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The Saint Louis Chess Club has transformed the chess landscape, elevating St Louis into a global center for the game. Through hosting the three most prestigious, invitational chess tournaments in the United States, offering premier educational programs, and community outreach initiatives, the Club has inspired players of all levels—from beginners to elite grandmasters. By fostering a culture of excellence and accessibility, the club continues to grow the game, support rising talent, and make chess an integral part of the community.
The Saint Louis Chess Club has had a profound impact on the chess community, both locally and globally. Their commitment to fostering a love of the game has inspired countless players, from young beginners to seasoned professionals. Through their educational programs, tournaments, and community outreach, they have played a crucial role in promoting chess as a valuable educational and recreational activity. The club’s influence extends far beyond St Louis, as their events and initiatives attract players and enthusiasts from around the world.
Active Members
SQ. FT. COMMUNITY CENTER
tournaments hosted
The Saint Louis Chess Club, a 501(c)(3) educational organization, is widely recognized as the premier chess facility in the country and one of the best in the world. This 6,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art chess center features a world-class tournament playing hall, classroom, library and casual play area. But we’re more than just a community center.
Bringing the educational benefits of chess to thousands of students in schools and community centers through afterschool programs.
A welcoming space where players of all levels join free classes, tournaments, lectures, private lessons, and more.
Hosting the top US Championship events and elite matches featuring the world’s best chess players.
The Saint Louis Chess Club is committed to making chess accessible to everyone, regardless of their skill level or background. We offer a variety of programs, including beginner classes, advanced training, and group lessons – catering to players of all ages and abilities.
Our mission is rooted in education, beginning with teaching the game of chess to beginners of all ages.
Our intermediate chess classes build on fundamental skills and introduce more advanced strategies to help players improve their strategic thinking and tactical awareness.
Advanced educational programs focus on opening mastery, middle game expertise, and end game precision. We also cover handling different playing styles and adapting strategies.
The Saint Louis Chess Club partners with schools to bring chess into classrooms, helping students build critical thinking and focus. Through in-school and after-school programs led by trained instructors, the club empowers young learners to develop lifelong skills and a love for the game.
Through strong collaborations with local and national organizations, the Saint Louis Chess Club expands its impact in education, community engagement, and competitive chess. These partnerships help us bring the benefits of chess to more players and learners, fostering a vibrant, inclusive chess community.
The World Chess Hall of Fame showcases world-class, family-friendly, exhibitions that highlight the intersection of chess with art, culture, and history.
Q Boutique is the award-winning gift shop of the World Chess Hall of Fame (WCHOF) where you can find chess apparel, autographed collectibles, and tournament gear.
Kingside Diner offers a stylish, chess-themed setting, a menu of classic diner favorites with creative twists, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Check out their lively patio in warm weather!
The Grand Chess Tour (GCT) marks its 10th anniversary featuring the world’s top players, a prize fund exceeding $1.5 million, and the highly anticipated return of a knockout finals for the season’s top four contenders.
The St Louis Chess Campus offers an immersive chess experience with the Saint Louis Chess Club and World Chess Hall of Fame, complemented by Kingside Diner for dining, STL Chess Pocket Parks for outdoor games, and unique finds at Q-Boutique. Discover the heart of chess culture in St Louis!
