The Ultimate Guide to Playing Chess in Ottawa (Canada)

Ottawa has a varied chess scene that suits players of all levels, from serious competitors to casual beginners. Despite its modest size, Canada’s capital offers formal clubs, university groups, cafés, libraries and even outdoor venues for chess lovers. Below are the main places to play, grouped by experience.

Competitive Chess Clubs

RA Chess Club – Ottawa’s Competitive Core
The RA Chess Club is the city’s main hub for rated, tournament-style chess.

• Location: RA Centre, 2451 Riverside Drive.
• Schedule: Thursday evenings, games usually start around 7:00–7:30 pm.
• Format: Long time-control Swiss tournaments lasting several weeks.
• Requirements: RA Centre membership, club fee and a valid Chess Federation of Canada (CFC) membership.
• Level: Mostly intermediate to master, though beginners can observe or play casual side games.

Kanata Chess Club – West-End Alternative
Serving players in Kanata and nearby suburbs, this club offers competitive play in a more relaxed setting.

• Location: Often at the Kanata Seniors Centre, 2500 Campeau Drive (check updates online).
• Schedule: Tuesdays.
• Format: Rated events with standard, active and blitz nights.
• Focus: Strong support for junior players and post-game analysis.

University Chess

University of Ottawa Chess Club
Known for its lively, social atmosphere.

• Location: University Centre (UCU), 85 University Private.
• Style: Fast-paced blitz and bullet games.
• Cost: Usually free or very low for students.
• Level: Mixed, from beginners to titled players.

Carleton University Strategy Club
Chess is part of a broader strategy-gaming community.

• Location: Carleton University campus.
• Access: Non-students should check drop-in rules via social media.
• Activities: Occasional inter-university tournaments.

Cafés and Casual Venues

The Loft Board Game Lounge / Level One
Ideal for casual chess with food and drinks.

• Location: 14 Waller Street, near Rideau Centre.
• Cost: Stay-and-play fee, typically CAD 8–10.
• Features: Quality chess sets, table service and occasional chess nights.

Community and Outdoor Chess

Ottawa Public Library
A free and family-friendly option.

• Branches: Main (Metcalfe), Nepean Centrepointe and others.
• Programs: “Chess in the Library” sessions, often volunteer-run for kids.

Outdoor Chess (Summer Only)

• Confederation Park: Giant chess sets and picnic-table games.
• Lansdowne Park: Popular for bring-your-own-board play.
  Players should bring weighted sets and expect spectators.

Online Groups and Tournaments

Ottawa’s chess community also connects online. Meetup groups organize casual games in cafés, while the Eastern Ontario Chess Association (EOCA) runs weekend tournaments across the region.

What Players Should Know

• Membership vs. Drop-in: Clubs usually require fees; libraries and parks are free.
• Equipment: Players are expected to bring their own board, pieces and clock.
• Ratings: Ottawa uses the CFC system, with ratings ranging from beginner to master level.

Overview

Ottawa offers chess for every taste: competitive nights at the RA Centre, relaxed games at The Loft, student-focused clubs, and summer chess in public parks. The community is welcoming and respectful, provided players follow basic etiquette and schedules.