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World Chess Hall of Fame: A Monument to the Game

Explore the fascinating world of chess at the World Chess Hall of Fame in St. Louis, a cultural center dedicated to the game's rich history and art.

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The World Chess Hall of Fame in St. Louis celebrates the history, art, and cultural significance of chess. With vibrant exhibits, rare artifacts, and the World's Largest Chess Piece, it's a must-see for enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

A brief summary to World Chess Hall of Fame

Local tips

  • Check the World Chess Hall of Fame's website for current exhibitions and events before your visit.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits and collections.
  • Consider visiting on a Friday for free admission to special exhibitions.
  • Visit the gift shop for unique chess-related souvenirs and collectibles.
  • Take a photo with the World's Largest Chess Piece located outside the Hall of Fame.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The World Chess Hall of Fame is located in the Central West End neighborhood, a walkable area with many shops and restaurants. If you are nearby, such as at the Saint Louis Chess Club or the nearby shops on Maryland Avenue, walking is a convenient option. Just head to 4652 Maryland Avenue.

  • Public Transport

    The Central West End MetroLink station is about a 21-minute walk from the World Chess Hall of Fame. From the station, head east on Central Avenue, then turn left onto Maryland Avenue. The Hall of Fame will be on your right. A single MetroLink fare is $3.

  • Ride Share

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in St. Louis. A ride from downtown St. Louis (e.g., near the Gateway Arch) to the World Chess Hall of Fame is approximately 15-20 minutes and typically costs $15-$25, depending on traffic and demand.

  • Parking

    Metered street parking is available on Maryland Avenue and the surrounding streets. These meters are enforced Monday through Saturday from 8 am to 7 pm. There are also paid parking lots near the Kingside Diner at 4651 Maryland Avenue and a parking garage adjacent to the Schlafly Branch of the St. Louis Public Library at 225 N. Euclid Avenue. Expect to pay around $5 for 1-2 hours in a paid lot. The Argyle Garage at 225 North Euclid Avenue and the 9 North/Buckingham Garage at 9 North Euclid Avenue both offer parking for up to 2 hours for $3.00, with a daily max of $15.00.

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Discover more about World Chess Hall of Fame

Located in the heart of St. Louis's vibrant Central West End, the World Chess Hall of Fame (WCHOF) is a monument to the enduring appeal of chess. Founded in 1986, the WCHOF has evolved from a modest collection in New Windsor, New York, to a world-class cultural center in the chess capital of the United States. The museum's mission is to educate visitors, fans, players and scholars by preserving, exhibiting and interpreting the game of chess and its continuing cultural and artistic significance. Housed in a historic 15,900 square-foot residence-turned-business, the WCHOF features the U.S. and World Chess Halls of Fame, displays of artifacts from its permanent collection, and temporary exhibitions. Visitors can explore a diverse collection of chess-related artifacts, including trophies, scoresheets, and artistic chess sets. Rotating exhibitions highlight the intersections of chess, culture, and creativity. Past exhibitions have showcased chess-related comics, the revolutionary women of the chess world, and chess-inspired artworks by international artists. A highlight is the Guinness World Record-holding chess piece, a symbol of chess's global legacy. The WCHOF collaborates with the Saint Louis Chess Club, located directly across the street, on programming, instruction, and outreach. This partnership creates a dynamic chess campus that serves local, national, and international audiences. The museum also offers guided tours for student groups and curator-led tours for an in-depth exploration of the exhibitions. Whether you're a seasoned chess player or a curious newcomer, the World Chess Hall of Fame offers a unique and engaging experience. It's a place to explore the legends of chess, discover the game's impact on art and culture, and appreciate the rich history of this timeless game.

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