World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries

ABOUT

The World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries (WCHOF) celebrates one of the world's oldest and best-loved games through vibrant, engaging exhibitions and creative programming. A nonprofit, collecting institution situated in the heart of Saint Louis, the WCHOF houses both the U.S. and World Chess Halls of Fame & Galleries, which honor the accomplishments of the game's finest players. The organization presents exhibitions that explore the history of the game, as well as its remarkable impact on arts and culture. These unique shows and programs are designed to appeal to both the chess novice and expert, defying expectations and enhancing knowledge of the game. Along with those of its sister organization, the Saint Louis Chess Club, the WCHOF's activities have distinguished Saint Louis as a national and international chess destination.

The WCHOF relocated from Miami to Saint Louis in 2011. Since that time, the WCHOF has exhibited over 70 exhibitions, worked with more than 200 local artists and musicians, and welcomed over 250,000 visitors. The WCHOF offers innovative and diverse programming to thousands of guests of all ages.

Exhibitions:

Game Plan: The Strategy of Chess & Sports: Game Plan: The Strategy of Chess & Sports explores the deep and often surprising connections between chess and sports—revealing how strategy, discipline, preparation, and competitive spirit unite the physical and mental arenas of play. Spanning all three galleries at the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries, the exhibition moves from celebrating the top players and contributors to a variety of international sports, to regional pride and milestones, and finally to hands-on engagement that invites visitors of all ages to play, experiment, and think like champions. Game Plan: The Strategy of Chess & Sports is on view May 7, 2026 - May 9, 2027.

The World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries Music Series

The Music Series has been a part of the rich cultural history at the World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries since 2014. Since that time, the Music Series has grown into one of our most popular programs, attracting world renowned artists, many of whom are local to the Saint Louis community. With performances twice a month, the Music Series features the very best in hip-hop, bluegrass, classical, R&B, folk, jazz, Motown and funk, among many more. 

Organized, curated and led by artist and musician, Brian Owens along with artist and pianist, Brian Woods, the series provides a variety of opportunities and growth to young creatives throughout the Saint Louis area who present a variety of musical genres from Missouri as well as classical music composed by local musicians. The Music Series also hosts the Next Move Creative Initiative, a vehicle bringing young creatives to the table to spark creative conversation using chess as the backdrop. The Music Series and Next Move Creative Initiative both complement and move the World Chess Hall of Fame forward in accomplishing its primary work to educate visitors about the cultural and artistic significance of chess and to continuously expand our audience.