Reviews of World Chess Hall of Fame. (Museum) in St. Louis (Missouri).

World Chess Hall of Fame

521 Reviews

284 Comments

Museum

Museum

4652 Maryland Ave #1, St. Louis, MO 63108, United States

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Information of World Chess Hall of Fame, Museum in St. Louis (Missouri)

Discover the opening times, the location, contact, popular times, photos and real reviews by internet users.

This place has a very good rate, they treat their customers well and you’ll feel welcome, super recommended

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Reviews of World Chess Hall of Fame

Ray Harris

Fun, free and entertaining. If you're a chess nerd like mine this place is enjoyable and informative. But even for the casual player, the giant chessboard and "World's biggest chess piece" are worth a stop by. You can grab you a free poster and if you participate in the scavenger hunt then they offer small prizes! My kids really loved the scavenger hunt and battled it out on the board! The wife had to drag them (and me) off of it when it was time to go. Great place to grab a coffee (right next door) and play a game! It costs nothing, but if you can drop a small donation at the front desk, that is not only a polite and easy way to say thank you, it also helps keep places like this running!

Collin Quinton

Amazing place, the only reason I left 1 star out is because when I got there at 6pm they just told me the museum closed but the gift shop was open. The place didn't close until 9pm that night but they shut down the main attraction 3 hours prior to the store closing?? Otherwise, the gift shop and front way is incredible with everything you'd want for a chess nut, and things even if you're not! The staff were accommodating saying they could also order the same items in store to be delivered to your address if you don't want to carry them around the city or are visiting from out of state. Some sets are the size of your leg, others are micro with collapsible/magnetic pieces, perfect for playing on the go. A whole bunch of accessories to keep you thinking about the game wherever you are from keyrings, bags, stress balls in the shape of your favorite pieces, candles, cards, and a ton of other knick-knacks. Last but not least, the location is ideal as the largest chess piece in the world rests just off the sidewalk of a beautifully lit avenue on the corner of a chess themed bar. You can play the game with your friends in or out of the store/bar too. A must see!

Michael Zeiser

Really neat experience. It isn't everyday that you get to see a place devoted to the game of chess. I'm not sure how long it is running but the Mind Art Experience exhibit was a really interesting exhibit that I think we were lucky to have gotten a chance to see.

Paul Hodges

Very interesting if you like museums, chess, and/or art. A lot of really interesting chessboard and chess-inspired art pieces. The world's largest chess piece is out front, and a board with knee-high but lightweight pieces, plus several standard tables. The STL chess club offices are across the street with more tables, and the museum has a nice gift shop inside. Also, it's free! Sorry, I forgot to take pics in the museum (was fun, got distracted, lol) but these are from the gift shop.

Jamie M

Kids were off school today took a day trip as my son 10 & daughter 11 just got into chess club. Very unique place. Would have loved to play chess outside in the front but the snow stopped us... next time!

Twyla Becker

If you have any interest in chess at all this is a fun exhibit! I don't play, but that didn't stop my curiosity and enjoyment in seeing the variety of sets and learning the history! We were there on the first day of Jingle! There was a hot chocolate bar, treats and a warm inviting atmosphere to ring in the season complete with coloring (chess appropriate) and chess sets for play! Fun afternoon

David

Lovely exhibits, even though we came at a time when they were transitioning from one theme to the next. Gift shop is very enjoyable and I loved the numerous opportunities to interact with the sets and take pictures.

Mary Lemmer

I love this museum! The people that work there are so friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. I appreciate the Covid precautions they are taking - requiring masks and doing temperature checks (as of 12/11/21). The exhibits I saw were very cool and unique and the gift shop had such great options! Plus the huge chess piece in front of the building is not to miss! Truly a gem of a museum in St. Louis!

Katarra Parson

Just became a chess addict so coming here was heaven. I love the exhibits they have and had an amazing date at their anniversary party. Love this place! ❤️

ARG inKC

I'm not a huge CHESS fan but after this visit I will be. This was a wonderful facility with a lot of support from a generous St Louis benefactor. I learned a lot about the history of chess when some of the great matches. During my midweek visit there was a free live Louisiana jazz band playing outside and on the top level another paid live music performance. Definitely worth the visit. After your tour check out the live music or explore the upscale area with many restaurants

Dave Cameron

The building has three floors of various chess sets and information on championship games and players, complete with gift shop. The chess sets were from standard to artsy. There was info on a handful of world chess expert players. They had 2 videos on Bobby Fischer, the only American to with the world chess championship. If you're really into chess, could easily be a 2-hour visit; if you're a casual observer - more 60-90 minutes.

