Top 60 Best Fire Pit Ideas – Heated Backyard Retreat Designs
Man along with his friends and family have gathered around the communal fire since time immemorial, and the tradition has not lost its appeal, even in our age of every conceivable convenience.
We may have left our ancestors in the past, but the modern joys of a crackling outdoor fire on a chilly winter night or under a starry summer sky are well worth implementing, and can be achieved in your own backyard no less.
A backyard fire pit welcomes your guests in a way that simply exceeds the standard home. Inlaid or above ground designs, accented with stone or Pacific wood, and complete with an irresistible seating arrangement, the outdoor fire pit promises comfort, safety, and the timeless pleasures of catching up with old friends or seeing a lover’s face aglow in the firelight. And because the fire pit is engineered and installed with safety as top priority, you can relax without the burden of performing potential double-duty as volunteer firefighter.
We live in chaotic and uncertain times, but the outdoor fire pit stands apart from the madness, offering an elemental reassurance that even the most state-of-the-art technological advances fail to procure. You deserve to bask in the steadfast tranquility of man’s most triumphant discovery, and these fire pit ideas assure one that whatever the future holds, the hearth will always persevere and provide.
Fire Pit Ideas
A fire pit doesn’t have to cost you thousands of dollars to be fun and functional. This backyard fire pit is dug into the ground while being shored up on the sides with planters that double as retaining walls. The simple gravel surface is perfect for kicking back with friends over a few drinks. If you’d like to try to mimic the bench in the picture, try sourcing old railroad ties or landscape timbers. While you don’t need to use concrete footings, you do want to dig holes deep enough to keep this bench from tipping over.
On a patio this large, you’ll need to give people a reason to head to the far end. This brick fire pit and seating area can be the exact excuse people need to venture away from the house. To create a similar area in your backyard, head to your local landscaping supplier and look for blocks that will create gentle curves. Some exterior construction adhesive should keep the blocks in place and give people a comfortable area to relax in.
This fire pit reminds us more of a five-star resort than a backyard getaway. This seating area has been built into the pool, creating an ultra-relaxing space to enjoy some company on a summer night. The deep stone ledges are perfect for resting drinks and snacks while giving swimmers a place to dock and join in on the laughs.
This is a great budget-friendly alternative to traditional stone fire pits. The wrap-around decking provides plenty of space for friends and family to gather and make memories. The river rock gravel bed is the perfect place for kicking off flip flops and getting comfortable. Steel fire pits like this one can be purchased at most home improvement stores. Take a look at their selection and pick one that works for your backyard.
Fire pits aren’t reserved for backyards only. This rooftop setting is a great space for a gas fire pit and some chairs for sunset hangouts. Gas fire pits put off less radiant heat, which makes them ideal for a setting like this. While the flames are still hot, the pit itself won’t overheat and is less likely to cause damage to nearby materials. The added benefit of not having to lug firewood up to the roof space also adds some appeal.
Sinking a fire pit and seating area into your garden space can be an awesome idea for a small backyard. These stone benches are deep and spacious, so there’s plenty of room to get everyone gathered around. You don’t have to take out a line of credit to come up with a similar look in your backyard. Landscape timbers and blocks can be used in lieu of these stacked-stone walls.
Imagine gathering around this space on a cool night with the stars shining above. This rustic mountain backyard is the perfect setting for natural stone chimneys and fire pits. Teak wood chairs with comfortable cushions make the space extra inviting. This square fire pit will require some planning but still remains within the DIY-able realm. By learning how to accurately stretch string lines and studying the basics of stone and mortar, you should be able to come up with something that looks similar.
Mixing hardscape and landscape can be a great choice for a backyard fire pit. The stone walls and patio stones are perfect for sitting and lounging on, while the grass is a great place to throw a towel down and have a fireside picnic. These large bluestone slabs make excellent alternatives to basic pavers and give the space an English garden feel. Use this idea at the end of a large yard to give yourself a space to get away from it all.
On many construction projects, large fieldstones often have to be removed from the ground before any of the building can begin. The contractor then has to cart these stones away, bury them, or leave them for the homeowner to deal with. This backyard design makes good use of these boulders, using them not only to provide seating but also to define the fire pit and patio area from the rest of the yard.
For a modern and contemporary take on a backyard fire pit, you might consider wrapping an in-ground pit inside of a deck equipped with built-in seating. To keep this design safe, we suggest lining the interior of the fire pit with firebricks. They’ll help to keep the overall temperature down on the exterior of the fire pit. This will help to prevent your hard labor spent on building the deck from going up in smoke.
