Redeeming the best Kentucky sportsbook promo offers is easy. Below are five simple steps.
Kentucky Sports Betting 2026: Best Sportsbooks & Promos
Kentucky sports betting is live and legal in the Bluegrass State for online and in-person wagering.
Mobile sports betting launched in Kentucky on Sept. 28, 2023. Eight Kentucky sports betting apps are live, including BetMGM, bet365, FanDuel, Caesars, and DraftKings. Retail sports betting launched in KY on Sept. 7, 2023.
Here, we provide everything you need to know about the KY sports betting industry, including the latest news, legal information, an overview of retail sportsbooks, and more.
Best Kentucky Sports Betting Apps for June 2026
Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Doesn't Win* *Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Add’l terms. 21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-BETS-OFF Use Bonus Code: BETGTODAY Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Doesn't Win* *Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Add’l terms. 21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-BETS-OFF Use Bonus Code: BETGTODAY Bet $10 Get $365 in Bonus Bets Win or Lose 30% Extra on Same Game Parlay Profit T&Cs Apply. GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-MY-RESET. 21+ Use Bonus Code: GTODAY Bet $10 Get $365 in Bonus Bets Win or Lose 30% Extra on Same Game Parlay Profit T&Cs Apply. GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-MY-RESET. 21+ Use Bonus Code: GTODAY Get $350 in Bonus Bets Guaranteed - When You Bet $5 for 7 Days! Available on Desktop, Android & iOS Easy Deposits, Fast Withdrawals Get $350 in Bonus Bets Guaranteed - When You Bet $5 for 7 Days! Available on Desktop, Android & iOS Easy Deposits, Fast Withdrawals Get a 100% Bet Match up to $100 in FanCash for 10 Days Earn FanCash & Spend it on Team Swag or More Bets Daily Odds & Profit Boosts on Select Games Get a 100% Bet Match up to $100 in FanCash for 10 Days Earn FanCash & Spend it on Team Swag or More Bets Daily Odds & Profit Boosts on Select Games Bet $5 Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly Plus Get up to $1,000 Deposit Bonus Bet on All Your Favorite Sports With America's Top-Rated Sportsbook To Claim: Click CLAIM OFFER Bet $5 Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly Plus Get up to $1,000 Deposit Bonus Bet on All Your Favorite Sports With America's Top-Rated Sportsbook To Claim: Click CLAIM OFFER Bet $1, Double Your Winnings on Your Next 10 Wagers (Up to $25 Max Bet Per Boost) Stream NFL Games In-App for Free OH only. 21+.Gambling Problem? Call or text 1-800-MY-RESET Use Promo Code: TODAYDYW Bet $1, Double Your Winnings on Your Next 10 Wagers (Up to $25 Max Bet Per Boost) Stream NFL Games In-App for Free OH only. 21+.Gambling Problem? Call or text 1-800-MY-RESET Use Promo Code: TODAYDYW 1
Up to $1,500 In Bonuses Up to $1,500 In Bonuses 2
Bet $10 Get $365 In Bonus Bets Win or Lose Bet $10 Get $365 In Bonus Bets Win or Lose 3
Get $350 in Bonus Bets When You Bet $5 for 7 Days Get $350 in Bonus Bets When You Bet $5 for 7 Days 4
Up to $1,000 In FanCash Matched Bets Up to $1,000 In FanCash Matched Bets 5
Bet $5 Get $200 in Bonus Bets New User Bonus Bet $5 Get $200 in Bonus Bets New User Bonus 6
Double Your Winnings On Your Next 10 Wagers Double Your Winnings On Your Next 10 Wagers
Top Kentucky Sportsbook Promos and Bonuses
Kentucky residents can sign up with each platform below and redeem the following offers.
BetMGM Kentucky Sportsbook Promotion
BetMGM is offering sports fans in Kentucky a welcome bonus worth up to $1,500 . To qualify, you must claim the offer using our sign-up link and/or code, and place a $10+ bet on any sport.
