THE BEST OF GAMES
Get ready to score some great ideas for fun and friendly backyard competition.
America's Best Chew is the tobacco of choice for those who work hard—and play hard, too. Spending time with family or friends while enjoying backyard games is one of the best ways to relax and unwind. That’s why we’re offering you this look at some of the ways that games can turn your outdoor space into “America’s Best Backyard.”
Today, America’s Best Chew is highlighting “The Best of Backyard Games.”
HORSESHOES
What could be more American than enjoying a game of horseshoes in the backyard? Although historians believe that the game’s origins extend back to ancient Rome, it’s a tradition that is every bit as iconic as America’s Best Chew. If you have a backyard with enough space, a horseshoe pit to enjoy may be a winning idea.
TIP: The official dimensions for a horseshoe pit are 46 feet long and 6 feet wide, but for your backyard, slightly smaller may be better. A common size for a backyard horseshoe pit is 30 feet long and 4 feet wide.
CORNHOLE
If you’re looking for a game to enjoy in the backyard that’s easy to learn and easy to love, you can’t go wrong with a couple of cornhole boards. Cornhole boards are typically set up 27 feet apart, so make sure there’s enough space for players to stand and throw comfortably. Grassy areas, concrete patios, or decking can all work well as spaces for your boards.
TIP: If you plan on playing after the sun goes down, consider adding lighting around the cornhole area, for safety and good sightlines. And for the ultimate in cornhole convenience, a set of standing cup holders is a great addition for the game.
INFLATABLE POOLS
There’s nearly no end to the games that you can play in a pool, especially since inflatable pools have really “blown up” since they first became a staple of American backyards in the 1950s. Today, you can find a pool that is well-suited for almost any size backyard—and almost any budget, too. Pick a pool that will last, such as one made of PVC or heavy-duty vinyl, and don’t forget the safety features, like sturdy walls and a secure valve system to keep the air inside.
TIP: Check if the inflatable pool comes with a filtration or circulation system, to help keep your water clean and ready to be enjoyed.