Chess Clubs in Washington, Illinois. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Washington, IL and Surrounding Areas
Chess players in Washington and nearby central Illinois communities have access to several organized playing opportunities. This guide covers local chess clubs within a 30-minute radius of Washington, offering options for recreational and competitive players.
1. Washington Chess Club
Location: Washington District Library – 380 N Wilmor Rd, Washington, IL 61571
Description: The Washington Chess Club meets every second and fourth Tuesday of the month from 6:00-8:30 PM. This community group welcomes players of all ages and skill levels. The library provides chess sets and clocks, with experienced players available to help beginners. Monthly activities include casual play, puzzle challenges, and occasional mini-tournaments.
2. Peoria Chess Society
Location: North Branch Peoria Public Library – 3001 W Grand Pkwy, Peoria, IL 61615
Description: Located 25 minutes from Washington, this active chess community meets every Saturday from 1:00-5:00 PM. The Society offers structured programming with beginner lessons at 1 PM followed by competitive play. Rated tournaments occur monthly, and the group maintains an email list for announcements. Several club members regularly compete in state tournaments.
3. East Peoria Chess Collective
Location: Fondulac District Library – 400 Richland St, East Peoria, IL 61611
Description: This family-friendly chess group gathers Wednesday evenings from 6:00-8:00 PM. The Collective emphasizes chess education with teaching boards available for group instruction. Special events include parent-child tournaments and summer chess camps for youth players. All equipment is provided for participants.
4. Morton Chess Club
Location: Morton Public Library – 315 W Pershing St, Morton, IL 61550
Description: Just 20 minutes from Washington, this club meets Thursday evenings from 6:00-8:00 PM. The group attracts players from across Tazewell County and hosts occasional rated tournaments. The library maintains a collection of chess books available for checkout. Annual events include the Morton Pumpkin Festival Chess Tournament each September.
5. Pekin Chess Academy
Location: Pekin Public Library – 301 S 4th St, Pekin, IL 61554
Description: This instructional-focused club meets Monday evenings with beginner sessions at 5:30 PM and advanced play at 7:00 PM. The Academy hosts quarterly rated tournaments and simultaneous exhibitions. Tournament-quality sets and digital clocks are provided. Several club members have competed in Illinois state championships.
6. Bloomington-Normal Chess Association
Location: Normal Public Library – 206 W College Ave, Normal, IL 61761
Description: While a 45-minute drive from Washington, this well-established club offers excellent opportunities for serious players. The Association meets Friday evenings and hosts regular rated tournaments. The group maintains an active ladder system and sends teams to statewide competitions.
Regional Tournament Opportunities
Annual chess events in central Illinois include:
Washington Spring Open (March)
Peoria Winter Classic (January)
Tazewell County Championship (April, rotating locations)
Illinois Senior Open (October, Peoria)
For competitive players, the Illinois Chess Association hosts major tournaments throughout the state. Most local clubs recommend contacting them in advance as schedules may vary seasonally. Whether seeking casual games or serious competition, chess players in the Washington area will find welcoming communities and regular playing opportunities. Many clubs participate in inter-library chess challenges and collaborative events throughout the year.
