Chess Clubs in Antioch, Illinois. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Antioch, IL and Surrounding Communities
Chess enthusiasts in Antioch and nearby northern Illinois/southern Wisconsin border communities will find several organized playing opportunities. This guide covers local chess clubs within a 20-mile radius of Antioch.
1. Antioch Chess Club
Location: Antioch Public Library – 757 Main St, Antioch, IL 60002
Description: The Antioch Chess Club meets every Tuesday evening from 6:00-8:30 PM in the library’s community room. This welcoming group accommodates players of all ages and skill levels. The library provides tournament-style chess sets and digital clocks. Monthly activities include casual tournaments, strategy workshops, and game analysis sessions.
2. Lake Villa Chess Society
Location: Lake Villa District Library – 140 N Munn Rd, Lindenhurst, IL 60046
Description: Just 15 minutes from Antioch, this active chess community gathers every Thursday from 6:30-9:00 PM. The Society offers structured programming with beginner instruction available upon request. The group hosts quarterly rated tournaments and maintains an email newsletter for announcements.
3. Grayslake Chess Collective
Location: Grayslake Public Library – 100 Library Lane, Grayslake, IL 60030
Description: A 20-minute drive from Antioch, this family-friendly chess group meets Saturday afternoons from 1:00-4:00 PM. The Collective emphasizes chess education with teaching boards available for group lessons. Special events include youth tournaments and summer chess camps.
4. Gurnee Chess Academy
Location: Warren-Newport Public Library – 224 N O’Plaine Rd, Gurnee, IL 60031
Description: This instructional-focused club meets Monday evenings from 6:00-8:30 PM with separate beginner and advanced sessions. The Academy hosts simultaneous exhibitions with visiting masters and organizes an annual Lake County championship tournament.
5. Kenosha Chess Guild (Wisconsin)
Location: Northside Library – 1500 27th Ave, Kenosha, WI 53140
Description: Just across the state line (25 minutes from Antioch), this competitive club meets Friday evenings and hosts regular rated tournaments. The Guild welcomes Illinois players and maintains cross-state rivalries with other clubs.
6. Round Lake Chess Circle
Location: Round Lake Area Public Library – 906 Hart Rd, Round Lake, IL 60073
Description: This casual chess meetup occurs every second and fourth Sunday of the month from 2:00-5:00 PM. The Circle maintains a relaxed atmosphere with optional coaching sessions for beginners.
Regional Tournament Opportunities
Annual chess events in the area include:
Chain O’Lakes Spring Open (April)
Antioch Summer Classic (July)
Lake County Fall Championship (October)
For serious competitors, the North Shore Chess Center in Skokie (40 minutes away) hosts regular rated tournaments. Most local clubs recommend contacting them in advance as schedules may vary seasonally. Whether seeking casual games or serious competition, chess players in the Antioch area will find welcoming communities and regular playing opportunities. Many clubs participate in inter-community chess challenges and collaborative events throughout the year.
