Chess is a language that speaks to everyone, whether you’re a Grandmaster in the making, or still waiting for your first checkmate. From surreal chess cities, to hotels that feel like a mid-century fever dream, these eight destinations are a “Queen’s Gambit”-style trip worth taking.
Pack your bags and sharpen your opening theory—we’re going on a world tour.
1. St. Louis, Missouri: the chess capital
St. Louis is widely considered the Chess Capital of the World, and for good reason. Located across the street from the World Chess Hall of Fame, the Saint Louis Chess Club isn’t just a building—it’s one of the most technologically advanced hubs on the planet, that also just happens to offer lectures, kid programs, and classes for every level of player. If you hang around long enough, you might spot legends like Hikaru Nakamura or Fabiano Caruana playing a casual game. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to the appropriately themed Kingside Diner right on campus for a meal that’s definitely a winning move.
2. 21c Museum Hotel, Lexington, Kentucky: a mid-century dream
If The Queen’s Gambit was your introduction to the world of chess, you’ll love the 21c Museum Hotel, where you can actually stay in The Harmon Room, named for the show’s protagonist Beth Harmon, a fictitious American chess prodigy. This playful tribute to the Netflix series is a time capsule of U.S. mid-century modern design, packed with vintage accessories and custom wallpaper to evoke the mod magic of the series. But the real showstopper is right above your pillow: an artistic recreation of Beth Harmon’s hallucinations—a larger-than-life chess board installation suspended from the ceiling. Just try to get some sleep instead of calculating mating nets all night!
3. Hyde Park, Sydney, Australia: giant chess in the sun
Think you’ve got a handle on how the knight moves? Now try doing it with a piece that weighs as much as a small dog. In the heart of Sydney, chess isn’t just a board game—it’s a high-energy urban sport. Hyde Park is home to a legendary giant chess board where the pieces are so massive, every strategic play comes with a built-in mini-workout. Locals will happily join you for a game, but you’ll need to physically lug your queen across the board while soaking up the Australian sun. Who says chess can’t be a workout for both your brain and biceps?
4. Medicine Hat Public Library: where bigger is better
Maybe bigger is better. If you think your home chess set is impressive, wait until you see the one in Canada. The Medicine Hat Public Library is home to the world’s largest chess set. It’s a massive feat of engineering: The King stands nearly 4 feet tall, and the entire set weighs as much as a small car. Now that’s a heavy opening! It’s a must-see for any traveler looking for a photo-op that really scales up the competition.
5. Washington Square Park, NYC: the hustler’s haven
Follow in the footsteps of Bobby Fischer and test your mettle against the fastest hands in the east. Washington Square Park is legendary for its “chess hustlers,” known for the ability to move pieces faster than you can blink. It’s the ultimate New York experience. So, bring a few dollars, a whole lot of confidence, and some light trash talk, because these games are fast, loud, and incredibly fun.
6. Le Damier de l’Opéra, Paris: a Grandmaster’s boutique
If you find yourself wandering near the Palais Garnier, follow the scent of old books and polished wood to Le Damier de l’Opéra. Since the 1970s the boutique has been the go-to spot for Parisian players looking for everything from classic Staunton sets to rare, hand-carved masterpieces. Whether you’re hunting for a vintage chess clock, the latest theory book in French, or a beautiful marble board, the atmosphere here is old-world magic. It’s the perfect place to pick up a souvenir that says, “I take my game as seriously as my pain au chocolat.”
7. Marostica, Italy: the human chessboard
If you think your chess matches are high-stakes, wait until you see how they played in the 15th century! Every two years, the charming town of Marostica, Italy, transforms its central piazza into a living, breathing chess board for the legendary celebration, Partita a Scacchi. This theatrical tradition dates back to 1454, when two noblemen challenged each other to a game of chess instead of a bloody duel to win the hand of the local lord’s daughter. Today, the “pieces” are hundreds of locals dressed in elaborate Renaissance costumes, all moving across the massive stone-paved board to the sound of trumpets and drums. It’s a grand, candlelit spectacle that proves chess is truly a performance art.
Ready to make your next move?
Whether you’re practicing your French Defense or just trying to beat Oscar in a heated match, these spots are guaranteed to level up your travel game. Which of these spots is top of your travel leaderboard?