Chess Clubs in New Lenox, Illinois. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in New Lenox, IL and Surrounding Communities
The New Lenox area in southwest suburban Chicago offers several quality chess opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels. From casual library clubs to competitive tournament play, local enthusiasts have multiple options within reasonable driving distance.
1. New Lenox Chess Club
Location: New Lenox Public Library – 120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL 60451
Description: This community chess group meets weekly at the public library, welcoming players from beginners to experienced competitors. The club maintains a friendly atmosphere with casual games and optional timed play. The library provides chess sets and clocks for participants.
2. Frankfort Chess Society
Location: Frankfort Public Library – 21119 S Pfeiffer Road, Frankfort, IL 60423
Description: Just 10 minutes from New Lenox, this active club meets twice weekly for casual and competitive play. The group includes several tournament-rated players who provide informal coaching. The library offers tournament-quality equipment for use during meetings.
3. Mokena Chess Collective
Location: Mokena Community Public Library – 11327 Front Street, Mokena, IL 60448
Description: This newer chess group meets bi-weekly with a focus on skill development. The collective offers beginner lessons before open play sessions and welcomes players of all ages. Chess sets and instructional materials are provided.
4. Joliet Chess Club
Location: Joliet Public Library – 150 N Ottawa Street, Joliet, IL 60432
Description: About 20 minutes southwest of New Lenox, this established club offers weekly rated games and casual play. The group includes many tournament-experienced players and occasionally hosts simultaneous exhibitions with masters.
5. Orland Park Chess Center
Location: Orland Park Public Library – 14921 Ravinia Avenue, Orland Park, IL 60462
Description: Approximately 25 minutes northeast of New Lenox, this active chess community meets weekly for casual and competitive play. The center maintains separate sections for different skill levels and hosts quarterly rated tournaments.
6. Tinley Park Chess Enthusiasts
Location: Tinley Park Public Library – 7851 Timber Drive, Tinley Park, IL 60477
Description: This friendly group meets weekly for casual games in a relaxed environment. The club welcomes players of all abilities and provides basic instruction for beginners. Chess sets and clocks are available for use.
Youth Chess Opportunities
Several programs serve young players in the area:
New Lenox School District 122 Chess Clubs
Lincoln-Way High School Chess Teams
Will County Youth Chess League tournaments
Tournament Play in the Region
Competitive players can participate in:
Southwest Suburban Open (annual event rotating locations)
Will County Chess Championship (Joliet)
Illinois Chess Association rated tournaments
Final Notes
New Lenox’s central location in Will County provides convenient access to multiple chess options. The local library club offers casual play, while nearby Frankfort and Joliet provide more competitive environments. For serious tournament players, the Orland Park Chess Center offers the strongest regular competition in the southwest suburbs.
Most library-based clubs are free to attend, while tournaments typically require entry fees. Players should verify meeting times as schedules may vary seasonally. The combination of school programs, library clubs, and competitive opportunities creates a well-rounded chess community suitable for players at all levels.
Whether seeking recreational games or serious competition, chess enthusiasts in the New Lenox area will find welcoming groups and quality playing options throughout the southwest suburban region. The area’s proximity to major highways also provides easy access to larger tournaments in Chicago and surrounding counties.
