Swing Set for Grown Ups
Are your kids still using that old swing set in your backyard or have they long outgrown it? After our major landscaping project, we’ve been spending more time outside enjoying our new backyard. But, this eyesore was blocking the view. It was time to make this a Swing Set for Grown Ups!
The landscape designer wanted us to remove the swing set. I thought we could still use it (or I was in denial that my children are growing up.) I decided to make it a swing set for grown ups (and tweens.) That way we can turn it back into a swing set one day when we have grandchildren (hopefully in the very distant future.)
(I’ve included affiliate links in this post for your convenience. I make a small percentage on the purchase, but there is no additional cost to you. You can read more about affiliate links in my disclosure.)
Swing Set for Grown Ups
Here’s how you can convert your own swing set for the adults. Remove any slides and bright colorful objects (bright colors scream kid-friendly.) Most can be removed by taking out the bolts with a socket wrench.
Remove any swings, trapezes, or other hanging objects.
Replace the swings with two affordable chair hammocks using hammock swivel hardware kits.  If you have a swing set that accommodates three swings, you can usually fit two hammock chairs (but measure your set before you order.) You shouldn’t need to drill new holes, just hang the hammocks on the existing swing hooks (assuming they are securely fastened.)
I purchased the Mocha colored hammock chairs to blend into the scenery, but there are several colors available. (affiliate link)
Plant some climbing flowering vines around the base of the swing set. I planted a Lady Banks climbing rose on one side of the swing set. It should offer some privacy and when it blooms and will be covered with delicate yellow flowers some day.
On the other side I planted a clematis that has pretty purple flowers.
When you finish you’ll be surprised by the native species that flock to the new spot. Look I spot two book-reading skinny legged tweens right now! You’ll also probably notice that the bird will love hanging out on the hammock stretchers.
Our grown up swing set is the new favorite spot for my boys to curl up with a good book and a bottle of lemonade.
They haven’t missed the slide or the swings at all!
Before:
After:
I picked up the outdoor pillows at Lowe’s on clearance right now.
If you can’t find them at Lowe’s, I found some nice ones on Amazon that you might:
Blue-Green Medallion & Striped | Turquoise Trellis  | Zig Zags | Elephant Dance
I think Pretty Handsome Guy and I are going to spend several evenings here with a glass of wine and some good conversation.
Want to add some lighting to your new favorite spot? I have a tutorial for installing low voltage landscape lighting.
We have all been using the swing set a lot more than before.
Hope you have a great time enjoying your grown-up swing set! I know we are.
Pin for later!Â
Brittany, I love this idea. I actually am having my son build a swing set at our house. Because of Covid we can’t find any sets already made. Any way you can give me the dimensions of this set so he can build? Thank you! Hope you and yours are well!
13′ wide from the outside of each side supports. Then an additional 3′ the top rail extends for another swing or trapeze. The depth is about 8′, I’m not sure how much is buried in the ground. And 7′ tall from ground to top rail. Again, I’m not sure how much is buried
Can I ask how tall your swing set is? I love this idea but I’m afraid I may not have enough clearance based on the hammock dimensions listed in the item description. ?
It’s not very tall. 6′ 7″ from the ground to the underside of the beam the swings hang on. I did twist the hammock one time over the horizontal bar to shorten it a few inches. Look closely at my photos.
Oh, that’s great! Ours is about the same. Thanks!
Brittany, have you found that twisting the hammock over the horizontal bar put more wear on the swing? We are getting a play set that has a 6′ bridge on it that we are hoping to attach these underneath, so I’m wondering if we would need to twist the hammock over the top twice…?
I haven’t noticed any excess wear. I say go for it!
I love this idea! So many growing families sell the swing sets that still have some use… I just might pick one up since it could double as an aerial yoga trapeze too ?
Sounds fun!
This sounds good, but I have a 6foot,18 year old grandson who has Autism and he loves to swing but is too big & heavy for our old swing set. Can you help me with ideas?
Debra, don’t you think the hammock chairs would work for him? They hold my husband who is 6′ tall. I did have to flip the hammock over the bar once to bring the seat off the ground a little more.
I love what you did with the hammocks Brittany! Such a great idea. I’m going to check out the lights you have listed there. Not many mosquito’s here but I do love the lights.
Very cool and practical idea. I love your thought process – make use of it until the grandkids come along 😉
What a great way to relax in the evening or take a break during the day,never taught of swings for adults but this is super,the clematis adds a wonderful touch and I envy you surrounded by beautiful trees,wish I had them.Great job enjoy.