Phoenix has a lively, spread-out chess scene that suits everyone from parents bringing their kids to lessons, to adults who want a friendly blitz over coffee, to serious competitors chasing US Chess-rated events. If you’re new to the Valley or just visiting, here are the major clubs and organizations to know, where they meet, what to expect, and why each one might be the right fit for you.
Phoenix Chess Club (PHX Chess Club)
The Phoenix Chess Club (often styled PHX Chess Club) is one of the most active adult-focused groups in the area. They run multiple weekly meetups across the Valley — from downtown Phoenix to Arcadia and Tempe — so you can usually find a session near you on weeknights or weekends. The club maintains an active Instagram and event calendar and aims to create regular opportunities for over-the-board play for adults of all ratings. If you want variety in times and locations, this is a great first stop.
Scottsdale & Coffee Plantation Meetups (Scottsdale Chess Club)
Scottsdale’s chess scene is centered on long Saturday meetups at Coffee Plantation and other coffee shops, where players gather for anything from casual skittles to long-rated games. These Saturday meetups attract a wide skill range, and many local players cite the Scottsdale gatherings as among the most reliably busy in the Valley — often running for hours and drawing both young competitive players and experienced adults. If you like weekend play with a lively turnout, check the Coffee Plantation schedule.
Phoenix Chess Academy: Lessons and Tournaments
For players focused on improvement, the Phoenix Chess Academy is a major name in the Valley. They offer private lessons, group classes, school programs, and they also organize regular rated events (blitz, rapid, and weekend Swisses). If you’re looking to study with a coach, prepare for scholastic competition, or play frequent rated tournaments, a chess academy like this one provides structure and regular practice opportunities.
Arizona Chess Central: Tournaments & Scholastic Events
Arizona Chess Central runs monthly tournaments and scholastic programs across the state and is a key organizer for family- and school-based events. Their tournaments often include game review by strong coaches, which is especially useful for kids and improving adult players who want feedback after each round. If your priority is frequent, well-run scholastic or open tournaments with educational value, Arizona Chess Central is worth watching.
Metro Phoenix Chess Club & Other Local Clubs
Beyond the big names, the Valley has a handful of neighborhood clubs — sometimes called Metro Phoenix Chess Club, West Valley groups, and other meetup-based clubs. These clubs often meet in hotel conference rooms, community centers, or library meeting rooms and may provide club sets and clocks for members. They’re a practical option if you want steady, local weekly play without traveling across town. Check club listings on Chess.com and Meetup to find the nearest one.
Tournaments & Rated Play (US Chess)
Phoenix hosts a steady stream of US Chess-rated events — monthly blitzes, Saturday Swisses, holiday specials, and the bigger annual opens that draw players from across Arizona and neighboring states. If you plan to play in rated events, register with US Chess, bring a tournament-legal set and clock, and check the US Chess tournaments calendar for up-to-date listings and registration details. Many of the clubs and academies listed above run or post tournament listings there.
How to Choose the Right Club
- Want casual, social play? Try a coffee-shop meetup or Scottsdale’s long Saturday session. These are low-pressure and easy to join.
- Want coaching and structured improvement? Sign up with Phoenix Chess Academy or local coaches affiliated with Arizona Chess Central.
- Want regular, diverse opponents? PHX Chess Club’s multiple meetups across the Valley make it simple to find games on different nights.
- Want rated tournaments? Watch the US Chess events calendar and the Phoenix-area clubs that regularly host Swisses and blitz events.
Practical Tips for Visiting Any Club in Phoenix
- Check times online before you travel. Locations and weekly schedules change, double-check Meetup pages, club websites, or Instagram.
- Bring a board and clock if you have them. Some meetups supply equipment, but bringing yours guarantees you’ll be ready.
- For rated events, get a US Chess membership. Most Swiss tournaments require or prefer players to be US Chess members.
- Arrive early for tournaments and busy meetups. Popular Saturday coffee meetups and tournament halls get busy fast.
I’m the senior editor of Attacking Chess, a keen chess player, rated above 2300 in chess.com. You can challenge me or asking questions at Chess.com.