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An outdoor gazebo can be a luxurious addition to a backyard, garden, or deck. Much like pergolas and shade sails, these quaint open-air shelters provide cover from the sun, rain, wind, and even pesky insects, creating a comfortable outdoor living space.
The best gazebos are sturdy and protective and look lovely on a deck or in a garden. With a wide range of styles and sizes available, there’s an elegant outdoor gazebo for most any space. Read on to learn more about some top features to consider and explore some of the best gazebos we vetted and tested for relaxing outdoors.
- BEST OVERALL: Kozyard Alexander Hardtop Aluminum Permanent Gazebo
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Cool Spot 11-by-11-Foot Pop-Up Gazebo
- BEST HARDTOP: Yoleny 12-by-12-Foot Hardtop Gazebo
- BEST POP-UP: Outdoor Living Suntime Instant Pop Up Patio Gazebo
- BEST SOFT-TOP: Abccanopy 10-by-12-Foot Outdoor Patio Gazebo
- BEST FOR GRILLING: MasterCanopy 8-by-5-Foot Grill Gazebo Canopy
- BEST ALL-SEASON: Yardistry 12-by-12-Foot Meridian Gazebo
- BEST FOR HIGH WINDS: Backyard Discovery 12-by-10-Foot Arlington Gazebo
- BEST WITH MOSQUITO NETTING: Sunjoy 11-by-11-Foot Pop-Up Gazebo With Netting
- BEST POP-UP: Clam Quick Set Escape Screen Tent
- ALSO CONSIDER: Erommy 10-by-13-Foot Double Roof Hardtop Gazebo
Before You Buy a Gazebo
Installing an outdoor gazebo starts with thorough planning. Step one involves considering the intended location and installation process. Decide where it will go, which is an important factor in identifying the appropriate size. Make sure the ground is flat and that any roots, rocks, and other debris can be removed. Also ensure the area can be cleared of any obstructions like shrubs, branches, and other greenery.
Acquire the necessary permits or permissions to install a gazebo. While most locations don’t require a permit for smaller structures, it is a good idea to check with local governing bodies or homeowners’ associations.
Consider whether the gazebo will require building flooring, or select a gazebo that comes with a floor included. For those choosing to build a floor (or installing the gazebo directly onto a lawn), consider its anchoring method. Bolts, screws, or strap systems are appropriate for concrete floors, foundations, or decks, while ground stakes are suitable for installing into grass or dirt.
In short, follow these steps before buying a gazebo:
- Choose the gazebo location. Measure and clear the area to decide the suitable gazebo type and size.
- Keep in mind that many gazebos do not include a floor, and consider the necessary planning if the floor needs to be built or installed separately.
- Consider the flooring surface and anchoring options to ensure safe installation.
- Make sure to check for any necessary permits or permissions needed to install the chosen gazebo.
How We Chose the Best Gazebos
The best outdoor gazebos make an attractive space for spending time outside, whether for alfresco family dinners or to create privacy around a hot tub. There’s not much variety among available models, so the intended use will help guide you in deciding which products will qualify as the best gazebos for your needs. The quality of the more permanent structures is paramount for a structure that requires little effort after it’s set up. A hard roof and a sturdy frame are key considerations when choosing a gazebo that can withstand rain, wind, and snow.
A portable or specialized structure could fit some needs better, which is why we included several pop-up gazebo options. These are water-resistant but are not built to survive strong weather. However, they’re great for protecting against the sun and bugs with ultraviolet (UV) protection and mosquito netting. A great portable gazebo is easy to assemble, disassemble, and carry anywhere. For small groups of people, a minimum size of 10 feet long by 10 feet wide is a wise option, but larger spaces offer more room for gathering if the footprint is available.
Our Top Picks
Gazebos provide an open but covered outdoor space, offering protection from sun and rain and doubling as an elegant backyard feature. The following top picks are durable, protective, and stylish and can provide an attractive outdoor shelter for years to come.
