Pennsylvania has become one of the most dynamic betting markets in the United States. Often referred to as one of the “Big Three” Online casinos and sportsbooks continue attracting new players.
The state offers a wide range of licensed platforms, including FanDuel, BetMGM, DraftKings, and Caesars. These operators provide trusted online casino games and competitive sports betting options for both casual and seasoned bettors.
Regulation in Pennsylvania remains strict, ensuring fairness and consumer protection. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board oversees all online gambling and sports wagering activities.
This framework promotes responsible gaming while also securing valuable tax revenue for the state. Moreover, regulations help maintain transparency and trust within the industry.
Players benefit from a safe environment with legal online casino games, ranging from slots to live dealer tables. At the same time, sportsbooks deliver extensive betting markets, including NFL, NBA, and college sports.
The combination of strong oversight and top-tier platforms positions Pennsylvania as a leader in regulated betting.
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Overview: Pennsylvania Tribes and Their Role in State Betting
No tribes play a role in Pennsylvania’s gambling industry. Unlike states such as Michigan or Connecticut, Pennsylvania has no federally recognized tribes operating casinos under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. Instead, the market runs entirely on a commercial model.
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) regulates all casinos, sportsbooks, and online platforms, ensuring strict oversight and fair play.
Moreover, licensed operators, including Parx Casino, Rivers Casino, and Wind Creek Bethlehem, pay taxes directly to the state rather than working through tribal compacts. This approach differs from tribal-dominated states, where casinos operate under agreements with state governments and often contribute revenue at lower rates.
Because Pennsylvania relies on commercial operators, it has greater flexibility to expand online casinos and sportsbooks while maintaining one of the highest tax structures in the country.
This framework has made Pennsylvania a leader in regulated gambling, with revenue flowing directly into state programs rather than through shared tribal agreements.
Key Tribes and Their Operations
While Pennsylvania has no tribal casinos operating under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), two federally recognized tribes own commercial casinos within the state.
These properties are fully licensed by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) and operate under the same framework as other commercial casinos.
Mohegan Pennsylvania: Wilkes-Barre
Owner: Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut
Location: Plains Township, near Wilkes-Barre
Opened in 2006 as Mohegan Sun Pocono, this casino was among the first in Pennsylvania to offer slot machines and later expanded to table games. The property includes a racetrack, hotel, and a variety of dining and entertainment options.
Although owned by the Mohegan Tribe, it functions as a commercial casino under state regulation, not as a tribal casino under IGRA.
Wind Creek Bethlehem: Bethlehem
Owner: Poarch Band of Creek Indians (Alabama)
Location: Bethlehem, Northampton County
Originally opened in 2009 as Sands Bethlehem, this property was acquired by Wind Creek Hospitality, the gaming arm of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, in 2019.
The casino features a large gaming floor with slot machines, table games, and poker, alongside a hotel, shopping outlets, and event spaces. Like Mohegan Pennsylvania, it operates strictly under PGCB licensing as a commercial entity.
Key Distinction
Both Mohegan Pennsylvania and Wind Creek Bethlehem reflect tribal ownership, but they are not sovereign tribal gaming enterprises. Instead, they follow Pennsylvania’s commercial gaming model, paying taxes directly to the state and complying with its strict regulatory framework.
Current State Laws of Pennsylvania regulating Gambling
Pennsylvania Race Horse Development and Gaming Act (2004)
This law legalized slot machines at licensed racetracks, creating the foundation for casino gambling in the state. It also established the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) to regulate the industry.
Act 71 (2004, as amended)
Also known as the Gaming Act, this remains the core statute governing casino operations. It regulates licensing, responsible gaming programs, revenue distribution, and enforcement measures.
Act 1 of 2010
Expanded gambling to include table games such as blackjack, poker, and roulette at licensed casinos. It also increased the tax revenue flowing to the state.
Act 42 of 2017
A major expansion of gambling in Pennsylvania. It authorized:
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- Online casinos and poker
- Online sports betting
- Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)
- VGTs (Video Gaming Terminals) at truck stops
- Mini-casinos (Category 4 casinos)
This act firmly positioned Pennsylvania as one of the most comprehensive regulated markets in the U.S.