If your bet loses, you will get the money back in bonus credits. They will have a simple 1x playthrough requirement before converting to withdrawable cash...Read More
Up to $1,500 In Bonuses
Up to $1,500 In Bonuses
Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Doesn't Win*
*Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Add’l terms. 21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-BETS-OFF
Use Bonus Code: BETGTODAY
Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Doesn't Win*
*Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Add’l terms. 21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-BETS-OFF
Use Bonus Code: BETGTODAY
What is the BetMGM KY bonus code?
The BetMGM bonus code is BETGTODAY. You will notice a “Bonus Code” section on the final step of the registration form. Just type in BETGTODAY to unlock a sign-up bonus worth up to $1,500.
What are the wagering requirements on the BetMGM KY bonus?
You will receive up to $1,500 back in bonus funds if your first bet loses. If your first bet is worth $50 or less, you will be reimbursed with a single bonus bet equal to the value.
Any larger rebates are split into five bonus bets. For example, if you sign up and place an unsuccessful $1,000 wager, you will get five $200 bonus bets. Each bonus bet has a 1x rollover requirement, and any winnings are paid in cash.
When will the BetMGM KY bonus bets expire?
Your bonus bets expire in seven (7) days. You must complete the 1x playthrough requirement within that seven-day period, or they will be forfeited.
Does BetMGM KY offer any other bonuses?
Yes, BetMGM KY offers a wide range of bonuses to existing customers. They include bet insurance tokens, profit boost tokens, odds boosts, early payout specials, free-to-play contests, a large refer-a-friend bonus, and ongoing perks via the BetMGM Rewards program.
BetMGM Sportsbook KY App Details
- Kentucky partner: Sandy’s Gaming and Racing
- App Store rating: 4.8
- Google Play rating: 4.5
- Best features: Edit My Bet option, excellent same-game parlay builder, lots of profit boost tokens, live streaming of NBA, MLB, NHL, and various other sports leagues
Read Less
bet365 Kentucky Welcome Offer
New customers in Kentucky can choose from two welcome bonuses at bet365:
- First bet safety net of up to $1,000, or
- Bet $5, get $365 in guaranteed bonus bets
The first option provides you with up to $1,000 if your first bet loses. The rebate will be paid in bonus credits with a 1x wagering requirement. You can use the bonus credits on one pick or break them down into as many smaller wagers as you like. You will receive bonus bets equal to the value of your qualifying wager.
Alternatively, you can claim the Bet $5, Get $365 offer. That requires you to place a $5 wager on any sporting event. If your bet wins, you will be paid in cash.
You will also receive a guaranteed $365 in bonus credits, regardless of whether your $5 wager wins, pushes, or loses. The bonus credits have a 1x playthrough requirement, and you can break them down into multiple smaller bets if you like...Read More
Bet $10 Get $365 In Bonus Bets Win or Lose
Bet $10 Get $365 In Bonus Bets Win or Lose
Bet $10 Get $365 in Bonus Bets Win or Lose
30% Extra on Same Game Parlay Profit
T&Cs Apply. GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-MY-RESET. 21+
Use Bonus Code: GTODAY
Bet $10 Get $365 in Bonus Bets Win or Lose
30% Extra on Same Game Parlay Profit
T&Cs Apply. GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-MY-RESET. 21+
Use Bonus Code: GTODAY
Is the bet365 KY bonus code the same for both welcome offers?
Yes, you can use the bet365 bonus code GTODAY to claim either offer. Just enter that promo code, and you will then be able to select one of the two bonuses described above. Place a $10+ wager to land the first offer or a $5 offer to go with the Bet & Get offer.
Can I claim both welcome bonuses at bet365 in Kentucky?
No, you can only choose one of these offers.
What is the minimum deposit for the bet365 KY welcome offer?
The minimum deposit at bet365 KY is $10. You need to sign up, make a deposit, and place a qualifying wager to unlock one of the welcome bonuses.
What additional promos are available at bet365 Kentucky?