Elise Le

Such great experience. Amazed with all the chess boards and pieces there. Highly recommend visiting this place. Admission is free

Annette Henderson

This place was amazing! It was so much more than my family and I imagined, plus it is all free! They have chess outside that anyone can play (as long as it hasn't or won't rain) and a museum that was much more extensive than we thought. It is 3 stories, and each story has a guide to help explain pieces if you ask. I recommend asking them questions about the pieces, as we informed a lot of knowledge from doing that. They have a great gift shop, where you can find trinkets for anyone. We were even able to bring a few free posters home that showcase the infamous chess piece and the building itself. Overall great time, parking was not difficult, and lots of great restaurants and stores nearby!

Ryan Guill

Lots of amazing exhibits. A must see if you’re interested in chess at all.

Jana Soroski

This wxhibit was beautifully curated. We enjoyed the morning going through the whole thing. It is also just a beautiful building. Lots of selection in the adjacent boutique. Good food surrounding the museum to make a day of it!

Marvilla Marzán

Really enjoyed this place. Very informative. Dives into the history of the game, and chess champions. Beautiful displays of chess sets from around the world. Wheelchair accessible. Free entry. Donations accepted. July 2021.

Tim Phelps

Cool, small museum. They've got a great exhibit of memorabilia right now regarding the 1972 Fischer/Spassky championship.

Warren Hudy

It was definitely worth the trip to see the world's largest chess piece. I was surprised when we got there and they didn't ask for an admission fee! They have a donation box, which we donated to after viewing the 3rd floor And hitting up the boutique. They only had 1 floor available to view because they were setting up the other 2 floors for an exhibit. I can't wait to go back when the other 2 floors are available. (Then I can give it 5 stars) My young daughter is loving chess and I'm loving that fact! Thanks WCHOF!!

vimal issarani

Never seen or heard of a chess museum, lots of stories on three floors with memorabilia and photos. Really liked the place and how they have laid out the floors for USA's chess greatest players

Stanley Johnson

I have been there in the past. Interesting place. It had information on the history of the game, I addition to the largest chess piece in the world.

Phil Rumbaoa

An art and intellect presentation on chess in entertaining and themed collections. Very well curated! We'll be back as new exhibits are produced.

Rommel Lagmay

If you love chess, you should visit this place. Very interesting.

Priyanka Kashyap

I am sooo glad I got to visit such an amazing place dedicated to chess .. lots of cool history and sets to see. Bonus: free newspaper size posters and exhibit brochures and flyers. Also has a nice gift shop!

Chris Sotraidis

The Escher exhibit opening was completely fantastic and exactly the kind of thing this space was made to hold. The Hall of Fame otherwise has a good amount of detail and history for the main attractions as well. Very well put together place. Classy and clean.

Aditi kamatkar

Great place to visit to spend good 60-90 mins if you are interested in chess. They had couple of exhibitions going on when I visited today and they were really very informative. They had assistants on all three floors who actually knew what all the artifacts meant. They answered my questions satisfactorily. Nice gift shop and perfect way to end your visit with a game of chess right outside this place. They have tables with chess boards ready for you to play. Also they have giant chess board for kids to play with. Plus, St Louis chess club is right across the street.

Kazal Abzu

Bigger and nicer than I expected. Some of the peices on display are really gorgeous. Nice art collection.

Zhahn Doe

This is a hidden gem near Forest Park in the Central West End. A wonderful display of chess art, memorabilia, artifacts, and boards and pieces covering important chess matches from the 1950s through today. Even if you are just a casual chess fan or are chess curious, this is worth a couple of hours to visit. Its well done, and free. And the exhibits are all handicap accessible, with an elevator to all floors. Would highly recommend!

Sarah Hannan

Fantastic museum and gift shop! The worlds largest chess piece is a great picture place!

Maria

A great space to visit if you're visiting St. Louis. Plus, like everything great in this city: it's totally free! Three floors of exhibition space showcasing interesting chess-related art. It goes without saying that if you love chess, you'll love the World Chess Hall of Fame

Jennifer Luner

This museum changes exhibits frequently, and it is always a pleasure to visit. The exhibits are always interesting both children and adults.

Meredith Yeager

Taking tons of thoughtful Covid precautions. Very cool and unique to St. Louis museum. You don't need to be super into chess to appreciate this museum, but it certainly won't hurt.

Ben Lake

Free, clean, air-conditioned, and slightly quirky - but still worth a quick visit even if you're not into chess. The first and second floors are more of an art gallery of whimsical chess sets and pieces. The third floor is the actual hall of fame, with interactive TV screens, plaques, and info on chess leagues. Overall I came away with a better impression of the game of chess, and was pleasantly surprised how professional this center is.

Ashley Wright

Very neat quaint place. We had to park a few blocks away but the walk was nice. Starbucks next door. My husband and I enjoyed it far greater than our 3 year old that's for sure.

YaLan Yang

Stopped by this museum after dinner on Friday night. A cool place to visit.

Yu-Hsien Ho

Cool place. I really enjoyed the world's largest chess piece. Across the street people were playing pickup chess games. It was amazing to watch.