Act 98 of 2018
Amended the gaming laws to refine licensing rules, clarify revenue distribution, and support community funding through gambling taxes.
Sports Betting Regulation (2018, under Act 42 framework)
After the U.S. Supreme Court struck down PASPA in 2018, Pennsylvania launched regulated retail and online sports betting under PGCB oversight.
Fantasy Contests Act (2017, as part of Act 42)
Legalized and regulated Daily Fantasy Sports platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel, requiring licensing and taxation.
Latest Pennsylvania Betting Legislative Updates
Pennsylvania continues to adapt its gambling laws to meet the demands of a growing market. Recent updates have focused on refining regulations for online casinos, expanding sports betting opportunities, and strengthening responsible gaming measures.
Lawmakers and regulators are also reviewing tax structures and licensing processes to ensure stability and competitiveness within the industry.
At Betting News, we are closely monitoring every development that could impact players, operators, and the overall gambling landscape in the state.
From potential adjustments to online casino regulations to new proposals around retail and mobile sports wagering, changes are always on the horizon.
To stay informed, readers should check back regularly on this page for the latest updates, insights, and expert coverage of Pennsylvania’s evolving gambling legislation.
Active Legislative Proposals regarding Gambling in Pennsylvania
As of 2025, here are the following legislative proposals in Pennsylvania:
Senate Bill 626
Proposes regulation of skill video gaming, including licensing requirements and oversight by the Department of Revenue. Currently introduced and pending in committee.
Senate Bill 416
Amends the Local Option Small Games of Chance Act. It provides for payment updates and abrogates an existing regulation. Passed in the Senate and referred to the House Gaming Oversight Committee.
Senate Bill 756
Seeks amendments to Titles 4, 18, and 42 of Pennsylvania statutes. These include changes affecting amusements, crimes, and judiciary areas connected to gambling. Currently under discussion.
Senate Bill 840
Reduces the minimum number of slot machines required at Category 1 and Category 2 casinos from 1,500 to 1,000. This bill has passed the Senate and is awaiting action in the House.
Senate Bill 265
Would prohibit the use of credit cards for iLottery, online casino games, sports betting, and fantasy sports. Referred to committee.
House Bill 520
Amends the Local Option Small Games of Chance Act to allow for social card games and tournaments. Pending in the House Gaming Oversight Committee.
House Bill 962
Also amends the Local Option Small Games of Chance Act, focusing on modifications to “games of chance operations.” Sent to the House Gaming Oversight Committee.
Additional Legal Developments
- House Resolution No. 60 directs the Joint State Government Commission to study the impact of online sportsbooks and casinos on problem gambling. It includes exploring advertising exposure, gambling debt, and protections for minors.
- The PGCB renewed the license for Presque Isle Downs and Casino (Erie County), confirming its Category 1 horse track operations.
- Also renewed was the license for Hollywood Casino Morgantown (Category 4 satellite casino in Berks County).
- The state joined the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA) for poker, allowing Pennsylvania players to compete in interstate online poker liquidity pools.
- The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has been pushing lawmakers to create clearer regulations or revise existing laws to define and regulate sweepstakes casinos / sweepstakes-style gaming sites, which currently exist in a murky legal area.
- Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) continue being fully legal under existing licensing (Act 42 of 2017), with multiple operators licensed and active in Pennsylvania.
- The PGCB reported that combined gambling and fantasy sports revenue is growing, with monthly totals for gaming + fantasy contests reaching record amounts (e.g. over $550-$600 million in some months).
Land-Based Sports Betting in Pennsylvania
Legal Status: Legal
Land-based sports betting is fully legal in Pennsylvania. The state authorized retail sportsbooks in 2017 under Act 42, and the first wagers were placed in 2018 following the repeal of PASPA.
Today, licensed casinos across the state operate sportsbooks, offering betting windows and self-service kiosks for players.
These sportsbooks are regulated by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB), which enforces strict licensing, integrity, and responsible gaming standards. Bettors can wager on professional leagues, college sports, and major international events.
