Canopy gazebos are for the economically minded but that doesn’t mean cheap. Some consumers actually prefer a canopy gazebo to a permanent structure, because a canopy gazebo is portable. You can take it down and set it up whenever and wherever you please. They’re great for lounging, picnics, and so on, and they work wonderfully well as merchandise tents at arts and crafts festivals.

Most canopy gazebos require two or more people for set-up. To set up a canopy gazebo on natural ground, erect the poles and frame, batten them down with the included ropes and stakes, stretch the canopy over and secure it to the frame, and you’re done. That’s it. It’s that simple. You don’t need to tear up your yard and you don’t need to call the authorities for a permit.

Even easier to set up are those canopy gazebos that are spring loaded to assemble from one piece. Just take it out of the box, spread the sections, stake it to the ground, and voila! Instant shade. Some canopy gazebos don’t even need to be fastened to the ground. Just put it up on your driveway, front porch, or other convenient flat space.

A canopy gazebo can cost you anything from $80 to $300, depending on size, materials, style, and quality. An aluminum or vinyl canopy gazebo will be less expensive but more portable than a gazebo with a wrought iron frame. In the case of the heavier frame, it typically would be moved less often – say, once in the spring and once in the fall.

You can find a canopy gazebo at your local sporting goods outlet, home furnishings warehouse, or general store and various online retailers and auction sites too.