Chess Clubs in Bessemer, Alabama. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Bessemer, AL and Surrounding Areas
Bessemer, Alabama and its neighboring communities offer several opportunities for chess enthusiasts to play, learn, and compete. These clubs cater to players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to experienced tournament competitors.
Bessemer Chess Club
Location: Bessemer Public Library
Address: 200 18th St N, Bessemer, AL 35020
Description: The Bessemer Chess Club meets weekly at the public library, providing a welcoming space for players to enjoy casual games. The club emphasizes community building through chess, with experienced players often mentoring newcomers. Equipment is provided, and players of all skill levels are encouraged to participate. The library posts current meeting times on their community bulletin board.
Birmingham Chess Club
Location: Homewood Public Library
Address: 1721 Oxmoor Rd, Homewood, AL 35209
Description: Just 15 miles from Bessemer, the Birmingham Chess Club is one of Alabama’s most active chess organizations. The club hosts weekly rated games and monthly tournaments sanctioned by the United States Chess Federation. Players range from casual enthusiasts to nationally ranked competitors, making this an excellent option for serious players seeking challenging matches.
Hoover Chess Club
Location: Hoover Public Library – Plaza Branch
Address: 2000 Municipal Dr, Hoover, AL 35216
Description: Located about 20 minutes from Bessemer, the Hoover Chess Club offers a balanced mix of casual and competitive play. The club organizes regular “chess nights” with simultaneous exhibitions by local masters and beginner lessons. Their annual city championship attracts players from across central Alabama.
UAB Chess Club
Location: University of Alabama at Birmingham – Hill Student Center
Address: 1400 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35233
Description: While primarily serving university students, UAB’s chess club welcomes community members to their weekly meetings and quarterly open tournaments. The club maintains a strong scholastic focus but includes players of all levels. Their annual Blitz Championship is particularly popular among competitive players in the region.
McCalla Chess Group
Location: McAdory High School (Community Room)
Address: 4800 McAdory School Rd, McCalla, AL 35111
Description: This community chess group meets bi-weekly at McAdory High School, about 10 miles west of Bessemer. The informal gatherings focus on casual play and chess education, with special sessions for youth players. The group frequently collaborates with local schools to promote chess in education.
Local School Chess Programs
Several Bessemer area schools maintain active chess programs that occasionally host community events:
Bessemer City High School Chess Team (1624 9th Ave N, Bessemer, AL 35020)
Jonesboro Elementary Chess Club (1912 Jonesboro Dr, Bessemer, AL 35020)
Brighton School Chess Program (3500 8th Ave N, Bessemer, AL 35020)
These school-based programs often welcome community involvement and sometimes host inter-school competitions open to spectators.
For chess players in Bessemer, these clubs and groups provide multiple ways to engage with the game, whether through casual play, competitive tournaments, or educational programs. Most clubs recommend contacting them in advance to confirm meeting schedules and any participation requirements. The variety of options ensures players of all ages and skill levels can find a suitable chess community in the greater Bessemer area.