The retail environment complements Pennsylvania’s robust online sports betting market, giving players flexible and secure options.
List of Land-Based Sports Betting Operations in Pennsylvania
BetRivers Sportsbook – Rivers Casino Pittsburgh
Owner: Rush Street Gaming
Launched in December 2018, BetRivers Sportsbook was the first legal retail sportsbook in Pennsylvania. It features a spacious lounge with large screens, kiosks, and live betting windows, making it a cornerstone of retail betting in the state.
Parx Sportsbook – Parx Casino
Owner: Greenwood Gaming and Entertainment, Inc.
One of Pennsylvania’s largest sportsbooks, Parx offers a massive video wall, VIP seating, and comprehensive wagering options. Its retail space attracts bettors from across the Philadelphia metro area.
Barstool Sportsbook (transitioning to theScore BET) – Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course
Owner: Penn Entertainment (formerly Penn National Gaming)
Known for its modern lounge setup, this sportsbook combines betting kiosks, staffed counters, and dining service. With its theScore BET rebrand, it’s positioning itself as a hub for both retail and digital sports wagering.
Betfred Sportsbook – Wind Creek Bethlehem
Owner: Poarch Band of Creek Indians (via Wind Creek Hospitality)
Serving the Lehigh Valley region, Betfred Sportsbook provides a stylish lounge with a full-service bar and multiple kiosks. Its partnership with Wind Creek has brought strong brand recognition and competitive betting options.
Unibet Sportsbook – Mohegan Pennsylvania
Owner: Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut
Located in Wilkes-Barre, this sportsbook offers a cozy lounge with large screens, kiosks, and direct links to the casino’s racetrack. It appeals to both sports bettors and racing fans alike.
Pennsylvania Online Sports Betting
Legal Status: Legal
Online sports betting is fully legal in Pennsylvania. The state authorized mobile wagering in 2017 under Act 42, and the first online sportsbooks launched in 2019.
Today, leading operators like FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, and Caesars provide secure platforms where players can bet from anywhere within state borders.
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) regulates all online sportsbooks, ensuring compliance, integrity, and responsible gaming standards.
Bettors can legally place wagers on professional leagues, college sports, and international events, with markets ranging from moneylines to in-play betting.
Online sports betting now represents a significant share of Pennsylvania’s overall gambling revenue, making it one of the most robust digital markets in the U.S.
List of Online Sports Betting Operations in Pennsylvania
FanDuel Sportsbook – Valley Forge Casino
Owner: Flutter Entertainment (partnership with Boyd Gaming for licensing)
FanDuel is the market leader in Pennsylvania’s online sports betting sector. Launched in 2019, it offers an intuitive app, competitive odds, and a wide range of betting markets. Its seamless integration with daily fantasy sports adds to its dominance.
DraftKings Sportsbook – Hollywood Casino at The Meadows
Owner: DraftKings Inc. (license via Penn Entertainment)
DraftKings delivers a sleek mobile platform with strong live betting features and promotions. It rivals FanDuel in popularity and benefits from its established fantasy sports customer base.
BetMGM Sportsbook – Hollywood Casino Morgantown
Owner: MGM Resorts International and Entain (joint venture)
BetMGM provides one of the most comprehensive apps in Pennsylvania. It features deep betting markets, player-friendly promos, and strong connectivity with the MGM Rewards loyalty program.
Caesars Sportsbook – Harrah’s Philadelphia
Owner: Caesars Entertainment
Caesars offers a robust app backed by its iconic brand and loyalty program. It features competitive lines, extensive market coverage, and direct ties to Harrah’s Philadelphia property.
BetRivers Sportsbook – Rivers Casino Philadelphia
Owner: Rush Street Interactive (Rush Street Gaming)
BetRivers offers a user-friendly app with a reputation for reliability and frequent promotions. It was among the first online sportsbooks in the state and remains a trusted option for Pennsylvania bettors.
