Chess Clubs in Burr Ridge, Illinois. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Burr Ridge, IL and Surrounding Areas
Chess enthusiasts in Burr Ridge and nearby western suburbs have access to several established chess clubs and meetups. These venues cater to players of all skill levels, from casual beginners to tournament competitors.
1. Burr Ridge Park District Chess Club
Address: Burr Ridge Community Center, 15W400 Harvester Dr, Burr Ridge, IL 60527
Description: The Burr Ridge Park District hosts a monthly chess gathering on Saturday afternoons. This program welcomes players ages 8 through adult, with separate tables for different skill levels. The club provides tournament-quality chess sets and clocks. Instruction is available for beginners during the first 30 minutes of each session.
2. Hinsdale Chess Club
Address: Hinsdale Public Library, 20 E Maple St, Hinsdale, IL 60521 (10 minutes from Burr Ridge)
Description: This active club meets weekly on Thursday evenings in the library’s quiet reading room. The group includes several rated players who participate in regional tournaments, as well as recreational players. The club maintains a lending library of chess books and organizes occasional simultaneous exhibitions.
3. La Grange Chess Masters
Address: La Grange Public Library, 10 W Cossitt Ave, La Grange, IL 60525 (15 minutes from Burr Ridge)
Description: One of the most competitive clubs in the western suburbs, this group meets weekly for rated games and tournament preparation. Players must be familiar with tournament rules and notation. The club hosts quarterly rated tournaments that attract players from across the Chicago area.
4. Willowbrook Chess Circle
Address: Willowbrook Public Library, 789 Plainfield Rd, Willowbrook, IL 60527 (10 minutes from Burr Ridge)
Description: This casual chess group meets biweekly on Sunday afternoons. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, with emphasis on learning and enjoyment of the game. The library provides multiple chess sets and beginner instructional materials.
5. Western Springs Chess Society
Address: Western Springs Recreation Center, 1500 Walker St, Western Springs, IL 60558 (15 minutes from Burr Ridge)
Description: This long-running chess club meets every Wednesday evening year-round. The group maintains a balance between serious play and social interaction, with players ranging from scholastic competitors to senior enthusiasts. The facility has dedicated chess tables with built-in boards.
6. Darien Chess Meetup
Address: Darien Public Library, 7399 Cass Ave, Darien, IL 60561 (15 minutes from Burr Ridge)
Description: This monthly gathering on Saturday mornings focuses on casual play and chess education. The meetup frequently features lectures on opening theory and endgame techniques by local experts. Players of all ages and abilities are welcome.
Youth Chess Programs
Several excellent youth chess opportunities exist in the area:
The Burr Ridge Park District offers after-school chess classes for elementary students
Hinsdale Central High School has a competitive chess team
La Grange District 102 runs a scholastic chess league
The Western Springs Chess Society hosts monthly youth tournaments
Final Thoughts
Burr Ridge residents enjoy access to one of the most vibrant chess communities in the Chicago suburbs. The area offers everything from introductory programs to serious tournament play. The Hinsdale and La Grange clubs are particularly active, while the Burr Ridge Park District provides the most convenient local option. For current schedules and special events, contact the individual venues or visit their websites. Those interested in competitive play should consider the quarterly tournaments at La Grange, while beginners may prefer the Willowbrook or Darien gatherings. The western suburbs continue to develop strong chess programming for all ages and skill levels.
