We are a community that loves to play chess!

The Chicago Chess Club hosts pop-ups all over the city of Chicago!

About the Chicago Chess Club

The Chicago Chess Club is a community-driven organization founded in 2024 by Pilsen native William Guerrero with a simple but powerful idea: chess belongs to everyone.

What started with one chessboard and a desire to make friends has grown into one of Chicago's most vibrant and culturally distinctive chess communities. Rooted in the heart of Pilsen and expanding across the city, the Chicago Chess Club brings the game to the people — at local bakeries, coffee shops, bars, and markets — always with good music, good company, and open doors.

What makes us Different

We're not your traditional chess club. We don't show up to compete — we show up to connect. Our events are social, lively, and intentionally informal, designed to lower the barrier to entry and keep people coming back. Whether you're a seasoned player or have never touched a chess piece in your life, there's a place for you here.

Our Impact

In just over a year, we've grown from a single table to a citywide movement, hosting multiple events each week and partnering with small businesses throughout Chicago's neighborhoods. We've brought chess to Navy Pier, Logan Square, Hyde Park, Little Village, and beyond — and we're just getting started.

Our Vision

We're working toward a permanent home in the heart of Chicago — a dedicated space where our community can gather, learn, compete, and grow. We're also expanding our outreach to bring more women and girls into the game, with plans for dedicated programming and tournaments.