Mahj Atlas

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

    Parlor, Lakeview / Wrigleyville

    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

    Mobile teacher, Chicagoland

    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

    Teacher and social club, Lincoln Park and around Chicago

    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

    Teachers and events, Chicago and the North Shore

    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

    Teachers and league, Chicagoland

    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.

Common questions

Where can I learn mahjong in Chicago?

We have checked 5 places in Chicago: Lily Pad Mahjong Parlor, The Mahjong Society, Mahj With Stacey, Holy Mahj, Mod Mahj. 3 of them explicitly advertise beginner classes; others offer lessons on request.

How much do mahjong lessons cost in Chicago?

Published prices include: Lily Pad Mahjong Parlor, Mahjong 101 $80; Mahjong 102 guided play $70; Holy Mahj, North Shore beginner series $100. Others do not list prices publicly.

Is there open play in Chicago?

Yes. Lily Pad Mahjong Parlor, Mahj With Stacey, Holy Mahj, Mod Mahj offer open play, leagues or a regular club night.

Can I get a private mahjong lesson in Chicago?

Yes. Lily Pad Mahjong Parlor, The Mahjong Society, Mahj With Stacey, Holy Mahj offer private or in-home lessons, usually for a group of friends.

Do I need to bring my own set or card?

Most beginner classes provide sets. Many ask you to bring or buy the current National Mah Jongg League card, so check before you go.

Where can I learn American mahjong in Chicago?

These listings say they teach or play American mahjong: Lily Pad Mahjong Parlor, The Mahjong Society, Mahj With Stacey, Holy Mahj, Mod Mahj. Check each listing's style line for the others.

Before your first class