Chess Clubs in La Grange, Illinois. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in La Grange, IL and Surrounding Communities
Chess enthusiasts in La Grange and nearby western suburbs will find several quality playing opportunities. This guide covers established chess clubs within a 15-minute radius of La Grange, offering options for casual and competitive players.
1. La Grange Chess Club
Location: La Grange Public Library – 10 W Cossitt Ave, La Grange, IL 60525
Description: The flagship chess club of the area meets every Thursday evening from 6:30-9:00 PM. This US Chess Federation-affiliated club offers both casual play and rated tournament opportunities. The space features tournament-quality equipment, including digital clocks and score sheets. Monthly rapid chess tournaments attract players from across the western suburbs.
2. Western Springs Chess Collective
Location: Western Springs Public Library – 428 Hillgrove Ave, Western Springs, IL 60558
Description: Just 5 minutes from La Grange, this community chess group meets Tuesday evenings from 6:00-8:30 PM. The Collective focuses on chess education with instructional boards for group lessons. Special programming includes monthly themed nights featuring specific openings or endgame studies. The library maintains a circulating collection of chess literature.
3. Hinsdale Chess Academy
Location: Hinsdale Public Library – 20 E Maple St, Hinsdale, IL 60521
Description: This instructional club meets Wednesday afternoons with separate beginner (4:00 PM) and advanced (5:30 PM) sessions. The Academy features electronic demonstration boards and hosts quarterly rated tournaments. Several local school chess teams practice here regularly. USCF-rated instructors are available for private lessons by appointment.
4. Brookfield Chess Society
Location: Brookfield Public Library – 3541 Park Ave, Brookfield, IL 60513
Description: A 10-minute drive from La Grange, this club gathers Saturday afternoons from 1:00-4:00 PM. The Society maintains a welcoming environment for families, with special youth programming at 1:30 PM followed by open play. The club organizes an annual inter-library team championship against neighboring communities.
5. Countryside Chess Circle
Location: Countryside City Hall – 5550 East Ave, Countryside, IL 60525
Description: This municipal-run chess program meets Monday evenings in the community room. The Circle emphasizes casual play with optional coaching from experienced members. The city provides oversized outdoor chess sets for seasonal play in the adjacent park. Winter months feature ladder tournaments with prizes.
6. North Riverside Chess Guild
Location: North Riverside Village Commons – 2401 Desplaines Ave, North Riverside, IL 60546
Description: For serious competitors, this USCF-affiliated club meets Friday nights from 7:00-10:00 PM. The Guild hosts regular rated tournaments and maintains an active email list for game coordination. Several master-level players frequent the club, offering strong competition for advanced players.
Tournament Opportunities in the Western Suburbs
Annual competitive events include:
La Grange Spring Open (April)
Western Suburban Team Championship (June)
Hinsdale Fall Classic (October)
Cook County Class Championships (November, rotating locations)
For elite competition, the North Shore Chess Center in Skokie and Chicago Chess Center host regular tournaments within reasonable driving distance. Most local clubs recommend checking their websites for current schedules, as some adjust meeting times seasonally. Whether you’re learning the game or seeking master-level competition, the La Grange area offers quality chess opportunities for all skill levels. Many clubs participate in collaborative events and inter-library challenges throughout the year.
