Ideas for an outdoor bar for your backyard

Photo by Slow Ibiza on Unsplash

Outdoor bars are a great addition to any backyard. They provide a place for friends and family to gather and enjoy drinks and conversation.

There are many different types of home outdoor bars available, from simple bar tables to elaborate outdoor bar sets with all the bells and whistles.

From a design perspective

In this blog post, we will explore all of the different aspects of a home outdoor bar and our selections to create one and a few shopping ideas!

We do not review items within our site; we simply view them from a design perspective and give advice on how best to use the products and where they might be best placed.

The benefits of having a home outdoor bar

Outdoor space has become more valued since the onslaught of Covid. Homeowners are spending more time in their backyard or on their terrace and making the most of their outside space settings – why not – you can save on the cost of a beer as well.

When the sun is beaming, and you cannot find a seat in your local bar on the terrace or patio, what better place to be than in your own backyard, sipping on a cold beer or ice-cold glass of wine.

What do you need in an outdoor bar?

A home outdoor bar can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and in this article, we explore all of the ideas and accessories so you can pick a design to suit your patio, backyard, or balcony. Obviously, this is not an exhaustive list, but you can delve deeper into our blogs, and we are sure you will find something to suit you.

You may be looking for a way to incorporate a bar on a budget, and perhaps you could be considering having an outdoor bar built-in so that it is a permanent fixture. You may even be looking for something a little more portable.

What are the best materials for an outdoor bar?

There are many different materials that can be used to build an outdoor bar.

• Wood – such as acacia, teak, cedar, or hardwood.
• Concrete
• Tile
• Stone
• Stainless steel

The most important factor to consider is the climate in your area. If you live in an area with a lot of rain or snow, you will want to choose materials that are weather-resistant and easy to maintain.

The pros and cons of Acacia wood furniture

Some other great materials for outdoor bars include concrete, stone, tile, and stainless steel.

If you are looking for a more rustic outdoor bar, wood is always a great option. You can find furniture made from teak, cedar, and other types of hardwood. Just make sure to seal the wood to protect it from the elements.

Related Post: Man Cave Bar Ideas

Can teak wood furniture stay outside?

Teak wood furniture is a popular choice for furniture or a bar because it is durable and weather-resistant. However, teak wood furniture should not be left outside all year round. If you live in an area with harsh winters, it is best to store your teak furniture indoors during the colder months.

How do I clean outdoor teak furniture?

To clean outdoor teak furniture, simply mix equal parts bleach and water in a bucket. Use a soft brush to scrub the solution onto the furniture, then rinse it off with a garden hose.

For tougher stains, you may need to use a pressure washer. Be sure to test the solution on a small area of the furniture first to make sure it does not damage the wood.

Once your outdoor teak furniture is clean, you can protect it from future stains by applying a teak sealer. This will help keep dirt and grime from sticking to the surface of the furniture.

Be sure to reapply the sealer every few months to keep your outdoor teak furniture looking its best. Try this teak protector from Amazon. With a little bit of care, outdoor teak furniture can last for many years. Follow these tips to keep your outdoor bar looking great all year long!

How do you clean dirty cedar?

Cedar wood outdoor furniture is a beautiful and durable option for your outdoor bar. Cedar is naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage. However, cedar wood furniture does require some maintenance to keep it looking its best.

To clean cedar wood furniture, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a bucket. Use a soft brush to scrub the solution onto the furniture, then rinse it off with a garden hose. You can also use a pressure washer to clean cedar wood furniture, but be sure to test the solution on a small area of the furniture first to make sure it does not damage the wood.

What is a typical outside bar height?

The average height for an outdoor bar is 42 inches. However, this can vary depending on the type of bar you have and the height of the people who will be using it. If you are looking to create a spot for yourself and a few friends, then a small bar cart or cabinet might be all you need. But if you are looking to entertain large groups of people, then you will need a larger bar with more seating and storage.

A choice of outdoor bar sets

Outdoor bar sets are the bar with the stools included. We have picked out four that are currently on the market at the time of writing this blog.

5-piece Mainstays Palmerton

A sturdy stainless steel frame and is easy to assemble. There are also shelves hidden behind the front of the bar for plenty of drinks and glasses.

Surmounted by a tempered glass top with four low back stools, which can up to 250 lbs. The complete outdoor bar set is currently under $400.