This online sportsbook offers hundreds of odds boosts each week. Existing customers can also claim parlay boosts of up to 70%, profit boost tokens, early payout specials, and free-to-play contests.
bet365 Kentucky App Details
- Kentucky partner: Sandy’s Gaming and Racing
- App Store rating: 4.8
- Google Play rating: 4.6
- Best features: Excellent live betting section, pre-game and in-play stats, more odds boosts than any rivals, comprehensive live streaming service, 24/7 phone and live chat support
Read Less
FanDuel KY Welcome Offer
FanDuel Kentucky is offering a welcome bonus of Bet $5, Get $350 in Bonus Bets if Your Bet Wins. *T&Cs below.
The $350 in Bonus Bets will be issued only if your qualifying wager wins. They will land in your account once the bet is settled, and arrive with a 1x rollover requirement. You can use your Bonus Bets on one pick or split them across several betting markets.
Get $350 in Bonus Bets When You Bet $5 for 7 Days
Get $350 in Bonus Bets When You Bet $5 for 7 Days
Get $350 in Bonus Bets Guaranteed - When You Bet $5 for 7 Days!
Available on Desktop, Android & iOS
Easy Deposits, Fast Withdrawals
Get $350 in Bonus Bets Guaranteed - When You Bet $5 for 7 Days!
Available on Desktop, Android & iOS
Easy Deposits, Fast Withdrawals
21+ and present in KY. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER....Read More
- $5 minimum deposit and $5 minimum wager required
- Wager on any FanDuel Sportsbook market (no odds limits) live on the platform
- Users will receive Bonus Bets within 72 hours of the qualifying wager settling
- Bonus Bets are non-withdrawable and expire seven (7) days after receipt
- Bonus Bet stake not returned as part of winnings
- Limit of one bonus per person
How do I claim the FanDuel Kentucky welcome offer?
With the click-to-claim FanDuel promo code, you need to click the “PLAY NOW” button on this page to claim the FanDuel Kentucky welcome bonus. You will land on a dedicated promo page, confirming that you have qualified for the sign-up offer. Open the registration form, sign up for an account, deposit, and bet $5+ to claim the promo.
Can I bet $5 on any game?
Yes, you can bet $5 on any game or sporting event to qualify for the FanDuel KY welcome bonus. There are no minimum odds requirements, so you can place your $5 qualifying wager on a heavy moneyline favorite.
When do the FanDuel KY bonus bets expire?
If you do not use your bonus bets, they will expire after seven (7) days and be forfeited, so don’t forget about them.
Can I claim any other bonuses at FanDuel in Kentucky?
Yes, FanDuel offers regular odds boosts, profit boosts, bonus bets, free-to-play contests, insurance deals, and other promos for sports bettors in the Bluegrass State.
FanDuel Sportsbook KY App Details
- Kentucky partner: Churchill Downs
- App Store rating: 4.9
- Google Play rating: 4.6
- Best features: Lots of ongoing bonuses, fast payouts, bet-sharing options, integrated racebook, parlay suggestions
Read Less
Caesars Sportsbook KY Welcome Bonus
When using the Caesars Sportsbook promo code TODAYDYW, new customers will be able to Bet $1, Double Your Winnings on Next 10 Wagers...Read More
Double Your Winnings On Your Next 10 Wagers
Double Your Winnings On Your Next 10 Wagers
Bet $1, Double Your Winnings on Your Next 10 Wagers (Up to $25 Max Bet Per Boost)
Stream NFL Games In-App for Free
OH only. 21+.Gambling Problem? Call or text 1-800-MY-RESET
Use Promo Code: TODAYDYW
Bet $1, Double Your Winnings on Your Next 10 Wagers (Up to $25 Max Bet Per Boost)
Stream NFL Games In-App for Free
OH only. 21+.Gambling Problem? Call or text 1-800-MY-RESET
Use Promo Code: TODAYDYW
What is the Caesars Sportsbook KY promo code?
You can use the Caesars Sportsbook KY promo code TODAYDYW to unlock a $250 first bet on Caesars.
What are the wagering requirements on the Caesars Sportsbook KY welcome bonus?
If your first wager loses at Caesars Sportsbook KY, you will be fully reimbursed with a single bonus bet worth up to $250. You cannot break it down into smaller bets.
