Chess Clubs in Sedona, Arizona. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Sedona, AZ and Surrounding Verde Valley
Chess enthusiasts in Sedona and nearby Verde Valley communities will find several welcoming options for organized play. The region offers a mix of casual meetups and structured club environments against Sedona’s stunning red rock backdrop.
1. Sedona Chess Society
Location: Sedona Public Library – 3250 White Bear Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
Description: Sedona’s primary chess gathering meets biweekly in the modern public library with panoramic mountain views. This diverse group attracts local residents, seasonal visitors, and vacationing chess players. The club balances social interaction with competitive play, featuring players ranging from casual enthusiasts to tournament veterans. The library provides high-quality chess sets, and members often continue games at nearby cafes.
2. Verde Valley Chess Club
Location: Cottonwood Public Library – 100 S 6th St, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
Description: Just 20 minutes from Sedona, this active club meets weekly and serves as the chess hub for the Verde Valley. The group maintains a welcoming environment for all skill levels, with experienced players offering guidance to beginners. The library supplies tournament-style equipment, and the club occasionally hosts simultaneous exhibitions with visiting masters.
3. Camp Verde Chess Meetup
Location: Camp Verde Community Library – 130 Black Bridge Rd, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
Description: Approximately 25 minutes from Sedona, this growing group meets weekly with a family-friendly atmosphere. Multiple chess sets are available, and players frequently engage in both casual games and timed matches. The club particularly welcomes junior players, with several homeschool families regularly participating.
4. Clarkdale Chess Gathering
Location: Clarkdale Clubhouse – 19 N 9th St, Clarkdale, AZ 86324
Description: Only 15 minutes from Sedona, this intimate Wednesday evening group plays in Clarkdale’s historic clubhouse. The setting encourages thoughtful games and post-game analysis, with players often continuing discussions at local wine bars. The group coordinates special events through an email list.
5. Flagstaff Chess Club
Location: Flagstaff Public Library – 300 W Aspen Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Description: For those willing to drive 45 minutes, this high-altitude club meets weekly and includes several college players from NAU. The group offers both casual play and serious competition, with periodic rated tournaments. The intellectual atmosphere reflects Flagstaff’s university town character.
Starting New Chess Initiatives
Sedona’s vibrant community offers excellent potential for expanding chess opportunities. Potential venues include:
Sedona Creative Life Center – 333 Schnebly Rd
Local resorts and spiritual centers
Outdoor locations with red rock views
The city’s tourist population creates unique opportunities for chess-themed retreats or special events pairing chess with Sedona’s wellness culture.
Tournament Opportunities
Regional chess events include:
Verde Valley Chess Challenge (rotating between Sedona/Cottonwood)
Annual Red Rocks Open (Sedona)
Northern Arizona Chess Festival (Flagstaff)
Final Thoughts
Sedona offers a distinctive chess experience combining intellectual stimulation with breathtaking scenery. While the Sedona Chess Society provides local play, nearby Cottonwood and Clarkdale offer additional regular opportunities. The area’s mix of retirees, artists, and spiritual seekers creates a uniquely diverse chess community.
For current meeting times, visitors should check with the Sedona Public Library or contact the Verde Valley Chess Network. Sedona’s combination of natural beauty and cultural richness makes it an exceptional place to enjoy the royal game, whether as a local resident or visiting enthusiast.
Those interested in developing chess locally might explore creating meditation chess programs, outdoor chess in parks, or chess events at Sedona’s numerous festivals. The region’s creative energy offers boundless possibilities for innovative chess programming.