Marty Sibilia

Nice surrounding and a great neighborhood to visit surrounded by restaurants, if you are interested in Chess this is a good place to go to and check out. As a giant art collector I can appreciate this piece and it’s well kept condition.

cassie cole

So awesome these are the hidden gems that people tend to over look and it was awesome to see the world's largest chess piece. Didnt actually go in the store. Not that big into chess

V F

Americans invented the Internet but Russians tought them how to think by beating them at chess 😀 But seriously, it's a very neat place from the perspective of history, culture and art. Thank you for making it available to the public! And after being inspired by the exhibit you can purchase a unique chess set at their gift shop. …

Penny Lane

So much fun! They had a short scavenger hunts for the kiddos! So many fun chess sets all sizes, shapes, and colors! As well as being across the street from this amazing chess club where the chess finals are held! I highly recommend checking both out! This was such a fun experience for the whole family! Also the chess club has classes and summer camps for chess lovers and new chess players! If you love chess this should definitely be on your list!

Richard Rechtien

We went and checked out the M.C. Escher exhibit and it was awesome. To have this here for a suggested donation of $5 for the entire family is a great time. Combined with chess, indoors and out, great time for the whole family.

MacKenzie Donovan

Beautiful pieces and exhibits! Very informative and has great historical value. The only reason why it's a 4/5 for me is because 2/3 exhibits have "adult" pieces which may not be suitable for children. Overall, very enjoyable experience!

Jay Allen

Free! Kind of odd seeing the Keith haring (sp?) Exhibit on first floor as I wasn't sure what he had to do with chess.... But rest of the place was interesting! Staff was nice. Not crowded at all when we went.

Joo Won Park

A fun place to visit, especially for children interested in chess. For music enthusiasts, go see a chess board made for John Cage's piece!

Jennifer Smith

Pretty cool place, even for a non-chess-player. The Chess HOF was on the third floor and there were other exhibits on the first and second floors. Also present: one of the best gift shops for the nerdy family I've seen. Well worth a visit.

Ana Kee

Did not see the museum part, just the store. We bought some beautiful Russian chess set pieces. Probably a little over priced but happy with how they look with our handmade chessboard. Weird still having to have your temp checked before entering the store but what else do you expect in that area

Amanda Hutkowski

I didn’t get to go inside because it was locked for whatever reason. Lights where on, I peaked through the window. I’d imagine it’d be an pretty neat place to check out. But I mainly can for the oversized chess piece for I have memories of my grandpa who never talked (assuming because of WWII) taught me how to play. ♥️ Worth checking out!

MusicMan Reviewer

A great place for chess fans. They also had an amazing Escher exhibit.

Patricia Huth

Really interesting place to visit - especially if you love playing chess. Even non-chess people (like me) will enjoy the special exhibits.

H G

It is okayish but snobby attendants. They have an invasive temp check before you enter but the guy was socializing so I skipped it and went right through. For how pretentious it is and how much private funding they have, I thought they would have better toilet paper...it was like half a ply and the toilet seat was broken. Pretty gross tbh.

Jessica A

Very cool! Take a free tour through three levels of the chess world. Great photo ops through the self guided tour and shop or play some chess on the patio!

Nick Teal

Really cool to see some of the history of chess! Exhibits change about every 6 months, I plan on going back soon to see what they update. Really cool gift store on first floor, they sell some nice boards and chess sets, along with other related merch. The STL Chess Club is across the street and worth checking out too. Entrance was easy, just a quick temp scan and a written sign in.

Bleep Bloop

Lots of cool chess stuff to see! Worlds largest chess piece!

Teresa Wise

Wonderful atmosphere. Thoughtful rotation if6 exhibits and impressive permanent chess history displays.

Marianne Judson

I went there with my grandma, aunt, and cousin we all agree we loved it. I loved seeing all of the different chess sets from around the world. I really liked that we were able to play with some of the chess sets. I absolutely loved the JingleHoildayPopUp. It included hot cocoa and more chess sets. And one of my grandmas favorite things was there was the Polar Express and there was the man on the roof and the little boy in the back. And it also had a craft center with a fake fire place but calming all the same. Also there is a gift shop with all kinds of chess sets and different colored chess pieces. And different pins, stickers, and small chocolates. I think if you have a chance go to the Chess Museum. Reviewed by Rebekah, age 9

Heidi George

Interesting exhibit with beautiful and creative chess boards, but beware of the chess nerd guards on each floor who will flip out if you get too close. This made it a little hard to enjoy ourselves too much. We would never touch and were trying very hard to be respectful, but apparently it wasn't respectful enough.

Andy Cooper

Great Chess club, museum, and chess shop. Really nice staff who were willing to help, answer questions. Well worth a visit when in St Louis

Bryan Hadley

One of St Louis's many great off the beaten path attractions. If you think it's just all about Chess, think again. The Chess Hall of Fame is not only interesting, but does a great job of blurring the line between art museum and the game. You will not be bored here!

