Your listing has five stars, professional photos, and a fully stocked kitchen. Yet guests still scroll past to book the property down the street.
Why? Because that host has a firepit, cornhole boards, and a game room photo that makes families think “this is where we want to spend a rainy afternoon.”
Games aren’t just nice-to-have amenities – they’re booking drivers. Airbnb’s 2024 summer trends showed searches for the “Play” category more than doubled, with guests actively seeking properties that offer entertainment beyond just a place to sleep.
This guide breaks down the best games to buy for your Airbnb, from outdoor yard games that photograph beautifully in your listing to indoor options that save rainy-day stays from disaster. Each recommendation includes why guests love it, average cost, and whether it’s worth highlighting in your listing photos.
Contents
- Why Games Matter More Than You Think
- Best Outdoor Games For Airbnb Properties
- Best Indoor Games For Your Airbnb
- Bonus: Location-Specific Game Recommendations
- How To Present Games In Your Listing
- Storage and Maintenance Best Practices
- The ROI of Games: Do They Actually Pay Off?
- Final Thoughts: Games as Competitive Advantage
Why Games Matter More Than You Think
Before we dive into specific recommendations, understand this: guests increasingly compare Airbnbs based on quality of amenities, not just location. The property that offers memorable experiences wins bookings – and games create those moments.
Games help you:
- Stand out in search results: Unique amenities like a horseshoe pit or game room become listing photos that stop scrollers
- Justify premium pricing: Properties with quality entertainment options command 10-15% higher nightly rates
- Reduce negative reviews: Guests occupied with activities complain less about minor issues
- Increase repeat bookings: Families remember the property where kids played giant Jenga for hours
- Fill shoulder season: Rainy weekend getaways become more appealing when your place offers indoor entertainment
Think of games as marketing investments, not just operational expenses. A $200 cornhole set that appears in your main listing photo could generate thousands in bookings.
Best Outdoor Games For Airbnb Properties
Outdoor games photograph incredibly well and give guests reasons to actually use your yard. These are proven winners across thousands of successful listings.
1. Cornhole Boards
Why guests love it: Cornhole is now the most-played outdoor game among Americans, with 20% playing regularly. It’s simple enough for kids but competitive enough for adults to play for hours.
Investment: $100-300 depending on quality
Product recommendation: GoSports Classic Cornhole Set – weather-resistant boards with carrying case
Listing photo tip: Photograph cornhole boards set up in your yard during golden hour. This single image can become your hero listing photo that drives bookings. Position the boards to showcase your outdoor space in the background.
Maintenance reality: Boards get rained on, bean bags get dirty. Store indoors when not in use, or invest in a weatherproof cover. Replace bean bags annually ($20-30).
2. Spikeball
Why guests love it: Since appearing on Shark Tank in 2015, Spikeball has become a backyard party staple. It’s active, engaging, and works for all skill levels. Teens and young adults especially love this game.
Investment: $60-100
Product recommendation: Spikeball Standard Set – includes 3 balls, rule book, and carry bag
Listing photo tip: Action shots work well here. Show a group playing (with permission) to convey the social, active vibe of your property.
Maintenance reality: The net and balls hold up well, but the legs can bend if stepped on. Easy to store in a closet or shed. Minimal ongoing costs.
3. Kan Jam
Why guests love it: Combines frisbee throwing with teamwork. It’s perfect for tailgaters, beach-goers, and groups who want competition without intense physical demands. Easy to learn rules make it accessible for mixed-age groups.
Investment: $40-70
Product recommendation: Kan Jam Original Disc Game – includes 2 goals, flying disc, and instructions
Listing photo tip: The bright yellow goals photograph well. Set them up 17 feet apart in your yard for an inviting setup shot.
Maintenance reality: Lightweight plastic goals can blow away in wind – store indoors. The disc may need replacement every 2-3 years ($10).
