Chess Clubs in Morton, Illinois. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Morton, IL and Surrounding Areas
Chess enthusiasts in Morton and nearby central Illinois communities have several options for organized play, from casual gatherings to competitive events. This guide covers local chess opportunities within a 30-minute radius of Morton.
1. Morton Chess Club
Location: Morton Public Library – 315 W Pershing St, Morton, IL 61550
Description: The Morton Chess Club meets every Thursday evening from 6-8 PM in the library’s community room. This welcoming group accommodates players of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced competitors. The club provides chess sets and clocks, and frequently organizes casual tournaments and puzzle-solving sessions. Monthly strategy workshops are led by local chess enthusiasts.
2. Peoria Chess Society
Location: North Branch Peoria Public Library – 3001 W Grand Pkwy, Peoria, IL 61615
Description: Just 25 minutes from Morton, this active chess community meets every Saturday afternoon. The Society offers structured programming including beginner lessons at 1 PM followed by competitive play at 2 PM. Rated tournaments occur monthly, and the group maintains an active email list for game coordination between meetings.
3. East Peoria Chess Collective
Location: Fondulac District Library – 400 Richland St, East Peoria, IL 61611
Description: This family-friendly chess group gathers Wednesday evenings in the library’s meeting room. The Collective emphasizes chess education with teaching boards available for group lessons. Special events include annual father-child tournaments and summer chess camps for youth players. Equipment is provided for all participants.
4. Washington Chess Club
Location: Washington District Library – 380 N Wilmor Rd, Washington, IL 61571
Description: Meeting every second and fourth Tuesday of the month, this club attracts players from across Tazewell County. The group balances casual play with competitive preparation, often analyzing famous games or working through chess puzzles together. The library maintains a collection of chess literature available for checkout.
5. Pekin Chess Academy
Location: Pekin Public Library – 301 S 4th St, Pekin, IL 61554
Description: This instructional-focused club meets Monday evenings with separate sessions for beginners (5:30 PM) and advanced players (7 PM). The Academy hosts quarterly rated tournaments and frequently arranges simultaneous exhibitions with visiting masters. Tournament-quality sets and digital clocks are provided for all events.
6. Bloomington-Normal Chess Association
Location: Normal Public Library – 206 W College Ave, Normal, IL 61761
Description: While a 45-minute drive from Morton, this well-established club offers excellent opportunities for serious players. The Association meets every Friday evening and hosts regular rated tournaments. The group maintains an active ladder system and sends teams to statewide chess competitions.
Regional Tournament Opportunities
Several annual events serve central Illinois players:
Morton Pumpkin Festival Chess Tournament (September)
Peoria Winter Open (January)
Tazewell County Championship (April, rotating locations)
For competitive players willing to travel, the Illinois Chess Association hosts major tournaments throughout the state. Most local clubs recommend contacting them in advance as schedules may vary seasonally. Whether seeking casual games or serious competition, chess players in the Morton area will find welcoming communities and regular playing opportunities.