For a cheap fire pit idea, look no further than this design. The Adirondack chairs atop the gravel patio look right at home around this simple in-ground fire pit. While this is a simple, inexpensive design, there are some things you should think about first. Avoid building your fire pit on top of the gravel base. Gravel stones can expand when heated, cracking and sending chunks flying. Also, installing a metal fire ring below grade is a good way to keep things safe and stable during especially hot fires.
On the list of ways to take in a summer sunset, cozying up around a fire has to be ranked pretty high. This circular stone fire pit sits on the corner of this paver patio, half-wrapped by a beautiful matching stone bench while overlooking a lake. By adding a few chairs, the entire family can toast the sunset together. You don’t have to have an amazing view to make this fire pit idea work in your backyard. If you already have a large patio, consider building a similar design in one of the corners. It will frame the space nicely, provide extra seating, and create some warmth for everyone to gather around.
Natural stones can make excellent fire pit building materials. The stones in this fire pit area act as both retaining wall and fire pit material. Set nicely into the side of this ledge, the gravel seating area provides a good base for some chairs and end tables. The natural materials used lend a timeless feel to this backyard fire pit.
Some gravel, comfortable seating, and a gas fire pit are all that it takes to create an inviting and comfortable outdoor space for entertaining. Small backyard spaces like this one can benefit from the versatility and ease-of-use that come with gas fire pits. Gas fire pits come in all types of shapes, sizes, styles, and designs, so finding one the fits your backyard should be straightforward.
A simple fire pit idea doesn’t mean it will be any less enjoyable than a more intricate or expensive design. This in-ground circular fire pit sits nicely inside the cobblestone patio. The bench and wood storage make outstanding additions to the relaxing setting. Use this idea, or one similar, in an unused corner of your yard. It tucks away nicely and the permanent seating makes it easy to landscape around without shuffling expensive lawn furniture about.
Fire Pit FAQs
What is the best base for a fire pit?
The best material to use for a base for your backyard fire pit is simply paver base. It can be poured in place by the bag and tamped down to become very hard and stable. It’s a more stable choice than sand, and far safer than gravel which can pop and send small pieces of rock flying.
Where should I put a fire pit in my yard?
There are a number of things to consider when planning the location for your backyard fire pit. For obvious reasons, you don’t want to build your fire pit under or near any trees and plantlife. You should also consider somewhere that has a natural windbreak if possible. It’s also wise to avoid installing a fire pit over underground utilities.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
With cellphones so ubiquitous, your watch choice can be less about telling time and more about personal style. However, a watch is not ‘just’ a watch. For example, the vast majority are made for right-handed people, but a select few cater to the lefties among us. There is a wide range in functionality and size.
The wristwatch is also one of the few socially acceptable accessories for men, so why not have a small selection? If you’re not cashing a CEO’s paycheck just yet, here are the top 28 most handsome watches for men that retail for under $500.
Got a bigger budget? Then check out our guide to the best men’s watches under $1000 instead.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
1. Tommy Hilfiger Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
If you like the feel of a pliable, non-metal band but aren’t comfortable with genuine leather, this watch comes equipped with a handsome synthetic band. At 46mm in diameter, this watch is perfect for men of smaller stature, as it will not overpower your hand or make it look like you’re wearing your father’s watch. With bold Arabic numerals, a stainless steel case, and classic styling, this watch is an outstanding choice for an everyday watch and the man on a budget.
2. Nordgreen Pioneer – Black Dial
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Not everyone has an endless amount of cash to drop on a luxury timepiece. If you’re money-conscious but want something high-end, then why not consider the Nordgreen Pioneer.
An inspired take on a classic Chronograph, Nordgreen celebrates the Danish with what they call a timepiece “that captures the sustainable future.” Available in various dial colors from blue, black, and white. There’s even the choice of three case colors – gunmetal, silver, and rose gold. A perfect addition to the collection of any watch enthusiast.
3. Fossil Grant Brown Leather Watch
This lovely offering by Fossil features slim Roman numeral hour markers and delicate cut-out hands. The casing is stainless steel and is water-resistant to 165 feet, making it a great dive watch. The band is made of supple, soft calfskin leather and uses a buckle closure.
Of course, this timepiece also comes with the generous 11-year warranty and it’s own fun tin. This watch oozes class and is great for nearly every occasion in your life.
4. Citizen Sport Stainless Steel Men’s Watch With Brown Leather Band
If you don’t want to deal with changing out a battery in a digital watch, this watch is powered by either natural or indoor lighting. The mineral crystal face and stainless steel case make this watch water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for swimmers and snorkelers.
Handsome and utilitarian, this is a great watch for everyday wear. It’s one of the best watches for men who are always on the go.
