When gambling in the Buckeye State, knowing what’s legal or not can be challenging. So, we put together this guide taking you through the ins and outs of casinos in Ohio, from laws and taxes to how to wager online.
We also rank and review the top Ohio real money online casinos, so you can find the one that most appeals to you. So, keep reading to find out which sites topped our list and where to find the most exciting bonuses.
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Casino Legislation in Ohio – A Timeline
Although Ohio has legalized some forms of gambling, it is yet to authorize others. Further, the state’s relatively firm stance against casinos means that it hasn’t made many moves in the past to amend this. But, recently, a few key changes have come about, for instance, Gov. Mike DeWine signed HB29 in 2021, legalizing sports betting. So, let’s take a look at the timeline of casinos in Ohio:
- 1933: Ohio’s General Assembly legalizes horse racing betting.
- 1980: Voters approve the establishment of the Ohio Lotto Commission. Additionally, an attempt to legalize casino gambling fails.
- 1990: Ohio citizens again vote against legalizing casino gambling.
- 1996: Voters move in favor of keeping riverboat casinos illegal.
- 2009: Lawmakers in Ohio authorize casinos in four cities, namely Cincinnati, Columbus, Cleveland, and Toledo.
- 2011: The state legalizes Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs). However, Lawmakers stipulate they can only be set up at racetracks.
- 2021: Governor Mike DeWine signed HB29 in December, legalizing sports betting in the state. However, sports betting will only come into effect in early 2023.
List of the Best Ohio Online Casinos
So, if you’re keen to find out which real money online casinos in Ohio our experts rank as the cream of the crop, take a look at the list below:
- Wild Casino – Top Bonuses of all the Casinos in Ohio
- Everygame – Best of all the Oregon Casinos for Sports Betting
- Bovada – Most Versatile App of all the Ohio Casinos
- Las Atlantis – OH Casino with the Best Daily Promotions
- Super Slots – Best Casino in OH for Roulette
- Slots.lv – Best Jackpot Slots of all the Ohio Online Casinos
- Ignition – The Best Ohio Casino Overall
- El Royale – Ohio’s Premier Casino for Versatile Betting Limits
- Cafe Casino – Most Exciting Progressive Slots in OH
- BetOnline – Best Gambling Selection of all the Casinos in Ohio
The Best Ohio Online Casinos Reviewed
In addition to providing a list of the top online casinos in Ohio, we also reviewed our top five so you can see why they made our list:
1. Ignition – The Best Ohio Online Casino Overall
Occasionally, a new online casino catches the attention of our experts, and Ignition is one of them. Despite only launching in 2016, this site offers many features that left our experts impressed.
Firstly, Ignition drew us in with its generous promos. For example, following their first deposit, new players can claim a 50% match deposit up to $1,500. Similarly, Ignition gives crypto players promos up to $3,000. However, the site adds convenience by automatically applying these rewards, so there is no need for an Ignition promo code.
In addition to these promos, Ignition, one of the best Litecoin casinos, accepts several payment methods, making it easy to make that initial deposit.
So, once players have signed up and claimed their promo, what can they expect to find on the site? Surprisingly, Ignition features over 280 casino games. Further, these games offer exceptional quality and diversity. As a result, players can find 218 slots, 22 specialty games like Keno, and 28 table games. Additionally, Ignition features one of the most extensive live dealer suites. So, it makes sense then that experts rank Ignition as one of the best blackjack sites in Ohio.
Pros: Cons:
2. Slots.lv – Best Jackpot Slots of all the Ohio Online Casinos
When it comes to the best new slots sites, OH players will find there isn’t better than Slots.lv. Although this Curacao casino offers over 400 games, it focuses mainly on slots, providing 193 different slot options for players to explore. However, the site takes it further with additional options like progressive slots and competitive tournaments. Additionally, Slots.lv works with top software developers RTG and BetSoft to create its games. So, players can expect high-quality classics like 777 Deluxe and newer titles like Golden Buffalo and Raving Wildz.
But, this online casino offers more than just slots. Instead, gamers can enjoy an impressive video poker suite, live dealer options, and several table games.