• Price $391.77
• Warranty: 1 year
• Bar dimensions: 61 in x 26.3 in x 47 in.
• Available Walmart

Ktaxon Wicker Bar Set with two stools

For just the two of you to enjoy. Nice comfy, cushioned stools, which are also zippered to easily remove and wash. The bar itself is made from rattan and iron with a tempered glass top. There is also shelving behind the bar for your drinks and glasses.

• Price $209.98
• Warranty: 1 year
• Bar dimensions: Overall Size: (40.16 x 23.23 x 39.76)”
• Available Walmart

3 PC Outdoor Bar SET with a mesh cloth roof

Embrace the tropical look with this 3-piece canopy outdoor bar, complete with a roof. Plenty of storage behind the bar and a glass-tempered countertop for your drinks.

This outdoor bar is great for hosting a party or just having a cozy drink on your patio with a loved one.

• Price $669.99
• Warranty: Can be returned 30 days after delivery.
• Bar dimensions: 57.1″L x 21.7″W x 37″H
• Available Walmart

Bradenton three-piece outdoor bar set

This wicker bar height patio set is UV resistant and perfect for the backyard. There is a choice of cushions for the stools, either navy or neutral, and they are resistant to mildew, abrasion, and fading.

The steel frame is powder coated, and there is ample shelving behind the bar.

• Price $1599.99
• Warranty: Manufacturer’s warranty
• Bar dimensions: 50.8″W x 20.8″D x 41.5″H
• Available Frontera

Compact bar with side storage

A fashionable and modern black wooden bar with three shelves for storage complete with two stools for a cozy bar idea for the terrace or outdoor patio. This bar is sturdy, and the countertop just needs wiping down with a wet cloth.

• Price $199.99
• Warranty: 30-day returns
• Bar dimensions: 36” (L) x 19” (W) x 36” (H)
• Available Walmart

Outdoor bars without the stools

If you just want the bar without the stools, then take a look at our recommendations for standalone bars – some are even portable.

Doing our research, we did notice that there were not very many packages that included both the bar and stools. The rattan sets came with stools in a number of the packages that we looked at.

This is not really an issue as the stool is a personal preference. Some shoppers may require stools with backs to them; others may prefer a certain type of material.

Visit our post on advice on how to buy a stool for your bar.

Time to party with the portable folding bars

Not one but two portable bars that clamp together to form an L-shaped bar. Perfect if you are short on space or live somewhere that has harsh winters.

Set up your bar in the summer and party into the early hours. The bars even come with free party skirts – well, you never know who is coming to your event.

16 LED light changes

The outdoor bar sets have LED lights with 16 different color changes and in modes that flash, fade and stay on. The legs are aluminum, and the top is MDF with a laminate coating, making it waterproof.

• Price $218.99
• Warranty: Free 90-day return
• Bar dimensions: Overall Size: 78.00 x 15.00 x 36.00 In
• Available Walmart

Solid Acacia bar

This particular bar is sold without stools, but you can team it up with a set of acacia stools – see our blog on outdoor bar stools. The bar is made from solid acacia wood and is easy to maintain with plenty of storage. We have written about the pros and cons of acacia wood above in this article if you need further information.

• Price: Table $255.49.
• Warranty: 30-day return
• Bar dimensions: 43.3″x19.7″x41.3″ Solid Acacia Wood
• Available Walmart

Modern bar – architect designed

If you are ready to part with some of your hard-earned cash, take a look at this bar designed by Ramon Esteve. This particular version is finished in matte white and 100% recyclable. It even comes with LED lights. The bar is suitable for indoor or outdoor use but is definitely a focal point in any backyard despite the hefty price tag. Be brave – be different.

• Price: Bar $3,580.
• Warranty: 60-day return
• Bar dimensions: 74 1/2″L x 26″W x 45 1/4″H
• Available France and Son

A touch of Beverley Hills

A modular bar that has its own ice bucket for keeping the champagne cold. Perfect by the pool or a focal point in the barbeque area. The elements combine with each other to integrate your space and create the illusion of hovering off the floor. Basically, this is not only a bar but a floating piece of art.

LED lighting

The bar is available in a variety of colors and has LED lighting – another hefty price tag, but you will appreciate the quality and work that has gone into this design.