4. Giant Jenga (Outdoor Version)
Why guests love it: Takes the classic tabletop game and supersizes it. Kids and adults both get competitive. Creates photo-worthy moments when the tower gets tall (or crashes).
Investment: $40-150 depending on size and quality
Product recommendation: Yard Games Giant Tumbling Timbers – starts at 30 inches, stacks to 5+ feet
Listing photo tip: Show the tower built tall with people gathered around. This conveys the scale and social aspect.
Maintenance reality: Wood blocks can weather and splinter over time. Apply wood sealant annually to extend life. Store in a dry location.
5. Ladder Toss (Ladder Golf)
Why guests love it: Simple to set up, easy to understand, but challenging enough to keep groups engaged. Works well for adults who want low-key competition while chatting.
Investment: $40-80
Product recommendation: GoSports Ladder Toss Game Set – includes 6 bolas and carrying case
Listing photo tip: The vertical ladder structures photograph distinctly from other games, adding variety to your listing gallery.
Maintenance reality: Bolas (the rope-connected balls) can tangle and fray. Keep extra bolas on hand. Ladders are durable but should be stored indoors in winter.
6. Horseshoes
Why guests love it: A classic American backyard game that appeals to older generations and creates nostalgia. Low-energy but skill-based.
Investment: $30-60
Product recommendation: Franklin Sports Pro Horseshoe Set – includes 4 horseshoes and 2 stakes
Listing photo tip: If you install permanent horseshoe pits with sand, this becomes a key selling feature worth mentioning in your title (“Property with horseshoe pit!”).
Maintenance reality: Stakes need occasional tightening. Metal horseshoes are virtually indestructible. Sand pits require seasonal topping off.
7. Bocce Ball
Why guests love it: Elegant, strategic, and playable on any lawn. Appeals to wine-country vacation guests and those seeking more refined outdoor entertainment.
Investment: $30-80
Product recommendation: GoSports 100mm Bocce Ball Set – traditional 8-ball set with carrying case
Listing photo tip: Stage a bocce setup on your lawn with wine glasses nearby for an upscale, relaxing vibe.
Maintenance reality: Balls are durable and low-maintenance. Store in the provided case. May need to replace the pallino (small target ball) after heavy use.
8. Bucket Ball (Giant Beer Pong)
Why guests love it: Appeals to the 21-35 demographic who grew up playing beer pong in college. Creates party atmosphere. Works dry or with actual beverages.
Investment: $50-80
Product recommendation: BucketBall Starter Pack – 12 buckets, 2 balls, portable tote
Listing photo tip: Set up in your yard or deck. This signals “party-friendly property” to bachelor/bachelorette groups.
Maintenance reality: Buckets stack for easy storage. Balls can get lost – keep extras. Buckets are durable enough for years of use.
Best Indoor Games For Your Airbnb
Rainy days, winter stays, and quiet evenings – indoor games turn potential negative reviews (“nothing to do”) into five-star moments. These are worth stocking in every property.
9. Classic Board Game Collection
Why guests love it: Nostalgia, family bonding, screen-free entertainment. Board games are an inexpensive way to enhance guest experience, especially during poor weather.
Investment: $80-150 for a solid starter collection
Must-have titles:
- Monopoly ($20)
- Scrabble ($15)
- Clue ($18)
- Settlers of Catan ($35) – for more strategic groups
- Uno ($7) – simple but endlessly replayable
Listing photo tip: Create a cozy game night scene – board game on coffee table, mugs visible, throw blankets nearby. Signals “family-friendly” and “comfortable.”
Maintenance reality: Games get pieces lost and boxes damaged. Check after each turnover. Budget $20-30 annually for replacements.
10. Playing Cards & Poker Set
Why guests love it: Versatile – works for kids playing Go Fish or adults playing Texas Hold’em. Takes minimal space.
Investment: $30-60
Product recommendation: Fat Cat Texas Hold’em Poker Chip Set – includes cards, chips, dealer button in carrying case
Listing photo tip: Not necessary to photograph unless you have a dedicated game table. Mention in amenities list.
