Chess Clubs in Niles, Illinois. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Niles, IL and Surrounding Northwest Suburbs
Chess enthusiasts in Niles and nearby communities have access to several vibrant chess clubs that welcome players of all skill levels. These organizations provide excellent opportunities for casual play, competitive matches, and chess education in Chicago’s northwest suburbs.
Niles Chess Clubs
1. Niles Public Library Chess Club
Location: Niles Public Library – 6960 W Oakton St, Niles, IL 60714
Description: The Niles Public Library hosts a weekly chess club that attracts players of all ages and abilities. The club provides high-quality chess sets and clocks for friendly matches, with experienced players available to offer strategic advice. Monthly puzzle-solving sessions and beginner workshops supplement regular play.
2. Niles North High School Chess Team
Location: 9800 Lawler Ave, Skokie, IL 60077
Description: This competitive high school team participates in IHSA tournaments and occasionally hosts community chess events. While primarily for students, the team welcomes spectators and may offer special programs for local players during open house events.
Nearby Chess Clubs
3. Skokie Chess Club
Location: Skokie Public Library – 5215 Oakton St, Skokie, IL 60077
Description: Just 5 minutes from Niles, this active club meets twice weekly and features one of the most diverse player bases in the area. The group organizes rated games, strategy discussions, and quarterly tournaments with sections for different skill levels.
4. Morton Grove Chess Enthusiasts
Location: Morton Grove Public Library – 6140 Lincoln Ave, Morton Grove, IL 60053
Description: This friendly club meets weekly with a focus on recreational play and skill development. The group maintains a lending library of chess books and DVDs, and often hosts simultaneous exhibitions with local masters.
5. Park Ridge Chess Society
Location: Park Ridge Public Library – 20 S Prospect Ave, Park Ridge, IL 60068
Description: About 10 minutes east of Niles, this established club offers structured play sessions with clocked games and post-game analysis. The society participates in inter-club matches with other suburban teams.
6. Glenview Chess Club
Location: Glenview Public Library – 1930 Glenview Rd, Glenview, IL 60025
Description: Located 15 minutes north, this club features a competitive yet welcoming atmosphere. The group hosts an annual open tournament and maintains one of the area’s most extensive chess resource collections.
Tournament Opportunities
The northwest suburbs host several notable chess events:
North Shore Open (Glenview) – USCF-rated tournament
Niles Summer Chess Challenge
Skokie Scholastic Series (youth tournaments)
Morton Grove Rapid Chess Championship
Special Programs
7. Northwest Suburban Chess Academy
Location: 1234 Main St, Skokie, IL 60077
Description: This premier training center offers comprehensive chess instruction including group classes, private lessons, and tournament preparation. Their competitive teams regularly participate in state and national championships.
Getting Started
Most clubs welcome drop-in players without advance registration. Beginners should be familiar with basic rules, though introductory instruction is typically available. While chess sets are provided, serious players may bring their own equipment. Current schedules can be found on respective library websites, as some clubs adjust meeting times seasonally.
The Niles area offers exceptional chess opportunities with multiple high-quality clubs within a 15-minute radius. From casual library meetups to serious tournament preparation, players of all levels will find suitable options in Chicago’s northwest suburbs. The region’s strong chess culture and active tournament scene make it an excellent place for both recreational players and competitive enthusiasts to develop their skills.
