Chess Club at the Mechanics' Institute

Welcome to the Chess Club at Mechanics’ Institute—the longest-running chess program in the United States, where players of all ages and skill levels come together for engaging events, lessons, and a vibrant community.

Browse our programs below, and feel free to contact us with any questions—we’d love to hear from you!

Chess Tournaments

Tournaments for all—whether you're just starting out or a seasoned club player, and whatever your age, you're welcome to compete! Play on the same tables as Lasker, Fischer, and Spassky in a USCF or FIDE rated tournament in our historic chess room.

Scholastic Chess Programs

Through classes, camps, and tournaments designed specifically for young players, we support great chess players and great people. Our dedicated coaches support after-school chess programs throughout San Francisco.

San Francisco Scholastic Chess Championship

For nearly 20 years, Mechanics' Institute's Annual San Francisco Scholastic Chess Championship has united the Bay Area’s scholastic chess community. Each spring, Mechanics’ Institute proudly hosts over 300 young players for this exciting, all-day, free tournament. 

Chess Offerings

We offer a wide range of classes for players of all levels—from beginners to advanced—including Game Review classes with masters on staff, the Chess Café - a member-led weekly online meetup, and an online class specially designed for women, girls, and gender-expansive players.

Chess in the Community

We bring the joy of chess to the community year-round through our outdoor programs, hosted in partnership with Yerba Buena Gardens, Union Square, Mechanics' Plaza, and UN Plaza.

 

Monthly Chess Socials

Curious what it’s like inside a vibrant chess room? Join us on the first Fridays of each month at 5pm. It’s a relaxed, welcoming way to meet fellow players and experience the game in person.

Become A Member

Join as a new member today and receive 13 months of an annual membership in this time limited offer.  Explore our literary and chess events and access to our historic library.

Explore Membership Benefits
Mural in Lobby

Site photography by Greg Habiby

What’s Inside

General Information

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Tournaments

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Scholastic Chess

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Chess Classes and Programs

Explore Chess Classes and Programs

Chess in the Community

Explore Chess in the Community

Grandmaster-in-Residence

Explore Grandmaster-in-Residence

Tournament Archive

Explore Tournament Archive