Maintenance reality: Keep spare decks sealed in storage. Replace poker chips if they crack. Minimal cost.
11. Puzzles (1000-piece)
Why guests love it: Meditative, collaborative, and perfect for families with varied ages. Guests often leave puzzles partially completed for the next group to finish (creates community).
Investment: $50-100 for 3-5 quality puzzles
Product recommendation: Rotate seasonal themes – beach scenes in summer, mountain landscapes in winter. Choose images that match your property’s setting.
Listing photo tip: Photo of a puzzle in progress on your dining table can signal “relaxing atmosphere.”
Maintenance reality: Pieces get lost. Check puzzle completeness every 5-10 uses. Replace puzzles annually ($15-20 each).
12. Foosball or Air Hockey Table
Why guests love it: Game rooms featuring pool tables, foosball, or air hockey are powerful booking drivers that justify premium rates. Creates a resort-feel experience.
Investment: $200-800 depending on quality
Product recommendation:
- Best Choice Products Foosball Table ($130) – tabletop version
- Triumph Fire ‘n Ice Air Hockey Table ($250) – full-size
Listing photo tip: CRITICAL – If you invest in quality game room equipment, this becomes your hero listing photo. Professional photography strongly recommended. Game room photos generate significantly more inquiries than generic living room shots.
Maintenance reality: Electronic components can fail (especially air hockey blowers). Budget for repairs. Foosball men can break – keep extras. Clean playing surfaces regularly.
13. Video Game Console
Why guests love it: Families with kids, friend groups, and rainy weekend stays. Netflix subscriptions and video game systems help guests have wonderful time indoors.
Investment: $200-500
Product recommendation:
- Nintendo Switch ($350) – family-friendly, portable
- Games: Mario Kart, Super Smash Bros, Just Dance (budget $60 each)
Listing photo tip: Show console with TV and controllers staged for play. Mention “Nintendo Switch with games” in listing title if targeting families.
Maintenance reality: Controllers get lost or damaged frequently. Keep extras. Screen protectors essential. Lock console when not secured to prevent theft. Budget $100-150 annually for replacements/additions.
14. Ping Pong (Table Tennis)
Why guests love it: Active without being exhausting. Works for all ages. Takes up significant space but creates major wow factor if you have room.
Investment: $200-600
Product recommendation: JOOLA Inside Table Tennis Table ($350) – foldable for storage, tournament-grade
Listing photo tip: Wide-angle shot of game room or garage with table setup. This single amenity can differentiate your property completely.
Maintenance reality: Paddles and balls get lost – keep spares ($30). Table surface can warp with humidity – store properly. Net needs occasional replacement.
15. Dart Board
Why guests love it: Classic pub game that appeals to adult groups. Minimal space required.
Investment: $30-100
Product recommendation: Viper Shot King Regulation Bristle Dartboard ($60) – includes 6 steel tip darts and mounting hardware
Listing photo tip: Show dart board mounted with score visible. Pair with bar area photo if you have one.
Maintenance reality: Darts get lost constantly. Order spare darts in bulk ($20 for 12). Board lasts years but bristles eventually wear. Protect walls behind board from missed throws.
Bonus: Location-Specific Game Recommendations
Not all games make sense for every property. Match your amenities to your market and guest demographic.
Beach properties: Add beach-specific games to your outdoor collection
- Beach volleyball net and ball ($50)
- Frisbees and beach paddles ($20)
- Boogie boards ($30 each)
Mountain cabins: Focus on indoor games for cold weather stays
- More board games ($100+ collection)
- Card games variety pack ($40)
- Indoor ring toss or darts ($50)
Lake houses: Water-appropriate games
- Floating cornhole ($80)
- Water basketball hoop ($60)
- Fishing equipment ($100+)
Urban apartments: Space-efficient options only
- Travel-size board games ($60 for collection)
- Cards and compact puzzles ($40)
- Streaming entertainment over physical games
Check local market-specific guides to understand what amenities competitors offer in your area.
