Sometimes the best parties are the most laid-back – for guests and hosts alike. Simple food and drinks set the stage for relaxed fun, and you can keep the setup hassle-free, too. These easy, budget-friendly patio bar ideas will keep the drinks flowing at your next backyard get-together without pre-party stress.
1. Roll In a Bar Cart
A full, built-in outdoor bar is nice to have, but it’s not always feasible. Bar carts are perfect for tight outdoor spaces, and they’re mobile too. Stock one for smaller crowds or go with more for larger gatherings. When you’re not using it, an outdoor bar cart can serve as an attractive plant stand or extra storage.
2. Mount Floating Shelves
When you add shelving to your outdoor area, you also add versatile space. It’s a great spot for outdoor lanterns or other décor, and when you have guests, you can easily put drinks on it.
3. Repurpose a Potting Bench
Potting benches are so versatile. They’re built for gardening, but they’re also decorative and have lots of surface area, which means they make a great temporary bar.
4. Set Up a Sofa Table
Often rectangular and on the taller side, sofa tables are a great height and shape for a bar. They come in various sizes, so you can choose a small one or go bigger if you’re expecting a crowd.
5. Bring in a Bar-Height Dining Table
A tall dining table can easily stand in for a bar. Move an indoor table out temporarily or opt for a bar-height table designed for use outdoors.
6. Set Out a Serving Tray
Keep it even simpler by loading up a serving tray with drinks. You can easily take it from group to group, or use multiple trays to help organize drinks on a larger table.
7. Keep Cool with a Drink Cooler
Keep it super simple with a grab-and-go drink cooler. If everything you’re serving is bottled or canned, this may be all you need, or you can use it as a supplement to other outdoor bar options.
8. Prep a Patio Dining Table
A patio dining table can easily be repurposed as a bar. Fill it up with food and drink essentials. If you want it to serve as a buffet where people take and go, be sure to move the chairs away from it so guests don’t sit and close off the table.
9. Add a Top to Garden Stools
Easily repurpose a pair of garden stools by adding a surface. A sturdy piece of wood or glass works perfectly.
Choose the outdoor bar idea that works best for you, your space, and your guests. Then stock the bar and get ready to enjoy your get-together with family and friends. Once you’ve picked a backyard bar option, see our tips for setting up your outdoor bar. Happy sipping!
More Ideas to Explore:
- Learn how to add ambiance to your outdoor entertaining space with these backyard string light ideas.
- Shop a wide selection of outdoor bars and outdoor serving carts.
- Discover the latest outdoor furniture ideas and trends to update your porch or patio living space.