Aaron

I forgot to check to see if the exhibit was open (it wasn't) so that's my fault. I'll definitely come back. The boutique had some of the finest chess sets I've ever seen, and there were lots of smaller souvenirs

Monica Schwab

Really cool place if you like chess! The gift shop has tons of awesome things and is an obscure St. Louis landmark.

Island Ellerby

Cool to see and nerd out about chess! And the many different chess sets

Mr. J cruzer

I like chess, I am not an enthusiast, but I do enjoy playing. This place is beautiful, it is full of rare/unique chess sets. As well they have exhipts that display "the greats" young and old, they keep an up to date their collection. And for those that have fallen in love with a luxurious chess board they have a gift shop that offers, chess sets as well as other chess related collectables. This place isn't great for young children as there is too much to break, within their reach. However they do have I giant chess board out front that is publicly available. The staff their is extremely knowledgeable and welcoming, capable of answering even the most obscure questions. To top all that the world chess club where grand masters complete is just across the street. They welcome all as well and is great to place to visit while you are in the area! Definitely worth the trip!

J. Glenn

The museum is beautiful and has some very cool and interesting chess sets displayed. The employees are so very nice. And the gift shop is so much fun and has the best items for sale. I love it! My grandchildren love it!

Kurt Beard

I'm not sure how this qualifies as a chess hall of fame. When I visited they had two exhibits, the first was an exhibit of spectacular chess pieces. They were true works of art. It did not make me wish I could play chess. It made me wish I could make chess sets. It is well worth a short visit as part of a night out or trip to the area.

Nilantha Bandara

Great to have it in town. For any chess lover came across St. Louis, definitely recommend a photo with the World's Largest Chess Piece. Well it used to be 14 ft piece, and since that was beaten for the tallest, from April 12th 2018, they replaced with a 20 ft Chess King. A new Guinness record.

Jake Sutter

Enjoyed the "Check Please: Chess Dining and Decor" exhibit.

Steven Winston

Amazingly beautiful chess pieces and great place to see the awards that the best players receive. Great history, humorous chess boards with the dine and check and wonderful beautiful boards on the first level. The gift store has some great content too!

gcap06

Honestly a little smaller than I anticipated. Visit was around an hour. However, it was a very good hour considering the entry fee is donation only. They have some amazing chess sets and the gift shop was decent.

Ronald Snyder

This is a very cool place . Some of the best chess players in the world have been here . They have several very unique chess sets for sale in the gift shop . They have a coffee shop across the street where some people play chess . The exhibits here change every month so you can check out 3 floors of chess art and history most of the year during the hours that they are open .

Rachel Herrick

Very nicely done exhibits! And it’s free to visit! Definitely worth a stop if you have any interest in chess! My 6 year old even went into the school across the street and played for an hour.

kay

Very nice place to learn about chess, the history, and new experiences regarding the subject. I enjoyed Steven, Matt and Susie’s kindness in sharing history about the show pieces. I hope to come again ♟ 🙂. …

Jacob Meyer

If you are into chess like I am, this place is heaven. Absolutely beautiful and relaxing atmosphere. I love the vintage chess sets on display. Can't wait to go back!

Anna Shevchuk

World Chess Hall of Fame, located in a nice Central West End neighborhood of St. Louis surrounded by neat stores and restaurants. A great place to grab a bite and enjoy chess history. The museum is free and has different exhibits. I got to see Keith Haring’s art and chess having his art on them. Definitely recommend to check it out if you are in the area.

Charlotte Wachnicki

I'm not into chess, but my travel buddy is and he wanted to go here. He absolutely loved it. I enjoyed it as well, despite no loving chess. It's clean and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable.

Nate Coates

Worlds largest chess piece. Very nice chess sets in the gift shop as well

Dr. LSAT

Not a big chess player. Haven't played in years. But, still a very interesting museum and a great way to kill an hour or two. There is a chess club directly across the street. Don't have to be a member to play. A member caught me coming out of the museum and asked if I was looking for a game. I also loved the little neighborhood the museum is located in. Great shops, restaurants, and homes. Definitely worth taking a walk for a couple blocks in any direction.

Michael Camiolo

Small, but interesting. Lots of unique chess sets. Would love a deeper dive into the history of chess. Best part was the 2 minutes of Video of Bobby Fisher from when he was 15. He was gifted with airplane tickets for him and his sister to Russia for a chess competition.

Paul Uhlig

Great exhibits... artistic sets, virtual reality sets, history, current champions, and more!! Visit, learn, enjoy, ... and support if you can!

Booj sN

The exhibits were really cool and informative and interesting I would definitely recommend this place it was a very unique experience.

Ivinson Family Farm

It was beautiful although we didn't get to see much due to covid but we will be back soon for another review

Kari Miner

It was a really nice place. My children really loved going. Not so interesting for adults that are less into chess, but i still had fun watching the kids! The kids were able to go upstairs and make really neat hats, and the instructor was super nice and patient with all of us. We'd definitely go again!

