing set is free of rocks, tree roots and other hazards.
Leave Room for a Fall Zone
Although it’s tempting to fill up your entire space, be sure to leave room for a fall zone that allows for clearance on all sides of the swing set. You should also try to cushion the area with a shock-absorbing material such as wood chips, sand or rubber mats. Ideally, this fall zone area should extend around the entire set at about twice its overall height.
Install According to Directions
Be sure to install your set according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you don’t have the time or the skills, hiring a professional will make the job easier.
Inspect and Maintain Your Swing Set
Always be sure to check your swing set a few times a month for signs of wear and tear, and be sure to replace loose bolts or other features that are wearing out. And as mentioned before, be sure to maintain the stain on wood swing sets to increase their durability and longevity.
Supervise Your Kids
Although your kids will be playing in their own backyard, it’s important to keep an eye on them. So ideally, the set should be installed within the view of your house.
Don’t Forget the Accessories
Not only may you need additional hardware for installation, but there are also a bunch of fun swing set accessories to add once you’ve selected your playset.
- Heavy-duty swing hangers
- Tree hanging straps
- Gorilla Playsets Play Telephone
- Gorilla Playsets Dinner Bell
- Gorilla Playsets Green Megaphone
Now that you’ve picked your set, it’s time to level the play area and choose a ground cover like mulch, sand, grass, pea gravel or rubber mats. While leveling is not required, it will help with overall durability and stability.
Let the Fun Begin!
Adding a little summer fun to your backyard is a snap with one of these backyard swing sets. Bonus, we think swing set assembly parties are going to be the next big thing.
For the cost of a couple of beers or a batch of fresh-baked cookies, your friends will do pretty much anything, right?
You might also be interested in: 9 Pet-Friendly Weed Killers For Lawns [Happy Lawn, Safe Pet]
Best Swing Sets for Kids:
- Creative Playthings Spring Hill Swing Set
- The Backyard Discovery Skyfort II
- The KidKraft Andorra Cedar Wood Swing Set
- Little Tikes Real Wooden Adventure Bobcat Ridge Outdoor Playset
- KindKraft Falcon Ridge Swing Set
- Backyard Discovery Beach Front Wooden Swing Set
- Backyard Discovery Caribbean Swing Set
- Ranger Wooden Swing Set
- Cedarworks Frolic Swing Set
- The Monkey Adventure Swing Set
- Fitness Reality Kids Sports Series Metal Swing
- Lifetime Big Stuff Adventure Swing Set
- Little Tikes Tree House Swing Set
- Costzon Toddler Climber and Swing Set
- Soumya Unicorn Swing with Chains
- Backyard Discovery Mini Brutus Metal Swing Set
- Treekassy 40” Saucer Swing Set with Metal Swing Stand
- Personalized Wooden Tree Swing
- Adventure Parks Air Surfer Stand Up Swing
- Montana Woodworks Glacier Country Collection Lawn Swing
Sherry De Alba
view postSherry De Alba
Sherry is a freelance writer who worked as an actor before transitioning to an award-winner career in advertising. During a vacation to Mexico, she fell in love and never left. Sherry (aka Cherita) now spends her time bouncing between the US and Mexico writing, running, cooking, meditating and exploring lots of cool stuff on the other side of the wall.
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