You can use the bonus bet on a single pick, and any winnings you earn will be credited to your cash balance.
Will my bonus bets expire at Caesars Sportsbook Kentucky?
You will be given 14 days to use your bonus credits at Caesars Sportsbook KY.
What other bonuses are available at Caesars in Kentucky?
Caesars Sportsbook Kentucky offers many promotions to existing customers, including weekly odds boosts. You can also claim bonus bets, profit boost tokens, and there are various prize draws as well.
In the past, Caesars Sportsbook has offered customers Uber Eats vouchers, NBA Store vouchers, and gas cards for placing certain wagers. The sportsbook is also part of the Caesars Rewards program.
Caesars Sportsbook KY App Details
- Kentucky partner: Red Mile Racing
- App Store rating: 4.7
- Google Play rating: 4.3
- Key features: Regular odds boost promos, excellent rewards program, a wide range of futures betting markets, 24/7 phone and live chat support
Read Less
Fanatics Kentucky Sportsbook Bonus Offer
Fanatics Sportsbook offers new customers in Kentucky a terrific sign-up bonus. You can Bet and Get up to $1,000 in No Sweat Bets by signing up with our link. You will receive bet match credits for your first wager each day...Read More
Up to $1,000 In FanCash Matched Bets
Up to $1,000 In FanCash Matched Bets
Get a 100% Bet Match up to $100 in FanCash for 10 Days
Earn FanCash & Spend it on Team Swag or More Bets
Daily Odds & Profit Boosts on Select Games
Get a 100% Bet Match up to $100 in FanCash for 10 Days
Earn FanCash & Spend it on Team Swag or More Bets
Daily Odds & Profit Boosts on Select Games
What is the Fanatics KY bonus code?
To claim the welcome offer, no Fanatics Sportsbook promo code is needed. To redeem the bonus, just follow the “PLAY NOW” link on this page.
What are the wagering requirements for the Fanatics KY bonus?
At Fanatics Sportsbook KY, all no sweat bets have a 1x playthrough requirement. You can use them for any sporting event. Any winnings you earn will then go into your cash balance.
When will my Fanatics KY bonus bets expire?
Your Fanatics KY bonus bets will expire after seven (7) days if unused.
Does Fanatics Sportsbook KY offer a loyalty program?
Yes, this sports betting app offers a loyalty program called FanCash. You will receive 1% FanCash on all straight bets, 3% on parlays, and 5% on same-game parlays.
FanCash can be exchanged for bonus bets or spent at the Fanatics online store, which sells a wide range of apparel, merchandise, and memorabilia.
Fanatics Sportsbook KY App Details
- Kentucky partner: Oak Grove Racing, Gaming & Hotel
- App Store rating: 4.7
- Google Play rating: 4.5
- Best features: Live NFL streaming, pre-game stats, regular odds boosts, FanCash rewards program, fast payouts
Read Less
DraftKings Kentucky Welcome Offer
The DraftKings Sportsbook KY welcome offer is worth up to $1,200 in bonuses. No code is required during the registration process. Use one of our sign-up links to apply the offer to your account.
Here’s how the $1,200 breaks down. T&Cs below:
- Deposit at least $5 and receive a bonus bet (1x playthrough requirement)
- Bet $5, Get $200 in bonus bets instantly
- Receive a 20% first deposit match bonus of up to $1,000
Bet $5 Get $200 in Bonus Bets New User Bonus
Bet $5 Get $200 in Bonus Bets New User Bonus
Bet $5 Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly
Plus Get up to $1,000 Deposit Bonus
Bet on All Your Favorite Sports With America's Top-Rated Sportsbook
To Claim: Click CLAIM OFFER
Bet $5 Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly
Plus Get up to $1,000 Deposit Bonus
Bet on All Your Favorite Sports With America's Top-Rated Sportsbook
To Claim: Click CLAIM OFFER
21+ only. 1 per new customer. Minimum $5 deposit, minimum $5 bet. $200 issued as eight $25 Bonus Bets. Bonus bets expire after seven days, are single-use and non-withdrawable. Stake removed from payout when using a Bonus Bet. Deposit match has a 25x playthrough. Must deposit $5,000 to get the maximum 20% deposit bonus of $1,000. Bet + Get offer ends 3/30/2025...Read More
How much do I need to deposit to receive the full amount of DraftKings bonus credits?
