Mahjong lessons in Chicago
Chicago has a dedicated mahjong parlor in Lakeview plus several teachers who come to your home or host events at bars and restaurants. Most teach American mahjong with the National Mah Jongg League card.
Checked and updated October 31, 2026
Brand new? 3 places here run beginner classes or first lessons.
Already know the basics? 4 offer open play, leagues or a regular club night.
Places to learn and play
-
Lily Pad Mahjong Parlor
- Offers
- Beginner classes, Open play, Leagues, Private events, Family class
- Style
- American
- Price
- Mahjong 101 $80; Mahjong 102 guided play $70
- How to book
- Online class schedule
Inside Cathy Lancaster Studio. Has a small shop.
-
The Mahjong Society
- Offers
- Private lessons at your home (4–12 people), Ticketed events with local businesses, Corporate events
- Style
- American
- Price
- Not listed on their site
- How to book
- Online booking page; event tickets
-
Mahj With Stacey
- Offers
- Beginner classes, Private lessons, Guided play, Monday social club, Private and corporate events
- Style
- American
- Price
- Not listed on their site
- How to book
- Contact through the website
-
Holy Mahj
- Offers
- Beginner series, Private in-home lessons, Leagues, Events with local businesses
- Style
- American
- Price
- North Shore beginner series $100
- How to book
- Email through the website
-
Mod Mahj
- Offers
- In-person lessons, League play, Corporate classes
- Style
- American
- Price
- Not listed on their site
- How to book
- Lesson request through the website
Also teaches in Arizona, Kansas and Missouri.
We checked each listing against its own website on October 31, 2026. Schedules and prices change; confirm before you go. Run a group here or spotted a mistake? Tell us.
Before your first class
- Ask whether you need to bring your own current card. Many classes expect it.
- Read how to play and try the Charleston trainer, so the first lesson feels familiar.
- Do not buy a set before you have played. Here is what to look for when you do.