For all ages and skill levels, chess is a great way to learn strategy, focus, and planning. Children and adults alike can learn from the patient, logic-testing game, which requires only pieces, a board, and an opponent. Around Hoboken and Jersey City, there are many places that provide all of those things for you – all you have to bring is yourself and your A-game. Read on for a list of places to play chess in Hoboken and Jersey City.
Boyd McGuinness Park | Corner of Duncan Avenue and Kennedy Boulevard
The two-acre park is twice its original size and includes a playground with a splash-pad, permanent checkers/chess tables, and more.
Church Square Park | 401-449 Willow Avenue, Hoboken
In addition to the basketball courts, a dog run, and more, there are permanent, year-round chess tables at Church Square Park, which are outside and, of course, free to use as they’re available. Bring your own pieces, a challenger, and enjoy!
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Hudson County Chess Club | Various locations
With locations across Hoboken and Jersey City on different dates and times, this chess club competes in tournaments across the country, but also hosts lessons, holds game nights, and more. The experience level for each event is posted on the club’s website, so you know which event best meets your needs.
Jersey City Virtual Chess Club
This online group requires a username and account but, as the name suggests, Jersey City residents can get together virtually to compete against each other on chess.com. Track your score and play live matches with other Jersey City residents, all while being pandemic-friendly and from the comfort of your home.
Liberty House Restauarnt | 200 Morris Pesin Drive, Jersey City
(Photo credit: @libertyhouserestaurant)
Located in the backyard of Liberty House is a giant chess set available for us. Enjoy a delicious meal and try your hand at this casual but fun life-size game with a stunning backdrop of the Manhattan skyline.
Marine Park
This quaint park is located right outside of Battello and Newport Tower in downtown Jersey City. The park has permanent chess tables for the public.
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PLAY Hoboken | 1012 Grand Street, Hoboken
(Photo credit: PLAY Hoboken)
Whether you’re a chess master or learning the tricks, there’s a place at PLAY Hoboken for you. There are chess games for adults and children alike, as well as Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday night classes, social chess nights, and even a tournament. The Wednesday night social chess begins with a 30-minute lesson/refresher and is BYOB.
Zeppelin Hall | 88 Liberty View Drive, Jersey City
Chess lessons for children take place at Zeppelin Hall on most weekends, and the space is accommodating of groups looking to meet up and play. Classes are taught in a group format, and the first lesson through Jersey City Chess Club is free. There are girls-only classes available as well.