Other Online Sports Betting Options for Pennsylvania Residents
Betting sites situated offshore and welcoming US players serve as the optimal venue for Pennsylvanian bettors to engage in online gambling. Given that these operators have their base outside of the US, they dwell in a legal “grey zone.” There’s no record of anyone being legally pursued for playing on these platforms.
Pennsylvania Land-Based Casino Gambling
Legal Status: Legal
Land-based casino gambling is fully legal in Pennsylvania and represents one of the state’s largest gaming sectors. The industry was officially established in 2004 with the passage of the Pennsylvania Race Horse Development and Gaming Act (Act 71).
Since then, the market has expanded significantly, with multiple categories of licenses allowing for resort casinos, racetrack casinos, and stand-alone facilities.
Today, Pennsylvania is home to over a dozen licensed casinos, including well-known properties such as Rivers Casino Pittsburgh, Parx Casino, and Mohegan Pennsylvania.
Each venue operates under the supervision of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB), which enforces strict regulations covering licensing, operations, and consumer protections.
Land-based casinos offer slot machines, table games, and poker rooms, contributing billions to state tax revenue.
Their success also played a key role in paving the way for online casinos and sports betting, creating one of the most comprehensive gambling markets in the United States.
List of Land-Based Casinos in Pennsylvania
Parx Casino – Bensalem
Owner: Greenwood Gaming and Entertainment
Pennsylvania’s largest casino by revenue, Parx offers thousands of slots, table games, poker, and a retail sportsbook.
Rivers Casino Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh
Owner: Rush Street Gaming
A major Pittsburgh entertainment venue featuring slots, table games, a poker room, and BetRivers’ retail sportsbook.
Wind Creek Bethlehem – Bethlehem
Owner: Poarch Band of Creek Indians (Wind Creek Hospitality)
A resort-style casino with extensive gaming, fine dining, luxury hotel accommodations, and event spaces.
Mohegan Pennsylvania – Wilkes-Barre
Owner: Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority
A racino offering slots, table games, horse racing, live entertainment, and tribal gaming expertise.
Harrah’s Philadelphia – Chester
Owner: Caesars Entertainment
A casino and harness racing track near Philadelphia, also home to Caesars Sportsbook retail operations.
Notable Mid-Sized Casinos in Pennsylvania
Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course – Grantville
Owner: Penn Entertainment
A racino with slots, table games, and horse racing. It serves as a hub for Penn Entertainment’s iGaming operations.
Mount Airy Casino Resort – Mount Pocono
Owner: Mount Airy #1, LLC (local family ownership)
A resort casino in the Pocono Mountains featuring slots, table games, a golf course, and hotel amenities.
Presque Isle Downs & Casino – Erie
Owner: Churchill Downs Incorporated
Combines live horse racing with slots and table games. Known for its regional draw and ties to Churchill Downs.
Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia – Philadelphia
Owner: Cordish Companies
A luxury casino and hotel near the city’s sports complex. It offers upscale amenities and modern gaming options.
Lady Luck Casino Nemacolin – Farmington
Owner: Churchill Downs Incorporated
A smaller boutique-style casino located at the Nemacolin resort, offering slots, table games, and a scenic getaway.
Pennsylvania Online Casino Gambling
Legal Status: Legal
Online casino gambling is fully legal in Pennsylvania, making the state one of the pioneers in the U.S. market. The industry was legalized in 2017 under Act 42, which expanded the state’s gambling framework to include online slots, table games, and poker.
The first licensed platforms went live in 2019, and since then, Pennsylvania has grown into one of the largest regulated iGaming markets in the country.
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) oversees all real money online casino operations, ensuring fairness, consumer protection, and responsible gambling standards.
Players can access a wide variety of licensed platforms connected to land-based casinos, including popular names like BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetRivers. These casinos have the benefit of being locally licensed but that limits their ability to reward players properly when it comes to bonuses and loyalty schemes. As such, we recommend players in Pennsylvania to take a look at our list of recommended online casinos below for safe and trusted international options.
Today, online casinos contribute significantly to state tax revenue while offering players a secure and regulated environment. Their success underscores Pennsylvania’s leadership in embracing digital gambling entertainment.
