Kentucky takes a firm stance when it comes to gambling, allowing only a few forms of betting within state lines. As a result, knowing what’s legal and what’s not can prove tricky. However, a quick read of this guide will fill you in on everything you need to know about casinos in Kentucky, from taxes to how to place a bet online.
We also rank and review the best real money online casinos in Kentucky. So, keep reading to find out which sites made our list and where to find the most generous casino bonuses.
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Casino Legislation in Kentucky – A Timeline
When it comes to gambling history, Kentucky doesn’t have much. Since the state prohibits most forms of gambling, the casino timeline is relatively uneventful. However, there are a few noteworthy moments, so let’s look:
- 1875: The first horse races of the Kentucky Derby take place.
- 1920: Kentucky permits pari-mutuel betting at state racetracks.
- 1931: Lawmakers propose to ban horse racing betting. However, the measure was thrown out.
- 1988: Kentucky introduced a state lottery.
- 1992: The state legalized bingo games under the new Charitable Gaming regulations.
- 2008: Kentucky seized over 140 domain names offering online poker. This initiative was part of an operation to eliminate unlicensed online poker rooms across the US.
- 2011: Lawmakers fail to pass a bill licensing slot games within the state.
- 2016: Senator Julie Raque Adams and Senator Morgan McGarvey attempt to pass a bill allowing land-based casinos in the state. However, strong opposition from the local racing industry saw the bill fail.
- 2019: The state tabled four Kentucky sports betting bills to regulate DFS, poker, and sports betting.
- 2020: Rep. Adam Koenig introduced a bill to legalize sports betting with little opposition. However, the Covid-19 pandemic saw the bill pushed aside.
- 2021: A second attempt to pass the bill falls short due to further COVID complications. As a result, the House adjourned any decisions until 2022.
The Best Real Money Online Casino Kentucky List 2023
Although there are many fantastic real money online casinos in Kentucky, the list below highlights our experts’ top picks:
- Las Atlantis– The Best Kentucky Casinos Overall
- Wild Casino – Most Impressive Bonuses of all the Kentucky Casinos
- Bovada – Top Kentucky Online Casinos for Gambling Variety
- MyBookie– Best Casinos in Kentucky for Roulette
- El Royale – KY Casinos with the Best Old Hollywood Table Games
- BetOnline – Online Casinos in Kentucky with a Fantastic Sportsbook
- BUSR – Best Online Casinos in Kentucky for Fast Payouts
- BetUS – Top KY Casinos for Low Minimum Deposits
- Super Slots – Largest Game Selection of all the Casinos in Kentucky
- Big Spin – Best Jackpot Slots of all the Casinos in Kentucky
The Best Real Money Online Casinos in Kentucky Reviewed
Although any of the ten sites on our list of casinos in Kentucky are worth visiting, five stood out. So, let’s look at them in closer detail:
1. Las Atlantis – The Best Kentucky Casinos Overall
Unquestionably the best online casino on our list, Las Atlantis ticks all the right boxes. For instance, this site uses SSL encryption offering KY players a secure place to gamble.
In addition to security, Las Atlantis features 280 high-quality games covering a wide selection of choices, including slots, table games like roulette, and an extensive offering of live dealer games. So, if you’re looking for the best blackjack casinos, make sure you give Las Atlantis a try.
Since Las Atlantis places the needs of its customers first, the site rewards new players with a generous welcome bonus. Following their first deposit, Las Atlantis automatically applies a 280% deposit match of up to $14,000. As a result, there is no need for a Las Atlantis promo code.
Pros: Cons:
2. MyBookie – Top Kentucky Online Casinos for Gambling Variety
Instead of offering equal amounts of different casino games, MyBookie takes a different route, placing slots as its primary focus. As a result, KY gamers have over 193 slots to choose from, including options like Reels and Wheels, Golden Buffalo, and 777 Deluxe.
However, that doesn’t mean that the site doesn’t offer other casino games. Conversely, KY gamers can play video poker, table games, and various live dealer options. So, those looking for the best baccarat gambling sites may want to give MyBookie a try.
