Chess Clubs in Waterloo, Illinois. The list of addresses.
Waterloo, IL and the communities surrounding clubs with chess
Waterloo area and Metro East region chess players have a few outlets for organized play, from casual get-togethers to competitive clubs. Here’s your one stop resource for all things Chess in your Area!
Chess Clubs in Waterloo, IL
Waterloo Public Library Chess Group
Location: Waterloo Public Library
Location: 509 N Market St, Waterloo, IL 62298
Description: This is an non-structured meet up for chess players of all ages and abilities that meets every other week. Emphasis on casual play (we have several veterans who like to help the new guys out). The library has chess sets and the atmosphere is conducive to both learning and friendly competition.
Nearby Chess Clubs
Columbia Chess Club
Location: Columbia Public Library
Location:815 S Main St, Columbia, IL 62236
Description: Located just 15 minutes from Waterloo, this club holds weekly open play. There are casual players and some serious competitors, it has a mix of all available skill levels. The club also runs tiny tournaments from time to time.
Red Bud Chess Meetup
Location: Red Bud Public Library
Location: 200 W South St, Red Bud, IL 62278
Description: A casual chess group that meets once a month and is located about 25 minutes from Waterloo. The casual atmosphere is great for newcomers and families who want to play without fear.
Belleville Chess Club
Where: Belleville Public Library – Main Branch
Location: 121 E Washington St, Belleville, IL 62220
About 30 minutes drive from Waterloo, the Belleville Club is one of the most active ones in the area. The club has organized play, rated games and holds tournaments periodically. All levels are welcome, and more experienced players frequently provide advice.
St. Louis Chess Club (Missouri)
Address: 4657 Maryland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108
Description: Serious players should be prepared to trek about 45 minutes for this high-caliber club, which has world-class facilities, tournaments and instruction. The club has a membership fee however there are great resources and opportunities for competitive players.
O’Fallon Chess Group
Location: O’Fallon Public Library
Location: 120 Civic Plaza, O’Fallon Current Status of Government Center Building This building houses government offices for the city of O’Fallon.
Description: This group meets bi-weekly for friendly games, it located around 35 minutes from Waterloo. The ambiance is casual, so it’s the perfect spot to learn and practice if you’re a newbie.
School and Youth Chess Opportunities
A few local schools in the Waterloo Region run a chess club for students:
- Waterloo High School — Chess club for all students
- Gibault Catholic High School (Waterloo) Competitive Chess Team
- Columbia Middle School – Chess Clubs, After school program
If you would like your child to take up scholastic chess, contact their local school for details on how to register.
Tournament Play in the Region
For those who are competitive, you can attend any number of tournaments available every year:
- Illinois Chess Association events
- Missouri Chess Association tournaments
- St. Louis area scholastic competitions
Final Thoughts
Waterloo doesn’t have many official chess clubs, but surrounding communities such as Columbia, Belleville and Red Bud provide nearby opportunities for all ages and skill levels of players. More casual players might opt for the Waterloo or Red Bud meet-ups, and serious competitors could check out the Belleville Chess Club or the St. Louis Chess Club. Drop-in visitors are welcome at most clubs, but it’s a good idea to check meeting times early.
Whether beginner or experienced, the Waterloo region offers ways to play chess and meet others who share your interest.
