Ohio’s gambling environment is diverse and well-regulated, offering multiple legal options for residents and visitors. The Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) and the Ohio Lottery Commission oversee all gambling activities to ensure transparency and fairness.
Ohio legalized casino gambling in 2009, paving the way for four major casinos in Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, and Toledo. These venues, operated by companies like Jack Entertainment and Penn Entertainment, generate significant tax revenue.
Additionally, seven racinos combine horse racing with video lottery terminals under the state lottery’s supervision.
Meanwhile, sports betting became legal in 2021 and officially launched on January 1, 2023. Ohioans can now place wagers both online and in retail sportsbooks through platforms such as FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM.
The Ohio Lottery remains a key entertainment source, while charitable gaming supports nonprofit organizations. Sweepstakes and social casinos also attract players, though they are not licensed or regulated by the state.
The Buckeye State promotes responsible gambling through initiatives like Time Out Ohio, helping individuals manage their gaming habits. With its balanced regulations and expanding online market, Ohio continues to strengthen its position as a leading Midwestern gambling hub.
Best Online Sportsbooks Sites in Ohio
Best Online Gambling Sites in Ohio
Recent Gambling News from the State of Ohio
Betting Industry NewsMore Ohio News
Ohio Online Casino Legalization Faces Delays
Overview: Ohio Tribes and Their Role in State Betting
Unlike many U.S. states, Ohio does not have federally recognized tribal casinos operating under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). Although several Native American groups have historical and cultural roots in Ohio, none currently hold federal recognition or operate sovereign lands eligible for tribal gaming.
As a result, tribal gaming does not play a direct role in Ohio’s regulated gambling market. Instead, all casino and sports betting operations in the state fall under the jurisdiction of state authorities, primarily the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) and the Ohio Lottery Commission.
When Ohio legalized casino gambling in 2009 and sports betting in 2021, negotiations did not involve tribal entities, since there were no active tribal governments with recognized gaming rights.
Consequently, the state’s commercial casinos and racinos, operated by private companies like Penn Entertainment and Jack Entertainment, serve as the primary gaming operators.
However, Ohio continues to acknowledge its Native American heritage. Tribal groups and historical societies contribute culturally rather than economically to the state’s gaming scene, focusing on education, preservation, and advocacy rather than casino operations or betting rights.
Current State Laws of Ohio Regulating Gambling
Ohio enforces a clear and structured set of laws to regulate gambling activities. These laws ensure fair play, consumer protection, and responsible operations across casinos, racinos, sports betting, and lotteries. Oversight falls mainly under the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) and the Ohio Lottery Commission.
Ohio Revised Code Chapter 2915 – Gambling Laws
This chapter defines illegal gambling activities, including bookmaking, running unlicensed games, and operating illegal bingo or raffles. Penalties range from misdemeanors to fifth-degree felonies, depending on the offense and prior convictions.
Chapter 3772 – Casino Gaming
This law governs all casino operations in Ohio. It covers licensing, regulation of gaming equipment, and enforcement against unauthorized gaming. The OCCC oversees compliance and issues penalties for rule violations.
Chapter 3770 – Lottery Gaming
This chapter manages the Ohio Lottery, including draw games, scratch-offs, and video lottery terminals (VLTs) at racinos. It ensures transparency and accountability in all lottery-related operations.
Chapter 3775 – Sports Gaming
Enacted in 2021, this law regulates retail and online sports betting. It establishes licensing requirements, advertising rules, age restrictions, and responsible gambling measures.
Responsible Gaming Provisions
Ohio promotes responsible gambling through the Voluntary Exclusion Program (VEP), also known as “Time Out Ohio”. This program allows individuals to self-exclude from casinos, sportsbooks, and VLT venues.
Together, these laws create a balanced framework that supports economic growth while protecting players and maintaining public trust in Ohio’s gaming industry.
Latest Ohio Gambling Legislative Updates
Senate Bill 197 (SB 197) – Online Casino Legalization
Introduced by Senator Nathan Manning, SB 197 aims to legalize online casino gaming, internet poker, and iLottery in Ohio. The bill would allow casinos and racinos to operate online platforms under the supervision of the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC).