Scot

Overall a nice place to visit for a free museum. The displays are well done and cared for and there is a museum representative on each floor. Would have liked a bit more of the history and about some of the grandmasters.

Sachin Ganesh

Must see place in St. Louis. Had a large collection of chess sets from different parts of the world. The gift shop is the best!

Dillon Simon

What a gem! Fun for all ages, the chess section by itself will always be well worth the price of admission (which is free with optional donation) but add in exhibit space and that really elevates this place. The Escher exhibit was incredible!

David Hopkins

If you are a fan of chess, you must make the trip to visit this amazing museum/art gallery/hall of fame. The exhibits are beautiful and well laid out. A lot of care was put into the facility to educate and inspire everyone who visits. Heck, even if you aren't a fan of chess, come anyway. After only a few minutes, you'll want to know how such a simple game can imbue such creativity and passion.

Christina Jones

The building was very nice and it’s a unique place. The art of Escher was a neat exhibit to see, but I was disappointed that there wasn’t more to see about chess, mostly pictures. We did not care for being followed around. Maybe it was because kids were with me, but we were just at the St. Louis art museum and nobody watched us like this.

Jeff Kastner

This is the venue to see chess history. It's conveniently located across from the world-famous St Louis Chess Club and Scholastic Center. Aside from checking out all the wonderful exhibits, I got to play my very first game of VR chess and posed in front of the world's tallest chess piece! Gift shop had lots of cool stuff, but most of it I had seen before in NYC. There are musical recitals and lectures scheduled there often. I was invited to a couple of ceremonies and cocktail parties as part of the Sinquefield Cup tournaments, and those were great. All in all, a wonderful experience.

Eli'Jah Chambers

Beautiful! I’m a huge fan of chess and this was really cool Queen next to her King❤️

Marcelo Mazzafera

Amazing place! We loved the collection/exhibition and were thrilled to learn more about chess!

Daaim Shabazz

Been several times and have been a member. Enjoyed it today except the attendant at The Beautiful Game exhibit (frizzy dirty blond) was not friendly, didn't greet or speak at all. She seemed upset. The space exhibit on top floor was great.

Graceful Slumber

Nice place to visit. It was not crowded at all when we went before noon. It was us and one other family, so the staff had to follow my family around. This aspect made us feel like we were in prison or something because they kept having to tell their coworkers they couldn't join them because they had a family. The lady at the front desk was nice, but not friendly. The staff was super grumpy and seemed grumpy that we were there. However, the female running the VR experience was friendly and was the most welcoming person there. The facility is nice, and the information is laid out well. It was nice for a one time visit, but wouldn't be something to see again.

Jose Tudela

Interesting place. Three floors of museum space. All free. Top floor is about chess, the other floors were about an abstract artist. There's a little shop on the Main floor. High quality chess sets for sale.

Samantha Varrone

Small space so it's a quick visit but the current exhibits are colorful and entertaining. Staff was polite and welcomed questions. It's free to visit. So why not come by and check it out?!

Aleksandra Degtereva

I was there with my LO and they helped me a lot with our stroller. The exhibition is interesting, I would recommend it to everyone who likes posters, since the whole first floor is all about chess posters and they are mesmerizing.

Rebecca Herbert

Excellent experience for our son who loves chess. The gift shop is as equally interesting as the museum. The M.C. Escher exhibit was on display when we went. It was fascinating!

Kathryn Wright-Hendrickson

This place is a beautiful testament to an ancient game. I'm not an avid chess player like my husband, but I still enjoyed it immensely. Very cool!

Chen Sun

A wonderful small place to learn about the chess history and only take 30min to walk through.

jen Ritchie

Interesting museum. Honestly I don't know much about chess but they had a really fantastic Keith Haring art exhibition. Very enjoyable visit. Super nice staff.

Josh Ratsch

Neat museum, well maintained and friendly staff

Ellen Reilly

What a fun place to visit! They have revolving art exibits as well as the Chess Hall of Fame so it's fun for everyone. Must see if in the area!

Dave Boylan

It is worthwhile to visit if you are in the area, it has three different exhibits and a couple chess boards to play on. It was gods, but it was a little on the smaller side, but still with the visit.

Jack O

Well worth a visit for all chess lovers! I can’t recommend it enough.

Jonathan Cortez

The museum inside is amazing. Seeing all the different chess sets, chess inspired houseware, and the Hall of Fame was fantastic!!

Leo Penny

Free! Thoughtful exhibits with cool art and learned alot about history of chess in culture

Chad Sutter

Lots of great art. I was not expecting this to be so art focused. There wasn't so much in the way of chess, history of chess, or real deep dive into chess as I was expecting. They had a special exhibit on chess prodigies, which was great.