List of Online Casinos in Pennsylvania
BetMGM Casino – Hollywood Casino Morgantown
Owner: MGM Resorts International and Entain (joint venture)
BetMGM Casino is among the most popular platforms in Pennsylvania, offering hundreds of slots, table games, and exclusive MGM titles. It’s backed by the MGM Rewards program, giving players added incentives across both digital and physical properties.
DraftKings Casino – Hollywood Casino at The Meadows
Owner: DraftKings Inc. (license via Penn Entertainment)
DraftKings Casino provides a sleek, user-friendly platform featuring a large variety of slots, blackjack, roulette, and unique DraftKings-branded games. It stands out for its integration with the DraftKings sportsbook.
FanDuel Casino – Valley Forge Casino Resort
Owner: Flutter Entertainment (license via Boyd Gaming)
FanDuel Casino is one of the fastest-growing iGaming platforms in the state. Known for its smooth design and competitive promos, it offers a full suite of slots, table games, and live dealer options.
BetRivers Casino – Rivers Casino Philadelphia
Owner: Rush Street Interactive (Rush Street Gaming)
BetRivers Casino was one of the first to launch in Pennsylvania. It offers a reliable platform, generous loyalty rewards, and a wide mix of slots and table games.
Caesars Casino – Harrah’s Philadelphia
Owner: Caesars Entertainment
Caesars Casino brings its iconic brand online, offering top-tier slots, table games, and live dealer content. Integration with Caesars Rewards allows players to earn and redeem points across Caesars properties nationwide.
Hollywood Casino – Penn National Gaming
Owner: Penn Entertainment
Hollywood Casino operates one of the largest slot libraries in Pennsylvania, powered by NetEnt, IGT, and other top providers. It’s closely tied to Penn’s land-based racino operations.
PokerStars Casino – Mount Airy Casino Resort
Owner: Flutter Entertainment (license via Mount Airy)
Known globally for its poker platform, PokerStars also offers a wide range of slots and table games. Its brand strength makes it a strong choice for players seeking both poker and casino gaming.
Stardust Casino – Valley Forge Casino Resort
Owner: Boyd Gaming and FanDuel (joint venture)
Stardust revives a legendary Las Vegas name in Pennsylvania’s online market. It combines a stylish design with a strong mix of slots and live dealer games.
Unibet Casino – Mohegan Pennsylvania
Owner: Kindred Group (license via Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority)
Unibet offers a balanced casino platform featuring popular slots, blackjack, roulette, and specialty games. Its global presence strengthens its Pennsylvania operations.
Borgata Casino – Hollywood Casino Morgantown
Owner: MGM Resorts International and Entain
A sister brand to BetMGM, Borgata Casino provides a polished platform with many exclusive titles and robust table game options, appealing to players seeking variety.
Other Online Casino Sites for Pennsylvania Residents
Online casinos based offshore that accept U.S. players serve as an alternative for Pennsylvania 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.
Pennsylvania Poker
Status: Legal
Land-based poker is fully legal in Pennsylvania and remains a central feature of the state’s casino industry. The legalization of table games in 2010 expanded casino offerings beyond slot machines, allowing licensed properties to operate dedicated poker rooms.
Today, several major casinos, including Parx Casino, Rivers Casino Pittsburgh, and Wind Creek Bethlehem, host vibrant poker rooms. These venues regularly offer cash games, tournaments, and special events, attracting both local players and visitors.
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) oversees all poker operations, ensuring fairness, integrity, and compliance with state gaming regulations.
Live poker contributes to Pennsylvania’s reputation as one of the most diverse gambling markets in the country.
Its continued popularity underscores the strong demand for in-person gaming experiences alongside the state’s thriving online options.
List of Poker Rooms in Pennsylvania
Parx Casino – Bensalem
Owner/Operator: Greenwood Gaming and Entertainment
Tables: Roughly 48 tables plus a 3-table VIP section
The state’s largest poker room, featuring a wide variety of cash games, tournaments, and high-stakes action.