It proposes a 36% tax rate on gross gaming revenue and a $50 million licensing fee, directing most funds to education and problem-gambling programs. Supporters, including major operators like Caesars and Boyd Gaming, say it will modernize Ohio’s gaming economy.
However, opponents cite addiction risks and constitutional issues.
SB 197 is still under committee review and has not yet reached a full Senate vote.
House Bill 298 (HB 298) – Internet Casino Regulation
Sponsored by Representatives Brian Stewart and Marilyn John, HB 298 offers a narrower approach to iGaming. It would legalize online slots, poker, and table games exclusively through licensed in-state casinos and racinos.
The bill sets a 28% tax rate and bans unlicensed sweepstakes-style casino sites. Its implementation deadline is March 31, 2026, giving regulators and operators time to prepare.
Supporters include FanDuel and the Sports Betting Alliance, while horse-racing groups and anti-gambling advocates oppose it.
The bill remains pending in the House Finance Committee.
House Bill 344 – Electronic Instant Bingo & VLT Bill (2025)
Ohio’s Electronic Instant Bingo & Video Lottery Terminal (VLT) Bill expanded the use of electronic instant bingo machines for charitable organizations and updated oversight for racino VLTs.
The legislation modernized the state’s charitable gaming sector, clarifying definitions and enforcement under the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. It also increased reporting requirements to ensure transparency and compliance.
Currently, HB 344 has not been passed into law as of late October 2025; it was introduced in June 2025 and is currently in the committee process.
Land-Based Sports Betting in Ohio
Legal Status: Legal
Land-based sports betting is fully legal and regulated in Ohio. The state officially launched retail sportsbooks on January 1, 2023, following the passage of House Bill 29 in December 2021.
The law authorized both brick-and-mortar sportsbooks and online betting platforms, making Ohio one of the largest regulated sports betting markets in the Midwest.
The Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) oversees licensing, compliance, and responsible gambling measures. Retail sportsbooks operate in casinos, racinos, and professional sports venues, including major locations in Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, and Toledo. Bettors can place wagers on professional, college, and select international sporting events.
Recent developments focus on maintaining integrity and consumer protection. The OCCC has increased oversight on advertising practices and strengthened rules around college sports betting and player protection.
Legislators continue to review potential adjustments to tax structures and license allocations to ensure a fair and competitive market.
Overall, Ohio’s land-based sports betting industry remains legal, thriving, and closely regulated, contributing significantly to the state’s tax revenue and entertainment economy.
List of Land-Based Sports Betting Operations in Ohio
Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati
Owner: Hard Rock International
Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati stands as one of Ohio’s premier gaming destinations. Located downtown, it offers an energetic atmosphere with hundreds of slot machines, table games, live entertainment, and the popular Hard Rock Sportsbook.
Since its rebranding from JACK Cincinnati in 2020, the property has become a major entertainment hub in southern Ohio, combining world-class dining, rock memorabilia, and top-tier gaming.
JACK Cleveland Casino
Owner: Jack Entertainment
Situated in downtown Cleveland’s historic Higbee Building, JACK Cleveland Casino was the first casino to open in Ohio. It features over 1,200 slot machines, 100 table games, and a vibrant betJACK Sportsbook, which allows in-person wagering on a wide range of sports.
JACK Entertainment has positioned the property as both a local landmark and a cornerstone of Cleveland’s nightlife and entertainment scene.
Hollywood Casino Columbus
Owner: Gaming and Leisure Properties (GLPI); operated by Penn Entertainment
Hollywood Casino Columbus is the largest casino in Ohio, offering a Las Vegas-style gaming floor with over 2,000 slot machines and 70 table games. Its retail sportsbook, formerly branded under Barstool Sportsbook, serves as a centerpiece for live sports wagering and events.
The casino also features multiple restaurants and a lively entertainment venue, making it a full-service destination for central Ohio players.
