Chess Clubs in Lemont, Illinois. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Lemont, IL and Surrounding Areas
Chess enthusiasts in Lemont and nearby communities have several options for organized play, from casual gatherings to competitive tournaments. Below is a comprehensive guide to local chess opportunities in the southwest suburban area.
1. Lemont Chess Club
Location: Lemont Public Library – 50 E Wend St, Lemont, IL 60439
Description: The Lemont Chess Club meets bi-weekly in the library’s community room, offering a welcoming space for players of all ages and skill levels. The club focuses on casual play with optional strategy discussions led by experienced members. The library provides chess sets and clocks, though players may bring their own equipment.
2. Orland Park Chess Association
Location: Orland Park Public Library – 14921 S Ravinia Ave, Orland Park, IL 60462
Description: About 20 minutes from Lemont, this well-organized club meets every Saturday afternoon. The Association balances casual games with competitive events, including monthly rapid tournaments. The group maintains an active email list for game coordination and chess-related announcements.
3. Palos Park Chess Collective
Location: Palos Park Recreation Center – 8901 W 123rd St, Palos Park, IL 60464
Description: This community-focused group gathers Wednesday evenings in the recreation center’s game room. The Collective emphasizes chess education, with volunteer instructors available to help beginners. The club frequently organizes simultaneous exhibitions and puzzle-solving competitions.
4. Homer Glen Chess Society
Location: Homer Township Public Library – 14320 W 151st St, Homer Glen, IL 60491
Description: Meeting every other Sunday afternoon, this club attracts players from across the southwest suburbs. The Society hosts themed chess nights (including bughouse and chess960 variants) and maintains a small lending library of chess literature.
5. Lockport Chess Club
Location: Lockport Public Library – 121 E 8th St, Lockport, IL 60441
Description: Just 15 minutes from Lemont, this established club meets Thursday evenings year-round. The group welcomes both casual players and serious competitors, with regular opportunities for rated games. The club provides tournament-quality sets and digital clocks.
6. Bolingbrook Chess Academy
Location: Fountaindale Public Library – 300 W Briarcliff Rd, Bolingbrook, IL 60440
Description: This instructional-focused group offers structured programming including beginner classes on Mondays and advanced strategy sessions on Wednesdays. The Academy hosts quarterly rated tournaments and frequently arranges simultaneous exhibitions with visiting masters.
Regional Tournament Opportunities
Several annual events serve the area:
Southwest Suburban Open (April, Orland Park)
Will County Championship (September, Lockport)
Illinois Southland Classic (November, multiple locations)
For serious competitors, the North Shore Chess Center in Skokie and Chicago Chess Center host regular rated tournaments within reasonable driving distance.
Most clubs recommend checking their websites or social media pages for current schedules before visiting. Whether you’re looking to learn the game, enjoy casual play, or compete in tournaments, the Lemont area offers quality chess opportunities for all interests and skill levels.
