Looking for the best chess classes in New York or a high-quality chess lesson in New York for yourself or your child? Whether you’re a beginner, an intermediate player, or aiming for tournament-level mastery, this list covers the most trusted and high-rated chess academies and clubs in NYC and surrounding areas.
1. Kingdom of Chess – World’s No. 1 Chess Academy
- Location: Online (Serving New York and worldwide)
- Website: kingdomofchess.com
- Google Rating: 5.0
About: Kingdom of Chess is a global chess academy offering structured online chess classes for kids and adults alike. With a world-class faculty, tournament-ready curriculum, and individual/group options, it’s ideal for students looking to train from home with the best.
Who Should Join:
Students looking for flexible, affordable, and elite online training.
Training Offered:
Live online sessions, progress tracking, homework, and national/international tournaments.
2. Chess at Three – UES Club
- Location: 1309 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10128
- Google Rating: 4.9
About: Designed especially for young learners, Chess at Three introduces kids to chess through stories. The sessions make learning fun and highly engaging for children aged 3 to 10.
Who Should Join:
Kids and parents looking for early exposure to chess in a playful way.
Training Offered:
In-home, online, and club-based lessons using a storytelling approach.
3. Chess NYC
- Location: 108 Wooster St, Suite #C2, New York, NY 10012
- Google Rating: 4.3
About: Chess NYC offers diverse chess programs including camps, weekend classes, and after-school sessions. Their mission is to make chess competitive yet fun and accessible.
Who Should Join:
Students of all levels who prefer group interaction and in-person learning.
Training Offered:
In-person classes, summer/winter camps, and tournaments.
4. Chess Max Academy
- Location: 110 W 79th St, New York, NY 10024
- Google Rating: 5.0
About: Founded by Grandmaster Maxim Dlugy, this academy provides personalized training for all age groups, especially those preparing for competitions.
Who Should Join:
Intermediate and advanced players who want professional mentorship.
Training Offered:
Private and group lessons, rated tournaments, and strategic coaching.
5. Marshall Chess Club
- Location: 23 W 10th St, New York, NY 10011
- Google Rating: 4.6
About: Founded in 1915, this historic club has trained some of the greatest American players. It remains a hub for top-level play and community events.
Who Should Join:
Chess enthusiasts, tournament players, and history buffs.
Training Offered:
Regular USCF tournaments, workshops, and club membership.
6. New York Chess Academy
- Location: 70-35 112th St, Forest Hills, NY 11375
- Google Rating: 4.3
About: Known for affordability and community outreach, NYCA offers accessible chess education through schools, camps, and weekend sessions.
Who Should Join:
Budget-conscious learners or school programs.
Training Offered:
Camps, school chess classes, and private coaching.
7. Make Your Move Chess Academy
- Location: 10 Grace Ave #6, Great Neck, NY 11021
- Google Rating: 4.8
About: A well-regarded Long Island academy offering tailored coaching for students preparing for tournaments or simply looking to improve steadily.
Who Should Join:
Learners seeking long-term development and tournament prep.
Training Offered:
Private sessions and weekend group classes.
8. Chess Father Long Island
- Location: 466 Tulip Ave, Floral Park, NY 11001
- Google Rating: 5.0
About: Chess Father focuses on custom learning paths and caters to both school kids and working professionals. Their after-school programs are especially popular.
Who Should Join:
Students in Long Island and parents looking for convenience.
Training Offered:
After-school programs, online coaching, and competitions.
9. Brooklyn Chess
- Location: 224 Kings Hwy 2nd floor, Brooklyn, NY 11223
- Google Rating: 5.0
About: Brooklyn Chess builds a vibrant local chess culture through community engagement, camps, and interactive learning.
Who Should Join:
Brooklyn locals who want hands-on learning with local players.
Training Offered:
Weekend sessions, group classes, and summer camps.
10. Chess Advance
- Location: 1745 E 12th St, Brooklyn, NY 11229
- Google Rating: 5.0
About: Chess Advance runs a curriculum-focused program to improve tactical, positional, and endgame understanding through structured training.
Who Should Join:
Students who want organized, measurable progress in skill.
Training Offered:
Progress-based chess classes for all levels.
Comparison Table – Chess Classes in New York
| Academy Name | Location | Training Type | Ideal For | Google Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kingdom of Chess | Online (New York included) | Online classes & tournaments | All levels, remote learners | 5.0 |
| Chess at Three – UES Club | Upper East Side, Manhattan | In-home, online, club-based | Young children (ages 3–10) | 4.9 |
| Chess NYC | SoHo, New York City | In-person, camps, tournaments | General learners | 4.3 |
| Chess Max Academy | Upper West Side, Manhattan | Group/private, tournaments | Intermediate to advanced players | 5.0 |
| Marshall Chess Club | Greenwich Village, Manhattan | Club tournaments, workshops | Club players & enthusiasts | 4.6 |
| New York Chess Academy | Forest Hills, Queens | Camps, private, school programs | Budget-friendly learners | 4.3 |
| Make Your Move Academy | Great Neck, Long Island | Private & weekend classes | Tournament-focused learners | 4.8 |
| Chess Father Long Island | Floral Park, Long Island | After-school, online | Long Island students | 5.0 |
| Brooklyn Chess | Brooklyn | Classes, camps, tournaments | Brooklyn community learners | 5.0 |
| Chess Advance | Brooklyn | Curriculum-based coaching | Skill development at all levels | 5.0 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the best chess classes in New York for kids?
Chess at Three, Kingdom of Chess, and Chess NYC are among the top choices for kids due to their friendly, beginner-focused formats and engaging teaching methods.
2. Are there online chess lesson options available in New York?
Yes, Kingdom of Chess, Chess Father, and Chess at Three offer online chess lessons in New York suitable for both beginners and competitive learners.
3. Which academy is best for advanced players preparing for tournaments?
Chess Max Academy, Marshall Chess Club, and Kingdom of Chess provide high-level coaching and tournament opportunities for serious chess students.
4. How much do chess classes in New York typically cost?
Prices vary widely:
- Group classes: $20–$50 per session
- Private coaching: $60–$150 per hour
- Online packages (e.g., Kingdom of Chess): Often offer monthly plans with greater flexibility.
5. Why should I consider a chess lesson in New York instead of online-only training?
In-person classes provide peer interaction and real-time tournament practice. However, online options like Kingdom of Chess are ideal for busy schedules and offer global exposure through online tournaments.