Lizza G

Nice street to walk by, was closed when I came so just had a tourist pic here

Andrew G. Bernhardt

Great place! Truly a shrine of chess, chess-ness, and everything chess. The Hall of Fame Chess Museum (which has the largest chess king piece out front, weighing in over two thousand pounds, six feet in diameter, and taller than a giraffe) is three stories of everything chess related and its best players; The place across the street is two stories with many many tables for chess matches. Grand masters have tournaments and there's tons of educational opportunities for those who want to improve their game, also taught by masters and grand masters (literally the world's greatest players). The events are well planned and attendance is high. Overall, a great place to find a game. A lot of players spill over to the 24 hour Coffee Cartel after the place shuts on weekends for more late night games.

Shilpa Bhandari

We didn't go inside the hall of fame, but it was fun hanging out outside too. The chess are huge and fun to play with. Had great time there! Love St. Louis!

Sissi K

Free small (donations welcome) but great museum for people who love chess and for those who had no idea (like myself) their universe could be so interesting and that chess boards could come in so many forms and themes. If youare around central west area sometime, check it out.

Sockfood1 (Anna R Myers)

Wonderful place to visit! The exhibit changes every few months so it's always something new to see.

Robert Hearnes

Very nice staff and friendly environment, but it was not what I was expecting. It seemed more of a chess art exhibit than a hall of fame.

Music & Guns

I have never seen a cool business like this. Helpful service people. This place is very neat and the floors were very clean. Two thumbs up on housekeeping and service. I would recommend this place to others.

Brandy Lee

Awesome place we never knew existed... stumbled upon it on Google

Tim McNabb

Very nice experience looking around at the Q Boutique at the World Chess hall of Fame. Brian was pleasant and helpful. My out of town guests were impressed with the giant chess piece. Definitely worth a detour to see.

A Amazing

Great history. The atmosphere was inviting and peaceful. You felt like you either wanted to play chess all day or learn how to play!! Highly recommend going to anyone!

Enoch Warnke

Free admission and some nifty stuff, would like to see more though- stories about famous chess games, and other historical moments. The guides could stand to be more interactive as well.

Ruoxu Wang

If you a Chess lover, this is a must see place. You get to take pictures with a giant chess! The staff is very friendly, he gave me a rubber band to wrap up the poster.

Amado Reyes

Nice collections of chess sets! I like the biggest chess piece outside. 😊 …

David Collignon

Very unique facility. You have to be a chess lover but I know of no other facility like it. Free to visitors. Very nice gift shop on the ground floor.

Debra deFisser

Must-see. Fascinating and fun for both avid fans, and also those who just want a unique experience. You can either spend a long time, or browse quickly.

John Ezell

It was nice that you got to grab lunch right around the corner and then eat lunch at the tables outside. they have chess boards on it and you can play while you're there

Clara Nissing

We visited during the Keith Haring exhibit- outstanding. I am looking forward to and plan on returning for future exhibits. Don't miss it!

Kathleen Fitzgerald

Alot of people having a lot of fun. Good atmosphere.

Loni Parker

I learned so much about chess. If you haven't been, even if your not interested in chess, you should visit this historic place. It's pretty cool.

Xavier Barr

Had great exhibits and really funny playable chess sets. We even played on the giant board outside!

Vashista Guzman

Free exposition, classes and tournaments in from of the museum and free concerts ! It's great 👍

Jerry South

Incredibly friendly staff and interesting exhibits

Gabby rowley

very well put together and interesting place me and my husband love to play the game but are not great lol and we appreciated the interactive displays and screen to learn more about it!

Justin Blatecky

Has some really cool Chess themed are and most stop place for anyone who enjoys the game. Can't go wrong its free to go in and you can do it after or before you at at many of the restaurants around it

William smith

This is very cool. Must see! Even if you just play chess for fun. The.small block is.s power house of chess in the US, its not just a musium. Club, and restaurant too!

Jonathan Mertz

Liked the MC Escher special exhibit, but chess isn't exactly a spectator sport, and that area didn't really capture my interest.

Denise Glenn

Interesting mix of chess items, information etc. Staff are very welcoming and knowledgeable......visit the St Louis Chess Club and Kingside Diner while there as well!

Kaleb Burke

Unique experience and setup. Very clean and well kept amazing museum.

Tim Hayes

Interesting little museum! The unique chess sets were fun to see.

Charlie Sanders

Wonderful place to visit, lots of different exhibits, really friendly people. I could have used more history but when I went it was mostly an art exhibit

Susan Sargent

If you are an avid chess player you will really enjoy this place. I am not, but it was still interesting, with three floors of chess related memorabilia.

Jack Cox

Very much worth a trip if you have any interest in chess or its history. The chess club is nextdoor and matches are always available.

Beth Swanberg

So fun to see the chess exhibits and also play chess outside on the sidewalk across the street.

Jy Ahina

Great displays. Very Entertaining and informative. Great chess store on site.

