There's nothing like playing chess in NYC's Central Park or Bryant Park, when ya come here don't forget to stop at these parks and play for fun, $ or pride.

   Washington Square is the NYC chess park capital. So much history there..Waitzkin, Fischer..ahhh the glory 

   -Mark

I have never been to NYC, but if I ever make there I do want to go to those places and play some chess.  I enjoy playing strangers OTB and not having a clue as their abilities.  No doubt they would beat me royally, but it would be enjoyable to watch how they do it. 

Oh yeah, Forgot about Wash Sq. PK

And I thought Chess City was here... http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chess_City

Oh well.

I remember the old New York Chess & Checker Club, I think it was on 42nd St., close to Times Square, also known as the "Fleahouse" or "Fleabag".  You could go in and get a game anytime.  They rented clocks and sold refreshments, and it was mainly a bunch of hustlers trying to hustle tourists and each other, but it was great fun.