In addition to offering high-quality games from top software developers, MyBookie also provides impressive bonuses. For example, new players are eligible for a matched deposit bonus of 150% up to $750 when making an initial deposit. But, KY gamers must use the MyBookie promo code: MYB150 to activate the reward.
Pros: Cons:
3. Wild Casino – Most Impressive Bonuses of all the Kentucky Casinos
Another online casino in Kentucky that deserves mention is Wild Casino. In addition to working with leading software developer BetSoft to create its games, the site offers exceptional game variety. As a result, KY players have several options, including roulette, keno, blackjack, slots, and several live dealer games.
Despite being a relatively new online site, Wild Casino offers the same perks as other established online casinos. For instance, the site accepts 15 different payment methods, making it easy for gamers to deposit and withdraw funds.
Another impressive feature is the welcome bonus offered to new players making their first deposit. In this case, Wild Casino awards players with a 250% matched deposit of up to $1,000. However, KY players must use the Wild Casino promo code WILD250.
Pros: Cons:
4. Bovada – Top Kentucky Online Casinos for Gambling Variety
When it comes to reputation, you can’t find a better than Bovada. As a result of the site’s fast payouts and an impressive selection of gambling options, it is a firm fan favorite. So, what does Bovada offer? In addition to a collection of slots, table games, and live dealer options, Bovada offers KY gamers a sportsbook with a large assortment of sports markets.
However, the site doesn’t end its offerings there. Instead, it makes it easy for KY players to gamble on the go by providing a downloadable app. Because the platform is so versatile and easy to use, it ranks as one of the best gambling apps in Kentucky.
Further, new gamers can enjoy the whopping welcome bonus of a 125% match bonus of up to $1,250. But, to unlock the reward, players must use the Bovada bonus code BTCCW1250 when making their first deposit.
Pros: Cons:
5. BetOnline – Largest Game Selection of all the Casinos in Kentucky
When looking for the casinos in Kentucky with the best game selection, BetOnline is a definite must. In addition to offering 491 exciting casino games, the site partners with leading software developers Nucleus Gaming and BetSoft. As a result, KY players can expect high-quality gaming options from this, one of Kentucky’s top gambling sites.
However, BetOnline doesn’t limit its gambling options to casino games. Instead, the site ranks as one of Kentucky’s best sports betting sites by providing bettors with an extensive sportsbook and racebook. So, if you’re looking for the best NBA sportsbook, give BetOnline a try.
Further, the online casino gives players a whopping welcome bonus. Following their initial deposit, players can claim a 100% deposit match up to $1,000. However, KY players must use the BetOnline promo code BOLCASINO to access the bonus.
Pros: Cons:
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Comparison of Real Money Online Casinos in Kentucky
Before picking the real money online casinos in Kentucky to play at, it is a great idea to compare their offerings to ensure you find the one that best suits your needs. So, take a look at the table below, which sums up the features of each:
| Casino | Games Available | Number of Games | Software Providers | Payment Method | Welcome Bonus | Wager Requirement |
| Las Atlantis | Slots, blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat, poker, live casino, progressive jackpots, virtual sports | 200+ | Rival Gaming, RealTime Gaming | Visa, MasterCard, American Express, PayPal, Zelle, MatchPay, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum | 250% Deposit match up to $14,000 | 35X |
| Wild Casino | Slots, blackjack, craps, roulette, poker, baccarat, live casino | 250+ | Fresh Deck Studios, Betsoft, Nucleus Gaming | VISA, MasterCard, American Express, PayPal, Discover, Person to Person, Bank Wire, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum, Ripple, Stellar, USD Coin | 250% deposit match up to $1,000 on first deposit | 35X |
| Bovada | Slots, roulette, blackjack, craps, poker, baccarat, progressive jackpots, live casino, sports betting | 200+ | Visionary iGaming, RealTime Gaming, Rival, Revolver Gaming | VISA, MasterCard, American Express, PayPal, MatchPay, Zelle, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin | 125% deposit match up to $1,250 | 25X |