Rivers Casino Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh
Owner/Operator: Rush Street Gaming
Tables: About 30 tables
Western Pennsylvania’s leading poker venue with cash games, tournaments, and a strong community of local players.
Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia – Philadelphia
Owner/Operator: The Cordish Companies
Tables: 29 tables
A modern, 24/7 poker room hosting cash games, regular tournaments, and branded events.
Wind Creek Bethlehem – Bethlehem
Owner/Operator: Wind Creek Hospitality (Poarch Band of Creek Indians)
Tables: Approximately 20-26 tables
A mid-sized poker room offering a mix of tournaments and promotions, appealing to both casual and serious players.
Mount Airy Casino Resort – Mount Pocono
Owner/Operator: Mount Airy #1, LLC (local family ownership)
Tables: Around 12 tables
A smaller poker room focused on Hold’em and Omaha, with promotions such as bad beat jackpots.
Notable Smaller Poker Rooms
Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course – Grantville
Owner/Operator: Penn Entertainment
Tables: About 16 tables
Offers cash games and occasional tournaments, serving the central Pennsylvania market with a steady player base.
Mohegan Pennsylvania – Wilkes-Barre
Owner/Operator: Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority
Tables: Roughly 8-12 tables
A smaller poker room attached to the racino, offering a limited but lively selection of cash games.
Presque Isle Downs & Casino – Erie
Owner/Operator: Churchill Downs Incorporated
Tables: Around 7 tables
One of the smallest poker rooms in the state, focusing mainly on No-Limit Hold’em cash games.
Pennsylvania Online Poker
Status: Legal
Online poker is fully legal in Pennsylvania, adding another dimension to the state’s diverse gambling market.
Legalization came through Act 42 of 2017, which authorized licensed operators to offer online poker alongside slots and table games. The first regulated platforms went live in 2019, making Pennsylvania one of the few U.S. states with a legal online poker industry.
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) oversees all licensed operators, ensuring fair play, secure transactions, and responsible gaming standards.
Popular platforms like PokerStars PA and partypoker provide players with regulated options to compete in cash games and tournaments.
While Pennsylvania’s online poker market is currently ring-fenced, meaning players can only compete with others inside the state, discussions about shared liquidity agreements with other states could further expand opportunities in the future.
List of Online Poker Operators in Pennsylvania
PokerStars PA
Operator: PokerStars, a brand under Flutter Entertainment
Launch Date: November 2019
PokerStars PA is the most recognized online poker brand in the state, known for its large player base, user-friendly software, and high-quality tournament schedule.
BetMGM Poker PA
Operator: Roar Digital, a joint venture between MGM Resorts and GVC Holdings
Launch Date: Late 2024
BetMGM Poker provides a polished platform integrated with MGM’s rewards program. It caters to both casual and competitive players with a modern interface.
Borgata Poker PA
Operator: Part of the BetMGM network
Launch Date: Late 2024
Borgata Poker PA leverages its Atlantic City reputation to deliver quality cash games and tournaments. It’s known for strong branding and a reliable online experience.
WSOP PA
Operator: Caesars Interactive Entertainment
Launch Date: 2020
WSOP PA brings the prestige of the World Series of Poker online, offering competitive tournaments, seasonal events, and an authentic poker-room feel digitally.
BetRivers Poker
Operator: Rush Street Interactive
Launch Date: October 2024
BetRivers Poker is designed for casual and mid-stakes players, featuring an intuitive interface and easy access to cash games and tournaments.
Other Online Poker Options for Pennsylvania Residents
Online poker sites based offshore and accessible to U.S. players can serve as alternative venues for Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania players being prosecuted for placing bets on these offshore platforms.
Pennsylvania Horse Betting
Status: Legal
Horse betting is fully legal in Pennsylvania and has a long-standing presence in the state’s gaming industry.
The Pennsylvania Race Horse Development and Gaming Act (Act 71 of 2004) established regulations for pari-mutuel wagering at racetracks, allowing licensed venues to operate live horse racing and simulcast betting.