Best Overall
Kozyard Alexander Hardtop Aluminum Permanent Gazebo
Product Specs
- Size: 12 feet long by 10 feet wide by 9.6 feet high
- Shape: Rectangular
- Material: Aluminum and galvanized steel
Pros
- Made to withstand heavy winds, large snow loads, and other all-season weather
- Gutter system helps direct rain and water runoff during inclement weather
- Includes mosquito netting and privacy curtains in a convenient double-layered setup
Cons
- May leak occasionally in windy conditions due to vented roof design
Made for permanent installation, this gazebo from Kozyard has a sturdy hardtop design. The frame is made of a dark brown rustproof aluminum that withstands wet and windy weather. Combined, this gazebo can withstand winds up to 40 miles per hour and has a snow load capacity of 2,500 pounds. For protection from the sun, rain, or snow, while still allowing airflow, the galvanized steel roof has a vented double-roof design. It also has a gutter system to ensure proper water runoff on rainy days.
With its 12-foot-long by 10-foot-wide size, this rectangular gazebo is perfect for covering outdoor seating areas year-round. Double-layered curtains have both a solid-curtain and mosquito-netting layer to protect from the sun during the day and insects into the evening.
Get the Kozyard gazebo at Amazon, The Home Depot, Wayfair, or Kozyard.
Best Bang For The Buck
Cool Spot 11-by-11-Foot Pop-Up Gazebo
Product Specs
- Size: 11 feet long by 11 feet wide by 9.7 feet high
- Shape: Square
- Material: Steel and fabric
Pros
- Very easy to transport and set up, plus includes a carrying case
- Ample size for a pop-up gazebo canopy, comfortably seating 6 people
- UV- and water-resistant canopy material makes it suitable for all-season use
Cons
- During heavy winds or storms, may need to add extra anchors or take it down
It’s not easy to find gazebos under $500, so this Cool Spot portable model is a rare find. This pop-up gazebo is incredibly easy to set up and provides 11 square feet of coverage. With a lightweight steel frame, fabric top, and included carrying case, it’s a versatile option for seasonal use.
This backyard structure is also easy to assemble: Just open the metal frame and attach the vented soft-top canopy. The beige gazebo canopy is made from 150D oxford polyester, which is water-resistant and blocks up to 99 percent of UV rays. This gazebo includes four optional zippered mesh side walls to protect from mosquitoes and other flying insects.
Get the Cool Spot gazebo at Amazon, Walmart, or Cool Spot.
Best Hardtop
Yoleny 12-by-12-Foot Hardtop Gazebo
Product Specs
- Size: 12 feet long by 12 feet wide by 9.5 feet high
- Shape: Square
- Material: Powder-coated aluminum and polycarbonate
Pros
- Translucent polycarbonate roof is UV protective but allows some light in
- Durable powder-coated aluminum frame is reinforced for stability
- Includes a central hanging hook for installing a lighting fixture
- Double-track mesh insect curtain and privacy curtain system
Cons
- Mesh curtains aren’t secured at the bottom
- Bugs can make their way through the upper roof vent
With 12 square feet of coverage, this hardtop gazebo from Yoleny is ideal for large outdoor seating and dining areas. Made for permanent installation, it features an aluminum-alloy frame and a polycarbonate hardtop roof.
The powder-coated aluminum frame has a reinforced design to ensure stability. The roof is made from lightweight and translucent polycarbonate, which protects from UV rays and rain but still lets some sunlight shine through. The top also features a double-roof design for ventilation on hot or windy days.
Included with this hardtop gazebo is a fully enclosable zippered sidewall system. The curtains are on a dual track, with a netting track for preventing bugs and a solid curtain track for privacy and protection.
Get the Yoleny gazebo at Amazon or Walmart.
Best Pop-up
Outdoor Living Suntime Instant Pop Up Patio Gazebo
Product Specs
- Size: 10 feet long by 10 feet wide by 9.5 feet high
- Shape: Square
- Material: Alloy steel and polyester
Pros
- Pop-up design and lightweight frame make for easy setup
- Includes a wheeled carrying bag for easy portability and maneuverability
- Extended eaves provide ample shade from sun and protection from rain
Cons
- The see-through sides do not provide any privacy
- Design is not as sturdy as permanent options; may not withstand heavy weather
For day-to-night use, consider this pop-up patio gazebo from Outdoor Living Suntime. It’s designed to shield from sun and bugs while still allowing airflow through the mesh walls. Each wall is zippered for easy access; open them like curtains for even more airflow. The 10-foot-square size is an excellent temporary cover for daytime shade from the sun and for hanging string lights that add ambiance to evening dinner parties.
