The legal KY gambling scene may not boast popular slots, table games, and live casino titles as of yet. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy placing bets in the Bluegrass State.
Legal Kentucky gambling includes the option to play bingo games, bet at a retail sportsbook, purchase lottery tickets, and enjoy pari-mutuel wagering. Plus, you’ll find that mobile sports betting is set to launch at the end of September. With this in mind, you’ll want to make sure you find yourself a safe and reputable KY online gambling platform.
Discover the best online gambling sites in Kentucky
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Generally speaking, online gambling refers to casino games, including slots, Keno, video poker, and table games. However, as this is still considered illegal in the Bluegrass State, we will have to take a closer look at the lottery, charitable gaming, and sports betting opportunities throughout the state.
Of course, should any laws or legislation change surrounding online gambling in KY, we will be sure to update this page for you. In the interim, it is also worth noting that you will find
Historic Horse Racing machines
at retail gambling establishments in KY. These HHR machines are not too dissimilar to slots; however, they do fall under a very different legal bracket – known as pari-mutuel wagering.
The idea behind HHR machines is fairly simple. As a bettor, you’ll be able to wager on horse racing events that have already occurred. Of course, the names of racetracks, jockeys, and horses have been altered, but the same odds present themselves. After placing your bets, you’ll then witness the last few moments of each race. A resulting bet will payout according to the odds selected. Aside from this type of instant racing game, retail and online casino gaming is strictly prohibited.
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So, what forms of gambling are legalized in Kentucky?
As there is currently no chance of finding yourself legal three and five-reelers to play in Kentucky, we’ve devoted this next section to highlighting exactly what you can expect when visiting or gambling within Bluegrass State borders.
1. Pari-mutuel betting
As already briefly touched upon, pari-mutuel wagering can be enjoyed by all bettors over the age of 18. Although no set laws are in place surrounding pari-mutuel wagering, bettors are free to wager at race tracks and racinos within state lines. Soon, the option to place bets through a mobile sportsbook will also become available.
2. Bingo
The KY gambling laws suggest that bingo falls under the
charitable gaming
header. In turn, you can legally enjoy bingo games across the state. Although aimed at adults over the age of 18, bingo halls will allow those under the age of 18 to play accompanied by an adult. Under this circumstance, all prizes must be non-cash.
3. Lottery
The Kentucky Lottery was legalized back in 1989, and has been a popular fixture ever since. To purchase a ticket, players must be at least 18 years of age. However, adults can purchase tickets for minors.
4. Sports betting
Bill HB 511 was passed back in March, 2023. Fast forward just a few short months, and we can see that retail sports betting is alive and kicking in the Bluegrass State. On September 28th, 2023, things will change once more, as we see mobile betting added to the mix. Although some sportsbooks may request users to be over the age of 21, it is legal for sports bets to be placed from 18 years old.
Things to consider: What to expect from the best KY online gambling sites
Now it is time to step away from all forms of gambling in KY and focus solely on the
online
betting experience. As things stand, sports betting is set to launch on September 28th, 2023. A total of 27 mobile operators will have the chance to open their virtual doors, as soon as a legitimate license and retail partnership have been secured. But, what other attributes should be taken into consideration?
Available markets and competitive odds
When searching through the very best
Kentucky sports betting
apps, you’ll want to consider the type of sports betting markets you are after. Thanks to the passing of bill HB 511, you’ll find that all major, minor, and collegiate betting markets have been legalized. Of course, when it comes to betting odds, you’ll want to ensure that you find a platform that is as competitive as they come.
Bonuses and promotions
With the launch of mobile sports gambling in KY just around the corner, it comes as no surprise to see a few top operators starting to provide pre-launch promotions. Although no guarantees, these welcome offers can provide a great head start to your online experience. With that being said, you’ll want to ensure your chosen mobile sports betting platform has plenty of ongoing perks and/or a VIP program available.
Customer support
All mobile
KY gambling
apps should allow you to get in contact using a range of methods. Naturally, the very best will ensure that responses are prompt and provide sufficient answers. Speed is of the essence, especially when looking at placing in-play wagers, so we suggest finding yourself an operator with live chat available around the clock.
Be prepared: A closer look at some of the best Kentucky gambling sites offering sports betting markets
DraftKings: Pre-launch promises $200 in bonus bets for all new users
DraftKings: Pros & Cons
Simple pre-launch promotion
Competitive odds
Huge market coverage
Busy mobile sportsbook
Backed by a legitimate license and partnership with Cumberland Run, DraftKings looks set to launch into the KY sports betting scene. All new users over the age of 18 will be welcomed with the chance to redeem $200 in bonus bets, alongside the chance to wager on 100’s of sports betting markets.
Although still speculation, we would suspect the same great mobile experience to transfer over into Kentucky borders. If this is the case, you can expect to find top odds, a range of ongoing promotions, an abundance of sports covered, and a responsive support team.
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BetMGM: Industry leader looks to keep KY market in suspense
BetMGM: Pros & Cons
Impressive market coverage
Great design and layout
Solidified online presence
Pre-launch bonus unknown
BetMGM has secured a partnership with Sandy’s Racing and Gaming, and a legitimate license to operate in Kentucky. However, with September 28th looming, we are still yet to hear more about a potential pre-launch promotion.
While BetMGM keeps us in suspense, we can assume that the same great mobile experience will be replicated in the Bluegrass State. We anticipate a wealth of mobile betting opportunities, competitive odds, and ongoing perks to come as standard.