Hollywood Casino Toledo
Owner: Gaming and Leisure Properties (GLPI); operated by Penn Entertainment
Hollywood Casino Toledo combines riverfront gaming excitement with top-tier amenities. It houses more than 2,000 slot machines, 60 table games, and an upscale Hollywood Sportsbook for in-person betting.
The casino caters to visitors from both Ohio and Michigan, emphasizing entertainment, fine dining, and responsible gaming under Penn Entertainment’s management.
Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs
Owner & Operator: Caesars Entertainment
Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs, located in Columbus, is Ohio’s first racino, blending live harness racing with casino-style gaming. It features over 2,200 video lottery terminals and a modern Caesars Sportsbook for on-site betting.
Owned and operated by Caesars Entertainment, the venue is known for its vibrant racing calendar, hospitality offerings, and strong commitment to responsible gambling.
Ohio Online Sports Betting
Legal Status: Legal
Online sports betting is fully legal and regulated in Ohio. It officially launched on January 1, 2023, alongside retail sportsbooks, following the passage of House Bill 29 in late 2021.
The law allows both mobile and web-based sports wagering under the oversight of the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC).
Today, more than 20 licensed online sportsbooks operate in the state, including major platforms like FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, and ESPN BET.
These apps let users place wagers on professional, collegiate, and international sporting events, making Ohio one of the most competitive digital betting markets in the U.S.
The OCCC enforces strict rules on advertising, licensing, and responsible gambling measures. Recent developments include tighter restrictions on bonus promotions and increased oversight of college sports betting to protect athletes and consumers.
Additionally, legislators have also discussed potential tax rate adjustments to balance operator profits and state revenue.
List of Online Sports Betting Operations in Ohio
FanDuel Sportsbook
Owner: Flutter Entertainment (U.K./Ireland) together with U.S. entity FanDuel Group
FanDuel launched its mobile sportsbook at midnight on January 1, 2023 in Ohio. They partnered with local land-based licensee sites (like Belterra Park) and benefitted from being one of the most popular fantasy-sports brands transitioning into real-money wagering.
DraftKings Sportsbook
Owner: DraftKings Inc.
DraftKings is a major U.S. sports-betting brand and launched in Ohio as part of the first wave of online sportsbooks. They partnered with Hollywood Casino Toledo and offers bets across a wide range of sports and prop markets.
BetMGM Sportsbook
Owner: A partner venture of MGM Resorts International and other stakeholders
Licensed to operate in Ohio, BetMGM launched January 1, 2023 via MGM Northfield Park and other in-state partnerships. Moreover, BetMGM offers live streaming features, a loyalty program, and is known for solid banking and trust in the market.
Caesars Sportsbook
Owner: Caesars Entertainment
Caesars Sportsbook operates in Ohio under its regulation and partnered with in-state licensees (like Scioto Downs). It launched January 1, 2023 with strong promotional offers.
bet365 Sportsbook
Owner: Hillside (New) Limited / bet365 Group (UK) – international bookmaker expanding in U.S. states
bet365 Ohio launched on January 1, 2023 via market-access agreement with the Cleveland Guardians. It brings a wide variety of betting markets and live betting features to Ohio.
Other Online Sports Betting Options for Ohio Residents
Betting sites based offshore and accessible to U.S. players can serve as alternative venues for Ohio players seeking to place online wagers. Because these operators are headquartered outside the United States, they operate in a legal “grey zone.” To date, there are no known cases of Ohio players being prosecuted for placing bets on these offshore platforms.
Ohio Land-Based Casino Gambling
Status: Legal
Land-based casinos are fully legal and regulated in Ohio. Their legalization followed a 2010 constitutional amendment that authorized four full-service casinos in the state located in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus, and Toledo.
Oversight and licensing fall under the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC), which enforces gaming laws, tax collection, and responsible gambling programs.
The state’s four commercial casinos include JACK Cleveland Casino, Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati, Hollywood Casino Columbus, and Hollywood Casino Toledo. Each facility offers slot machines, table games, poker rooms, and retail sportsbooks.