This pop-up patio gazebo installs in minutes by opening the frame and popping up the roof, similar to how an umbrella opens. The steel framing is lightweight and powder-coated for easy assembly and water resistance. The gazebo canopy is made of 150D polyester, which is also water-resistant and blocks 95 percent of UV rays. It comes with a storage bag, so it’s easily portable.
Get the Outdoor Living Suntime gazebo at Amazon or Walmart.
Best Soft-top
Abccanopy 10-by-12-Foot Outdoor Patio Gazebo
Product Specs
- Size: 12 feet long by 10 feet wide by 9.2 inches high
- Shape: Rectangular
- Material: Steel and polyester
Pros
- Rip-lock polyester canopy fabric is durable and protective; includes sealed stitching lines
- Mosquito netting is removable to make the space feel even more open
- Central hanging hook provides a spot to hang lighting or decorations
Cons
- Some users report difficulty assembling the canopy
Compared to hardtop options, a soft-top gazebo offers excellent protection at a more affordable price. This patio gazebo from Abccanopy is 12 feet long by 10 feet wide, which will cover a typical patio or outdoor dining area.
Powder-coated steel legs make the frame sturdy and rust-resistant. The vented top is made of 500D polyester, which is 99 percent UV protective, fade-resistant, and water-resistant to handle bright sunshine or summer showers. To ensure no gaps in the canopy, all stitching lines are sealed and waterproofed.
Removable mesh and curtain side walls offer protection from the sun, rain, and insects without sacrificing the view. The hardtop roof of the gazebo includes a central hook, perfect for hanging lighting, a flower basket, or other decorations to personalize the space.
Get the Abccanopy gazebo at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
Best For Grilling
MasterCanopy 8-by-5-Foot Grill Gazebo Canopy
Product Specs
- Size: 8 feet long by 5 feet wide by 8.3 feet high
- Shape: Rectangular
- Material: Steel and polyester
Pros
- The right size and shape to cover a grill or small outdoor kitchen area
- Roof vent helps release any trapped smoke for safety and proper ventilation
- Includes a shelf on each side and hanging hooks to hold food and grilling tools
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy rain or continuous grilling
- Lightweight metal poles could be stronger
Grill gazebos are often smaller and include handy shelves on each side to hold plates and grilling utensils. This 8-by-5-foot gazebo from MasterCanopy offers the perfect summer setup for a weekend barbecue.
The temporary gazebo has a rustproof steel frame and a weatherproof UV-protective polyester canopy. The soft-top roof offers cover from the elements for safe grilling, no matter the weather. While continuous grilling isn’t recommended under any canopy, the 8+ feet height and double-roof design with an ample vent for smoke to escape makes it possible (under continuous adult supervision).
Each gazebo side has a sturdy steel shelf for placing plates and utensils. A row of hanging hooks hold onto a range of cooking tools, and a built-in bottle opener makes it easy to open a cold one while grilling.
Get the MasterCanopy gazebo at Amazon, Wayfair, or Walmart.
Best All-season
Yardistry 12-by-12-Foot Meridian Gazebo
Product Specs
- Size: 12 feet long by 12 feet wide by 10 feet 3 inches high
- Shape: Square
- Material: Wood and aluminum
Pros
- Snow load and wind tested to exceed industry standards
- Wood frame is precut, predrilled, and prestained
- Includes hardware and most mounting brackets for installation
Cons
- Some users report the roof color fading over time
- Will take 1 or 2 days to build with the help of a few people
Rain or shine, and almost any weather in between, the Yardistry Meridian gazebo is designed to stand strong in any season, and is especially perfect for winter. At just 12 feet square, this all-season gazebo features a 100 percent cedar frame with a rustproof aluminum roof.
Double beam roof support and heavy-duty gussets help this Meridian gazebo to withstand the weather. While Yardistry doesn’t share its exact snow load and wind rating, the brand does specify that it’s snow load and wind tested to exceed industry standards. With this in mind, it’s suitable as an all-season gazebo for most climates.
