Chess Clubs in North Haven, Connecticut. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in North Haven, CT and Surrounding Areas
Chess players in North Haven and nearby New Haven County communities have several excellent options for organized play, from casual meetups to competitive tournaments. These clubs welcome players of all ages and skill levels.
North Haven Chess Club
Location: North Haven Memorial Library – 17 Elm St, North Haven, CT 06473
Meeting Times: Wednesdays 6:00-8:30 PM
The North Haven Chess Club meets weekly in the library’s community room, offering a welcoming environment for players of all abilities. This active group organizes casual games, strategy discussions, and occasional simultaneous exhibitions. The club maintains a small collection of chess books available for members to borrow.
Hamden Chess Society
Location: Hamden Public Library – 2901 Dixwell Ave, Hamden, CT 06518
Meeting Times: Fridays 4:00-7:00 PM
Just 15 minutes from North Haven, this well-established club offers a mix of casual and competitive play. The Hamden Chess Society hosts monthly quick chess tournaments and maintains an active ladder system. Beginners will find patient opponents willing to analyze games and suggest improvements.
New Haven Chess Club
Location: The Brainery – 84 Orange St, New Haven, CT 06510
Meeting Times: Mondays and Wednesdays 6:00-9:00 PM
Connecticut’s most active chess club, located about 20 minutes from North Haven, offers serious competition and regular rated tournaments. The New Haven Chess Club features weekly rated games, master lectures, and participation in regional tournaments. The club welcomes players of all levels but particularly caters to those seeking competitive play.
Wallingford Chess Group
Location: Wallingford Public Library – 200 N Main St, Wallingford, CT 06492
Meeting Times: Thursdays 5:30-8:00 PM
This northern neighbor to North Haven offers a family-friendly chess environment. The Wallingford Chess Group features simultaneous exhibitions by local experts and maintains a special area for young players developing their skills.
Branford Chess Club
Location: Branford Public Library – 1080 Main St, Branford, CT 06405
Meeting Times: Tuesdays 6:00-8:00 PM
About 25 minutes east of North Haven, this shoreline club provides a relaxed atmosphere perfect for casual players. The Branford Chess Club emphasizes fun and learning, with separate tables for beginners and experienced players.
East Haven Chess Meetup
Location: Hagaman Memorial Library – 227 Main St, East Haven, CT 06512
Meeting Times: Saturdays 1:00-4:00 PM
A short drive south of North Haven, this friendly group meets weekly at the East Haven library. The East Haven Chess Meetup focuses on social chess play while maintaining a small tournament ladder for competitive players.
Additional Chess Opportunities
Several area schools and community centers offer chess programs, particularly for younger players. The North Haven Parks and Recreation Department runs periodic chess workshops for children and adults.
For competitive players, the Connecticut State Chess Association organizes tournaments throughout the year at locations within 30 minutes of North Haven. The New Haven County Chess League also coordinates inter-club matches between local organizations.
Final Notes
Most clubs welcome drop-in visitors, though some competitive groups may require membership in national chess organizations. Players should contact clubs in advance to confirm meeting schedules, as some adjust times seasonally. Whether seeking casual games or serious competition, chess players in the North Haven area will find quality opponents and welcoming communities.
