Chess Clubs in Highland, California. The list of addresses.

Chess Clubs in Highland, CA: A Growing Chess Scene in the Inland Empire

Highland, located in the heart of San Bernardino County, is a thriving community that offers a range of recreational activities, including the timeless game of chess. Whether you are a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced player seeking competition, Highland provides several opportunities to enjoy and improve your chess skills. From casual meetups to youth programs, the local chess scene is steadily growing, providing chess lovers with plenty of options. Here’s a guide to the best chess clubs and playing opportunities in Highland, CA.

1. Highland Chess Club

Address: 7863 Central Ave, Highland, CA 92346 (Highland Sam J. Racadio Library and Environmental Learning Center)

The Highland Chess Club, hosted at the Highland Sam J. Racadio Library and Environmental Learning Center, is a popular destination for local chess enthusiasts. Open to players of all ages and skill levels, the club meets regularly to offer casual games, competitive matches, and chess instruction. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, the Highland Chess Club provides a welcoming environment to connect with other players and improve your game.

The library provides chess sets and boards, making it easy for participants to drop in and join a game. In addition to casual games, the club organizes internal tournaments, allowing players to test their skills in a friendly yet competitive setting. The Highland Chess Club is a great place to practice, sharpen your strategies, and meet fellow chess lovers in the community.

2. Chess Meetups at Highland Sam J. Racadio Library

Address: 7863 Central Ave, Highland, CA 92346

In addition to the formal chess club, the Sam J. Racadio Library also hosts informal chess meetups that cater to players of all ages and skill levels. These meetups provide a relaxed environment for anyone interested in playing chess, whether you’re a novice eager to learn or an experienced player looking for a casual game.

The library supplies chess sets and boards, making it easy to join a game on the spot. Chess meetups at the library are ideal for players looking for a social atmosphere, where they can practice their skills without the pressure of formal competition. It’s a fun way to engage with the game and meet new people in a supportive environment.

3. Chess in the Park at Aurantia Park

Address: 29699 Greenspot Rd, Highland, CA 92346

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Aurantia Park offers a beautiful setting for casual chess games. The park’s open spaces, shaded picnic areas, and peaceful surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for chess lovers to gather and play friendly matches in the fresh air. On weekends, it’s not uncommon to see local players setting up their chessboards and enjoying a game under the trees.

While there isn’t an official chess club at Aurantia Park, it has become a popular spot for informal chess meetups. Chess in the Park is a great way to enjoy a laid-back game in a relaxing environment, making it a favorite for players who want to combine their love for chess with Highland’s outdoor beauty.

4. Highland Youth Chess Program

Address: 25340 Baseline St, Highland, CA 92346 (Highland YMCA)

The Highland Youth Chess Program, held at the Highland YMCA, is designed to introduce children to the game of chess in a structured and engaging environment. The program focuses on teaching young players the fundamentals of chess, such as piece movement, basic strategies, and tactics, while helping them develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and concentration skills.

The program offers group lessons, practice games, and friendly in-house tournaments, providing a supportive environment where children can learn and grow as chess players. Whether your child is new to chess or has some experience, the Highland Youth Chess Program is a fantastic way to foster a love for the game and encourage intellectual development.

5. San Gorgonio High School Chess Club

Address: 2299 Pacific St, San Bernardino, CA 92404

For students in the Highland area attending San Gorgonio High School, the San Gorgonio High School Chess Club offers a competitive and social outlet for chess enthusiasts. Open to players of all skill levels, the club meets regularly after school, providing opportunities for casual games, strategy discussions, and school-wide tournaments. It’s a great space for students to develop their chess skills while building friendships with their peers.

The chess club also participates in inter-school tournaments, giving students the chance to represent their school and compete against players from other high schools in the region. The club emphasizes teamwork, critical thinking, and sportsmanship, making it a valuable extracurricular activity for students passionate about chess.

6. Nearby: San Bernardino Chess Club

Address: 555 W 6th St, San Bernardino, CA 92410 (Feldheym Central Library)

For those in Highland seeking additional chess opportunities, the San Bernardino Chess Club, located at the Feldheym Central Library, offers another venue for social and competitive play. The club welcomes players of all ages and skill levels, offering casual games, chess lessons, and US Chess Federation (USCF)-rated tournaments.

The San Bernardino Chess Club provides a more structured environment for those looking to take their game to the next level. Whether you’re a casual player or a serious competitor, this club offers plenty of opportunities to engage in challenging games and improve your chess skills.

7. Chess Wizards Program (Nearby in Redlands)

Address: 111 W Lugonia Ave, Redlands, CA 92374 (Redlands Community Center)

For parents in Highland looking to introduce their children to chess in a structured and fun environment, the Chess Wizards Program in nearby Redlands offers an engaging and educational experience. Chess Wizards is a nationally recognized program that teaches the fundamentals of chess while fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity in young players.

The program is designed for all skill levels, making it perfect for beginners and more advanced players alike. Through interactive lessons, practice games, and mini-tournaments, children can enjoy learning chess in a positive and supportive environment. The Chess Wizards Program is an excellent way for kids to build confidence and develop their chess abilities.

Conclusion

Highland’s chess community is steadily growing, offering a variety of opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels to enjoy the game. Whether you’re looking to join the Highland Chess Club, play casually at Aurantia Park, or introduce your child to chess through the Highland Youth Chess Program, there are plenty of ways to get involved in chess in the city.

For students, the San Gorgonio High School Chess Club offers a competitive and social environment, while nearby options like the San Bernardino Chess Club and the Chess Wizards Program in Redlands provide additional venues for learning and competition.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, Highland’s welcoming chess scene offers the perfect environment to improve your skills, meet new people, and enjoy the timeless game of chess.