New customers must deposit $5,000 to earn the maximum DraftKings Sportsbook bonus credits. You will then need to place $25,000 worth of bets to unlock the full $1,000.
However, you do not need to deposit the full $5,000. You can simply deposit $5 and place a single wager, which will earn you $200 in bonus bets plus an additional $1 in deposit-match bonus credits.
Do I need a DraftKings KY promo code to redeem this offer?
No, you don’t need to enter a promo code to claim the DraftKings KY welcome bonus. Just click our “PLAY NOW” button to visit the site and redeem the offer.
DraftKings Sportsbook KY App Details
- Kentucky partner: Cumberland Run
- App Store rating: 4.8
- Google Play rating: 4.7
- Best features: Pre-game stats, huge variety of props, early lines, competitive odds, lots of free-to-play prediction pools offering bonus bets as prizes
Read Less
How To Use Kentucky Sports Betting Bonuses
1
Claim Sportsbook Offer
Some sportsbooks in Kentucky require new customers to enter a bonus code to claim the welcome offer. If so, you will find the Kentucky sports betting promo codes on this page. For example, you can use TODAY at BetMGM or TODAYDYW at Caesars Sportsbook.
Type or paste the code into the relevant box when filling out the registration form. This will ensure you receive the best sign-up bonus.
Other sportsbooks — including FanDuel and DraftKings — do not require a code. In those cases, you can click the “PLAY NOW” link on this page to visit your chosen sportsbook and the listed offer will be automatically applied to your account.
2
Register New Account and Verify Identity
When you land on the sportsbook site, open the registration form and choose Kentucky as your state. Enter your email address and select a strong password.
Provide your name, date of birth, phone number, address, and last four SSN digits. Then, accept the terms and submit the form.
Most new users are immediately verified, as KY sportsbooks use automated tools. If the system cannot validate you, upload supporting documents to complete your application.
3
Deposit Funds
Hit the “Deposit” button after your new account has been approved. Choose a payment method from the list provided. Popular banking options include credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, Venmo, online banking, and Play+ prepaid cards.
Enter the amount you want to deposit, provide your payment details, and confirm. The funds will appear immediately in your account balance.
4
Download App
To claim some of the best Kentucky sportsbook promos, you need to place an initial qualifying bet. You can also stay on the desktop site to place your first wager or download the mobile sportsbook app.
Just search for the app on the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). Tap the download button, confirm the download, and return to your phone’s home screen. You can then tap on the app and sign in using your email address and password.
5
Place a Bet
You can choose one of the sports listed on the menu and select a league. After you pick a game, you will see various available betting options.
When you find one that appeals, click or tap on it. Your selection will then appear on the betslip. Type in the amount you want to risk; the slip will display your potential winnings. Click or tap the screen to confirm the bet.
If you have claimed a “Bet & Get” promo, you will immediately receive your bonus funds. However, if you have redeemed a first bet offer or a “Bet & Win” offer, you will only receive the bonus credits after the game has ended and your bet has been graded.
Kentucky Sports Betting Industry: Quick Facts
The Bluegrass State has a rich history of gambling and remains a hotbed for horse racing. Residents have access to several terrific Kentucky sports betting promos.
| ℹ️ Kentucky Sports Betting | ✅ Online: Available ✅ Retail: Available |
| 🚀 Launch Dates | 📱Online: Sept. 28, 2023 🏦 Retail: Sept. 7, 2023 |
| 📱KY Sports Betting Apps | 8 |
| 🏫 College Sports | ✅ Available |
| 🤑 DFS | ✅ Available |
| 🏇🏻 Online Horse Racing | ✅ Available |
| 💲 Tax Rate | 14.25% online, 9.75% retail |
| 💰 Lottery | ✅ Available |
| 🎮 Esports | ✅ Available |
| ⚖️ Legal Betting Age | 18+ |
Pros and Cons of Kentucky Sports Betting
Pros
- College sports betting options
- Lower age requirement (18 years old)
Cons
- In-state professional team betting market
Kentucky Sports Betting Laws and Regulation
On March 31, 2023, Gov. Andy Beshear signed House Bill 551, which legalized sports betting in the Bluegrass State. Kentucky legal sports betting is live for both online and retail wagering. Unlike other states, the legal sports betting age in Kentucky is 18. But only some sportsbooks (DraftKings and bet365) allow 18-year-olds to bet on their platform. Meanwhile, BetMGM, Caesars, Circa, FanDuel, and Fanatics require bettors to be 21 or older.