Unquestionably, Slots.lv’s promos are as exciting as its games selection. For instance, new gamers funding their accounts for the first time can claim a 200% welcome bonus of up to $1,000. But, OH players must use the Slots.lv promo code HELLOSLOTS200 to access the reward. Additionally, crypto players can claim a 300% crypto welcome match deposit of up to $1,500.
Pros: Cons:
3. Wild Casino – Top Bonuses of all the Casinos in Ohio
Although not one of the casinos in Ohio with coin pushers, Wild Casino is worth visiting. Despite launching as recently as 2017, the site has grown to offer the same features as its more established competitors. As a result, gamers can find over 300 casino games to enjoy, including 240 vibrant slots and nearly 100 table games. Additionally, Wild Casino features specialty games and live dealer options.
In addition to a large selection of games, Wild Casino ensures each is of the highest quality by working with leading developers like FreshDeck Studios and BetSoft. So, it is no surprise that Wild Casino ranks as one of Ohio’s best gambling sites.
Another feature that caught our attention is Wild Casino’s wide selection of accepted payment methods. Since it offers 15 options, it is easy for players to deposit and withdraw funds. Further, Wild Casino ranks as one of the best Bitcoin casinos and accepts several forms of cryptocurrency.
In addition to these impressive features, Wild Casino provides special promos. For example, following their first deposit, Ohio gamers can claim a whopping 250% matched deposit of up to $1,000 when using the Wild Casino promo code WILD250. Additionally, players can access a 100% bonus of up to $1,000 for their 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th deposits using the code WILD100.
Pros: Cons:
4. Bovada – Most Versatile App of all the Ohio Casinos
Unquestionably, one of the online casinos in Ohio with the best reputation is Bovada. Since the site launched in 2011, it has grown to feature an extensive gambling offering. Firstly, the site provides various casino games, including slots and several table games like American and European roulette. Further, gamers can discover 36 live dealer options and enjoy a high average RTP of 97.8% across the site.
In addition to a casino, the site also caters to sports fans by providing an extensive sportsbook. As a result, bettors can wager on various sports markets, including the NBA, NFL, NHL, and MMA. So, if you’re looking for the best MLB betting sites, give Bovada a try.
Another outstanding feature Bovada offers is a downloadable app that allows OH players to wager on the go. Since gamers can easily download the platform from the Apple AppStore or the Google PlayStore, it is easily accessible. Because it is so versatile and functional, this feature ranks as one of Ohio’s best gambling apps.
Finally, Bovada offers new players a generous welcome bonus of 125% up to $1,250 once they have made their first deposit. But, to access the promo, they must use the Bovada bonus code: BTCCW1250.
Pros: Cons:
5. BetOnline – Best Gambling Selection of all the Casinos in Ohio
Another online casino in Ohio with an outstanding reputation is BetOnline. Since the site launched in 2001, it has grown substantially, building up its casino and adding to its other gambling markets. As a result, BetOnline ranks as one of the biggest online casinos, providing nearly 500 casino games. So, Ohio players can expect to find over 100 slot options, including jackpot and progressive slots, and various table games like blackjack and keno. Additionally, BetOnline caters to players wanting to raise the stakes, placing it as one of the best high roller casinos in the state.
In addition to its impressive casino games, created by developers like Nucleus Gaming and BetSoft, BetOnline offers an extensive sportsbook. As a result, sports fans can wager on numerous sports, from the NFL to the NHL and NBA. Further, the site live-streams major sporting events so players can catch the games in real-time. So, it is no surprise that we rank BetOnline as one of Ohio’s top betting sites.
Besides these extensive gambling markets, BetOnline also comes through with generous promos. For example, when they have made their first deposit, new players can access a 100% matched deposit of up to $1,000. However, Ohio players must use the BetOnline promo code BOL1000 to unlock the promo.