Pennsylvania hosts several prominent racetracks, including Parx Racing, Penn National Race Course, and Presque Isle Downs, which offer thoroughbred and harness racing.
Bettors can place wagers on-site at the tracks, through self-service terminals, or via approved online platforms linked to licensed racetracks.
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) regulates horse betting to ensure fairness, integrity, and consumer protection.
Horse betting contributes significantly to state tax revenue and supports the broader equine industry, including breeders, trainers, and jockeys.
List of Horse Betting Operations in Pennsylvania
Parx Racing – Bensalem
Owner/Operator: Greenwood Gaming and Entertainment
Parx Racing is Pennsylvania’s flagship thoroughbred track. It hosts year-round racing, large-scale events, and offers full pari-mutuel wagering. The track also integrates its racing with Parx Casino and Parx Online Poker and Sportsbook operations.
Penn National Race Course – Grantville
Owner/Operator: Penn Entertainment
This racetrack offers thoroughbred and harness racing along with a retail sportsbook and online wagering options. Penn National Race Course is a major draw in central Pennsylvania.
Presque Isle Downs & Casino – Erie
Owner/Operator: Churchill Downs Incorporated
Located in Erie, Presque Isle Downs combines thoroughbred racing with casino gaming. The track offers live racing, simulcast betting, and a variety of gaming amenities.
Harrah’s Philadelphia Racetrack – Chester
Owner/Operator: Caesars Entertainment
Harrah’s Philadelphia combines harness racing with casino operations. The venue supports live and simulcast betting, alongside other casino amenities.
Meadows Racetrack & Casino – Washington
Owner/Operator: Pinnacle Entertainment / Boyd Gaming
Meadows features standardbred racing and integrates casino gaming, including slots, table games, and online wagering. It serves western Pennsylvania with both live and online betting options.
Pennsylvania Online Horse Betting
Status: Legal
Online horse betting is fully legal in Pennsylvania, regulated under the Pennsylvania Race Horse Development and Gaming Act (Act 71 of 2004) and overseen by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB).
Licensed racetracks and their affiliated online platforms offer pari-mutuel wagering on thoroughbred and harness races throughout the state.
Players can place bets from anywhere within Pennsylvania on live races, simulcast events, and approved online platforms connected to licensed tracks.
Moreover, online horse betting includes standard wagers such as win, place, show, exacta, trifecta, and multi-race bets.
The regulated online environment ensures secure transactions, fair play, and responsible gaming, while supporting the broader equine and racing industry.
Pennsylvania’s combination of land-based tracks and online wagering makes it one of the country’s most comprehensive horse betting markets.
List of Online Horse Betting Operations in Pennsylvania
Parx Racing – Bensalem
Owner/Operator: Greenwood Gaming and Entertainment
Parx Racing offers online horse betting through its official platform. Players can wager on live races, simulcasts, and multi-race bets. Its online system integrates with Parx Casino and Sportsbook for a seamless experience.
Penn National Race Course – Grantville
Owner/Operator: Penn Entertainment
Penn National provides a robust online horse betting platform for thoroughbred and harness racing. Bettors can access live streams, place pari-mutuel wagers, and enjoy integration with Penn’s online casino and sportsbook.
Presque Isle Downs & Casino – Erie
Owner/Operator: Churchill Downs Incorporated
Presque Isle Downs allows online wagering on live and simulcast races. The platform includes standard bet types and supports a secure online betting environment.
Harrah’s Philadelphia Racetrack – Chester
Owner/Operator: Caesars Entertainment
Harrah’s Philadelphia offers online horse betting tied to its harness racing schedule. Players can place bets from anywhere in Pennsylvania on live and simulcast events.
Meadows Racetrack & Casino – Washington
Owner/Operator: Pinnacle Entertainment / Boyd Gaming
Meadows provides online betting on both standardbred and simulcast races. The platform is integrated with its casino operations for easy access to promotions and wagering options.
Online Horse Betting Options for Pennsylvania Residents
Online horse betting based offshore that accept U.S. players serve as an alternative for Pennsylvania 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.
