Curated, Kinda

My Favorite Picks for Game Night, Rainy Days, and Screen-Free Fun

Game time with the family just got a whole lot better! Whether you’re looking for a high-energy card game, a classic board game, or something that even the littlest players can enjoy, this list is packed with favorites that my family loves. These picks are fast, fun, and full of laughs. Best of all, they’re easy to set up and play again (and again).

We’ve rounded up our top family card and board games, including a few essential accessories to make your game nights even smoother. Ready to shuffle the deck and roll the dice?

These are all affiliate picks I’ve curated, meaning I may earn a small commission if you choose to buy through my links, at no cost to you. Thank you!

Slapburger

Think fast. Like, really fast. It’s similar to other classic slap card games with a fun twist. In Slapburger, players race to stack ingredients to match burger orders while keeping an eye out for sneaky tricks. It’s fast-paced, easy to learn, and fun to play. Expect lots of shouting, slapping, and sandwich-building chaos.

Great for: 2–6 players, quick 15-minute rounds
Grab Slapburger here →

Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza

If you haven’t played this one yet, get ready for some fun. Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is a lightning-fast card game where everyone takes turns slapping the pile. If you slap at the wrong time (and you definitely will at some point), get ready to add to your stack. It’s simple, silly, and oddly addictive.

Great for: 3–8 players, chaos in under 10 minutes
Get it here →

Sushi Go!

A family favorite for good reason, Sushi Go! is a fast-paced game where you try to build the best plate of sushi for the most points. It’s quick to play and surprisingly strategic, plus you get a little bit of sushi education.

Great for: 2–5 players, 20-minute rounds
Snag Sushi Go! →

UNO (of course!)

A classic that never goes out of style. UNO is easy enough for younger players to join but with enough action to keep older kids and adults engaged. I like the Retro edition for the nostalgia. We even keep a deck in the car for travel purposes. Pro tip: House rules make it even better. Do you stack Draw Fours or not?

Great for: 2–10 players, travel-friendly
Find UNO here →

Chutes and Ladders

An easy-going classic, Chutes and Ladders is perfect for introducing board games to toddlers and preschoolers. There’s no reading required. Just spin, climb, and slide. It’s a fun way to teach counting and patience (lots of patience). We like the Spider-Man version, for a little something different.

Great for: 2+ players, no batteries required
Get Chutes and Ladders →

HABA Orchard Game

A gentle, cooperative game that’s perfect for younger players. In HABA’s Orchard Game, everyone works together to collect fruit before the raven reaches the orchard. It’s colorful, calm, and confidence-boosting for toddlers and preschoolers.

Great for: 1–4 players, encourages teamwork
Shop the HABA Orchard Game →

Card Holders for Little Hands

If you’ve got young kids playing card games, card holders are game-changers. They help small hands manage cards without showing them to everyone else. No more accidental reveals or messy piles!

Great for: Ages 3+, but honestly I use them too. Makes any card game easier!
Shop card holders →

Dice Tray

Keep your dice rolls contained and your game area tidy with a folding dice tray. These trays are designed to provide a designated space for rolling dice, preventing them from scattering across the table or onto the floor. You know how it goes with kids when given the opportunity to roll/throw something. The folding design makes them easy to store and transport, perfect for both home use and travel.

Great for: All ages, any game involving dice, portable and space-saving
Shop Folding Dice Tray →

Final Tip: Mix & Match for the Perfect Game Shelf

Every family’s game shelf needs a mix of energy levels and player styles. Pair something zany like Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza with a board game like HABA Orchard, and you’ve got a full range of skills covered.

Ready to upgrade your game stash? Pin this post for later and grab your favorites now so you’re always ready for the next rainy day or spontaneous game night.

Pin now, play later!