How To Present Games In Your Listing
Buying games is half the battle. Photographing and describing them correctly drives bookings.
Photography Strategy
Dedicate 3-5 listing photos to games:
- Wide shot of outdoor games set up in yard
- Close-up of most photogenic game (cornhole, giant Jenga, or game table)
- Indoor game shelf or game room overview
- Action shot if possible (guests with permission, or staged with family/friends)
- Storage solution photo (shows organization and care)
High-quality photos with professional touches can double bookings, and game amenities photograph exceptionally well.
Listing Description
Mention games in multiple places:
In your title: “3BR with Game Room, Cornhole & Hot Tub”
In your description intro: “Entertainment for the whole family with outdoor games, board game collection, and Nintendo Switch”
In amenities section: Check all relevant boxes (outdoor games, board games, etc.)
In house rules: “Outdoor games available in shed – please return after use”
Guest Communication
Send pre-arrival message highlighting games: “We have cornhole, Spikeball, and 20+ board games if you’re looking for entertainment during your stay. Outdoor games are in the shed – enjoy!”
This sets expectations and reminds guests why they booked your property over others.
Storage and Maintenance Best Practices
Games are useless if they’re broken, missing pieces, or impossible to find. Set up systems that protect your investment.
Organization
Outdoor games: Designate a shed, garage corner, or large deck box. Label clearly. Include setup instructions if games are complex.
Indoor games: Use a dedicated shelf, closet, or cabinet. Alphabetize board games. Keep puzzle pieces in sealed bags.
Create a simple inventory list that cleaners reference during turnover to catch missing items early.
Turnover Checklist
Add to your cleaning checklist:
- Verify all board game pieces present (spot-check most-used games)
- Replace lost outdoor game equipment (bean bags, balls, darts)
- Wipe down game equipment
- Ensure outdoor games properly stored
Budget 10 minutes per turnover for game inventory and maintenance.
Replacement Budget
Plan for ongoing costs:
- Board game replacements: $30-50/year
- Outdoor game equipment: $40-80/year
- Console games/controllers: $100-150/year
- General wear and tear: $50-100/year
Total annual game budget: $250-400 – a small price for amenities that generate thousands in additional bookings.
The ROI of Games: Do They Actually Pay Off?
Let’s do the math on a typical game setup:
Initial investment:
- 3 outdoor games (cornhole, Spikeball, Kan Jam): $200
- Board game collection: $100
- Card games and puzzles: $70
- Total: $370
Annual maintenance: ~$300
Revenue impact:
If games help you:
- Justify 8% higher nightly rate ($15/night on $180 rate)
- Book 3 additional weekends per year (visibility advantage)
- Avoid 2 negative reviews (preventing bookings loss)
Conservative revenue increase: $2,000-4,000 annually
That’s a 400-600% first-year ROI, with ongoing positive returns. Few amenity investments perform better.
Use our vacation rental ROI calculator to model how amenity upgrades impact your specific property’s returns.
Final Thoughts: Games as Competitive Advantage
Your competitors are adding games. Guests actively search for properties with entertainment amenities. The question isn’t whether to stock games – it’s which ones to prioritize for your property and market.
Start with versatile outdoor basics (cornhole, Spikeball) and a solid board game collection. Add specialty items (game tables, consoles) as your budget allows and occupancy data justifies.
The properties that win bookings aren’t just places to sleep – they’re destinations guests remember. A $200 cornhole set could be the difference between 70% and 85% occupancy.
What games have you added to your property? What gets used most? Test, iterate, and watch your reviews mention how much families loved spending afternoons in your yard.
💡 Finding STR properties with space for outdoor entertainment?
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Check out our guides on making money with short-term rentals and use the Airbnb income calculator to see how amenity upgrades impact cash flow.