In addition, Ohio operates several racinos, which combine horse racing with video lottery terminals (VLTs) under the supervision of the Ohio Lottery Commission.
Recent developments center on modernization and responsible gaming. Lawmakers have discussed potential casino expansion and regulatory alignment with the state’s growing online gaming and sports betting markets.
Operators are also investing in upgrades, entertainment amenities, and digital integration to stay competitive.
Overall, Ohio’s land-based casino industry remains legal, thriving, and tightly regulated, serving as a major driver of employment, tourism, and tax revenue for the state.
List of Land-Based Casinos in Ohio
JACK Cleveland Casino
Owner: Vici Properties (real estate); Operator: JACK Entertainment
Located in downtown Cleveland’s historic Higbee Building, JACK Cleveland Casino was the first casino to open in Ohio. It offers over 1,200 slot machines, table games, and a popular betJACK Sportsbook.
The property attracts both locals and tourists with its upscale atmosphere, dining options, and proximity to major attractions like Public Square and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati
Owner: Vici Properties (real estate); Operator: Hard Rock International
Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati brings a signature music-themed experience to downtown Cincinnati. It features more than 1,600 slot machines, table games, and the lively Hard Rock Sportsbook.
Since its rebranding from JACK Cincinnati in 2020, the casino has become a key entertainment and nightlife hub, offering concerts, fine dining, and gaming under Hard Rock’s global brand.
Hollywood Casino Columbus
Owner: Gaming and Leisure Properties (GLPI); Operator: Penn Entertainment
As the largest casino in Ohio, Hollywood Casino Columbus offers over 2,000 slot machines, 70 table games, poker, and a retail sportsbook. Its Vegas-style design and multiple dining venues make it a centerpiece of central Ohio entertainment.
The casino frequently hosts live music and events, reinforcing its role as a top local attraction and revenue generator.
Hollywood Casino Toledo
Owner: Gaming and Leisure Properties (GLPI); Operator: Penn Entertainment
Hollywood Casino Toledo sits along the scenic Maumee River and serves as a major gaming destination for northern Ohio and neighboring Michigan players.
It features slot machines, table games, and the Hollywood Sportsbook. The property is known for its elegant atmosphere, diverse dining, and commitment to responsible gambling practices under Penn Entertainment’s management.
Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs
Owner & Operator: Caesars Entertainment
Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs, located in Columbus, was Ohio’s first racino and continues to blend live harness racing with casino-style gaming. The property includes over 2,200 video lottery terminals (VLTs), restaurants, and the Caesars Sportsbook.
Scioto Downs is celebrated for its racing heritage, vibrant gaming floor, and dedication to safe and fair play.
Ohio Online Casino Gambling
Legal Status: Not Licensed or Regulated
Online casinos are not licensed or regulated in Ohio. While the state allows online sports betting and land-based casino gaming, it has not yet legalized online casino platforms that offer real-money slot machines, poker, or table games.
This means residents cannot legally wager on digital casino games operated within the state’s regulatory framework.
Currently, Ohio’s gambling laws only authorize land-based casinos and online sportsbooks overseen by the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC). Recent discussions among lawmakers and regulators hint at potential expansion into iGaming in the future.
As Ohio’s online sports betting market continues to thrive, legislators and industry experts are assessing the economic benefits and consumer protections of legalizing online casino gaming.
Other Online Casino Options for Ohio Residents
Online casinos based offshore that accept U.S. players serve as an alternative for Ohio players seeking online gambling. Since these operators are located outside the United States, they exist in a legal “grey zone.” To date, there is no record of individuals being legally prosecuted solely for playing on these offshore platforms.
Ohio Poker
Status: Legal
Land-based poker is legal and regulated in Ohio. The state’s four full-service casinos, JACK Cleveland Casino, Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati, Hollywood Casino Columbus, and Hollywood Casino Toledo, offer licensed poker rooms where players can participate in cash games and tournaments.
Oversight is provided by the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC), which ensures fair play, responsible gaming, and adherence to state gaming laws.
