Check Out These Mind-Blowing Backyards That Took ‘Awesome’ To A New Level

A not-so-subtle reminder to say 'NO' to boring backyards.

Jesse

• Published in Interesting
• March 30, 2024

Ahoy, landowners and dreamers! Ever gaze out your back window and imagine a little slice of Neverland just beyond the patio? Well, it's time to hoist the sails on your homeowner's pride and embark on a swashbuckling quest to backyard brilliance!

Because who needs the seven seas when you can anchor a full-scale pirate ship right on your own turf? Am I right? 

The true treasure of home ownership isn’t just about having a roof over your head—it’s about what whimsical wonders lie behind it. If you’ve ever contemplated stepping up your backyard game, then brace yourselves because we're diving into 21 backyards that will have you considering a home relocation—or at least a serious chat with a landscaper.

While you’re still too busy trying to decide whether to erect garden gnomes or flamingos to add a touch of flair to your very mundane backyard, these folks have gone and outdone themselves. Think bigger than barbecues and lawn chairs; picture in-ground trampolines, towering treehouses, and secret gardens that would make Alice think she’s back in Wonderland.

Forget about stepping out; these backyards invite you to step into realms of imagination and luxury so grand they'd leave even the most articulate of us utterly speechless. And if we’re being honest, words barely do them justice anyway. 

But hey, a picture is worth a thousand words, right? So, let’s get into it!

1. Set sail on the $52,000 miniature pirate ship called “Red Beard’s Revenge.” It might cost a small fortune, but it’s worth every penny.

2. This fairy tale castle proves dreams—and projects—really do take a lifetime. Heinz and Hildegard Schonewolf's 37-year labor of love in the making! Might be a tough act to follow.

3. Peepshow Pool: This above-ground see-through pool showcases your aquatic moves in all its unsynchronized glory.

4. The Hobbit Hideaway: Peter Archer crafted this Tolkien tribute for a fan. It’s so inviting, you'll never want to leave the Shire.

5. Daredevil's Delight: A backyard waterslide that's not for the faint of heart or the weak of stomach.

6. Jimmy Helms labored for fourteen years to bring the Wild West to his own backyard.

7. A Gigantic Hammock: Built for those who take their relaxation very, very seriously.

8. Dive-In Theater: Make a splash at your next pool party with an inflatable movie experience.

9. Spin City: A sprawling 11,000-square-foot adrenaline rush built by Pro BMX rider Mike Spinner himself.

10. A DIY marvel of the French capital crafted by Gerard Brion from nothing but recycled materials

11. The Ultimate Backyard Bobsled: Crafted by a Long Island dad, this icy thrill ride is a winter wonderland for his kids.

12. An Ice Hockey Rink: Lace up those skates and grab that hockey stick as you glide across your very own backyard hockey paradise. Oh, and a Zamboni is a must for this one.

13. Who walks to the pool anymore? Slide into the swim of things instead.

14. What’s better than a regular trampoline? An in-ground trampoline, of course!

15. A Sky-High Sanctuary: Complete with a zipline, slide and climbing wall, the Wakefield grandkids’ treehouse getaway is envy-inducing.

16. This isn't your average playhouse—it's a $38,000 slice of charming countryside.

17. Backyard Broadway: Because your kids' performances deserve a worthy stage

18. The Ultimate Swing on the Edge: Ecuador's cliffside swing is not for the faint of heart but offers unmatched thrills. A true backyard wonder.

19. A Backyard Rollercoaster: John Ivers made history as the coolest grandpa ever after building the ‘blue flash’ for his grandkids. No other grandpa can compete

20. A Wiffle Ball Stadium: This stadium, affectionately dubbed ‘Riley Field,’ is where wiffle ball dreams come true in Mumford, NY!

21. Channel your inner Dr. Seuss with this fantastical—and structurally sound—treehouse design.

It’s clear to see that when it comes to backyard wonders, imagination knows no bounds. We hope this further reinforces the belief that your backyard doesn’t have to be a boring patch of grass.

So, tell us, which of these backyard masterpieces was your favorite? Let us know in the comments.

Jesse