Take a moment and close your eyes…
Picture a beautiful sunset as a warm breeze touches your face. You’re enjoying a good book and sipping on a cold drink. You can hear the laughter of kids playing in the cul de sac as you gently sway back and forth, back and forth. Sounds nice, doesn’t it?
We all need that little something to help us unwind. That’s what makes a good outdoor rocking chair so appealing. It’s why we line the outside of our stores with rocking chairs. They are an invitation to sit down and enjoy the moment. Whether that’s competing in a tournament of checkers or engaging in conversation with a stranger, a rocking chair is a symbol of simpler times.
Why an Outdoor Rocking Chair?
A rocking chair is a great way to add some character to the outside of your home. Whether you have a porch, patio, or deck, a rocking chair can turn a space into your own personal oasis while adding that extra touch of style that’s uniquely you.
Did you also know rocking chairs can be beneficial for your health? Studies show that regular rocking can increase blood circulation, ease arthritis and back pain, improve balance and help insomnia. Plus, it even burns calories. (So, go ahead and have that extra biscuit!)
But finding the right outdoor rocking chair can be challenging. Trying to navigate all the different styles can have you scratching your head, wondering which one really is the best. So we’ve narrowed it down to 10 of our favorite styles and why we like them to help make your search easier, from the type of materials to the color, size, and design.
Finding the Right Outdoor Rocking Chair
Before we start, here are a few questions you want to ask yourself to help refine your search.
- Where do you plan on having your rocking chair? The front porch? The patio or deck?
- What kinds of elements will it be exposed to, and how much maintenance are you willing to commit to?
- What size chair & height will most complement your space and your family and guests?
- What type of finish & color would you be happy with?
- Do you have a set price point or range?
- Finally, do you want to add other accessories like rocker cushions or side tables?
Once you’ve thought through all your specifics, it’s time to start shopping.
10 Types of Outdoor Rocking Chairs
1. Polywood® All-Weather Heritage Legacy Slat Rocker
Available in 7 colors
See Price
Our most popular outdoor rocking chair, this all-weather rocker is ready for anything mother nature throws its way. It’s constructed of genuine HDPE POLYWOOD® lumber, a proprietary blend of plastics that includes recycled milk jugs and detergent bottles! We’ve partnered with POLYWOOD for over 10 years, and their process for creating this lumber is genuinely remarkable. That means a rocker made of POLYWOOD is not prone to splinter, crack, chip, peel, or rot.
The Legacy Slat Rocker, features a comfortably contoured seat and gently sloped runners that provide a smooth rocking rhythm. It’s built to withstand various climate changes, including hot sun and snowy winters and strong coastal winds. It’s comfortable, attractive, and with very little maintenance, it’s easy to see why so many people love it.
Why we like it:
- Cleans easily with soap, water, and a soft-bristle brush
- U.V. protectant and rich color throughout the material
- No painting or waterproofing needed
2. Char-Log Wooden Rocker
Available in 3 colors
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This Char-Log Wooden Rocker comes from our friends at Leigh Country and is crafted from individually-cut pine and fir logs that are naturally charred, then polished and cured to help extend the life of the wood. Each log is pre-cracked and individually cut, milled, charred, and then polished and sealed with a clear coat of lacquer for a glossy, refined finish.
Tall and wide, this rustic chair features curved seat slats and rounded armrests for maximum comfort.
Why we like it:
- Large and comfortable with a gorgeous rich color.
- Built to support all types of shapes and sizes.
3. POLYWOOD ® All-Weather Heritage Traditional Adirondack Chair
Available in 13 colors
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Adirondack chairs date back to 1903 and were invented by designer Thomas Lee. Originally called the Westport chair, Lee’s intent was to create a chair that allowed his family to easily sit together and enjoy the outdoors. He eventually settled on a design he constructed from 11 wood pieces that incorporated wide armrests, a curved back, and a contoured seat with a low profile that allowed for more space. Today the Adirondack chair has continued to be a popular choice for its relaxed style and charm.
Our Heritage Traditional Adirondack Chair features a timeless design reminiscent of Lee’s original from the 1930s. Now with the modern ability to withstand season after season in any climate since it’s made from genuine POLYWOOD® lumber.
This Cracker Barrel exclusive design features a contoured seat and curved waterfall front details that add an extra bit of comfort on the backs of your knees.
Why we like it:
- Unique design designed for maximum comfort
- No painting or waterproofing
- Lots of color choices to complement any décor
4. Ladderback Rocker
Available in Black or White
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Crafted by Hillsdale Furniture, this exclusive Ladderback Rocker is a versatile accent piece that looks good indoors or outdoors. Featuring a generously sized, contoured seat and handcrafted from solid weather and rot-resistant hardwood, the Ladderback Rocker will provide years of enjoyment and style to your home. Plus, it looks great anywhere whether that’s on the front porch or in the corner of a family room or nursery.
Why we like it:
- Can be used indoors or outdoors
- Extra space in the seat for added comfort
- Finished with outdoor-rated paints and stains for extra durability and quality
5. Palm Harbor Wicker Rocking Chair
Available in Black or White
See Price (Available online only)
Our newest addition to the Cracker Barrel family of rockers comes from Crosley Furniture and combines timeless style with a touch of modern flair.
