Chess Clubs in New River, Arizona. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in New River, AZ and Surrounding Areas
Located in the high desert north of Phoenix, New River and nearby communities offer several chess opportunities for players of all levels. This guide details local clubs, casual meetups, and playing options available to residents of the New River area.
1. New River Chess Club
Address: New River Library – 14102 N 103rd Ave, New River, AZ 85087
Description: The New River Chess Club meets weekly at the community library, providing a welcoming space for players of all ages and skill levels. The group focuses on casual play with opportunities for more competitive games. The library provides chess sets and clocks, with experienced players often offering guidance to beginners. Special events include monthly tournaments and strategy workshops.
2. Anthem Chess Club
Address: Anthem Community Center – 41130 N Freedom Way, Anthem, AZ 85086 (15 minutes southwest)
Description: One of the most active chess clubs in the north valley meets twice weekly at this modern facility. The group includes players ranging from beginners to tournament competitors, with multiple games occurring simultaneously. The club hosts quarterly rated tournaments and maintains a chess book lending library.
3. Cave Creek Chess Society
Address: Cave Creek Town Hall – 37622 N Cave Creek Rd, Cave Creek, AZ 85331 (25 minutes south)
Description: This established chess group meets weekly in Cave Creek’s historic town hall. The club attracts serious players and casual enthusiasts alike, with a particular focus on senior players. The group organizes occasional lectures on chess strategy and hosts an annual open tournament.
4. Desert Hills Chess Meetup
Address: Desert Hills Library – 18602 N 35th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85053 (20 minutes west)
Description: This informal chess gathering occurs bi-weekly at the Desert Hills Library. Players range from beginners to experienced competitors, with a social atmosphere that encourages learning and friendly competition. The library provides tournament-quality sets and maintains a player matching system.
5. Black Canyon City Chess Gathering
Address: Black Canyon Heritage Park – 33955 S Old Black Canyon Hwy, Black Canyon City, AZ 85324 (30 minutes northwest)
Description: While not a formal club, chess enthusiasts meet monthly at this scenic park’s picnic area. Players bring their own sets and enjoy games surrounded by Sonoran Desert landscape. The group emphasizes the social aspects of chess while still maintaining good competitive play.
Tournament Opportunities
New River-area players can participate in:
North Valley Chess Championship (annual event)
Anthem Open (rated tournament)
Arizona Senior Games chess competition
Youth Chess Programs
Several area schools offer chess instruction:
New River Elementary after-school chess club
Desert Shadows Middle School chess team
Anthem Preparatory Academy competitive program
Getting Involved
New players can simply attend any club meeting. The New River Chess Club offers free beginner lessons on first Saturdays. Most groups welcome players of all skill levels and suggest small donations ($1-3) to help maintain equipment.
Future Developments
Plans are underway to:
Install permanent outdoor chess tables at New River parks
Expand youth chess programs in local schools
Create a North Valley Chess League connecting area clubs
Final Thoughts
New River offers convenient access to the north valley’s growing chess scene while maintaining its own community chess identity. With multiple playing opportunities just minutes away, chess enthusiasts will find welcoming games at all skill levels. For current schedules and information, contact the New River Library or Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department. The area’s central location provides excellent opportunities to participate in both casual play and competitive tournaments throughout the north Phoenix metropolitan area.