Eight mobile Kentucky sportsbook apps are approved to operate in the state, including BetMGM Kentucky, bet365 Kentucky, FanDuel Kentucky, DraftKings Kentucky, and Caesars Kentucky. Circa Sports Kentucky was the latest app to launch in the state, going live with its mobile application in May 2024.
Kentucky Horse Racing Commission
The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) oversaw sports betting in Kentucky. According to its website, the KHRC is “an independent agency of state government charged with regulating the conduct of horse racing and pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing and related activities within the Commonwealth of Kentucky.”
The KHRC handles sports betting regulation under KRS 230, according to the official summary of HB 551. Betting integrity and responsible gaming are also regulated by the KHRC. According to HB 551, the agency must ensure that tracks and or service providers “implement commercially and technologically reasonable procedures to prevent access to sports wagering by any person under the age of 18.”
How Many Kentucky Sports Betting Licenses Are Available?
Legislators gave Kentucky’s nine horse racing tracks the sports betting licenses. Each track is allowed up to three online skins, meaning Kentucky could be home to as many as 27 online sportsbooks at some point.
KY Sports Betting Licensing Fees and Tax Rates
- License fee per track: $500,000 initial ($50,000 renewal)
- License fee per sports betting operator: $50,000 initial ($10,000 renewal)
- Mobile sportsbook tax: 14.5% of adjusted gross revenues
- Retail sportsbook tax: 9.75% of adjusted gross revenue
KY Sports Betting Legalization Timeline
Churchill Downs hosts first Kentucky Derby with legal sports betting options. Circa Sportsbook launches in Kentucky on April 1.
Kentucky Rep. Michael Meredith’s sports betting bill (HB 551) passed on the last day of the state’s 2023 legislative session. In-person sports betting launches on Sept. 7, followed by mobile sports betting on Sept. 28.
Rep. Adam Koenig brings a sports betting bill for the fourth straight year and it was passed by the House for the first time. However, it did not receive enough Senate support and died without a vote. This was the furthest that Kentucky sports betting legislation had ever made it.
Three more sports betting bills are filed with Beshear’s support, but all three fail to pass.
Gov. Andy Beshear first publicly announces support to pass sports betting in the state when Rep. Adam Koenig files a sports betting bill. After mixed reviews and copious amendments, the legislature adjourned without passing a bill.
Kentucky Retail Sportsbooks for In-Person Betting
Six Kentucky racetracks and their satellite facilities began taking bets on Sept. 7, 2023, and more have opened since. Those brick-and-mortar locations are as follows.