Adonna Mason

Loved the exhibits and knowledgeable docents who were on hand to answer allmy questions. The "Being Played" installation by Michael Drummond was AMAZING!

Ash GR

The location is very pretty, has quite some shops around. Parking is not easy, had to look around.

Justin Gross

A breathtaking experience. Matt is very knowledgeable and knows exactly what’s going on. Every aspect of this project is to be thoroughly enjoyed.

Shaun Moran

Price, on point (it's free). Interesting exhibits. Learned a lot.

Deborah Diaz

Great exhibitions and the staff is very attentive! Definitely a must see in St Louis.

Whitney Barnes

It was very interesting and had a lot of exhibits.

Brandon T. Wilson

Awesome

Lisa Delaloye

Grabbed a Quick Snap Shot!

vibs31

Beautiful museum worth visiting for all Chess lovers!

Scott Mills

Great place for chess enthusiasts. Lots of interesting displays and a great gift shop.

Lisa Kostrzewski

Great place to experience the history of chess!

Joshua D

Very nice museum with a lot of interesting things to see. The gift shop is also very nice.

Shizumi Kurohane

Beautiful sets from all over the world and a very cute and interesting gift shop.

Vitaly Neimer

Great knowledgeable staff and amazing exhibitions for kids and adults! Top place to visit in Saint Louis for families!

Dr.Stephanie Booker-Wynn

Familyagendaofhope,LLC I enjoy this museum !I really enjoyed the exhibit and you can take free posters of the exhibits !

Jake L

Would be nice if there were more interactive displays for kids. The superhero thing last year was awesome.

Michael Morell

Fun place to browse if you like chess Enjoyed the museum collection and cool gift shop.

i like to draw

A great place to go, amazing staff and a great atmosphere, across the street from the st Louis chess club

David Meese

Cool history of Chess displays. Nice art exhibit

Kat Powell

My son is in his second year of chess. He had a blast and enjoyed it. ❤

Skyler Newberry

If you challenge the workers to a game of chess they will not accept be they are too scared to lose. (Also they might be "on the clock")

Morgan Taylor

Very interesting, has a lot of chess artifacts and trivia. Supposed to be expanding in 2020.

Swetha Srinivasan

A museum showing chess related art and trivia. Its also home to the largest chess piece in the world

Kerry Huang

Absolutely stunning! Beautiful exhibitions perfect for chess players and chess muggles alike!

Adrienne Outlaw

This place is a gem. Incredible exhibits, friendly staff, always something fun going on!

Felicia Brown

It's a fun place to see and play chess with the largest chess pieces I've seen.

Chris Guess

This is my happy place...

clifford matushin

Cool niche museum. Worth the drive.

Kathleen Quillen

Stopped by while waiting for the Basillica Cathedral to open. Educational experience and overall fun.

Arun Narayanan

If you are into Chess and you are in that area, it is a sweet little spot to visit. Maybe you would spend 30mns.

Albert Maruggi (Give It A Think)

Super friendly people and great place to see players exchange ideas while enjoying the game

brian anderson

Real small cool shop with awesome collections of many various designs

Sargoon N

Nice place to visit, but it's not like a museum. It's like games for kids and paintings.

Keri Longaway

Great Escher exhibit there now! Friendly and knowledgeable staff.

Ben Gorman

Fantastic spot! Really surprisingly well done :)

K Nelson

guy at the front desk was cute i guess the chess stuff was interesting too

Lawrence Cole

A fine community and tribute to all things chess, and more. Superb staff and programming.

Jason Silcox

Awesome place. I actually liked the M.C. Escher exhibit more... Sorry...

Kareem Talhouni (he/him/his)

World class arts center focused on chess and it's impact on culture around the globe.

Jeff Coombs

Awesome place to visit. Would be better if a person was allowed into the playing hall.

Paul Dietz

I wanted more displays on chess as a game, not "yet another artsy chess board and pieces."

LHoC Admin

Fischer exhibit brilliant

Stephen Wiggins

Amazing art gallery space and museum on the game of chess

Holden Franklin

Gorgeous building with a very important preservation of the history of chess.

Marc Weinstein

If your a fan of chess this is a must see while in STL.

Jim Bishop

Such a cool place tucked away in a nice part of town.

Keith P

Stunning exhibits. Great staff.

Randy Bronson

Really enjoyed the 3rd floor exhibits.

v lapine

Having never been to a chess club, I was very impressed with the accommodations and service of these folks.

Jon Pinet

It's all about chess..

Dr. Ravi Kumar

World largest chess piece. You will like this structure.

Joseph Donahue

Amazing. Will be returning as soon as possible.

Ed Mantia

Nice place for small concert, a little tight but doable.

Renee Little

The artistry seen in the chess boards & pieces was incredible!

Andrew Hart

It is a great place for Chess enthusiasts of all ages.

Jennifer Fields

Front desk was really helpful!! Enjoyable experience!!