5. Fossil Men’s Machine Chronograph Silicone Watch
This watch was designed with the active man in mind. The knurled silicone band stands up to sweat and oils without issue, and the timepiece itself is water-resistant to 165 feet.
The patterned bezel and quality craftsmanship of the black dial is excellent, as is to be expected from a Fossil watch. It even comes in the iconic and collectible tin!
6. Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Watch
This men’s watch features Japanese quartz movement that charges itself indoors or out when exposed to light, making it a great choice for those who don’t want to change out the battery too often. The stitched canvas strap is soft against your skin and will wick away moisture, while the mineral crystal face stands up to the rigors of your everyday life.
Water-resistant to 330 feet, this dive watch is a classic and simple design you’ll be proud of for years to come.
7. Invicta Pro Diver Chronograph Men’s Watch
Another gorgeous offering by Invicta, this watch features a bold design with a slightly nautical feel to it. It will look at home whether you’re wearing a business suit or are going for a dive of less than 660 feet. This piece is also covered by a one-year warranty as a matter of course. The luminosity feature and magnified date window make it a great choice if you work or play in low light.
If you want something that looks like a Tag Heuer but without the luxury watch brand price tag, this is a good option!
8. Casio Edifice Multi-Function Men’s Watch
This watch has three sub-dials for 12 hour, 60 minute and 60-second displays, in addition to the standard time. It also features a fold-over, push-down clasp on the stainless strap, keeping it secure throughout your activities. If you’re looking for a classy timepiece that shrieks sophistication, this is a great choice.
9. Fossil Machine Three Hand Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
This quality watch is a chameleon piece. It looks at home as a dress watch riding below the cuff of your best suit, and it also looks great paired with jeans and a t-shirt. Backed by Fossil’s 11-year warranty as a matter of course and beautifully crafted, this smoke-colored piece is guaranteed to become the go-to accessory for nearly every occasion.
10. MVMT Watches Black Face Men’s Watch
If you like the look of a simple watch, this minimalist offering from MVMT is right up your alley. With just a plain black face, tick marks to denote the hours and a single date window, there is nothing overdone or extravagant about this design. The is understated and suited to the simple design. It’s definitely a classy, low-key piece for the budget-conscious.
11. Timex Weekender Watch
If you’re looking for a fun watch to pair with casual outfits, this is a great option. The band is blue and yellow woven nylon, and the face features both civilian and military timekeeping. An Indiglo night light is also included. This watch is water-resistant to 99 feet, meaning it can withstand splashes of water or exposure to rain but you won’t want to submerge it.
12. PUMA Ultrasize Black Sport Men’s Watch
Boasting a 50mm diameter, this piece is perfect for the large-framed man or one who likes to wear his accessories oversized. A true fashion statement, this sports watch comes in eight different colors schemes to match your favorite hues.
Do be aware, however, that the dial knob is configure for left-handed men!
13. Timex Easy Reader Men’s Watch
Another dress watch designed with the older gentleman in mind, this watch features a white dial with generously sized numerals that do not appear comical to the casual observer.
It’s also an excellent choice if you take your contacts out at night and still want to be able to check the time. With classic lines and a simple white face, the watch would not be out of place at any casual gathering. It comes with Timex’s one-year warranty at no additional charge.
14. Fossil Nate Men’s Chronograph Watch
For men who like a more gritty, industrial feel to their accessories, this Fossil watch is right on point. The bezel is gear-edged and the face is utilitarian black and gray. Water-resistant to 165 feet, this watch is a great choice if you like your adornments to be understated yet add visual interest.
It’s definitely a stand-out piece, for those who would take notice!
15. Timex Expedition Field Chronograph Men’s Watch
Featuring an indigo night light, tachymeter, a date window and a buckle closure, this watch is perfect for men who like to work or play outdoors. It is also water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for snorkeling or swimming.
You won’t want to wear it for diving, however. With classic, black styling and a genuine crystal face, this is a timepiece that will stand the test of time in both form and function.
16. Seiko 5 Automatic Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
This Seiko automatic watch has all the bells and whistles you need, but presents it all in a plain and strikingly attractive manner. It features a date window in either English or Spanish, sword-shaped hands, a sweeping second hand and a mineral dial window. This is a great option for the man on the go. The canvas strap can be removed and hand-washed if sweat or other odors become an issue.
This watch is not water-resistant, so you’ll only want to wear it when you won’t be popping by the pool for a swim!
17. Invicta Pro Diver Collection Silver-Tone Men’s Watch
For those who prefer an all-metal timepiece, the stainless steel Invicta fits the bill nicely. It has a similar aesthetic to a Tag Heuer watch, but at a more affordable price. Equipped with a unilateral bezel and removable links, the band can be customized to fit your wrist perfectly. The face is flame fusion crystal and features a magnifier to highlight the date window.
