Chess Clubs in Peru, Illinois. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Peru, IL and Surrounding Areas
Chess enthusiasts in Peru and the surrounding Illinois Valley region have several options for organized play, from casual meetups to competitive clubs. Below is a detailed guide to local chess opportunities within a reasonable driving distance.
Chess Clubs in Peru, IL
Peru Public Library Chess Club
Location: Peru Public Library
Address: 1409 11th St, Peru, IL 61354
Description: The Peru Public Library hosts a weekly chess club every Wednesday evening from 6:00-8:00 PM. This casual group welcomes players of all ages and skill levels. The library provides chess sets and boards, and experienced players are available to help beginners learn the game. The atmosphere is relaxed and social, making it ideal for family participation.
Illinois Valley YMCA Chess Group
Location: Illinois Valley YMCA
Address: 300 Walnut St, Peru, IL 61354
Description: This bi-weekly chess meetup occurs every other Saturday afternoon in the YMCA community room. The group focuses on friendly competition and skill development, with occasional mini-tournaments for interested players. Both children and adults are welcome, though players under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Nearby Chess Clubs
LaSalle Chess Collective (10 minutes from Peru)
Location: LaSalle Public Library
Address: 305 Marquette St, LaSalle, IL 61301
Description: Meeting every Thursday from 5:30-7:30 PM, this active group attracts players from across the Illinois Valley. The collective maintains a chess ladder system for competitive players while still welcoming casual participants. Monthly themed nights explore specific openings or endgame techniques.
Ottawa Chess Club (25 minutes from Peru)
Location: Ottawa Public Library
Address: 321 W Main St, Ottawa, IL 61350
Description: One of the most established clubs in the region, the Ottawa Chess Club meets every Tuesday evening. The club hosts regular rated tournaments and maintains connections with the Illinois Chess Association. Players range from scholastic competitors to senior masters.
Princeton Chess Society (30 minutes from Peru)
Location: Princeton Public Library
Address: 698 E Peru St, Princeton, IL 61356
Description: This friendly group meets on Friday nights for casual play and strategy discussions. The society is particularly welcoming to new players, offering beginner lessons on the first Friday of each month. Several high school chess team members regularly attend, creating good opportunities for youth players.
Streator Chess Meetup (35 minutes from Peru)
Location: Streator Public Library
Address: 130 S Park St, Streator, IL 61364
Description: A smaller but dedicated group that meets bi-weekly on Sundays. The meetup emphasizes the social aspects of chess while still providing competitive games for interested players. The library maintains a collection of chess books available for checkout.
Youth Chess Opportunities
Several area schools and organizations offer chess programs:
Peru Elementary School District 124 after-school chess program
LaSalle-Peru Township High School chess team
Starved Rock Chess for Youth (monthly meets at various locations)
The Peru Park District offers chess instruction during summer break and school holidays.
Tournament Play
Local competitive opportunities include:
Illinois Valley Open (annual tournament rotating between Peru and Ottawa)
Starved Rock Classic (spring scholastic tournament in Utica)
Illinois Chess Association sanctioned events throughout the year
Final Recommendations
Peru offers good local options at the public library and YMCA, while more competitive players may want to explore the Ottawa or LaSalle clubs. Most groups welcome drop-in visitors, though contacting organizers beforehand is recommended to confirm schedules. The Illinois Valley chess community is particularly active during winter months, with increased tournament activity from November through March.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn or an experienced player seeking competition, the Peru area provides accessible opportunities to enjoy the game of chess.