Simon Purkis

Wonderful museum of art, chess, history and fun! 👑👑👑 …

Emily Baker

Really cool museum!

Shawn Shaffer

Lots of unique chess sets to see

Ted Young

Fun place!

Sachin Raj

Awesome place to hangout and learn about chess championship !!

Cardhu Anon

A world-class tournament hall and haven for chess nuts.

Armando Jr Lopez

Beautiful chess sets on display!

Jenn Worthington

Great space! Friendly staff... we loved it!

James Feher

Saw "Thunder and Rain" there, great show

Chris Laurie

Classy and neat like a great cocktail.

David Kanter

Escher exhibit. Chess was pretty cool, too

L W

Wonderful exhibits, friendly docents.

Michael O'Dea

I enjoyed the new exhibit.

Steve

A must see if you love chess!

Darrell Jordon

Like to see a lot to do great place to visit

Andrew Senger

Awesome place! Had a lot of fun.

David Edward Tenholder

The M.C. Escher exhibit is fabulous.

Dee Dee

Too cool. We had a great time

Jimmy Kline

Worth a stop for chess fans if you are in the area.

Wallace Turpin

Really cool place, go check it out

Sanj Zacti

Wonderful exhibits, this place is underrated.

Jesse Nenninger

Great place, and we are lucky to have it in St. Louis.

Brad Leach

Neat history. Small exhibit though

Rita McElhany

Interesting museum shop and music venue

Kelly Flanigan

Excellent chess related displays.

Scott B. Johnson

Played a little chess on a giant set.

Mark Ganger

Hit reservations at jingle for some

Gregory Cook

Great exhibit on hip hop

Alain Cierna

Great place to visit

Jeffrey Weitzel

Awesome Keith Haring show!

Prem Chandra

A must visit place for chess enthusiasts

Eduardo Saldana

Fascinating for real chess players

Adam Porth

I migrated across country to see and well-worth the trip. You don't need to be a chess lover to enjoy this museum, there is an interdisciplinary approach to displays. Chess hall of fame with plaques of inductees, can we get trading cards of the gms, please? Interesting art display and women in chess feature. We skipped the bouncy house castle on the 2nd floor, an extra $5. Gift shop destroyed my wallet, but I was confused with all the random boutique junk that had nothing to do with chess. I would have loved to spend more! Wink...

Selling Your Heart Out

So Lucky to have this gem in St. Louis!

R-D

I will absolutely go again!!

Chef Excellence Brokken

A 10 y.o. kicked my butt in a match

Justina Wilson

Pretty cool and nice information to learn

Priyanka Jain

If you have half an hour to spare, go for it!

Nicholas Risko

Best chess club in the world

R Cusick

Loved the Escher exhibit.

Mark Pappas

Relevant Exhibition - your move.

Gary “Michael” Rose

I love visiting here.

Maureen Marotto

Great Place for Gift giving

Elizabeth Twente

Love the outside chess board

Tin Nguyen

Great quick place too see...

Elshan Moradiabadi

The place where chess and art meet!

Leonard Norberg

Very nice art

Josh Peck

A great resource for St. Louis!

Mr.J Lo

Great Museum and Store

Valerie E. Young

Powerful. A learning humble experience

Matt Aitken

Tearful.

Long Le

Hello nice to meet you

Isaiah Jordan

Nice spot to visit

Ako Heidari (Ako_Ako)

Awesome place! Lovely!!

Adrian Williams

Very enjoyable and informative

Donald Godfrey

It was closed when we arrived there

Colin Poling

Awesome little spot.

Tyler Roberts

Best guides ever!

Occu Pant

Boring. Needs games in progress.

Junyuan Jin

Pog

Eric Starzinger

Interesting and well curated.

Steven Danner

Fabulous

Delores McCrea

Variety.

Brian Hiser

Great place to visit

Punkahontas

Very educational.

Michelle Sweeny

Great collection

Alyssa A Krueger

Love the atmosphere💜 …

Amadou Diallo

Nice

Jose Jimenez

Must visit when in St. Louis

Tobin Salas (Gang of Thieves)

dope!

Key Items

Amazing

Ben Steele

A little underwhelming

Rob Storr

Super neat place

Dusty Brittingham

Daughter loved it

Chelsie Barbara

Nice sightseeing

4 U

Very Nice place

Maximman102 n

Interesting stuff

Gabi Fisdel

Very interesting

Carlos

Could be bigger

Alfonso alvarez calderon

Great place

Chris M

Best Q on the Lou

Roberto Aldana

(Translation) I like the place but they should have things that are a little more accessible to the pocket (Original) Me gusta el lugar pero deberían de tener cosas un poco más accesibles al bolsillo

P K

Patti Rodriguez

Roman Richards II

Nick

(Translation) much fun (Original) Mucho fun

marco taforo

Sofia de la rosa

John Burke

(Translation) Chess! (Original) Xadrez!

Veronica Mosby

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