When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Backyard Social
Why Backyard Social is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Backyard Social in Fort Myers is a dynamic indoor/outdoor venue that delivers a lively and laid-back atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends and family. The space is thoughtfully designed with ample seating that encourages socializing and relaxation in a casual yet vibrant environment. What truly sets Backyard Social apart is its unique combination of a full-service bar alongside a curated selection of eight local food trucks, offering a diverse array of tastes in one convenient location. Guests can enjoy an eclectic menu from these food trucks, which adds an element of culinary adventure to the experience. The venue also boasts multiple games such as shuffleboard and cornhole, enhancing its appeal as a fun and engaging social hub. The graffiti art decorating the building adds an urban artistic vibe, making Backyard Social not only a place to eat and drink but also a visual spectacle. Whether it’s a casual night out, family outing, or a corporate event, Backyard Social provides a versatile backdrop that fits various social occasions, making it an inviting spot for groups of all kinds.
Here's what people think of Backyard Social
As of recent, Backyard Social holds a 4.5-star rating based on 459 reviews.
User reviews of Backyard Social paint a picture of a mixed but largely positive experience. Many guests praise the venue for its 'cool vibe' and describe it as a fun place to hang out with friends or family, highlighting the availability of games and the exciting variety of food trucks. The graffiti art and open-air setting are particularly appreciated as part of the venue’s character and charm. Positive reviews emphasize the social, relaxed ambiance, the quality and diversity of the food trucks, and the friendly atmosphere conducive to both casual visits and celebrations. However, some negative comments focus on inconsistent service, with reports of poor or unfriendly bar service and occasional unwelcoming staff behavior. A few reviewers express frustration over incidents that detracted from their experience, suggesting room for improvement in customer hospitality. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus is that Backyard Social offers a unique and enjoyable social setting that balances good food, drinks, games, and an inviting environment, making it a favored spot for many local visitors. The diversity in reviews underscores that individual experiences may vary, but the venue’s core appeal as a fun, casual gathering place remains strong.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jonathan Jett
What a great place! Food is top tier. The cooks take their job seriously. It's delicious and presented well, good quality control. They make their own hotsauce as well, which is so good. Hard for to decide which one I like more. The seating outside in the back is spacious and nice. The benches are very sturdy. I didn't think that would matter, but I genuinely appreciated not sitting at some worn down wooden tables with uneven surfaces.
Fiona Riebeling
We had an amazing experience at Backyard Social! We didn't know too much about the food before going and had just picked the place based on outdoor seating and vibes. We were pleasantly surprised with how interesting and unique the food was-- we did not expect "house pickles" to include jalapeño-pickled pineapple, and it was delicious! The waitress was the only server working that evening and did an incredible job making sure every table had what they needed and being friendly and thoughtful. We loved our dinner there and highly recommend checking it out!
Bethany W
We had an amazing dinner here! We ordered a variety of things and everything was delicious. It turned out the owner was serving our meal and she's delightful and spoiled us with a birthday pudding shot (omg how did I not know about this!) and whipped cream for our daughter. This is definitely a place we want to come back 💓
Tommy Joy
This place might have the best chicken wings I've ever eaten. Service was good, and beer selection was not too shaby. I like that you can order 12oz or 16oz versions of everything on tap. I still haven't ventured into the wine bar, but it looks promising.
Amy Fredrickson
Quirky little hole in the wall with a la carte food options. The hot honey chicken sandwich was not very honey-y or hot. The spicy pineapple was delicious. The guy in the kitchen spilled my drink all over me and comped me deviled eggs and those were also good. The cocktails were very tasty.
How to reach Backyard Social
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Why Backyard Social may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Backyard Social with your friends?
