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World's Largest Chess Piece: A St. Louis Landmark

Visit the World's Largest Chess Piece in St. Louis: a record-breaking, 20-foot-tall King that celebrates the city's vibrant chess scene.

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The World's Largest Chess Piece, a 20-foot-tall King, stands proudly outside the World Chess Hall of Fame in St. Louis' Central West End. Certified by Guinness World Records, it's a monument to the city's vibrant chess culture and a perfect photo op for visitors.

A brief summary to World’s Largest Chess Piece

  • 4652 Maryland Ave, St. Louis, Central West End, Missouri, 63108, US
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Pose for a photo with the chess piece; it's free and makes for a unique souvenir.
  • Visit the World Chess Hall of Fame to learn more about the history and culture of chess.
  • Explore the Central West End neighborhood, filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're already in the Central West End neighborhood, the World's Largest Chess Piece is easily accessible on foot. From the intersection of Euclid Avenue and Maryland Avenue, walk east on Maryland Avenue for about 0.3 miles. You'll find the chess piece on your left at 4652 Maryland Ave, before you reach Taylor Avenue.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the World's Largest Chess Piece via public transport, take the MetroBus to the Central West End. Several bus routes serve the area, including the 1, 10, 13, 97, and 95. Disembark at the 'Maryland & Taylor' stop. From there, walk west on Maryland Avenue for about 5 minutes to 4652 Maryland Ave. A single bus fare is $1.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 4652 Maryland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108. Metered street parking is available, enforced Monday through Saturday from 8 am to 7 pm. Alternatively, paid parking lots are located near Kingside Diner at 4651 Maryland Avenue and adjacent to the Schlafly Branch of the Saint Louis Public Library at 225 N. Euclid Avenue. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around $5 for a few hours.

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Discover more about World’s Largest Chess Piece

The World's Largest Chess Piece is a colossal king residing in front of the World Chess Hall of Fame in St. Louis, Missouri. Certified by Guinness World Records on April 6, 2018, the chess piece measures 20 feet tall and 9 feet, 2 inches in diameter at the base, weighing 10,860 pounds. It is a to-scale replica of the “Championship Staunton” king, custom-designed for the Sinquefield Cup. Crafted from African sapele mahogany, the piece is 53 times larger than its model. The landmark commemorates St. Louis's role as a chess destination, celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Saint Louis Chess Club and a decade of hosting the U.S. and U.S. Women's Chess Championships. Visitors can pose with the impressive sculpture for free. The surrounding Central West End neighborhood offers charming cafes, shops, and parks, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely outing. The St. Louis Chess Club is located across the street.

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