Though sturdy, this Meridian gazebo is still designed with the set-up process in mind, with precut and predrilled holes and all the hardware included. The wood frame is finished in a natural cedar stain color that holds up beautifully to the elements.
Get the Yardistry gazebo at Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Wayfair, or Yardistry.
Best For High Winds
Backyard Discovery 12-by-10-Foot Arlington Gazebo
Product Specs
- Size: 10 feet long by 12 feet 1 inch wide by 10 feet 1 inch high
- Shape: Rectangular
- Material: Wood and steel
Pros
- Designed to withstand very high winds, up to 100 miles per hour
- Can handle up to 50 pounds per square foot of snow load
- Includes built-in electrical outlets and USB power ports
Cons
- Some reviewers mention difficult installation; may require professional help
In areas prone to storms and high winds, look for a gazebo that’s particularly suited to turbulent weather. The Backyard Discovery Arlington gazebo fits the bill, withstanding winds up to 100 miles per hour as well as up to 50 pounds per square foot of snow load. It’s made using very sturdy materials, with a corrosion-resistant steel roof and a heavy-duty cedar frame with a dark walnut stain. As a plus, the steel roof is also insulated to reduce heat transfer, which helps to keep a more comfortable atmosphere in all seasons.
The finished gazebo is both wind-resistant and handsome, with decorative accents to complete its look. To make it feel even more luxurious, it also includes three built-in electrical outlets and three USB power ports (it just requires a power source), so it’s possible to set up lighting or charge devices.
Get the Backyard Discovery gazebo at Amazon, The Home Depot, Wayfair, or Backyard Discovery.
Best With Mosquito Netting
Sunjoy 11-by-11-Foot Pop-Up Gazebo With Netting
Product Specs
- Size: 11.1 feet long by 11.1 feet wide by 8.5 feet high
- Shape: Hexagonal
- Material: Powder-coated steel and weather-resistant fabric
Pros
- Zippered mesh netting on each side allows for easy access while keeping bugs out
- Pop-up design is suitable for at home, camping, or when traveling
- Hexagonal shape is ideal for use for hot tubs and round outdoor tables
Cons
- Intended as a temporary structure for use in calm weather; only wind-resistant up to 12.4 miles per hour
Good mosquito netting makes it easier to enjoy the great outdoors in a gazebo. With a hexagonal design and netting on all sides, the Sunjoy pop-up gazebo keeps bugs at bay. Unlike large rectangular or square SunJoy gazebos, this hexagon design means less surface area per entrance—which also means a smaller area for bugs to enter when coming in and out of the zippered netting.
This gazebo is an 11-foot-square soft-top pop-up gazebo that’s easy to set up, whether in the backyard or on a camping trip. Made with a powder-coated steel frame and weather-resistant fabric canopy, it can withstand light weather (an anchoring kit is included). When bugs aren’t a concern, the mesh sidewalls are removable for a more unobstructed view.
Get the Sunjoy gazebo at Amazon, Wayfair, or Sunjoy.
Best Pop-up
Clam Quick Set Escape Screen Tent
Product Specs
- Size: 11.5 feet long by 11.5 feet wide by 7.5 feet high
- Shape: Hexagonal
- Material: 210 denier poly-oxford
Pros
- Offers protection against rainfall, UV rays, and insects; made with 360-degree mesh screens
- Fits over 6 people and a standard picnic table; suitable for soccer games, barbecues, and camping
- Can be set up in just 45 seconds by 1 user; also collapses easily
Cons
- Short ceiling height compared to other models available; those over 6 feet tall may have to duck
The Clam Quick Set Escape screen tent is perfect for camping or backyard events. This easy-to-use pop-up gazebo can be set up in 45 seconds or less and protects against bugs, rainfall, and UV rays with the help of the 360-degree insect mesh screens and 210 denier poly-oxford material. Plus, the test fits into a 72-inch carrying bag for easy storage.
For added convenience, this model has sidewalls that cover the mesh screens for privacy or wind protection, which can be secured with hook-and-loop closures. The tent’s interior is large enough for six people or a standard picnic table, great for family gatherings or barbecues. The only downside to this model is its low ceiling height, so those over 6 feet tall may have to duck down.
