The Best Backyard Swing Sets Engage Kids Without Sacrificing Safety

reviewed mark Medically Reviewed by Gina Posner, M.D., F.A.A.P.  | June 25, 2024
Best Swing Sets for Kids

QUICK SUMMARY

The best swing set is the KidKraft Appleton Wooden Swing Set, according to What to Expect parents, because it's affordable, easy to put together and has other fun features. 

 

I’m a mom of three, and can say from experience that outdoor play is the best way to burn off all that endless kid energy. And one thing that always wears out my kids is an hour or two on our backyard swing set.

A bigger investment than other outdoor toys, a swing set offers a number of benefits that can make it well worth the money. “Swing sets are great to get kids engaged and help younger ones learn balance and movement,” shares Steph Lee, M.D., a pediatrician and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) spokesperson. “Being outdoors has been shown to help with sleeping better and improving attention and mood.” 

Finding the best swing set for your family, however, isn’t as easy as running to your nearest Walmart or clicking “Add to Cart” on Amazon. Parents have to consider various factors including safety precautions, size, logistical factors (i.e. is your yard big enough for the set you want? How many swings do you need?), and, of course, budget. I myself spent months researching and comparing models before deciding on the swing set my family has had (and loved) for the last five years. To save you some time and help you find the backyard swing set of your dreams, I’m sharing what you should consider before buying a swing set, as well as some swing set recommendations from experts and parents like you.  

How we chose the best swing sets for kids

In addition to thoroughly researching swing sets five years ago, I’ve also tested around a dozen swing sets at friends’ houses over the years. Based on this, I have a sense of which swing sets are durable and entertaining for a wide age range. 

Of course, these things are only second to safety. To learn what makes a swing set safe, I spoke to Dr. Lee and Teresa Hendy, a Certified Playground Safety Inspector, and consulted guidelines from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the AAP. Based on these guidelines, the swing sets I’ve recommended:

  • Are free from sharp edges or protruding hardware that could cut or seriously injure kids
  • Have never been recalled for safety issues
  • Come with additional safety features like secure anchors or ground stakes, and pinch-free chains

With the safety guidance in mind, I then turned to the What to Expect community and my personal community of parent friends to learn not only what swing sets they love, but what factors they considered when buying these swing sets. I narrowed down my list based on their feedback, making sure to consider:

  • Ease of assembly: Assembling a massive swing set is no small undertaking, so I prioritized swing sets that parents said were easy to assemble and didn’t require bringing in outside help. 
  • Age range: I prioritized swing sets with larger age ranges, as that extends the lifespan of your swing set. 
  • Size: Families with larger backyards may want larger swing sets to accommodate more kids, while those with more limited yard space may need a space-saving alternative that still provides hours of outdoor entertainment. I included several swing sets for a variety of yard sizes. 
  • Versatility: Some sets just include swings (solo or multiple swings), while others are built into larger playsets that also have a slide, climbing wall or other features. The more components of a swing set, the more likely it is to engage your kid in multiple kinds of play, but also the more expensive it gets — and the harder it is to assemble, and the more space you’ll need. I also selected sets with broader weight limits to allow for multiple kids to play on the structure at once.
  • Price: Swing sets can get super pricey, so I included swingsets for a range of budgets. I also made sure the more expensive swing sets had features to warrant the higher price tag, such as additional play elements, large age range or durable material. 

Keep reading to learn about the nine best swing sets, which have been deemed fun by parents and their kids.

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Best Overall Swing Set

KidKraft Appleton Wooden Swing Set

Best Swing Sets - KidKraft Appleton Wooden Swing Set
Buying Options
Pros
  • Lots of play options
  • Good for smaller spaces
  • Affordable
  • Clear direction
Cons
  • Smaller age range

Recommended ages: 3 to 7 years

Materials: Cedar wood, plastic, hardware

Weight limits: 110 pounds per child, no more than 6 children at a time

Dimensions: 123 x 108 x 93 inches

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

KidKraft’s swing set has a lot of impressive features, despite being smaller and less expensive than other similar sets. Made from 100% cedar lumber, this sturdy swing set accommodates two belt swings which can easily be replaced with bucket seats for younger children. It also has a wave slide, rock wall ladder, sandbox, and a vinyl chalkboard. So even if your child gets bored swinging, there’s still plenty to keep them occupied. 