| 🏦 Live Kentucky Retail Sportsbooks | 📍Address |
|---|---|
| 🏦 Churchill Downs Race & Sports Book | 📍700 Central Avenue Louisville, KY 40208 |
| 🏦 Derby City Gaming & Hotel | 📍Derby City Gaming 4520 Poplar Level Road Louisville, KY 40213 |
| 🏦 Derby City Gaming Downtown | 📍140 S 4th Street, Louisville, KY 40202 |
| 🏦 The Red Mile | 📍1200 Red Mile Rd, Lexington, KY 40504 |
| 🏦 Ellis Park Racing & Gaming | 📍3300 Highway 41 N, Henderson, Kentucky 42420 |
| 🏦 Turfway Park Racing & Gaming | 📍Turfway Park 7500 Turfway Rd. Florence, KY 41042 |
| 🏦 Newport Racing & Gaming | 📍Newport Racing & Gaming 1723 Monmouth St. Newport, KY 41071 |
| 🏦 Oak Grove Racing, Gaming & Hotel | 📍777 Winners Way Oak Grove, KY 42262 |
| 🏦 The Mint Gaming Hall Cumberland | 📍244 Penny Lane, Williamsburg, KY 40769 |
| 🏦 The Mint Gaming Hall Cumberland Run | 📍777 Winners Lane, Corbin, KY 40701 |
| 🏦 Sandy's Racing and Gaming | 📍10699 US-60, Ashland, KY 41102 |
| 🏦 The Mint Gaming Hall Kentucky Downs | 📍2475 Scottsville Road, Ste. 101 & 102, Bowling Green, KY 42104 |
Churchill Downs Incorporated owns six of the properties that are available to accept in-person wagers in Kentucky. CDI’s retail Race and Sportsbooks include:
- Churchill Downs Racetrack
- Derby City Gaming & Hotel
- Derby City Gaming Downtown
- Ellis Park Racing & Gaming
- Newport Racing & Gaming
- Oak Grove Racing, Gaming & Hotel
- Turfway Park Racing & Gaming
Other Types of Gambling in Kentucky
With sports betting legal both online and at retail outlets, Kentuckians have options. Alternative gambling, such as daily fantasy sports and social sportsbooks, is another possibility.
| Kentucky Gambling Alternatives | Legal? |
|---|---|
| 💰 Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) | ✅ Yes |
| 🪙 Social Sportsbooks | ✅ Yes |
| 🐎 Horse Racing Betting | ✅ Yes |
| 💸 Lottery | ✅ Yes |
| 🤑 Online Casinos | ❌ No |
| ♠️ Online Poker | ❌ No |
| 🎮 Esports | ✅ Yes |
Daily Fantasy Sports in Kentucky
In 2018, the Kentucky legislature passed House Bill 259, legalizing DFS contests in the state. Kentucky now has one of the largest DFS markets in the country, as nearly all major DFS operators are available. Bettors can find DraftKings, FanDuel, Underdog, PrizePicks, and Betr in the state.
Social Sportsbooks in Kentucky
Social sportsbooks are similar to standard sportsbooks, except users don’t use real money. Instead, they play with Gold Coins or Sweepstakes Coins, virtual currencies often given out for free by the site. These are particularly popular in states without legal sports betting. Kentucky has both. One popular social sportsbook in Kentucky is Fliff Sportsbook. Newer to the market is the Rebet app.
Horse Racing in Kentucky
The multi-billion dollar Thoroughbred industry is rooted in Central Kentucky. The state houses some of the world’s most famous racetracks, including Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby. Kentucky currently has five Thoroughbred tracks and three Standardbred race tracks operating.
House Bill 551 created up to 27 online sportsbooks tied to the state’s nine horse racing tracks with three skins per track. Retail sportsbooks are also allowed at the tracks, as well as at off-track betting sites.
You can also bet on horse racing online in Kentucky using the best horse racing betting sites.
| 🏇🏻 Thoroughbred Tracks | 📍Address |
|---|---|
| 🏇🏻Churchill Downs | 📍700 Central Avenue, Louisville, KY 40208 |
| 🏇🏻 Keeneland | 📍4201 Versailles Road,Lexington, KY 40510 |
| 🏇🏻 Turfway Park | 📍7500 Turfway Road,Florence, KY 41042 |
| 🏇🏻Ellis Park | 📍3300 U.S. Highway 41 North, Henderson, KY 42420 |
| 🏇🏻 Kentucky Downs | 📍5629 Nashville Road, Franklin, KY 42134 |
| 🐴 Standardbred Tracks | 📍Address |
|---|---|
| 🐴 The Red Mile | 📍1200 Red Mile Road, Lexington, KY 40504 |
| 🐴 Oak Grove | 📍375 Thompsonville Lane, Oak Grove, KY 42262 |
| 🐴 Cumberland Run Corbin | 📍75 Buchanan Boulevard, Corbin, Kentucky 40701. |
Kentucky Lottery
The Kentucky Lottery has been around since 1989, generating more than $5 billion in total funding. All lottery proceeds fund college scholarship and grant programs for Kentucky students. The year 2023 marked the 12th consecutive year that the sales record for the Kentucky Lottery was broken, this time with over $1.8 billion in total sales.