| MyBookie | Slots, blackjack, craps, roulette, poker, baccarat, progressive jackpots, live casino | 400 | RealTime Gaming, Rival, Makitone Gaming | Credit card, Debit card, MatchPay, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin | 150% deposit match up to $1,000 | 35X |
| El Royale | Slots, roulette, blackjack, craps, poker, baccarat, progressive jackpots, live casino | 300+ | RealTime Gaming, Rival, Makitone Gaming | Credit card, Debit card, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum | 250% deposit match up to $12,500 | 35X |
| BetOnline | Roulette, slots, blackjack, craps, poker, baccarat, progressive jackpots, live casino, sports betting | 491 | Magma, BetSoft, Fresh Deck Studios, Concept Gaming, Visionary iGaming | VISA, MasterCard, Person to Person, Dogecoin, eCheck, Wire Transfer, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ripple, Ethereum, Litecoin | 100% Deposit Bonus Up To $1,000 | 30X |
| Everygame | Slots, roulette, blackjack, craps, poker, baccarat, live casino, sports betting | 200+ | BetSoft, Concept Gaming, Fresh Deck Studios, Visionary iGaming, Magma | Credit card, Debit card, Wire Transfer, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ripple, Ethereum, Litecoin | 100% deposit bonus up to $1,000 | 30X |
| BUSR | Slots, roulette, blackjack, craps, poker, baccarat, live casino, sports betting | 200+ | Magma, Fresh Deck Studios, BetSoft, Concept Gaming, Visionary iGaming | Credit card, Debit card, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin | 150% deposit match up to $1,500 | 35X |
| BetUS | Slots, roulette, blackjack, craps, poker, baccarat, live casino, sports betting | 300+ | Magma, Fresh Deck Studios, Visionary iGaming, Betsoft | Credit card, Debit card, eCheck, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum | 150% deposit match up to $3,125 | 30X |
| Super Slots | Slots, roulette, blackjack, roulette, craps, poker, baccarat, live casino | 213 | BetSoft, Concept Gaming, Fresh Deck Studios, Visionary iGaming, Magma | Credit card, Debit card, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum, Ripple | 250% deposit match up to $1,000 | 35X |
Kentucky Online Casinos – Who Can Play?
In order to play at real money online casinos in Kentucky, gamers will need to meet a few requirements. For instance, KY players will need a computer and a stable internet connection to access the sites. Further, players must be of legal gambling age, which in Kentucky is 18.
How to Use a Kentucky Casino Online
Although online casinos are relatively easy to use, navigating them for the first time can be challenging. However, following the quick steps below will have you operating the site like a pro. So, let’s get to it!
1. Signing Up for an Account
Firstly, open the Ignition website, navigate to the orange “Join” button and click it. Thereafter, fill in your details on the “create account” page that opens. Last, when you’re ready, select the “Create Account” button.
2. Account Verification
Then, before you can continue, you’ll need to verify your account. When you finish creating your account, Ignition sends a verification email to your address. So, open your inbox and the verification email from Ignition, and click the link to complete the verification.
3. Making Your Initial Deposit
Once you have verified your account, you can fund your Ignition account. So, navigate to the “Cashier” tab, click it, and then, select your preferred payment method. Then, follow the prompts to make your deposit.
4. Choosing a Game and Placing Your First Bet
Finally, you can place your first bet. So, choose a game that you want to play from the games lobby. Then, click the game to open it before typing your bet value onto the bet slip. Lastly, click “Place Bet.”
Is Playing at Kentucky Online Casinos Legal?
While Kentucky permits a state lottery, bingo, and pari-mutuel betting, it stands firm in opposition to casino gambling. As a result, the state prohibits online and in-person casino games and sports betting.
However, the state has no formal legislation prohibiting online gambling, which creates a loophole, allowing residents to enjoy the best offshore online casinos. Further, because these sites base themselves outside the U.S., federal and state gambling laws have no jurisdiction over them. As a result, the best offshore betting sites and sportsbooks like those highlighted in this guide are legal for KY gamers to use.