Poker rooms in these casinos feature popular formats such as Texas Hold’em and Omaha, catering to both casual players and professionals. Tournaments often attract strong participation, especially in major cities like Cleveland and Cincinnati.
Overall, Ohio’s land-based poker scene is active, legitimate, and closely supervised, offering a safe environment for players to enjoy regulated poker entertainment.
List of Poker Operations in Ohio
JACK Cleveland Casino – Poker Room
Operator: JACK Entertainment
Number of Tables: 26
The JACK Poker Room in downtown Cleveland is a top poker destination in northern Ohio. Located in the historic Higbee Building, it offers 26 tables featuring Texas Hold’em and Omaha.
The room runs daily tournaments, promotions, and cash games that attract both locals and travelers. Known for its welcoming environment and professional dealers, it’s a cornerstone of Cleveland’s gaming scene.
Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati – Poker Room
Operator: Hard Rock International
Number of Tables: 31
The Hard Rock Cincinnati Poker Room combines modern luxury with a lively atmosphere. Featuring 31 tables, it offers one of the largest poker selections in the state. Players enjoy cash games, daily and weekend tournaments, and access to larger poker events.
The casino’s entertainment-driven design and first-class amenities make it a premier poker destination in southern Ohio.
Hollywood Casino Columbus – Poker Room
Operator: Penn Entertainment
Number of Tables: 34
As the largest poker room in Ohio, the Hollywood Casino Columbus Poker Room features 34 tables with nonstop action. It offers No-Limit Texas Hold’em and Omaha, along with structured tournaments and special events.
Its professional dealers, comfortable setting, and consistent game availability make it a regional poker hub that attracts players from across the Midwest.
Hollywood Casino Toledo – Poker Room
Operator: Penn Entertainment
Number of Tables: 12
The Hollywood Casino Toledo Poker Room provides a relaxed yet competitive poker environment. With 19 tables, it offers various cash games and tournaments throughout the week.
The room is praised for its clean facilities, friendly staff, and strong local poker community, making it a go-to spot for both casual and experienced players in northern Ohio.
Ohio Online Poker
Status: Not Licensed or Regulated
Online poker is not licensed or regulated in Ohio. While the state has legalized land-based poker in casinos and approved online sports betting, it has not extended those laws to cover online poker platforms. This means residents cannot legally play real-money poker on sites based or licensed within Ohio.
Currently, the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) oversees casino and sports betting operations but does not issue licenses for online poker. Lawmakers have occasionally discussed expanding Ohio’s iGaming framework to include online poker and casino games, especially following the success of legal online sports betting launched in 2023.
Yet, as of now, no active legislation has been proposed.
Other Online Poker Options for Ohio Residents
Online poker sites based offshore and accessible to U.S. players can serve as alternative venues for Ohio players seeking to place online wagers. Because these operators are headquartered outside the United States, they operate in a legal “grey zone.” To date, there are no known cases of Ohio players being prosecuted for placing bets on these offshore platforms.
Ohio Horse Betting
Status: Legal
Land-based horse betting is legal and regulated in Ohio. The activity is overseen by the Ohio State Racing Commission (OSRC), which governs both live racing and pari-mutuel wagering at the state’s racetracks.
Ohio has a long-standing tradition of horse racing, featuring both thoroughbred and standardbred (harness) racing across several licensed tracks.
The state’s main racetracks include Thistledown Racino, Belterra Park, Miami Valley Gaming, MGM Northfield Park, and Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs, among others.
Each venue offers live races, simulcast wagering, and video lottery terminals (VLTs) operated in partnership with the Ohio Lottery Commission.
Bettors can place wagers on-site at racetracks or through licensed off-track betting (OTB) facilities. The OSRC enforces strict regulations to ensure integrity, fair competition, and animal welfare across all racing operations.
Recent developments include modernization efforts such as digital wagering kiosks, enhanced live streaming of races, and potential integration with online pari-mutuel platforms. These updates aim to expand accessibility while maintaining responsible gaming standards.