Powerball, Mega Millions, Fast Play, and Kentucky 5 are some of the biggest and most popular lottery games to play in Kentucky.
Kentucky Online Casinos
Online casinos are not legal in Kentucky, nor are there any retail casinos in the state. For many years, online casino bills have been proposed and discussed, but all were either voted down or never had enough support to get to a vote.
The last year that an online casino measure was filed was 2020, and it did not get close to passing. It is unclear if/when online casinos will be legal in Kentucky anytime soon.
Kentucky Online Poker
Online poker is not legal in Kentucky. While people cannot play poker online with real money, some sweepstakes and social casinos allow Kentuckians to experience online poker in a legal and free way.
The legalization conversation around online poker in Kentucky has been very quiet in recent years.
Esports Betting in Kentucky
Esports betting is completely legal in Kentucky, and various betting markets are available.
These are the main esports you’ll find at legal sportsbooks: Call of Duty, Counter-Strike Global Offensive, League of Legends, Dota 2, NBA 2k, Overwatch, Rainbow 6, and Valorant.
How Kentucky Sports Betting Compares to Nearby State Markets
Kentucky is surrounded by legal sports betting states. Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, and Tennessee all have full-fledged sports betting markets. With the exception of Tennessee, which has a mobile-only market, all of these states offer retail and mobile wagering and allow betting on college sports.
DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Caesars are available in all of these states, with varying retail and online offerings.
The online casino market is relatively small in the US. That said, Kentucky happens to border on one of the six legal states (West Virginia) with iGaming. This means Kentuckians can sports bet from home but must travel east if they want to play online casino games.
Kentucky Responsible Gaming
Gov. Andy Beshear signed an emergency regulation order to begin administering the Kentucky problem gambling assistance account. Under Kentucky’s sports betting law, 2.5% of the wagering tax revenue will fund responsible gaming initiatives.
“This regulation establishes the process of providing funds for this account to support agencies, groups, organizations, and persons that are best able to help those who experience problem gambling,” Beshear said. “The funds can also be used to promote public awareness and education to reduce and prevent problem gaming and pay for the costs associated with treatment and recovery.
More Resources for Kentucky Bettors
Kentucky Sports Betting FAQ
Kentucky sports betting is now legal. Gov. Andy Beshear signed House Bill 551 into law on March 31, 2023, officially legalizing sports betting in Kentucky. BetMGM Kentucky, bet365 Kentucky, FanDuel Kentucky, Caesars Kentucky, and DraftKings Kentucky are all available.
Kentuckians can bet on college sports, and the legal age to sports bet is 18 years old, though some sportsbooks require you to be 21. Both mobile and retail betting are legal.
Yes, DraftKings launched in Kentucky when online wagering went live in the state on Sept. 28. DraftKings has partnered with The Mint Gaming Hall at Cumberland and Cumberland Run Corbin to operate mobile sports betting in the Bluegrass State. DraftKings also has retail sportsbooks open at the Corbin properties.
Yes, you can use the FanDuel app in the Bluegrass State. FanDuel has partnered with Turfway and Newport Racing & Gaming to provide mobile sports betting in Kentucky.
No. However, you will need to place bets within Kentucky state lines if you register for a Kentucky mobile sportsbook.
You need to be 18 or older to place a wager. Some sportsbooks, however, are still maintaining the traditional 21-and-up age restrictions.
Legal sportsbooks in the state include DraftKings, FanDuel, bet365, Caesars, BetMGM, Circa Sports, Fanatics, and ESPN Bet.
Yes. Kentucky allows wagering on college sports like college football and college basketball as long as you are 18 years or older.
Do not use offshore sportsbooks in Kentucky. They are unregulated and not legal. Your personal information and financial data could be at risk.
Both online and retail sports betting are available in Kentucky. However, online casinos and online poker are not legal.