This swing set can accommodate up to 660 pounds, and parents report that it has kept toddlers busy for hours. Just note that the recommended age range for the product is 3 to 7 years, so it will need to be replaced if you want something for older kids down the road.

Community Reviews
  • They [KidKraft] have some great options depending on what your budget is.

Best Luxe Swing Set

Backyard Discovery Skyfort II Wooden Swing Set

Best Swing Sets - Backyard Discovery Skyfort II Wooden Swing Set
Buying Options
Pros
  • Tons of ways for kids to play
  • Sturdy
  • Accommodates a wide range of ages
Cons
  • Requires a large space

Recommended ages: 3 to 10 years

Materials: Cedar, plastic

Weight limit: 1350 pounds

Dimensions: 200.79  x 263.78 x 149.61 inches

Why We Love It

Talk about having something for everyone. For those with a large yard — and large budget — the Backyard Discovery Skyfort II Playset will make your backyard the go-to for neighborhood play. In addition to two belt swings and a trapeze bar, this solid cedar playset also has a full monkey bar set, climbing wall, raised fort/clubhouse with telescope, a 10-foot speedy slide, and a built-in picnic table. 

One thing to note for parents of young kids is that the monkey bars are pretty high, so adult supervision will definitely be needed. As one would expect from a massive playset this size, assembly isn’t easy (some holes need to be drilled) and will definitely require at least two people, and a whole weekend. But once it’s up, you’ll never have to take it down. 

Best Budget Swing Set

Trekassy 2-Swing Swing Set

Best Swing Sets - Trekassy 2-Swing Swing Set
Buying Options
Pros
  • Comes with two types of swings
  • Heavy-duty steel frame
  • Easy to assemble
Cons
  • Only has swings

Recommended ages: 3 years and up

Materials: Steel

Weight limit: 440 pounds

Dimensions: 67 x 90.5 x 71 inches

Why We Love It

 If all you’re looking for is a basic swing set, the Trekassy Swing Set is a fantastic value for parents. It comes with a belt swing and saucer swing, both of which can be easily lengthened or shortened to accommodate kids of different heights. The saucer swing is 32-inches wide, meaning one or two kids could easily sit in one together, making it a hit for siblings or playdates. 

Either swing can also easily be removed and replaced with a bucket seat or trapeze bars, making this set versatile enough for a wide variety of ages. The small footprint makes it a great pick for small yards, or even for a grandparent’s house. One of the best parts about this swing set? Many parents say they set it up in under an hour from start to finish.

Best Metal Swing Set

XDP Recreation Free ‘n’ Swing Set

Best Swing Sets - XDP Recreation Free ‘n’ Swing Swing Set
Pros
  • Sturdy
  • Can accommodate lots of kids
  • Multiple swing options
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Ground anchor sold separately
  • Slide is narrow

Recommended ages: 3 to 8 years

Materials: Galvanized steel

Weight limit: 700 pounds (100 pounds per child, up to seven kids)

Dimensions: 91 x 168 x 74 inches

Why We Love It

This swing set offers a happy medium in terms of features — not so basic that your kids will get bored, but not so complex that it’s hard to set up or exorbitantly expensive. There’s room for three swings: one belt swing, one sit-or-stand swing and one saucer swing that can seat two. Attached to either side of the frame are a mini see-saw and a 5-foot long wave slide, so kids can get more play opportunities out of the set. The whole thing is made out of very durable, rust-resistant steel, and the five-year frame warranty helps keep your investment safe. Several parents do mention that the included slide is on the narrow side, and probably best suited for younger children.

Best Wooden Swing Set

Swing-N-Slide Ranger Wooden Swing Set

Best Swing Sets - Swing-N-Slide Ranger Wooden Swing Set
Buying Options
Pros
  • Easy assembly
  • Simple design
  • Works for wide range of ages
Cons
  • Small

Recommended ages: 2 to 10 years

Materials: Cedar wood, Plastic

Weight limit: 350 pounds (each swing supports up to 115 pounds)

Dimensions: 92  x 104  x 82 inches

Why We Love It

This simple swing set is made from cedar lumber, making it both durable and easy on the eyes. The two included swing seats and trapeze have pinch-free plastic-coated chains to prevent kids from getting injured while playing. The swings can support up to 115 pounds each, and the chains are adjustable depending on height, meaning that as the kids grow, the swing set can grow with them. Plus, the seats can be swapped for bucket seats (not included) to accommodate smaller toddlers, then changed back to the standard seats once they are a bit older, extending the longevity of your purchase.

