Get Inspired to Entertain at Home This Season with These 10 Outdoor Bar Ideas

With spring underway and summer just around the corner, it’s time to zhuzh up the yard and prepare for outdoor entertaining. There’s no better way to hang with friends these days than to host a backyard barbecue, a dinner party under the stars, or even a quick after-work cocktail. Whether you have big plans to establish a full outdoor kitchen or just want a space to shake up a few margaritas, you’re sure to find inspiration from these al fresco gathering spots.

One of our favorite outdoor bar ideas, this one is part kitchen, part bar and allows the grill master to chat with guests sitting at the high-top bar while flipping burgers. Like a restaurant with an open-concept kitchen, those at the bar can watch the culinary magic that’s unfolding before their eyes.

Related: 8 Best Buys for an Outdoor Kitchen You Can Afford

Construct a screened-in porch (or a porch without screens, which is often referred to as a lanai) to bridge the space between indoors and out. The bar and your gathering are technically outside, but the party won’t be over if some rain showers roll through.

For a minimalist-meets-chic look, help the bar blend in with its surroundings. This gorgeous white concrete bar fades away against its white backdrop, and is complemented with sleek stools whose wood backs coordinate with the privacy fence behind them.

This whimsical lanai features a gorgeous gazebo lounge. A circular construction encourages intimate conversation between friends at the bar—and the host shaking up drinks behind it.

Related: 13 Stunning Gazebo Ideas for a Relaxing Backyard Retreat

Keep an eye on everyone in the yard while you whip up cocktails at an outdoor canteen. Its simple, low-profile design doesn’t distract from outdoor vistas, and the sizable countertop and integrated sink offers space to prepare refreshments for all.

Want to wow guests with one of the most intriguing outdoor bar ideas they’ve ever seen? This ultramodern outdoor bar has curves for days, and its all-white palette suits just about any outdoor space.

Related: The Best Cocktail Shakers for the Home Bar

Bring on the “secret garden” vibes with a private patio watering hole that’s infused with lush greenery. Dark wood walls and slate floors set a moody, contemporary scene that’s even more enticing when nightfall arrives.

Who needs a plane ticket to a tropical resort to enjoy a cocktail as you swim? Create this same vibe at home with a poolside bar (complete with underwater seating) that’s perfect for scorching hot days.

Become one with nature with this earthy concept for an outdoor bar. This open-concept kitchen in richly hued wood blends in beautifully with its surroundings, and is a brilliant spot to relax after an afternoon of gardening or horseback riding.

An ornate, stone outdoor kitchen and bar is a stunning centerpiece for this spacious deck. This outdoor kitchen is equipped with a smoker, and provides ample counter space and three table settings for gathering and noshing with guests.

Make this summer one to remember with these fun outdoor ideas for entertaining your friends and family. Sit by the pool, make a drink and take in the sun.