Club Directory
Mahjong Clubs in Chicago, IL
Browse 5 American Mahjong clubs in Chicago, Illinois. View upcoming events, join a group, and start playing.
Mahjong in Chicago
Chicago has a real mahjong scene. It's not enormous, but it's active, and if you know where to look, you can find a regular game without much trouble. The city's interest in the game cuts across neighborhoods, from Chinatown on the South Side to community centers in the suburbs.
A Block Club Chicago report from early 2026 noted that mahjong is connecting Chicagoans in Chinatown and well beyond, with groups forming in multiple parts of the city. That tracks with what's happening nationally. Nearby Naperville saw a similar uptick in club activity as of January 2025, and many of those players make the trip into the city or connect with Chicago groups online.
Three clubs are listed on Bam Good Time right now: American Mah Jongg, Christine Hunt, and The Mahjong Guild. Each runs differently. Some meet weekly at a fixed location; others organize games through group chats and rotate hosts. The Mahjong Guild in particular has a reputation for welcoming players at different skill levels. Reach out directly through the listings to ask about format, frequency, and whether there's an open seat.
If you're new to American Mahjong, the main thing to know before your first session is the National Mah Jongg League card. It's an annual card of winning hands, and every table in the American game plays from it. You'll also need to know the Charleston, the tile-passing ritual that opens each round. Most Chicago groups are patient with beginners, but coming in with even a basic grasp of those two things will help you get into the flow faster. You need four players to run a table, so groups here are always happy to hear from people who want to play.
We have 3 clubs listed on Bam Good Time for Chicago. If you run a group that isn't here yet, adding a listing takes a few minutes and puts you in front of players actively searching in the city.
Browse all Chicago clubs at bamgoodtime.com/mahjong-clubs/chicago-il.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find a mahjong game in Chicago?
Start with the 3 clubs listed on Bam Good Time at bamgoodtime.com/mahjong-clubs/chicago-il. Contact them directly to ask about open seats, schedules, and whether they take new players.
Do Chicago mahjong clubs accept complete beginners?
Most do, especially The Mahjong Guild, which is known for accommodating players at different experience levels. Let the host know upfront that you're new so they can pair you with patient players.
What is the National Mah Jongg League card and do I need one?
The NMJL card is an annual list of winning hands used in American Mahjong. You'll need it to play in any of the Chicago clubs listed here. You can order one directly from the National Mah Jongg League at nationalmahjonggleague.org.
Is there a cost to join a Chicago mahjong club?
It varies by group. Some clubs charge a small table fee per session, typically a few dollars, while others are free or ask for a voluntary contribution. Check with each club when you reach out.
What should I bring to my first mahjong session in Chicago?
Bring your NMJL card, a willingness to ask questions, and cash for any table fees. Some hosts provide tiles and racks, but it's worth confirming ahead of time whether you need to bring your own set.
How many players do you need for a mahjong game?
American Mahjong requires exactly four players per table. Chicago clubs coordinate to make sure tables are full, so let them know your availability so they can plan accordingly.
Can I play mahjong online if I can't make it to a Chicago club in person?
Yes. Sites like Mahjong Time and the American Mah-Jongg Association platform at amja.net host online American Mahjong games. That said, in-person play with a local club is a different experience and worth pursuing when you can.
How do I start a mahjong club in Chicago if there isn't one near me?
You only need four people and a set of tiles to get started. Once you have a regular group, you can list it on Bam Good Time at bamgoodtime.com/mahjong-clubs/chicago-il to reach other players in the area.
Mahj With Stacey
American Mahjong instructor in Lincoln Park, who not only loves the tradition and fun of the game, but how it creates connections with friends and community.
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American Mah Jongg — Chicago, IL
ClaimSamantha Meza North Shore Mahjong
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American Mahjong in Chicago, Illinois
ClaimDebra Turner Links | https://www.meetup.com/Chicago-Mah-Jong-Game-Meetup/ Great article: https://www.chicagoreader.com/.../mahjong.../Content...
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Christine Hunt
ClaimChicago Western Suburbs Mahjong Private Lessons My name is Christine Hunt and I started playing Mahjong 5 years ago. I fell in love with the game and wanted to not only learn all of the game’s nuances, but also share my love of the game. I have studied the game extensively and play daily. I introduced the game to my golf club through a series of large group lessons. There were initially 24 people in our group. I have subsequently taught small groups that have joined the open playing days. We n...
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The Mahjong Guild
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American Mahjong in Chicago, Illinois
American Mahjong is a beloved tile game enjoyed by millions across the United States. Whether you're a seasoned player or just learning, Chicago has a growing community of enthusiasts looking to connect.
Bam Good Time helps mahjong clubs organize events, track scores, manage leagues, and grow their membership. Clubs on our platform get their own website, event calendar, and player management tools — all free to start.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mahjong in Chicago
Where can I play mahjong in Chicago, IL?
There are currently 5 American Mahjong clubs in Chicago, Illinois on Bam Good Time. Browse the listings above to see upcoming events, game schedules, and how to join.
How do I join a mahjong club in Chicago?
Browse the club listings above and click on any club to visit their page. You can see their event calendar, RSVP to upcoming games, and sign up as a member. Most clubs on Bam Good Time are free to join.
Are there beginner-friendly mahjong groups in Chicago?
Many American Mahjong clubs welcome beginners and offer lessons or mentoring sessions. Check individual club pages above for details on upcoming events — some clubs specifically host beginner nights. If you don't see one, consider starting a beginner-friendly group on Bam Good Time.
How do I start a mahjong club in Chicago?
Visit bamgoodtime.com/start to create your free club page. You'll get your own website, event calendar, member management, and RSVP tools. It takes about 60 seconds to set up, and your club will appear in the Chicago directory so local players can find you.