Your outdoor space brings you a lot of joy in the summer months. From barbecues with friends to quiet nights around the fire, the warm weather invites us to enjoy all that a backyard has to offer. But when the nights turn cool (and the days, too), it can be tempting to just hunker down with a blanket for the season.
However, there are ways to enjoy your backyard and other outdoor living spaces in the cooler months.
You can spend time with family, escape for some quiet, or even get a workout in. These ideas will help you make the most out of your backyard space — in the winter and each season after.
Winter backyard ideas
Don’t let the cold keep you cooped up inside all winter. With a few simple updates, your backyard can be a cozy, inviting space you’ll want to enjoy all season. From adding warmth with a fire pit to creating a relaxing escape in a hot tub, here are some easy ways to make your outdoor space winter-ready.
Outdoor fire pit
It’s easy to spend winter wrapped up indoors, cozy on the couch with a blanket and a virtual fireplace crackling on your TV. But imagine the warmth and glow of a real fire pit in your backyard — a place to gather, enjoy hot drinks, and watch the snow fall. Portable fire pits are a great option if you want flexibility, allowing you to move it to the ideal spot on your patio or lawn.
For a more permanent feature, consider reaching out to a landscaping company to install a custom-built fire pit. Winter can actually be a great time to start these projects, as contractors often have more availability, and you’ll have a spot to enjoy year-round.
If you do set up a fire pit for winter use, keep your wood dry and covered to ensure it’s ready whenever you are.
All-season backyard hot tub
Stress, joint pain, and sore muscles don’t go away just because the temperature drops. In fact, those things might increase. A hot tub by Master Spas allows you to unwind and relax while taking advantage of the benefits of hydrotherapy.
Using your hot tub in winter can be an enjoyable experience, thanks to the easy-to-use temperature controls and energy-efficient design. Master Spas hot tubs feature full-foam insulation and high-density foam cover to keep in heat.
For greater comfort, you keep your water temperature at your perfect level. Or, the WiFi module makes it easier to adjust the heat when using your hot tub in winter. The BWG app allows you to control your hot tub from your device, whether you are leaving work or preparing dinner. WiFi is a dealer-installed option available for select Master Spas models
Related post: Hot Tub Stretches to Try
Outdoor winter decor
Do shorter, darker days make it hard to enjoy your backyard? A few seasonal decorations can turn it into a cheerful, cozy spot you’ll want to spend time in, even in winter. While holiday lights often go up around the front of the house, adding some sparkle to your backyard can create a festive escape right outside your door. Try stringing lights along a pergola, fence, or even bare trees for a soft glow. Add ornaments to branches for pops of color or hang wreaths on windows for a warm, welcoming touch. The goal is to make the space a place where you can sit with a cup of hot chocolate and “ooh” and “aah.”
Cozy outdoor seating
Upgrade your seating with weatherproof cushions, blankets, and even outdoor rugs that are designed for winter use. Look for cushions and blankets made from materials that resist moisture, so they stay in good shape even in damp conditions. A few fluffy blankets or a set of thick throws in an outdoor storage box make it easy to add a cozy layer when the temperature drops.
Outdoor heaters
If you love spending time outside even in the chill of winter, consider adding an outdoor heater to your setup. Patio heaters, infrared wall-mounted heaters, or even heated lamps can make the space feel more comfortable, extending your outdoor season. They’re a great addition around seating areas or by a hot tub, making it easy to enjoy the fresh air without the chill.
Hearty container plants
Bright, flowering plants can add a quick burst of color to your backyard. However, most of them won’t survive the winter. For greenery that endures, consider hardy shrubs that bring color, texture, and even fragrance year-round. Boxwood, blue spruce, and juniper are excellent choices that not only hold up to cold weather but also look great all season. Potted in containers, these shrubs add structure and style to your outdoor space. You can be easily dressed up with string lights for a festive winter touch. Best of all, they’re low-maintenance — just an occasional prune is all they need to keep looking fresh through the season.
Begin planning for spring
If you’re already counting down the days until spring, you’re not alone. While winter has its charm, nothing quite compares to the vibrant colors and warmth of a spring garden. Though the first frost may have put a hold on planting bulbs, now is the time to plan improvements to your outdoor space.
Is there an area that could be more functional or inviting? Perhaps upgrading your deck, adding a few extra feet to your paver patio, or even planning a new garden bed would set the stage for those sunny days ahead. By planning now, you’ll be ready to bring those ideas to life as soon as the thaw begins.
Buy an all-season hot tub
Are you ready to invest in your well-being and backyard? Master Spas hot tubs can be enjoyed this year and many years to come. Click here to learn more about the benefits of hydrotherapy. Or, contact your local Master Spas retailer to learn more about hot tub ownership. Wondering how much a Master Spas hot tub costs? You can request a quote here.