Best Plastic Swing Set

Step2 Play Up Gym Set

Best Swing Sets - Step2 Play Up Gym Set
Pros
  • Sturdy
  • Great starter set for younger kids
  • Easy assembly
Cons
  • Small age range
  • Low weight capacity

Recommended ages: 3 to 6 years

Materials: Plastic

Weight limit: 240 pounds (60 pounds per swing)

Dimensions: 111.5  x 84  x 75 inches

Why We Love It

What to Expect parents frequently recommend Step2 play structures because of their quality and versatility. The brand’s plastic swing set is no exception. The two-story playhouse has a wave slide, a sturdy ladder for climbing, a nautical steering wheel for pretend adventures and a plastic roof. The two belt swings add even more opportunities for playful fun. It’s great for multiple kids to enjoy, and the plastic makes it easy to clean. However, the lower weight limit makes it only suitable for younger kids, which might not make the price worth it for some parents. 

Best Swing Set for Small Yards

Dolphin Playground Wooden Swing Set

Best Swing Sets -Dolphin Playground Wooden Swing Set
Buying Options
Pros
  • Small footprint
  • Sturdy
  • Easy assembly
Cons
  • No slide

Recommended ages: 3 years and up

Materials: Cedar

Weight limit: 400 pounds (150 pounds per swing)

Dimensions: 73.5 x 113.8 x 81.5 inches

Why We Love It

Maximizing fun while minimizing space is essential for small yards, and the Dolphin Playground Wooden Swing Set hits all those marks. This swing set is made of weather-resistant cedar and comes with two belt swings and a trapeze bar, which are easily interchangeable with other types of swings. 

It also has a number of safety features parents will appreciate: Pinch-free chains so little fingers (and strands of hair) don’t get stuck, crack-resistant bolds to ensure the structure remains durable and double ground anchors. Numerous parents mentioned how easy it was to assemble the swing set since the pieces that are separately packaged for each step of the building process (i.e. no digging around to find the correct screw).

Best Saucer Swing

Trekassy 40-inch Saucer Swing Set

Best Swing Sets - Trekassy 40-inch Saucer Swing Set
Buying Options
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Sturdy
  • Easy assembly
Cons
  • Only one swing

Recommended ages: 3 years and up

Materials: Alloy steel

Weight limit: 440 pounds

Dimensions: 72 x 67 x 71 inches

Why We Love It

Saucer swings are great for many sensory-sensitive kids for various reasons. For some, the round shape helps them feel cocooned and safe and gives them the option to lay down if sitting up on a traditional swing and holding onto chain link straps aren’t too their liking, while for others the swinging and spinning motion may be soothing or stimulating, depending on their needs. The Trekassy saucer swing has a heavy-duty metal frame and spring stakes to keep it stable, unlike some other ones which only come with the saucer swing itself. Parents can also buy a swivel accessory which allow the saucer swing to spin round and round, providing another level of fun for young (and old) kids. 

Best Swing Set with Slide

Backyard Discovery Tucson Cedar Wooden Swing Set

Best Swing Sets - Backyard Discovery Tucson Cedar Wooden Swing Set
Buying Options
Pros
  • Versatile playing options
  • Swings can easily be swapped out for bucket swings
Cons
  • Long assembly
  • Vinyl covering wears down in extreme weather

Recommended ages: 3 to 10 years

Materials: Cedar wood, plastic, hardware

Weight limit: 960 pounds, maximum 7 children at a time

Dimensions: 204 x 87 x 113 inches

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

I’ve owned this swing set for five years, and it’s still entertaining my kids. . I initially swapped one of the belt swings out for a plastic bucket seat when my youngest was not yet a toddler, allowing all three of my kids to safely play on it at the same time. Not to mention there were plenty of additional elements to keep them occupied, like a “treehouse” structure that doubles as a fort. I also love the built-in table, which ensures snack time doesn’t interrupt playtime. 