Top Horse Betting Operations in Ohio
Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs (Columbus)
Owner & Operator: Caesars Entertainment
Scioto Downs is Ohio’s oldest racetrack, offering live harness racing and full pari-mutuel wagering. It operates year-round with a packed racing calendar and modern simulcast facilities.
Alongside racing, Scioto Downs features over 2,200 video lottery terminals (VLTs), dining venues, and the Caesars Sportsbook. The property represents a seamless blend of Ohio’s racing tradition and contemporary gaming entertainment.
MGM Northfield Park (Northfield)
Owner & Operator: MGM Resorts International
MGM Northfield Park is one of Ohio’s premier harness racing venues, hosting live races and simulcast wagering throughout the year. The racino also offers over 2,300 VLTs and multiple dining and entertainment options.
Known for its Northfield Park Grand Circuit events, the venue combines fast-paced horse racing with MGM’s signature casino hospitality and responsible gaming initiatives.
Miami Valley Gaming (Lebanon)
Owner: Joint venture between Churchill Downs Incorporated and Delaware North
Miami Valley Gaming features a 5/8-mile harness racing track and extensive pari-mutuel betting options. Its modern facility includes a racino floor with over 1,900 VLTs and upscale restaurants.
The venue attracts large racing crowds and simulcast fans alike, offering seasonal race meets and major harness racing events under the Ohio State Racing Commission’s oversight.
JACK Thistledown Racino (North Randall)
Owner: Vici Properties (real estate); Operator: JACK Entertainment
JACK Thistledown Racino is a historic thoroughbred racetrack, originally opened in 1925. It hosts live thoroughbred racing, simulcast wagering, and a robust gaming floor with slot-style VLTs.
The racino is a mainstay of northeast Ohio’s racing scene, offering popular race meets like the Ohio Derby. JACK Entertainment continues to modernize the venue with digital wagering options and local entertainment.
Belterra Park Cincinnati (Cincinnati)
Owner: Gaming and Leisure Properties (GLPI); Operator: Boyd Gaming
Belterra Park offers live thoroughbred racing and a modern simulcast betting facility, complemented by more than 1,300 VLTs. Operated by Boyd Gaming, it delivers a full racino experience with fine dining, entertainment, and wagering amenities.
Known for its scenic riverside location, Belterra Park is a favorite among southern Ohio horse racing enthusiasts.
Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway (Dayton)
Owner: Gaming and Leisure Properties (GLPI); Operator: Penn Entertainment
Hollywood Dayton Raceway specializes in standardbred (harness) racing and pari-mutuel wagering, featuring a half-mile track and extensive simulcast offerings. The racino includes over 1,000 VLTs and multiple dining options.
With its Hollywood-brand experience, the venue emphasizes a modern racing atmosphere supported by responsible gaming standards.
Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course (Austintown)
Owner: Gaming and Leisure Properties (GLPI); Operator: Penn Entertainment
Mahoning Valley Race Course offers live thoroughbred racing, simulcast betting, and over 1,000 VLTs. Opened in 2014, it has quickly become a central racing hub in northeast Ohio.
The racino hosts notable seasonal meets and stakes races, attracting regional fans and bettors. Its modern facilities and Penn Entertainment management ensure a premium racing and gaming experience.
Ohio Online Horse Betting
Status: Legal
Online horse betting is legal and regulated in Ohio. The Ohio State Racing Commission (OSRC) oversees both live and digital pari-mutuel wagering, allowing residents to legally bet on horse races through licensed advance deposit wagering (ADW) platforms.
These platforms include major names such as TVG (FanDuel Racing), TwinSpires, and BetMGM Horse Racing, all of which are authorized to operate within the state.
Players can place wagers on live and simulcast races from local Ohio tracks such as Scioto Downs, Thistledown, and Belterra Park, as well as races held across the U.S. and internationally.
Online horse betting follows pari-mutuel wagering rules, meaning all bets go into a shared pool with odds determined by total wagers.
The state maintains strict oversight to ensure responsible gambling, fair payouts, and consumer protection. Recent developments include improved digital access, mobile-friendly betting interfaces, and integrations between horse racing apps and sports betting platforms.