When it comes to choosing the perfect spot to gather with friends or family, Backyard Social in Fort Myers stands out as a top choice. With a vibrant and laid-back atmosphere that effortlessly combines indoor comfort and outdoor charm, this venue creates an inviting space for socializing, relaxing, and making memories. Whether you want an easygoing evening filled with tasty food and refreshing drinks or an engaging experience packed with games and entertainment, Backyard Social offers it all. The presence of eight carefully curated local food trucks ensures a delightful variety of dishes catering to diverse tastes, from seafood to barbecue and vegan options, making it easy to satisfy everyone’s cravings. The full-service bar supports this culinary experience with craft cocktails, beers, and a range of beverages that elevate any gathering. What truly makes Backyard Social special is its dynamic vibe—complete with lively music, themed nights, and community-driven events—giving that unmistakable feeling of a shared, festive backyard party. It’s a place where friends can come together, unwind, and enjoy a space that feels like an extension of their own homes but with the fun and flair of a vibrant local hotspot.
What types of activities can groups enjoy at Backyard Social?
Backyard Social is designed to be more than just a dining destination; it’s a hub of entertainment and leisurely activities ideal for groups. One of the highlights for visitors is the variety of games available, especially shuffleboard, which offers a fun and interactive way to engage with friends while sipping your favorite drink. The space accommodates casual gaming for all ages, meaning groups can compete, cheer each other on, and bond over lighthearted competition. Beyond games, the venue regularly hosts live entertainment and themed nights, injecting energy and unique experiences into your meetup. This can range from live music performances to special events that celebrate local culture or holidays, giving groups fresh reasons to visit again and again. If your group prefers to focus on food and drink, the rotating selection of food trucks presents a communal vibe reminiscent of a street fair, with each visit offering different tastes and flavors. Ample seating both indoors and outdoors means groups can find the ideal nook for conversation or celebration. Whether planning a casual catch-up or a larger celebration, Backyard Social supports flexibility and enjoyment across a wide range of group sizes and preferences.
Why is Backyard Social ideal for hosting group meetups?
Backyard Social’s welcoming and spacious layout makes it an ideal venue for group gatherings, whether informal friend get-togethers, family outings, or special occasions like birthdays and work parties. The venue’s hybrid indoor-outdoor design maximizes seating options and provides a relaxed atmosphere where guests can feel comfortable socializing without feeling cramped. The presence of multiple food trucks means dietary preferences and cravings can be easily accommodated, reducing difficulties often faced when organizing groups with diverse tastes. Having a full bar on-site ensures that everyone can enjoy a drink they like without the hassle of leaving for another location, supporting a continuous social flow. Additionally, the venue’s community-focused approach often means it is attuned to group needs, offering private event options and a staff familiar with hosting celebrations that require attention to detail and guest experience. These factors combined create a stress-free, enjoyable environment for gathering. Moreover, the artistic graffiti decor and the casual vibe contribute to a unique ambiance that sets Backyard Social apart from typical restaurants or bars, making meetups feel more special and memorable.
How does the food and drink selection enhance the group experience?
A critical factor in any group meetup is the quality and variety of food and beverages available, and Backyard Social excels in this area by partnering with eight local food trucks that rotate regularly. This setup brings a festival-like food experience to the venue, providing a mix of American classics, Asian fusion, barbecue, Greek specialties, vegan, and vegetarian fare, among others. This vast selection lets every group member find something to enjoy, encouraging conversation and shared tastings around the table. The food trucks also add an exciting culinary dimension, often introducing guests to local chefs and innovative dishes they might not encounter elsewhere. Complementing the diverse food options is a full-service bar serving craft cocktails, local beers, and classic drinks. This pairing allows groups to customize their meal and drinking experience perfectly. The bar’s expertise in mixology enhances socializing by providing unique and refreshing beverage options rather than the standard fare, elevating the overall vibe. Together, the dynamic food and drink offerings create a lively backdrop that keeps everyone engaged and satisfied throughout the meetup.
What makes Backyard Social’s atmosphere unique compared to other venues?
Backyard Social offers a combination of features that come together to create an atmosphere unlike many other venues in Fort Myers. First, its seamless blend of indoor and outdoor space provides the freedom to enjoy fresh air while being protected from weather extremes, which is well-suited for the Florida climate. The venue’s design embraces an urban, artsy aesthetic highlighted by extensive graffiti artwork that adds personality and visual appeal. This artistic element sets a vibrant tone and encourages visitors to feel at home in a space that’s creatively expressive rather than generic. The overall ambiance is casual yet lively, perfect for those who want to relax without sacrificing fun. Adding to this is the strong community focus; Backyard Social is a place where locals regularly gather, making it a hub for social connection beyond just a onetime stop. Live events, musical performances, and themed party nights infuse energy and excitement, turning ordinary visits into memorable outings. The combination of the artsy vibe, accommodating layout, and programmed entertainment ensures Back Social stands out as a destination that balances the best of social comfort and engaging fun.
