Chess is becoming, once again, the most popular game to play. If you’re already a chess enthusiast looking to join a club – ’cause you’re ready to tap into some Big Grand Master Energy – or perhaps you’d like to join the ranks of the city’s chess hustlers, read on. We’ve rounded up the 10 best places in New York City to learn or to play chess with your friends. Some of whom are friends you haven’t even met yet!
where are the best places in New York City to play chess?
When was the last time you thought about the game of chess? The answer might be “never,” or it might be “not since I watched The Queen’s Gambit.” Or if our research is correct, the answer could also be “recently.” Because if you haven’t heard, chess is finally cool. Again.
According to a New York Times piece published last year, chess is seeing a rise in popularity for the first time since 1972. Though there are many possible reasons for this extraordinary comeback – including COVID, and yes, The Queen’s Gambit – we are less interested in the “why” than the “how”; meaning, how can we get in on the action?
Where are the best places to learn or play chess in New York City?
If you’re looking to make friends, keep up with current trends, or gain a smart and worthwhile hobby, why not join in the game? Though you can always play online, there are also plenty of excellent places to go for in-person lessons, tournaments, and free-play. No matter, where you live, do some digging – you’ll find one near you.
And if you happen to live in the New York area, here are ten of our favorite places to play and to learn chess in the five boroughs.
10 best places to learn or play chess in New York City
1. Chess Forum
It doesn’t get better than Chess Forum. Located near Washington Square Park, Chess Forum is a legendary New York institution. Both a chess store and a place to learn and play the game, Chess Forum welcome people of all-ages – including children – and all skill levels. They are the last of the city’s old-style chess parlors, and this is how they work: drop-by, and play a pick-up game of chess for five dollars an hour. Though their official hours are from noon to midnight, you’ll frequently find their lights lit through the wee hours of the morning – they’ll stay open as long as there is a game going. If a late-night game of chess sounds like the perfect evening to you, put them on your calendar.
2. Chess at Three
If you’re a parent, you may be looking at this news about chess, and thinking that the game could make the perfect afterschool activity. Well, you’ll definitely want to check out Chess at Three, which located on the Upper East Side. With the use of storytelling, Chess at Three is able to teach even the youngest children how to play the game – and we know you want to see how they do it. Enrollment is open for children of all ages, and all skill levels. Sign up while the school year is still young.
3. Marshall Chess Club
The iconic Marshall Chess Club is one of the oldest and most-famous chess clubs in the United States, and aren’t we lucky to have them right here in New York City? Marshall Chess Club is serious about chess – they are the nation’s most-active tournament club, with events nearly every day of the year – but beginners are still welcome. Check out the classes they have for both children and adults, and feel cool about the fact that you’ll be learning to play the game at one of the most prestigious chess clubs in the world.
Where are the best places to learn or play chess in New York City, whether you’re looking to join a club of enthusiasts, watch the chess hustlers or just enjoy a game in the park?
4. Washington Square Park
The chess tables in Washington Square Park are always a classic – and another place where you can try getting in on a game. Most of the tables’ usual residents charge for play, but if you win, you’ll keep your money. Don’t get your hopes up, though – these guys know what they’re doing, and you’ll find they’re hard to beat. But can you think of a better way to learn? If you’re looking for a trial by fire – and an old-school New York experience – look no further.
5. Pawn Chess Club
If the word “trendy” is what caught your attention here, then you’ve met your match with Pawn Chess Club. This nomadic chess collective operates via an Instagram page – which they update whenever they’re hosting a new game – and you’ll find them taking up residence at popular New York spots like Casetta, Metrograph, and Casino. Chess is an excellent way to meet some interesting people, and Pawn Chess Club seems like the place to go with that mission in mind.
6. The Uncommons
We will always love The Uncommons. Located near NYU, they were New York’s first boardgame café, and they remain one of the best places to play board games in the city. If you’ve never been to a board game café, think of it like a coworking space – but instead of paying for space to do your work, you’re paying for space to play games. And in addition to board games, The Uncommons does of course have chess sets on hand – and since the building was a chess club before it was a board game café, it seems like a fitting place to go for a casual game. And if you get tired of chess? Try one of the many other games they have available.
7. Chess Max Academy
If you should find yourself on the Upper West Side, make a stop at Chess Max Academy. They offer classes both in-person and online, as well as private lessons for those who could use a little extra attention. We love Chess Max Academy, because they have options available for every kind of player – whether you’re hoping to play in tournaments, play with friends, or simply learn the rules of the game. Let them help you figure out what kind of chess player you want to be.
8. Chess NYC
Chess NYC wants to bring chess to the whole wide world – and they understand that creating a safe, supportive, and fun environment where everyone feels comfortable playing the game. They offer in-person training camps and meets for young players, but you can feel assured that your kids will come home with smiles on their faces. It’s possible to learn a competitive game – and learn it well – and still have a great time every step of the way. Let the kids learn how at Chess NYC.
9. The Brooklyn Strategist
The Brooklyn Strategist is our favorite board game café in the outer borough, and another great spot for chess, as well as other board games. Drop-in play is $10, but there are also lessons available – for chess, as well as Settlers of Catan and other popular games. Make a trip the next time you have a free weekend or afternoon, and if you like the experience, sign up to learn more.
10. Bushwick Chess Club
If you’re looking for something to do on Tuesday nights, join the Bushwick Chess Club for some quality play time at Nook Brooklyn. They host a fun and festive array of rapid tournaments, and they’re a great way to get out and meet some of your fellow Brooklyn residents. Follow the group’s Instagram page to learn more.
the best places to learn or play chess in New York City
Those are our insider tips on where the best places are to learn or play chess in New York City, whether you’re looking for a club of enthusiasts, a posse of chess hustlers or just a friendly game in the park. Your move, dear reader.