Such initiatives reflect Ohio’s broader embrace of regulated online gaming.
List of Online Horse Betting Operations in Ohio
TVG (FanDuel Racing)
Owner & Operator: FanDuel Group (a subsidiary of Flutter Entertainment)
TVG, now rebranded as FanDuel Racing, is one of the most established online horse betting platforms in the U.S. It is licensed in Ohio to offer pari-mutuel wagering through the Ohio State Racing Commission.
The platform provides live streaming, race replays, expert picks, and wagering on hundreds of domestic and international tracks. Its seamless integration with FanDuel Sportsbook allows players to enjoy both sports and racing under one account.
TwinSpires
Owner & Operator: Churchill Downs Incorporated
TwinSpires is the official online wagering platform of Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby. It is authorized to operate in Ohio and offers betting on major racing events worldwide.
Known for its reliability and deep ties to the horse racing industry, TwinSpires provides users with race analysis tools, handicapping features, and mobile betting through its secure app and website.
BetMGM Horse Racing
Owner & Operator: MGM Resorts International (via BetMGM)
BetMGM Horse Racing extends MGM’s sports betting brand into the online pari-mutuel market. It allows Ohio residents to place bets on live and simulcast races across North America.
With intuitive design, real-time odds, and integrated MGM Rewards, the platform enhances the traditional racing experience. BetMGM’s partnership with global racing data providers ensures broad access to wagering markets.
NYRA Bets
Owner & Operator: New York Racing Association (NYRA)
NYRA Bets is a national online horse betting platform operated by the New York Racing Association. It is licensed to serve Ohio bettors, offering access to top-tier races, including the Belmont Stakes and Saratoga meets.
The platform delivers live video feeds, replays, and competitive wagering options. Its user-friendly interface and reputation for integrity make it a trusted option among experienced horseplayers.
AmWager
Owner & Operator: AmWest Entertainment LLC
AmWager is a lesser-known but advanced ADW platform available to Ohio bettors. It offers innovative wagering tools such as conditional betting, real-time data feeds, and detailed analytics for serious handicappers.
Licensed under federal and state racing laws, AmWager focuses on technology-driven user experiences and competitive rewards programs for frequent players.
Other Online Horse Betting Options for Ohio Residents
Online horse betting based offshore that accept U.S. players serve as an alternative for Ohio players seeking online gambling. Since these operators are located outside the United States, they exist in a legal “grey zone.” To date, there is no record of individuals being legally prosecuted solely for playing on these offshore platforms.
Ohio Lotteries
Status: Legal
Lotteries are legal and state-regulated in Ohio. The Ohio Lottery, established in 1973, operates under the oversight of the Ohio Lottery Commission, which manages ticket sales, prize distributions, and game integrity.
Revenue generated from the lottery directly supports public education across the state, contributing billions of dollars to schools over the decades.
Ohio offers a wide variety of games, including instant scratch-offs, draw games, and participation in multi-state lotteries like Powerball and Mega Millions. Players can purchase tickets at more than 10,000 licensed retailers statewide.
In recent years, the Ohio Lottery has expanded its reach through digital tools, allowing players to check results, enter promotions, and manage winnings via the official mobile app.
There have also been discussions about the potential for online ticket sales and digital draw games, aligning Ohio with other states modernizing their lottery systems.
List of Lottery Platforms in Ohio
Ohio Lottery Commission
Owner/Operator: State of Ohio (Government Agency)
The Ohio Lottery Commission, established in 1973, is the official state-run lottery authority. It regulates all lottery games within the state, ensuring transparency, security, and responsible gaming.
The agency offers a broad portfolio, including draw games, instant scratch-offs, and multi-state lotteries such as Powerball and Mega Millions.
Proceeds from the lottery directly support public education, making it one of Ohio’s most significant sources of funding for schools and scholarships.
Powerball (Multi-State Lottery Association)
Owner/Operator: Multi-State Lottery Association (MUSL)
Powerball is a multi-state lottery game available in Ohio through the Ohio Lottery Commission. Operated by the Multi-State Lottery Association, Powerball offers massive jackpots with drawings held three times weekly.
