8 Best Outdoor Fire Pits for Backyard Entertaining

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Adding a fire pit to your backyard lounge area is a simple way to make your space cozier and more inviting. The best outdoor fire pits beat the evening chill and create a delightful gathering place for your friends and family. Even during the warmest summer months, evening temps can dip; and in the chillier seasons, who doesn’t love a little time around the fire? A fire pit is an investment you can enjoy for most of the year, from early spring through late fall (and maybe even winter, depending on where you live).

To get started on finding the best outdoor fire pit for your space, consider what you want out of yours. Do you need a fire pit patio set, or would you prefer a portable fire pit for camping? Do you enjoy the aroma of a wood-burning fire, or would you rather have a smokeless fire pit? If your only outdoor space is a petite patio, consider a tabletop fire pit for a warm glow-up. To help you choose your perfect fit, we’ve rounded up a variety of top-rated options at various price points to suit any space.

Are Outdoor Fire Pits Worth It?

For many, yes! An outdoor fire pit gives your backyard, patio, or tabletop a gorgeous glow and makes it a cozy place to entertain after dark. Before purchasing one, however, confirm with your local fire department that recreational fire pits are permitted where you live.

How Far Should a Fire Pit Be From the House?

Place your fire pit out in the open, at least 10 feet from your home. It should be on a stable surface without any hanging branches nearby (20 feet clearance is ideal.) Never set your fire pit up in an enclosed area, like a garage or underneath an elevated deck. 

What is the Safest Type of Fire Pit?

The safest type of fire pit is one powered by propane, which is environmentally friendly as well! Gas fire pits are equally safe, but the cost of gas may be a deterrent for some. If you can’t resist the nostalgia and classic campfire aroma of a wood-burning fire pit, then it should ideally be placed on a concrete or brick surface. Whatever you choose, never leave a burning fire pit unattended.