Pros: Cons:
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Real Money Online Casinos in Ohio Compared
When it comes to choosing the best online casinos in Ohio, comparing their features makes the task simple. So, we created the table below so you can compare their offerings at a glance:
| Casino | Games Available | Number of Games | Software Providers | Payment Method | Welcome Bonus | Wager Requirement |
| Ignition | 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 | 150% Deposit match up to $1,500 | 25X |
| Slots.lv | 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 | 200% deposit match up to $1,000 | 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 |
| 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 |
| Cafe Casino | 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 $1,500 | 40X |
| XBet | 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 | 200% deposit match up to $500 | 40X |
| 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 | 50% deposit match up to $625 | 30X |
| MYB | 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 | 200% deposit bonus up to $1,000 | 40X |
| Big Spin | 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 | 200% deposit match up to $1,000 | 30X |
Ohio Online Casino – Who Can Play?
When it comes to playing at online casinos in Ohio, players will need to meet a few requirements before signing up. For instance, OH residents will need a computer and an internet connection to access the casino sites.
Additionally, gamers must be of legal gambling age. While The Buckeye state requires players to be 16 to play bingo or 18 to wager on horses or play keno, they must be 21 or older to visit a casino. As a result, OH players must be 21 to access an online casino.
How to Use a Real Money Online Casino From Ohio
Although most real money online casinos in Ohio are relatively easy to use, navigating them can be tricky at first. However, by following the quick steps below, players will soon be operating these sites like pros. So, let’s jump in!
1. Signing Up for an Account
Firstly, launch the Ignition website on your browser, then locate the orange “Join” button and click it. Thereafter, fill in your details on the “create account” page that opens before clicking the “Create Account” button.
2. Account Verification
Another step in the sign-up process is account verification. As a result, Ignition automatically sends a verification email to your given address when you create your account. So, you’ll need to open your inbox, find the Ignition verification email, and click the link within to complete verification.
3. Making Your Initial Deposit
Following verification, you’ll need to fund your Ignition account. So, navigate to the “Cashier” tab, click it, and choose your preferred payment method from the options. Then, follow the prompts to make your deposit.
4. Choosing a Game and Placing Your First Bet
Finally, you can place your first bet with Ignition. So, browse the casino games available and click on the one you want to play. Then, type in your bet value on the bet slip before clicking “Place Bet.”
Is Playing at Ohio Online Casinos Legal?
Despite having recently legalized online sports betting, Ohio remains firm in its stance against online casinos. As a result, online casino gambling in the Buckeye State remains illegal. However, the legalization of land-based casinos in 2009 and sports betting leaves OH players hopeful that lawmakers will legalize online casinos.
But, until then, gamers in the state can use the best offshore online casinos highlighted in this guide. While online casinos in Ohio are prohibited, these top offshore betting sites base themselves outside the U.S. As a result, federal and state gambling laws have no jurisdiction over them, rendering them legal for use.
When will Ohio Online Casinos be Legal?
Presently, there is no pending legislation to legalize online casinos in Ohio. Nor does it seem there will be any time soon. However, gamers are hopeful this may change in light of the recent legalization of sports betting in the state.
But, until then, gamers can visit one of the legal land-based establishments found in the state:
Cleveland Ohio Casinos
When looking on the map of casinos in Ohio, gamers will find that Cleveland is one of the four cities in the state permitted to open a land-based gambling establishment. However, the license only allows one casino, the JACK Cleveland Casino. So, visitors to the city can head to this venue to enjoy over 1,600 slots, 125 table games, and a 30-table poker room.
Columbus Ohio Casinos
When visiting Columbus, bettors will find two gambling establishments. Firstly, the town’s licensed casino, the Hollywood Casino Columbus, is one of a few Hollywood casinos in Ohio. Besides offering a spacious poker room, the casino provides gamers with over 2,200 slots and 70 table games.
In addition, visitors to Columbus can seek out Eldorado Gaming at Scioto Downs, a racetrack featuring video lottery terminals.
Dayton Ohio Casinos
While gamers won’t find a dedicated casino in Dayton, Ohio (it isn’t one of the cities approved to establish a casino), they can visit Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway. Although primarily a racetrack, gamers will also find video lottery terminals on-site.
Cincinnati Ohio Casinos
Besides Columbus, Cleveland, and Toledo, Cincinnati is the fourth city in Ohio permitted to open a casino. So, those looking for casinos in Ohio open in Cincinnati can head to the Hard Rock Casino to enjoy round-the-clock gaming. Additionally, gamers can discover 1,600 different slots and over 100 table games. But, if you’re into the races, you’ll find Belterra Park offers a range of video lottery terminals.