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FanDuel: Get $100 off NFL Sunday tickets and $100 in bonus bets today
FanDuel: Pros & Cons
Impressive pre-launch bonus
All popular markets covered
A well-designed app
Lengthy processing times
Ahead of the official launch on September 28th, FanDuel is looking to offer new users the chance to pick up $100 in bonus bets and receive $100 off NFL Sunday tickets. The popular online platform has already secured a license from the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission, and formed a partnership with Churchill Downs.
If we can count on the experience found in other US states, then an intuitive mobile app, range of betting markets, and smooth bet-building experience will come as standard to those betting in Kentucky.
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Fanatics: A promising up-and-coming online sportsbook
Fanatics: Pros & Cons
Live streaming amd betting
24/7 support
Available cash-out feature
Ten-day withdrawals
Although you may not associate Fanatics with sports betting, you will have heard of the name. Fanatics has already established itself as a sports merchandising brand, and has since launched as a sportsbook in a few other US states.
While awaiting information on a KY pre-launch promotion, we tested the mobile app and found that the intuitive design allows for smooth bet-building and instant deposits. The site has also partnered with the credible Oak Grove Racetrack and a temporary license has been presented by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission
Caesars: Established operator looks set to launch in Bluegrass State
Caesars: Pros & Cons
Top selection of betting markets
24/7 customer support
Fantastic rewards program
Pre-launch bonus unknown
Caesars is renowned across the US for offering one of the most complete mobile sports betting experiences. If they manage to replicate the same experience in Kentucky, we expect Caesars to soon become a firm favorite. Although we are yet to hear about the pre-launch promotion, we anticipate the same great VIP program will be utilized for returning players.
Accompanying the Caesars rewards, is a legitimate license from the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission and a partnership with Red Mile Racing. Of course, you can expect support around the clock and a world of betting opportunities will await those that join.
Bet 365 is ready to offer its mobile service to Kentucky bettors. After securing a partnership with Sandy’s Gaming and Racing, Bet365 wasted no time in showcasing its pre-launch promotion. Currently, all new users will be eligible to collect $10 per touchdown scored on a nominated game.
Of course, the established online operators have also acquired relevant licensing from the Kentucky Horse Racing Commision. Although speculation, we expect they will continue to provide a range of ongoing promotions, credible payment methods, 24/7 support, and the option to edit and cash-out bets.
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Operator
Best for
New customer offer
Launch Date
DraftKings
Potential
market coverage
$200 in bonus bets
28th September 2023
BetMGM
Potential
live betting markets
TBC
28th September 2023
FanDuel
New customer promotions
$100 in bonus bets + $100 off NFL tickets
28th September 2023
Fanatics
Potential
live streaming
TBC
28th September 2023
Caesars
Potential
range of ongoing promotions
TBC
28th September 2023
Bet365
Overall usability
$10 per touchdown on a single NFL game
28th September 2023
Registration: How to join an online gambling site in Kentucky
Although online casino gaming is prohibited in Kentucky, online sports betting will launch on September 28th, 2023. With this in mind, our penultimate section focuses on how you can successfully register with an online operator today.
Make use of our online sportsbook reviews
To get yourself ahead of the pack, we suggest making use of our online comparisons to find out more about the very best mobile betting sites that will soon be arriving in Kentucky.
Download the mobile app
Once you’ve found yourself a prime destination, head to the iOS or Play store and begin your download.
Next, you’ll need to enter a few basic personal details, including name, address, date of birth, and email. You may also be expected to create a username and password.
Confirm your identity
Verify your email and/or phone number before heading back to complete KYC checks. At this stage, you may be required to provide a selfie, copies of a government-issued ID, and a utility bill.
Deposit and unlock your welcome bonus
Although we don’t have all the information just yet, we anticipate a wealth of great bonuses will be released by the time launch day arrives. So, the next step is to make your qualifying deposit and unlock your available bonus.
Bet sensibly
Now, all that is left is to head to the sportsbook. As already detailed, you’ll be able to bet on major, niche, and collegiate-level sports fixtures. Simply click on your chosen market, set your stakes, and submit.
Discover more about online gambling in KY today
When looking at slots, table games, Keno, and video poker, KY gambling is still very much prohibited. However, as you can see, the Bluegrass State has legalized pari-mutuel wagering, bingo games, the lottery, and, most recently, sports betting.
To ensure you stay ahead of the pack, we’ve created comparisons of the best mobile sportsbooks that look set to open their doors on launch day. Here, you’ll find all you need to know about bonuses, markets, support, security, and any other perks that may help separate a KY gambling operator from the pack.
You can find the answer of our question whether and
when will Fanatics be legal in Kentucky.
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Bill HB 511 was passed in March, 2023, legalizing retail and online sports betting. Currently, KY gambling establishments can take sports bets; however, mobile betting will launch towards the end of September.
❓How do I deposit at a KY gambling site?
You’ll find plenty of credible payment methods provided by top KY gambling sites. We suggest taking advantage of our online comparisons to find a mobile app that is best-suited to your needs.
💯
Is mobile gambling possible in Kentucky?
Mobile gambling in Kentucky is set to launch on September 28th, 2023. Up to 27 sportsbooks can legally open their virtual doors, provided a legitimate license and partnership with a retail establishment has been confirmed.
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