Ohio players can purchase tickets from licensed retailers and participate alongside millions of players nationwide. A portion of Ohio’s ticket revenue contributes to state education funds.
Mega Millions (Multi-State Lottery Association)
Owner/Operator: Multi-State Lottery Association (MUSL)
Mega Millions is another major multi-state lottery game accessible to Ohio residents. Like Powerball, it features large jackpots and is coordinated by the Multi-State Lottery Association.
The Ohio Lottery oversees local ticket sales and prize claims, while drawings are held twice weekly. Proceeds from Mega Millions ticket sales in Ohio are allocated to the Lottery Profits Education Fund, benefiting state schools.
Lucky for Life
Owner/Operator: Multi-State Lottery Association (MUSL)
Lucky for Life is a multi-state draw game available through the Ohio Lottery. It offers a unique “win for life” prize structure, providing winners with recurring payments for life.
Managed under MUSL, the game’s proceeds in Ohio support educational initiatives. Drawings occur daily, and tickets are sold at authorized retailers statewide.
KENO (Ohio Lottery Commission)
Owner/Operator: Ohio Lottery Commission
KENO is a fast-paced, bingo-style game operated directly by the Ohio Lottery Commission. Available at bars, restaurants, and lottery retailers, players can win prizes every few minutes based on the numbers they select.
Since its launch, KENO has become one of the most popular in-state games, driving consistent revenue for education programs.
EZPLAY® Games (Ohio Lottery Commission)
Owner/Operator: Ohio Lottery Commission
EZPLAY® Games are instant, ticketless games generated through electronic lottery terminals at participating retailers. Managed by the Ohio Lottery, these games combine instant win excitement with ease of play.
Revenue supports the same education funds as other Ohio Lottery offerings, making EZPLAY® a key part of the state’s lottery portfolio.
Ohio Sweepstakes
Legal Status: Not licensed or Regulated
Land-based sweepstakes operations in Ohio are not licensed or regulated. The state government has taken a firm stance against physical sweepstakes cafés, which once operated widely across Ohio.
These establishments often featured slot-like gaming machines offering cash prizes through so-called “promotional sweepstakes,” but they were ultimately found to resemble unregulated gambling.
To address this, lawmakers passed House Bill 7 in 2013, effectively banning most land-based sweepstakes cafés. The legislation gave the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) authority to oversee and enforce restrictions on such operations, leading to the closure of hundreds of unlicensed venues statewide.
Today, no authorized land-based sweepstakes casinos exist in Ohio. Any establishment offering sweepstakes-based gaming with cash or prize payouts operates outside legal boundaries and risks enforcement action.
While there has been occasional discussion about potential reforms or regulated promotional gaming, no significant legislative developments have emerged.
Ohio continues to prioritize oversight of its legal gaming sectors such as commercial casinos, racinos, and sportsbooks over expanding into sweepstakes-style gaming.
As it stands, all land-based sweepstakes venues remain unregulated and are not legally permitted to operate within the state.
Ohio Sweepstakes Casinos
Status: Not Licensed or Regulated
Sweepstakes casinos in Ohio are not licensed or regulated, meaning the state does not authorize or oversee their operations. These platforms typically allow players to purchase virtual currency and use it to play casino-style games such as slots, blackjack, and poker.
Players can then redeem winnings for cash or prizes, simulating a casino experience without being formally recognized as gambling.
Ohio law, however, prohibits land-based sweepstakes cafés and similar operations that offer games of chance with prize redemptions. This restriction stems from House Bill 298, which targeted unregulated gaming venues that operated under the guise of “promotional sweepstakes.”
The Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) continues to monitor and enforce these laws to prevent illegal gaming activity.
Currently, there are no legislative efforts to license or regulate sweepstakes casinos in Ohio, as the state remains focused on maintaining oversight of its legal casinos, racinos, and sportsbooks.
Ohio Gambling FAQ
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