Sorry, Jen. I have no experience either. Just one thing to consider. We have been thinking about getting one too, and when we do, it will probably be a propane-burning one as opposed to wood burning. Reason being air quality. On spare the air days, you could be prevented from using the wood burning version. I also like that the propane ones can be turned on and off when you want it. A friend has one and it's really nice. And you can roast all the smores and dogs you want over the flames just like wood.

I vote for propane too, although I haven't had experience with a fire pit. I have a wood burning chiminea and one of those tall propane heaters like they use at restaurants, and although the fire is "homey", I more often opt to use the heater. It really warms the air, I can use it on no-burn days, the smoke of the fire can be annoying, and there's no muss or fuss. You simply turn it on and off.
Definitely something to consider.

wanda

Ours is natural gas, built in. We used it once! LOL! I guess we'd rather sit in the jacuzzi!! It puts out a big flame, and it's windy here, so better safe than sorry!

Good luck finding the perfect answer!

Suzi

Thank you so much for your very helpful comments. This is why I research everything before buying, LOL. Never thought about wood vs. propane. We don't have "no burn" days here, but the smoke is something to think about anyway.