Chess is more than just a board game — it’s a proven way to enhance memory, decision-making, concentration, and analytical thinking. New York City is home to some of the finest chess academies, clubs, and training programs designed for learners of all levels. Whether you are a beginner exploring the basics, a parent searching for chess classes for kids, or an advanced player preparing for tournaments, this guide presents the best chess classes in NYC with clear details to help you choose the right program.
1. Kingdom of Chess
Kingdom of Chess is a structured global academy offering interactive online chess classes for students of all skill levels. Its curriculum-based approach ensures systematic progress through tactical lessons, game analysis, and guided practice, helping learners develop strong foundations and advanced strategic understanding.
Who Should Join
- Beginners level wanting structured guidance
- Intermediate-level players improving tactics
- Competitive-level learners preparing for tournaments
- Adults seeking professional online chess coaching
Training Offered
- Live interactive classes
- Opening, middlegame, endgame modules
- Game analysis sessions
- Progress assessments and tournaments
Information
- Website: www.kingdomofchess.com
- Location: Online
- Contact: +91-81144-17629 | +1-302-261-2410
2. Chess at Three
Chess at Three introduces young learners to chess through storytelling-based lessons that make concepts simple and engaging. Designed specifically for children, the program blends fun activities with cognitive skill development, ensuring students remain attentive while learning fundamental strategies.
Who Should Join
- Children aged 3–10
- Absolute beginners
- Kids needing engaging learning formats
- Parents seeking chess classes for kids
Training Offered
- Story-based chess lessons
- Interactive board exercises
- Beginner tactical concepts
- Pattern recognition training
Information
- Website: www.chessatthree.com
- Location: Multiple U.S. cities + online
- Contact: (212) 796 – 2737
3. Chess NYC
Chess NYC provides structured training programs across the city for players of varying experience levels. Located in SoHo near Washington Square Park, it offers a supportive learning environment and community focus where students improve through guided lessons and practical gameplay.
Who Should Join
- Students seeking local chess classes
- Casual players wanting improvement
- Kids and adults interested in group learning
- Social learners
Training Offered
- After-school chess programs
- Weekend classes
- Group strategy sessions
- Practice tournaments
Information
- Website: www.chessnyc.com
- Location: 108 Wooster Street #C2, New York, NY
- Contact: +1-212-475-8130
4. Chess Max Academy
Chess Max Academy is a professional training institution offering high-level coaching designed to improve competitive performance. With locations on Manhattan’s Upper West Side and Upper East Side near Central Park, students benefit from elite instruction and a focused learning atmosphere.
Who Should Join
- Intermediate and advanced players
- Tournament competitors
- Students aiming for rating improvement
- Serious chess learners
Training Offered
- Private coaching sessions
- Tournament preparation training
- Advanced tactical drills
- Strategic analysis workshops
Information
- Website: www.chessmaxacademy.com
- Location: Upper West Side & Upper East Side, NYC
- Contact: +1-646-783-1386
5. Marshall Chess Club
Marshall Chess Club is one of the most respected chess institutions in the United States, known for its historic legacy and strong competitive environment. Situated in Greenwich Village, it offers players access to serious competition and a vibrant chess community.
Who Should Join
- Competitive players
- Club-level enthusiasts
- Adults seeking strong practice opponents
- Tournament participants
Training Offered
- Rated tournaments
- Club competitions
- Instructional sessions
- Open practice play
Information
- Website: www.marshallchessclub.org
- Location: 23 West 10th Street, New York, NY
- Contact: +1-212-477-3716
6. New York Scholastic Chess Club
The New York Scholastic Chess Club focuses on developing young talent through structured instruction and competitive training. Its programs across Manhattan help students build confidence, sharpen tactics, and perform well in scholastic and national-level competitions.
Who Should Join
- School students
- Youth competitors
- Beginners aiming for tournament play
- Parents seeking structured coaching
Training Offered
- Group classes by level
- Competition preparation sessions
- Tactical skill training
- Tournament participation guidance
Information
- Website: www.nyschessclub.com
- Location: New York City programs
- Contact: Available via website
7. Chess.ED Academy
Chess.ED Academy delivers comprehensive chess education through live virtual instruction led by experienced players. It is an excellent option for learners who want to learn chess online with structured lessons that explain both moves and the strategy behind them.
Who Should Join
- Online learners
- Students preferring flexible schedules
- Beginners to advanced players
- Analytical thinkers
Training Offered
- Live virtual classes
- Concept-focused lessons
- Tactical puzzles and analysis
- Skill progression modules
Information
- Website: www.chessed.academy
- Location: Online
- Contact: Via official website
8. Tri-State Chess
Tri-State Chess is an established chess training provider offering structured programs that guide students step-by-step from beginner to advanced levels. Located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side near Carl Schurz Park. Its lessons emphasize consistency, fundamentals, and real improvement through practice, making it ideal as chess coaching for beginners.
Who Should Join
- Beginners building fundamentals
- Intermediate players refining skills
- Students wanting structured progression
- Learners preferring group sessions
Training Offered
- Level-based classes
- Tactical training sessions
- Practice matches
- Virtual instruction options
Information
- Website: www.tristatechess.com
- Location: 325 E. 88th Street, New York, NY.
- Contact: +1-212-289-5997
9. New York City Chess
New York City Chess Camps provide immersive learning experiences through seasonal programs combining instruction with gameplay. Many sessions are hosted in central Manhattan locations close to Times Square, giving students a lively and motivating learning atmosphere.
Who Should Join
- Kids during school vacations
- Beginners wanting intensive learning
- Young players needing practice exposure
- Students who learn best through activities
Training Offered
- Seasonal camps
- Guided gameplay sessions
- Strategy workshops
- Friendly tournaments
Information
- Website: www.newyorkcitychess.com
- Location: New York City.
- Contact: Via official website
10. Brooklyn Chess
Brooklyn Chess is a community-focused chess club offering structured lessons and engaging learning experiences. Based in Bensonhurst, it combines focused coaching with social play so students build confidence while steadily improving their skills.
Who Should Join
- Kids and beginners
- Casual learners
- Social players seeking improvement
- Students looking for supportive coaching
Training Offered
- Structured chess lessons
- Puzzle solving and tactical training
- Game review and analysis
- Interactive weekly sessions
Information
- Website: www.chessinbrooklyn.com
- Location: 224 Kings Hwy 2nd Fl, Brooklyn, NY 11223.
- Contact: +1-718-490-0495
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right chess class depends on your skill level, learning preference, and long-term goals. Some programs specialize in beginner instruction, while others focus on competitive mastery. If you prefer flexibility, consider exploring online chess classes in USA to access expert coaches from anywhere. With the right training environment and consistent practice, you can steadily improve your chess performance and strategic thinking skills.