How accessible and convenient is Backyard Social for group visits?
Located conveniently near the Fort Myers airport, Backyard Social benefits from a prime location that’s easily accessible to residents and visitors alike. For groups traveling or commuting within the city, the venue’s proximity to central transportation routes minimizes travel hassles. While parking might occasionally feel tight during peak times, the overall ease of access encourages frequent visits and makes planning group meetups simpler. The variety of seating and open layout also help groups find comfortable spots even when busy, ensuring that everyone can stay together without feeling fragmented. Furthermore, the venue often operates late into the evening, allowing for flexible timing that suits different schedules and event needs. Its central location in Fort Myers also positions guests close to other amenities and attractions, making Backyard Social a natural choice for starting or ending a night out. In sum, its combination of location, spaciousness, and operational hours enhances its function as a convenient and practical place to rally your friends.
What types of groups or occasions are best suited for Backyard Social?
Backyard Social’s versatility makes it a fitting choice for a wide range of group types and occasions. Its casual but lively atmosphere is perfectly matched for friend meetups looking for a fun night out or families seeking a kid-friendly environment with diverse food options and games. The inclusion of multiple eating options and a full bar caters well to groups with mixed preferences, including those with children or dietary restrictions. For more formal meetups such as corporate events or private parties, Backyard Social offers the ability to reserve space and enjoy a relaxed yet stylish backdrop. Celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, or reunion gatherings are enhanced by the venue’s festive vibe and entertainment options, allowing groups to tailor the experience with games, music, and thematic decor. Even casual drop-ins for happy hours or weekend outings find a welcoming environment with plenty of seating and social energy. This breadth of suitability reinforces Backyard Social’s position as a community-oriented venue where many different types of groups can comfortably and enjoyably come together.
How does Backyard Social foster a community and social connection?
Beyond its role as a food and drink venue, Backyard Social actively fosters a sense of community, making it a meeting place where social connections grow naturally. Its frequent themed events, live music nights, and community-focused activities offer patrons consistent reasons to return and interact, deepening bonds within local social networks. The diverse group of food trucks and local vendor involvement bring an element of local pride and support to the venue, which resonates with those who value engaging with their city’s culture. The casual open-air design encourages mingling, while games provide natural icebreakers for strangers and friends alike, enhancing the friendly atmosphere. Backyard Social’s welcoming vibe is often noted by patrons who appreciate feeling part of a shared experience rather than just a customer base. This emphasis on community makes it especially attractive as a gathering spot where groups can feel part of something bigger—strengthening friendships and building new relationships in a joyful, safe environment.
What practical tips should visitors know before coming to Backyard Social?
To make the most of a visit to Backyard Social, it’s helpful to arrive with some practical considerations in mind. The venue can get busy, especially during weekends and live event nights, so booking space in advance or arriving early is advisable for larger groups wishing to secure seating together. Exploring the menu options at the various food trucks ahead of time can help streamline decisions and allow groups to sample a wider variety of flavors without long wait times. Parking, while available, may require some patience during peak hours, so carpooling or ride-sharing could be convenient alternatives. For those planning to partake in games or entertainment, allocating enough time to relax into activities rather than rushing through the visit enhances the overall experience. Lastly, keeping an eye on Backyard Social’s event calendar can add another layer of excitement and ensure that groups attend during themed nights or special performances that align with their interests, maximizing fun and social engagement.
In conclusion, Backyard Social provides an exceptional venue for group gatherings by thoughtfully combining diverse food, drinks, entertainment, and a congenial atmosphere. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual night out, this vibrant Fort Myers hotspot caters perfectly to those looking to rally friends and family in one dynamic and welcoming place.