Washington Square West Chess Tables — Attraction in New York

The park is a vibrant area of people who loves playing chess. However, be wary as these chess hustler are meant to play blitz (mostly 3 minute chess) and try to entice you to play. You can play against them but you may need to pay $5 - $10 if you lose (per game). For instance, I defeated against two chess hustler and they eventually leave. The third chess hustler, I made a mistake of playing four times and lost $40 ($10 per game). I believe that you lose someone twice, it may not be worth playing them again. Most chess hustler do 3 minute chess which most avid chess player are not accustomed to as I play 5 minute blitz and I mostly play standardized time. Lastly, they got nothing to lose because they lose nothing whereas the challenger will be at risk losing money. I recommend you ask them to play 5 minute blitz. If they refuse, then do not play unless you want to try (only get two chances). Another recommendation, is play one game for free and then play the next one for money to study their strength. Overall, great environment to play chess but it may not be worth it...

Hey, this is the place, where world champions where nurtured ie Bobby Fischer, Emanuel Lasker, Capablanca (although Cuban) other would be champions... Sammy Reshevsky, Miguel Najdorf, Frank Marshall. By the way, the last one, had/has his world famous chess club, only a few blocks up from here. The place to visit, and join, if you're serious about the World's most historical game of intelligence, Chess....

This is one of the best spots to play chess with really talented chess players who could be considered IM or GM level. Easily people here are rated 1800+, so be ready to bring your A game!

There are probably 20 tables with embedded chess boards in it. Pieces are not included, unfortunately, however there are many people sitting there looking for a game to play with someone.

Absolutely love this...