When will Kentucky Online Casinos be Legal?
Presently, no legislation in the pipeline would legalize real money online casinos in Kentucky. Despite lawmakers’ pushing for sports betting to become legal in the state, there has been no move to regulate online casinos. Since the state takes a firm stance on casinos, online gambling becoming legal soon is slim.
However, the state permits residents to engage in online pari-mutuel betting. Further, many racecourses in Kentucky offer instant racing game machines at racetracks.
Casinos in Paducah Kentucky
Gamers with a Kentucky casinos map will find no casinos in Paducah. However, a short trip over state lines across the Ohio River will bring gamers to casinos near Kentucky, like Harrah’s Metropolis, a riverboat casino. Further, gamers will find that the casino offers 642 slot machines, 18 gaming tables, and a hotel. As a result, this is the closest thing gamers will find to casinos in Kentucky with a hotel.
Casinos in Lexington Kentucky
While KY gamers won’t find Kentucky casinos open in Lexington, they can visit The Red Mile Racetrack, which offers 900 gaming machines or instant racing and bingo machines. However, players won’t find any table games or slot machines.
Casinos in Louisville Kentucky
Since the state has no casinos, KY players won’t find any casinos in Louisville either. But, they can visit Derby City Gaming, a racetrack that offers over 1,000 gaming machines. In addition, the racecourse is home to the annual Kentucky Derby, not to be confused with Kentucky Downs, one of the so-called casinos in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
Taxes Imposed on Online Casino Winnings in Kentucky
In addition to withholding a 24% federal tax on any gambling winnings, Kentucky also imposes a state tax. As a result, gamers in the state can expect to pay a 5% tax on their earnings.
Payment Methods Accepted at the Best Real Money Online Casinos Kentucky Has to Offer
The online sites on our Kentucky casinos list enable gamers to make deposits and withdrawals using various payment methods. So, let’s review the most common options:
Casinos Accepting Cryptocurrency
Although still a relatively new concept, cryptocurrency is fast becoming a payment method of choice for KY players funding their casino accounts. Because this method offers greater security and anonymity, players perceive it as safer. As a result, many online casinos in Kentucky accept various forms of crypto, including LiteCoin, Ripple, DogeCoin, Ethereum, and Bitcoin.
So for the best Bitcoin casinos, visit any of the casinos in Kentucky on our list. Similarly, for the best Ripple casinos in KY, try BigSpin, Wild Casino, or MYB.
Casinos Accepting E-Wallet
Following crypto, E-wallet payments are popular among gamers thanks to the fraud protection they offer. As a result, many KY players use services like Skrill, EcoPayz, Neteller, PayForIt, and PayPal.
So, if you’re looking for sites that accept Neteller, try BetOnline or Ignition. Additionally, BetOnline also takes eCheck payments, while Bovada, Wild Casino, and Ignition all offer PayPal as a payment method.
Casinos Taking Traditional Payment Methods
While some players prefer E-wallets or crypto, not everyone has access to these payment methods. As a result, many online casinos in Kentucky accept more traditional payment methods like credit cards, debit cards, cashier’s checks, and bank wires.
So, for the best Kentucky casinos that accept bank wire, try BetUS or Wild Casino. However, those wanting to pay with Visa can use Bovada, Ignition, or BetOnline.
Bonuses Offered at Kentucky Online Casino Sites
Because there are so many online casinos in Kentucky, many compete to sign up new players. As a result, these sites offer various promos to entice players. So, let’s review the most popular bonuses offered:
Matched Deposits
Unquestionably the most common bonus offered by Kentucky casinos is the Matched Deposit Bonus. In this case, the casino rewards players funding their accounts for the first time by matching their deposit up to a specific amount. For example, casinos offering a 100% deposit match up to $1,250 will reward a player depositing $1,000 with an additional $1,000, boosting their bankroll to $2,000.