Assembly is a bit of a beast, but there is an accompanying app that gives step-by-step 3D instructions, which were very helpful, and my partner was able to build it themselves. There is some visible wear and tear, and the vinyl canopy has definitely seen better days. But considering the affordable price point and that it’s still being regularly used many years later, I would say it was well worth the money. 

Community Reviews
  • We just got a big [swing set] and just finished setting it up this weekend. Our son is obsessed and has played on it everyday this week. I bought this swing from Amazon to go with it and it’s been perfect for him

Swing Set Safety

Provided that you’ve set up a safe environment and have set it up properly, your swing set is ready for playtime. But how your kiddos use the swing is critical, too. Here’s some additional swing safety 101:

  • Always supervise your kids when they’re playing with swings. No matter how well-constructed your swing set is, accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. “The younger the age of your child, the more you should have a parent watching the child on the swing, especially if it's been raining and the swings are wet,” Dr. Lee says.  And never let kids on sets until they’re completely built and anchored, Hendy adds. 
  • Make sure toddler swings fit securely. Restraints should fit snugly so that your little one can’t slide or climb out, and be securely fastened when your child is sitting in a bucket swing.
  • Dress kids appropriately. Hendy says kids shouldn’t wear things that are loose around their necks, such as scarves, chains or lanyards, when playing on swings. They can catch on play equipment and pose a strangulation risk. Open-toed shoes like sandals and flip-flops should also be avoided on any play equipment, she says, as they can get caught and don’t provide good support for climbing.
  • Encourage safe play. Have kids sit properly inside swing seats rather than swinging on their stomachs or jumping off swings. And never, ever let your child bring a rope — whether it’s a dog leash or a jump rope — onto a play structure or swing set, Hendy says. Finally, always remind children not to run in front of or behind anyone using a swing. “If you have multiple children playing around swings, it's important for an adult to watch to make sure nobody accidentally gets hit by a swinging child,” reminds Dr. Lee.

Now that we’ve covered how to pick a swing and how to keep kids safe near a swing, scroll down to learn more

FAQ

Many parents find backyard swing sets to be worth the money they spend on them, especially when there are multiple kids using them over the course of many years. They provide hours of entertainment, outdoor time to keep kids healthy, and are a built-in playdate attraction.

While it’s not necessary to put anything additional under a backyard swing set if your ground is level, Hendry strongly recommends installing a shock-absorbing surface like engineered wood fiber, wood chips, shredded rubber, or rubber tiles to reduce the risk of serious head injury. Protective surfacing should extend at least six feet on all sides of your play set, and extend in front of and behind the swings by twice the height of the bar that the swing hangs from, as mentioned above. Loose-fill materials, like mulch, should have a minimum depth of six to nine inches, depending on the height of the play equipment. 

Depending on the set you purchase, most swing sets will require a basic set of tools like a wrench, screwdriver, and drill, as well as patience and time. Most will come with all of the smaller pieces like bolts and screws included, but many will also require the builder to drill their own holes. Larger swing sets also note that you will need at least two people for assembly.

Before purchasing a swing set, it’s worth considering the following questions: 

  • Is my yard space suitable for a swing? Having enough flat and level yard space is critical, says Hendy. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), any outdoor playset should have at least six feet of clearance around all sides. Swing sets require even more room on the top, front and rear sides to account for the motion of the swings. If you don’t have enough room, have uneven terrain or have lots of trees, fences, poles or other obstacles taking up space, you’ll need to make big changes before you can have a swing set. 
  • How handy am I with tools? Swings sets require extensive installation and following the directions exactly is key for ensuring the safety of your little ones as they play. Depending on the type of set you buy, you’ll likely need to have a power drill, wrenches and a hammer. If you’re worried about your ability to set up a swing, or don’t have the proper tools to do it, consider hiring someone to ensure the set is properly constructed — and make sure to budget for this as well.
  • Am I willing to do regular maintenance? Swing sets require regular upkeep to ensure they’re safe and functioning properly. This includes oiling moving metal parts, checking and tightening bolts and ground anchors a few times a month and replacing worn parts.
  • How long do I want this set to be used? Swing sets are costly, so many parents will want to ensure that a set they buy for their toddler now will last for years to come. Consider material quality, size and weight limitations to ensure your set is durable and will safely handle older kid play.