Pennsylvania Lotteries
Status: Legal
Lotteries are fully legal in Pennsylvania and are operated under the Pennsylvania Lottery Act of 1971.
The Pennsylvania Lottery is a state-run program that generates revenue for programs benefiting older residents, including property tax relief, healthcare, and other senior services.
Moreover, the state offers a variety of lottery games, including draw games like Powerball, Mega Millions, and Cash4Life, as well as instant scratch-off tickets.
All games are regulated by the Pennsylvania Lottery Commission, ensuring fairness, secure transactions, and responsible play.
Pennsylvania’s lottery is widely accessible at retail locations and approved online platforms, making it one of the nation’s largest.
Top Pennsylvania Lotteries
Powerball
Owner/Operator: Multi-State Lottery Association (MUSL) in partnership with the Pennsylvania Lottery
A popular multi-state draw game with jackpots often reaching hundreds of millions. Players pick five numbers plus a Powerball number for a chance at massive prizes.
Mega Millions
Owner/Operator: Participating state lotteries, including the Pennsylvania Lottery
Another multi-state draw game offering huge jackpots. Players select five numbers and a Mega Ball number.
Cash4Life
Owner/Operator: Multi-State Lottery Association (MUSL) in partnership with the Pennsylvania Lottery
Players can win $1,000 a day for life or $1,000 a week for life by matching five numbers plus a Cash Ball number.
Match 6 Lotto
Owner/Operator: Pennsylvania Lottery
A state-only draw game where players select six numbers. Top prizes can reach $1 million or more.
Pick 2, Pick 3, Pick 4, Pick 5
Owner/Operator: Pennsylvania Lottery
Daily number games that allow players to select 2 to 5 digits, offering multiple betting options and payouts depending on the play type.
Instant Scratch-Offs
Owner/Operator: Pennsylvania Lottery
Tickets with immediate prize reveals. They come in a variety of themes and price points, offering both small and large prizes instantly.
Pennsylvania Sweepstakes
Status: Promotional Sweepstakes (Legal); Sweepstakes Casinos (Legal)
Sweepstakes and sweepstakes-style casinos operate legally in Pennsylvania under a unique framework that differentiates them from traditional gambling.
These establishments use a promotional model where players purchase a product or service and receive sweepstakes entries as a bonus. Winnings are determined by a randomized system rather than direct betting, which allows them to operate without a traditional gaming license.
These casinos are regulated to ensure compliance with state laws, including consumer protection standards.
Players can access a variety of games, such as slots, video poker, and table-style games, while participating in sweepstakes promotions.
While sweepstakes casinos offer a gambling-like experience, their legal structure allows them to function outside the traditional casino licensing system.
This has contributed to their popularity, particularly in areas where traditional casino access may be limited.
List of Sweepstakes Platforms in Pennsylvania
Vegas Gems
Operator: JSP Media Holdings Ltd
Established in 2023 and based in Dublin, Ireland, JSP Media Holdings Ltd operates Vegas Gems. The platform offers a sweepstakes-style casino experience with over 1,300 games, including slots and table games.
Players can earn Gems (Sweeps Coins) through various promotions and activities, which can be redeemed for cash prizes or other rewards.
Zula Casino
Operator: Blazesoft
Blazesoft is the operator behind Zula Casino, a sweepstakes platform offering a variety of casino-style games. The company has also launched new mobile apps to enhance user experience and accessibility.
Pulsz
Operator: Pulsz Gaming Inc.
Pulsz Gaming Inc. operates the Pulsz sweepstakes platform, providing a wide selection of social casino games. The company has faced regulatory challenges in certain states, leading to its exit from markets like Arizona.
RealPrize Casino
Operator: RealPlay Tech Inc.
RealPlay Tech Inc., based in Kent, Delaware, operates RealPrize Casino. The platform offers a sweepstakes-style gaming experience with a variety of games and promotional offers.
Clubs Casino
Operator: KHK Games
KHK Games, based in Philadelphia, operates Clubs Casino. The platform offers a sweepstakes-style casino experience with games like slots and table games. Clubs Casino is legal in most U.S. states, with some exceptions.
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