Free Spins
When a casino has an extensive collection of slots, they often offer free spins on these slots as a welcome bonus. As a result, a player can spin the slots a set number of times free. Further, the casino allows the player to keep any winnings earned from the spins.
No Deposit Bonuses
While some casinos in Kentucky ask players to deposit to earn a bonus, others merely require them to sign up. In this case, the player is provided a No Deposit Bonus, where the casino gives a player free credits to explore the site risk-free. However, the player often deposits funds to continue playing when the credits run out. As a result, the casino gains a new player.
Popular Games to Enjoy at Kentucky Online Casinos
While the best casino bonuses do a lot to draw in new players, these sites rely on their selection of games to keep the players coming back. So, let’s look at the top casino games offered by online casinos in Kentucky:
Kentucky Casino Sites Offering Slots
Undoubtedly, one of the most popular casino games is slots. Because these games offer instant rewards and don’t come with a string of rules, they are fun and easy to play. As a result, many online casinos offer a large selection of slots. For instance, Slots.lv, one of the best new slots sites, features 193 jackpot slots to enjoy. Additionally, those looking for online Kentucky casinos with slots tournaments can visit Wild Casino. Further, Cafe Casino offers an impressive assortment of progressive slots.
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Kentucky Casino Sites Offering Table Games
In addition to slots, many online casinos in Kentucky offer an exciting assortment of table games. As a result, players can find options that include Sic Bo, Craps, Pai Gow, Baccarat, Poker, Caribbean Stud, Roulette, Keno, Video Poker, Blackjack, and Big Six Wheel.
So, KY players looking for the best online Roulette casinos may want to visit Wild Casino or Ignition.
Live Casinos in Kentucky
Despite not having a brick-and-mortar establishment, online casinos in Kentucky can still offer an authentic casino experience by providing live dealer games. In this case, the casino live-streams table games as they play out in real-time. Additionally, players can watch and participate by communicating with the dealer over live chat.
Because of the convenience and excitement, these games offer, more and more online casinos now offer live dealer options. So for the best live casinos, try Ignition with 36 different options, Bovada or Wild Casino.
Kentucky Online Casinos Vs. Online Casinos in the Neighboring States
While Kentucky prohibits online and land-based casinos and sports betting, gamers in the state can travel across borders to neighboring states to enjoy these options.
For instance, gamers visiting WV will find the state permits online gambling and sports betting, making it easy to use the best online casinos in the state. Additionally, players can use the top sports betting sites in West Virginia without hassle.
Further, players can also access Indiana’s best sportsbooks and Ohio’s top gambling sites.
Land-Based Kentucky Casinos
When it comes to gambling in Kentucky casinos, players will discover the state offers no land-based establishments. However, KY features six racetracks that offer instant racing and bingo game machines. So, take a look below for a list of Kentucky raceways with gambling options:
Casino
Address
Opening Hours
Derby City Gaming
4520 Poplar Level Rd, Louisville
9am – 6am
Red Mile
1200 Red Mile Rd, Lexington
10am – 4am
Kentucky Downs
5629 Nashville Rd, Franklin
9am – 3am
Ellis Park Racing & Gaming
3300 US-41, Henderson
10am – 2am
Oak Grove Racing, Gaming & Hotel
777 Winners Way, Oak Grove
8am – 12am
Newport Racing & Gaming
1723 Monmouth St, Newport
10am – 2am
Best Real Money Online Casino Kentucky Has to Offer
While the Bluegrass State permits bingo and instant racing game machines, it prohibits online and in-person casino gaming. Further, sports betting remains illegal in KY too.
However, residents can still play their favorite casino games using the offshore online casinos highlighted in this guide. So, don’t miss out. Instead, sign up with Ignition and claim an exciting welcome bonus.
KY Online Casino FAQs
What casinos are in Kentucky?
Are casinos legal in Kentucky?
Are there casinos in Kentucky?
Are casinos open in Kentucky?
How many casinos are in Kentucky?
