Chess Clubs in Vernon Hills, Illinois. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Vernon Hills, IL and Surrounding Areas
Chess enthusiasts in Vernon Hills and nearby communities have access to a variety of playing opportunities, from casual meetups to competitive tournaments. Located in Chicago’s northern suburbs, the area offers options for players of all ages and skill levels.
1. Vernon Hills Chess Club
Location: Vernon Hills Public Library – 700 Olde Half Day Rd, Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Description: This community club meets weekly for casual play and instruction. The group welcomes players of all abilities, from beginners to experienced competitors. The library provides chess sets, and players may bring clocks for timed games.
2. North Shore Chess Center (Glenview)
Location: 5500 W Touhy Ave, Skokie, IL 60077
Description: Just 15 minutes from Vernon Hills, this premier chess facility offers rated tournaments, classes, and open play. The center attracts serious players from across the region and hosts regular events including the North Shore Chess Championship.
3. Libertyville Chess Club
Location: Cook Memorial Public Library – 413 N Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville, IL 60048
Description: This active club meets twice weekly for casual and competitive play. The group includes both adult and junior players, with occasional simultaneous exhibitions by local masters.
4. Buffalo Grove Chess Enthusiasts
Location: Buffalo Grove Public Library – 1120 Dundee Rd, Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Description: A friendly group that meets weekly for casual games. The club focuses on recreational play but includes several tournament-experienced members who provide informal instruction.
5. Lake Forest Chess Society
Location: Lake Forest Library – 360 E Deerpath Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045
Description: This club meets bi-weekly and attracts players from across the North Shore. The group maintains a balance between casual play and serious competition, with some members regularly participating in rated tournaments.
6. Arlington Heights Chess Club
Location: Arlington Heights Memorial Library – 500 N Dunton Ave, Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Description: About 25 minutes from Vernon Hills, this large club offers multiple weekly sessions. The group includes many tournament players and hosts occasional lectures and simultaneous exhibitions.
Youth Chess Opportunities
Several programs serve young players in the area:
Vernon Hills Park District Youth Chess (seasonal classes and tournaments)
Stevenson High School Chess Team (competitive scholastic program)
North Suburban Chess League (inter-school competitions)
Tournament Play in the Region
Competitive players can participate in:
North Shore Open (annual event at North Shore Chess Center)
Lake County Championship (rotating locations)
Illinois Chess Congress (major annual tournament)
Final Notes
Vernon Hills benefits from its central location in Chicago’s northern suburbs, providing easy access to multiple chess options. The local library club offers convenient casual play, while nearby Glenview and Libertyville provide more competitive environments. For serious tournament players, the North Shore Chess Center in Skokie offers the strongest regular competition in the region.
Most library-based clubs are free to attend, while dedicated chess centers typically charge for tournaments and classes. Players should verify meeting times as schedules may vary seasonally. The area’s strong scholastic programs and multiple adult clubs create a vibrant chess community suitable for players at all levels.
Whether seeking recreational games or serious competition, chess enthusiasts in the Vernon Hills area will find welcoming communities and quality playing opportunities throughout Chicago’s North Shore region.