It’s also water-resistant to 660 feet. If you’re looking for a gorgeous watch that stands up to an active lifestyle, this is an excellent choice.
18. Seiko Men’s Adventure-Solar Classic Casual Watch
This Seiko watch derives its power from either natural or indoor light and can withstand water depths of up to 330 feet. The supple brown leather strap and timeless brushed steel give this piece an attractive look, and the alarm chronograph is easy to set.
If you’re looking for a watch that can serve as a backup for your wake-up call while traveling, stand up to the elements and look awesome, this casual wrist watch is a winner.
19. Nautica Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Blue Resin Band
Featuring a plethora of options and a smart, snappy style, this a great casual watch with a eye-catching blue dial. The hardy resin band is adjustable, and the face is protected by a mineral window. Whether for work or play, this bold blue design is handsome and substantial on the wrist. It comes with Nautica’s five-year warranty at no additional charge.
20. Citizen Sport Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Black Leather Band
The black, red and white face of this piece eschews the traditional two-tone color scheme so often employed in other watches, and the contrasting stitching on the band adds creative flair. It comes backed by Citizen’s five-year warranty and will compliment any casual outfit.
21. Alessi Tic15 Analog Display Analog Quartz Black Men’s Watch
Another not-quite-round offering on our list, the curved square casing of this piece gives it instant visual appeal. Sleek and clean, this unfussy design will be a compliment to almost any occasion. It has quartz movement and is water-resistant to 99 feet, making it a great choice for everyday wear.
22. Invicta 1517 I Force Collection Watch
Another on our list designed for left-handed men, this watch is something special. Water-resistant to 330 feet and featuring oversize stenciled numbers and a sub dial, this watch is great for any casual outfit. The cloth band is extremely durable and stands up to dirt, sweat and grime.
If you lead an active lifestyle, this watch will be right at home in your collection.
23. TRIWA Blue Steel Nevil Canvas Watch
This watch comes in a whopping 14 color variations, all of them beautiful. You may decide to add more than one to your collection!
Designed in Sweden, this watch features Japanese quartz movement, a stainless steel casing and a strap made from Tärnsjö organic leather. TRIWA, which stands for Transforming the Industry of Watches, believes in the artistry of fine jewelry and it shows in their product.
24. Victorinox Swiss Army Alliance Watch
Another fine dress watch from the makers of the Swiss Army knife, this watch is emblazoned with the internally recognized cross and shield emblem. It has no sub-dials, tachymeter or other add-ons to detract from its simple and appealing style.
This watch will be at home with all but the most formal of outfits and carries a two-year warranty.
25. Ingersoll Automatic Stainless Steel Bull Run Watch
Again, Ingersoll remakes the classics and brings them into the present day. With a highly polished stainless steel casing, two sub-dials, a date aperture and arrow-shaped hands, this quartz watch is beautiful.
The band features contrasting stitching on the fine-grain leather, adding depth and detail to the workmanship. This watch will compliment any casual occasion and can be relied upon for years to come.
26. Tissot Quickster Chronograph Black Leather Men’s Watch
Made with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and Swiss automatic movement, this watch is a smart and utilitarian choice. If you’re looking for a solid Swiss watch that isn’t flashy, this is an excellent option. It’s also guaranteed for two years.
27. Seiko Sport Solar Men’s Beige Watch
Are you getting tired of squinting down at your watch or holding it closer and closer to your face? Don’t worry, we all get a bit nearsighted with age, especially over the age of 40.
If you’re not quite ready for reading glasses or a comically huge watch, this is a great choice from Seiko. The numerals, indices and luminous hands stand out in stark white against a black background, and the numerals are generous in size. It’s a perfect casual watch for the older gentleman.
28. Seiko Men’s 5 Watch Blue Canvas Band
This simple and affordable watch has a clean, crisp aesthetic to it and doesn’t bog down its design with a ton of bells and whistles. It’s time and date, end of.
If you want a watch for casual wear, this Seiko is a shoo-in. The band is forgiving and comfortable against your wrist, and it’s blue color will likely compliment your existing wardrobe. The price is also extremely affordable.
29. Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Stainless Steel Watch With Brown Leather Band
Featuring the Hilfiger logo at the three o’clock position, this wrist watch is a statement piece. It is a bright, shiny stainless steel work of art that you’ll be proud to wear at all but the most stuffy of workplaces. The calfskin leather band uses a buckle closure and the date window is beside the logo at three o’clock.
If you’re a fan of Tommy clothing, cologne or luggage, you can complete your look with this stunning accessory.