What our tester says: Stacey L. Nash, contributing writer at Bob Vila, notes in The Best Pop-Up Canopies that “when we say this model pops up in seconds, we mean it really does pop up in seconds. The setup process took very little work other than taking the canopy out of the 72-inch carrying bag, spreading it out, and snapping a couple of fiberglass poles into place. As frequent campers, we’d definitely bring it along for those evenings when the mosquitos are out in full force. The mesh covers all sides, so bugs stay out, and sidewalls that attach with hook-and-loop closures are available for purchase for some privacy or wind protection. We also liked that one person can collapse the canopy without trouble.”
Get the Clam gazebo at Amazon.
Also Consider
Erommy 10-by-13-Foot Double Roof Hardtop Gazebo
Product Specs
- Size: 13.1 feet long by 10 feet wide by 9.1 feet tall
- Shape: Rectangular
- Material: Aluminum and polycarbonate
Pros
- Double-roof design provides adequate airflow, ideal for those who do frequent grilling
- Large 13-food-long by 10-foot-wide size is ideal for covering outdoor dining tables
- Powder-coated aluminum frame and polycarbonate roof are suitable as a permanent structure in mild climates
Cons
- Can’t withstand lots of snow; needs to be cleared before snow cover reaches 2 inches in height
To cover a long outdoor dining table, consider this 13-foot-long by 10-foot-wide rectangular hardtop gazebo from Erommy. This permanent gazebo features a sturdy frame, providing cover for outdoor lunch and dinner parties in most any weather.
The minimalist design has a dark brown powder-coated aluminum frame and a dark polycarbonate roof. The translucent roof material allows some sunlight inside while also providing shade and blocking 99 percent of harmful UV rays. The double-roof design helps with airflow and windy weather conditions. This gazebo is best for mild climates as it can withstand winds up to 30 miles per hour and up to 2 inches of snowfall cover.
For even more protection, close the included double-layer sidewalls. Sitting on a double-track system, the mesh layer protects from bugs while a curtain layer offers more privacy.
Get the Erommy gazebo at Amazon, Walmart, or Erommy.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Gazebo
Gazebos come in a range of styles and sizes, and choosing the right one depends on the intended use. Those looking for year-round use will likely prefer a permanent gazebo, while those looking for a shady spot during an occasional dinner party may prefer a pop-up option. When picking a gazebo, consider its design, size, materials, durability, and installation process.
Size and Shape
It’s best to choose a gazebo that fits in the yard or patio without obstructing or overwhelming the outdoor space. It’s also important to make sure the gazebo is large enough for its intended use, whether to seat a few friends or to house a large dining setup.
Gazebos come in a wide range of sizes, with small ones that are about 6 feet across and larger models that are up to 20 feet long by 12 feet wide. Expect pop-up gazebos to come in smaller sizes, whereas permanent structures are typically larger.
Gazebos can be hexagonal, octagonal, round, square, or rectangular. The ideal shape depends on personal preference and, again, intended use. Round and square gazebos tend to be small or medium and are a great pick for covering a patio set, seating area, or hot tub. Rectangular gazebos come in larger options, which are excellent for covering a long outdoor dining table, for example. Hexagonal, octagonal, and round structures have the classic gazebo look, but square and rectangular models are more common for easy at-home installation kits.
Material and Style
Gazebos come in a range of styles, built from different materials to provide a variety of uses for owners. The materials are either naturally weather-resistant or are treated to be waterproof and fade-resistant to withstand the elements—and look great while doing so.
Wood and metal are common frame materials since they are sturdy and long-lasting in outdoor conditions. Hardtop gazebos feature hard roofs made of wood, metal, or polycarbonate shingles or panels. Soft-top gazebos have canopies made of weather-resistant and tear-resistant materials like polyester or polyethylene, or acrylic materials like the brand Sunbrella.
Hardtop and soft-top gazebos can come in permanent designs for year-round use. These are made to withstand inclement weather and heavy winds. Some soft-top gazebos have removable canopies that allow for removing the canopy in the offseason.
Pop-up, portable gazebos are designed for convenience and usually come in soft-top designs for easy transport and storage. They are made of foldable or collapsible materials like powder-coated or galvanized steel that you can easily assemble and disassemble for a pool day or dinner party. Portable or pop-up gazebos are generally made with lighter materials, like metal framing and fabric canopies, so they may not be suitable for areas with heavy winds.