• Price: Bar $5,655.
• Warranty: 60 day return
• Bar dimensions: 78 3/4″L x 31 1/2″W x 31 1/2″H
• Available France and Son

Mahogany outside bar

Acacia wood outside the bar in a slatted design with two shelves and six bottle holders and finished in rich mahogany. Find a place under a gazebo, on your patio, or even near to your barbeque.

• Price: Bar $223.99
• Warranty: 90-day return
• Bar dimensions: 16.50 inches deep x 39.50 inches wide x 43.25 inches high
• Available Walmart

Outdoor bar carts

Outdoor bar carts are super versatile and can be stored in the home when the weather is bad, and you just roll them out when the weather is good. Some say bar carts are a tad old-fashioned, but if you don’t have the space on that tiny apartment balcony and want a bar – what better choice than your very own outdoor bar cart. Here is a selection of outdoor bar carts

Roll out your best margarita

Serving drinks in your backyard or on your balcony cannot get sweeter than this. Totally mobile and with an ice bucket, just load it up with your favorite spirits and a few glasses, and you are ready to shake up your next cocktail.

A perfect size if you want to save on space and will fit in most settings, by the pool, next to the barbeque, or by the patio furniture. There is extra storage space at the bottom of the cart and a rack to hang your glasses. Mine’s a gin and tonic, please, easy on the ice!

• Price: Bar $273.20
• Warranty: Manufacturer’s
• Bar dimensions: 18″D x 44″W x 36.25″H
• Available Amazon

The industrial look

Plenty of storage in this industrial outdoor bar cart. Complete with a wine rack and glass holder, the top shelf is removable for serving up those beautifully crafted cocktails. Made from aluminum and MDF, it rolls around on 360 castors and has two locking brakes. The wine rack holds 12 bottles and the hanging rack holds around six glasses.

• Price: Bar Cart $122.39
• Warranty: 30-day return
• Bar dimensions: 31.5” x 15.7” x 35.4”
• Available Walmart

European vintage style

Made from wood, this bar cart has a European vintage edge to it. Plenty of room for your wine glasses, bottles, and accessories. You can move this bar cart around, which gives you the ability to move it into the house when the party is over. It is made of wood so the only downside is that it could get ruined if left out in the rain constantly, although a simple cover could solve that problem.

• Price: Bar Cart $99.99
• Warranty: Manufacturers
• Bar dimensions: 35.4” height 27.5” length and 17.7” width
• Available Amazon

Tea or Gin?

Made from acacia wood, this portable tea cart / outdoor bar cart is perfectly crafted with a natural finish. Beautifully designed and will look lovely on the patio or in the home. All you need now are the drinks and the guests.

• Price: Bar Cart $184.00
• Warranty: Manufacturers
• Bar dimensions: 25.2″ wide x 34.3″ deep x 34.3″ high
• Available Riverbend

Build your own outdoor bar

Photo by Tammy Chan on Unsplash

With a few good ideas, you can create your very own outdoor bar. Shop around and save on materials. If you have the space, a shed can be converted into an outside bar with a built-in serving hatch.

Open bars can be made from pallets, old kitchen cabinets, and cheaply sourced countertops. We will delve further into this section in our upcoming blogs.

Create a cover for your outdoor bar

If you have no outside cover for your bar, consider purchasing a waterproof gazebo canopy. Not only does this protect your bar from the sun but also from the rain.

This particular gazebo is big enough for a decent size seating arrangement and also a freestanding bar or outdoor bar cart. Priced at $1,100 and measuring 10ft x 13ft, there is ample space to create a bar area. Shop the Look at Walmart.

If you are looking for a more natural look, try this gazebo made from solid wood. Again ample space and placed against a wall, you can even add shelves for a more authentic bar look. Priced at $2,230 and available through Walmart. Shop the Look.

The bar at the end of the yard

Space at the end of the backyard or on the patio? What a perfect place to set up an outdoor bar under this gazebo.

A freestanding bar with bar stools and maybe some casual seating or a high-top table create a really trendy setting for drinks with friends. Jazz up your new outdoor bar with a bar sign and some lights, and you are set. Available at Walmart for $2,589, this is constructed from a cedar wood frame with a steel roof.

We hope you have found the information useful and have helped to put you on the path to creating your very own outdoor bar. If you are still a little unsure, please do not hesitate to contact us and let us assist you with the design of your outdoor bar. Also, please visit our post on indoor Bars for more ideas.