Wicker has a long history that dates to 5,000 years ago in Egyptian times. It grew in popularity in Rome and various European countries to finally arrive in America on the Mayflower in a baby carriage. Originally used as a basket weaving technique, Wicker has evolved over the centuries, and is used to make many different items today, thanks to its breathable, woven design and comfort.
By the 1930s, the popularity of Wicker began to fade but had a resurgence again in the 1960s and 1970s. Today Wicker is popular again thanks to a more sleek and artful design emphasizing vertical lines and simplicity. The same applies to Wicker rocking chairs. While the benefits of Wicker remain the same, new modern designs add extra elegance to your outdoor space. Plus, Wicker is light, easy to clean, and bugs don’t like it either!
Our Black Palm Harbor Wicker Rocking Chair is U.V. resistant with all-weather flat resin wicker with rattan look and adjustable levelers on the legs. Perfect for outdoor dining as extra seating while adding just the right touch of sophistication and comfort to your home. Plus, it has a handy cup holder!
Why we like it:
- Generously sized chairs
- Lightweight and breathable, and U.V. resistant
- Stackable for easy storage
6. Rutledge Weather-Resistant Rocking Chair
Available in 3 colors
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This weather-resistant Rutledge Rocking Chair from the Carolina Chair & Table Company is crafted from 100% solid acacia wood and protected with a weatherproof finish. The chair design features lathe-turned front posts and elegantly rounded arms.
Why we like it:
- Made from acacia wood, so it’s scratch resistant
- Matching side table available
- Rounded arms make for a unique, but traditional design
7. POLYWOOD ® All-Weather Heritage Estate Ladderback Rocker
Available in 12 colors
See Price
A modern take on a rocking chair classic, the Estate Ladderback features wide, vertical back slats giving the rocking chair a contemporary look while maintaining a degree of timeless charm. Gently sloped runners provide a smooth rocking rhythm. Plus, since it’s constructed of genuine POLYWOOD lumber, you don’t have to worry about it being impacted by the outdoor elements.
Why we like it:
- Wide back provides added comfort & room
- Tons of color choices to fit any décor
- Smooth rocking rhythm
8. Aspen Wooden Rocker
Available in 3 different styles (Star & Charr)
See Price
The Aspen Wooden collection from Leigh Country appeals to the nature lover featuring a rocker with all the natural wood grain exposed and finished only with a weather-resistant varnish. Made with a durable pine and fir log construction, it features their signature high-rounded back and can be assembled in very little time.
Why we like it:
- Higher weight capacity (can hold up to 300 lbs.)
- Natural wood grain
- Additional designs available for the back add unique style
9. POLYWOOD ® All-Weather Heritage 3-Piece Furniture Set
Available in 5 colors
See Price
What’s better than rocking in one chair? Having someone else to rock alongside you! This Polywood All-Weather Heritage 3-Piece Set features a pair of handsome Cracker Barrel Rockers plus a matching side table. It’s perfect for resting a drink as you enjoy the blossoming Spring weather on your porch or patio. These might just become your favorite outdoor rocking chairs yet. Constructed from fade-resistant POLYWOOD lumber.
Why we like it:
- Two rockers are better than one
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Convenient side table completes the look
10. Porch Swing – Hardwood
Available in 4′ or 5′ sizes, 3 colors
See Prices
Want to cuddle up with someone and watch the sunset in style? A porch swing might be just what you’re looking for. Porch swings became popular in the mid-1800s when houses began having wraparound porches. They were especially popular in the South because they provided a much-needed artificial breeze (and if you’ve lived in the South during the summer, you can relate). A porch swing might be a great option if you’re looking for a way to create more family time and give your outdoor space some added peace and quiet.
Our Porch Swings come in either 4′ or 5′ lengths. They feature a slat seat and back, made of quality hardwood materials with a durable finish. They come with pre-finished wood parts and all the hardware you need, so they’re ready to assemble (RTA) in about 45 minutes so you can start swinging away.
Why we like it:
- Strong enough to support several people
- Made from knot-free solid hardwood, no fillers
- Exclusive design to Cracker Barrel
Accessorize Your Outdoor Rocking Chair
Nothing makes a rocker more inviting than adding a comfy cushion. Give your bottom a little extra comfort, plus add a splash of color and pizazz. Browse our assortment of rocker seat cushion styles and colors to make it truly your own.
Outdoor Rocking Chairs Are a Part of Who We Are
It’s no secret we love our rockers. Rocking chairs have been a part of our history since our founder Dan Evins opened the first Cracker Barrel store in 1969. Outdoor rocking chairs were just one more way for us to accommodate weary travelers so they could take a break, relax and let us prepare them a good meal at a fair price. And that hasn’t changed.
If you’re looking for something to add to your home that can also serve as a functional piece of furniture, plus a great conversation piece, an outdoor rocking chair may be just for you. Browse our wide selection of outdoor rocking chairs, plus other home décor ideas in our online store. Or you can stop by and see us at your local Cracker Barrel, pull up a rocker, and enjoy a little R&R. Because (we have to say it) – you rock!