Additional Coverage
Gazebos can include a range of features to make them more pleasant to use. Insect netting, curtains, and double-roof designs offer comfort and protection.
Some gazebos include built-in mosquito netting. This netting protects from mosquitoes, moths, and other bugs without blocking the view or the breeze. Other models have optional hanging rods or hooks to install netting or curtains.
Curtains can help block the elements, like rain and UV rays as well as bugs. Plus, they can also turn the gazebo into a private space. When open, curtains can be tied back to cover the poles, giving the gazebo a more luxurious look. Keep in mind that extras like curtains or netting may need to be taken down during or after wet or windy weather to prevent damage, dampness, or mildewing.
A double-roof design allows for better airflow without sacrificing protection. These gazebos feature a roof with a small gap at the top to allow fresh air to enter. A second rooftop section overlaps over the main roof to prevent rain and snow from coming into the gazebo.
Stability and Construction
Stability is one of the most important safety features when it comes to choosing a gazebo. While all gazebos are designed for outdoor use, some types are sturdier than others. Permanent structures are stronger than pop-up options. Made to move around with ease, pop-up gazebos tend to be the least stable option. They aren’t usually suitable for windy conditions, but the trade-off is their ease of use and simple assembly.
Hardtop gazebos tend to be sturdier than soft-top gazebos. Their hard metal roofs are more durable than fabric options. Hardtop gazebos also don’t run the risk of sagging or dropping with heavy rain or snow.
Gazebos include a range of features to maintain their sturdy construction. Features like air vents allow gusts of wind to flow through without rattling the roof or canopy. Built-in gutters and sloped designs direct water off the gazebo. For extra stability, most models come with spikes, bolts, or stakes to anchor the gazebo to the ground.
Type of Assembly
Gazebos are available as installed, permanent structures or as portable pop-up options. Permanent options often take longer to install but also last much longer. Many DIY installation options include ready-to-install kits with precut and predrilled pieces for easy assembly. Consider installation difficulty and available help—while many of these sets are made for home installers, they will take two or more people to put together. Consider hiring a professional installer if needed.
Pop-up gazebos are easy to assemble and disassemble, coming together with a little bit of elbow grease. They usually have a metal frame that pulls apart or clicks into place; then the soft canopy straps over the top. Some options include storage bags for portability.
FAQs
Whether it’s a temporary gazebo for a summer party or a permanent year-round cover, there’s a stylish gazebo model for most every outdoor space. Consider the following common questions and answers while searching for the right one for your patio or backyard.
It depends on the gazebo type. A good portable pop-up gazebo should last several years, provided it’s used in calm weather. Permanent structures can last much longer; a well-built permanent gazebo can last decades with proper maintenance.
It depends on the structure and its installation. Pop-up gazebos can withstand very mild wind and are best used on calm and sunny days. On the other hand, permanent gazebos are made to withstand year-round weather, including stormy conditions. Some sturdy options can handle severe winds; check the manufacturer’s specifications if severe weather conditions are a concern.
It depends on the gazebo type. Permanent gazebos can stay up year-round. These gazebos have a sturdy hard structure and roof and are anchored to permanent flooring, so they’re a good choice if you want to keep the gazebo up for winter. Soft-top and portable gazebos often can’t stay up all year. Follow the manufacturer’s directions regarding when the gazebo should be taken down.
It depends on your jurisdiction and the intended structure type and size. Temporary pop-up gazebos do not require a permit. Most permanent gazebos don’t require a permit either, but it is always a good idea to make sure yours meets the requirements of your local township or homeowners’ association.
Permanent gazebos can anchor to the ground or a concrete foundation, wooden deck, or other permanent flooring using screws, straps, bolts, or other anchoring systems. Pop-up gazebos often come with stakes to secure the posts into the ground. Many gazebos come with anchoring accessories.
Since they are outdoor structures, most gazebos are waterproof. They use weather-resistant or treated materials to withstand wet conditions. To ensure the gazebo can withstand an area’s climate, check the manufacturer’s directions for use in wet or windy weather. While most structures can handle wet weather, long-term use in rainy conditions might deteriorate some soft-top and pop-up canopies.