Taxes Imposed on Online Casino Winnings in Ohio
Presently, Ohio imposes an income tax of just 4% on winnings, making it one of the states with the lowest gambling tax rates. However, the IRS requires the state to withhold a federal gambling tax of 24% in addition to the state income tax applied.
Payment Methods Accepted at the Best Real Money Online Casino Ohio Sites
Besides many other features, the best casinos in Ohio offer players several ways to deposit and withdraw funds. So, let’s look at some of the more popular payment methods accepted by these sites:
Casinos Accepting Cryptocurrency
Although a relatively new payment method, cryptocurrency offers exceptional security. As a result, more players are using it to fund their online casino accounts. Further, many online casinos in Ohio encourage players to use this method and accept various forms of crypto, including Ripple, Ethereum, Bitcoin, Dogecoin, and Litecoin.
So, if you’re looking for the best Ethereum casinos in Ohio, try BetUS, BetOnline, or MYB.
Casinos Accepting E-Wallet
Another payment method that offers excellent fraud prevention is E-wallets. As a result, those visiting casinos online in Ohio to win money often use these services to deposit and withdraw funds. So, many online sites are now accepting various providers like Skrill, PayForIt, EcoPayz, Neteller, and PayPal.
So, if you’re looking for the best E-wallet casino, try BetOnline, which accepts Neteller and eCheck. Similarly, Wild Casino, Ignition, and Bovada rank as top PayPal casinos in Ohio.
Casinos Taking Traditional Payment Methods
While some players are happy to use crypto or E-wallets, others prefer more traditional payment methods like credit cards, debit cards, cashier’s checks, or bank wire transfers. As a result, many online casinos in Ohio take payment in these forms.
For instance, BetUS and Wild Casino accept bank wires, while Ignition and BigSpin are some of the best casinos that accept Visa.
Bonuses Offered at Ohio Online Casinos
Undeniably, there are many more sites than just those on our list of casinos in Ohio. Because there are so many sites, they compete to sign up new players by offering exciting and generous promos. So, let’s review some of the best casino bonuses available:
Matched Deposits
Unquestionably, the most common casino promo is the Matched Deposit. In this case, the casino rewards players for funding their accounts by matching their deposits up to a specific amount. For example, a casino offering a 100% matched deposit up to $1,200 will give a player depositing $900 an additional $900 to spend.
Free Spins
Occasionally, real money online casinos in Ohio with a large slots selection will include Free Spins in the welcome bonus. In this case, the casino gives a player a set amount of spins on the slots for free. Further, the casino allows the player to keep any winnings earned from free spins.
No Deposit Bonuses
Although the Matched Deposit requires players to fund their accounts first, the No Deposit Bonus rewards them for simply signing up. In this case, the casino gives a player credits to explore the site risk-free. However, the player often deposits funds to continue playing once the credit runs out, gaining a new player for the site.
Popular Games to Enjoy at Ohio Online Casino
While generous promos may gain new players for an online casino, the games they offer keep the players coming back. So, let’s look at the most popular casino games on offer:
Ohio Casino Sites Offering Slots
Undoubtedly, slots are one of the most popular casino games. Since they offer instant rewards and don’t come with many rules, they are fun and easy to enjoy. As a result, many online casinos offer a wide assortment of slots. For instance, one of the best high limit slots sites, Slots.lv, offers 193 options and features jackpot slots that often top $1 million.
Similarly, Wild Casino hosts competitive slots tournaments, while Cafe Casino has an exciting selection of progressive slots. But, if it’s the casino with the highest RTP slots you’re after, visit Bovada.
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Ohio Casino Sites Offering Table Games
Another popular casino gaming option in Ohio casinos is table games. While these require a little knowledge of specific rules, they test the player’s skills and luck. As a result, many online casinos offer options like Sic Bo, Pai Gow, Craps, Baccarat, Caribbean Stud, Big Six Wheel, Roulette, Poker, Video Poker, Blackjack, and Keno.
So, if you’re hunting down the best online Roulette casinos, try Bovada, Ignition, or Wild Casino.
Live Casinos in Ohio
Besides typical table games, some online casinos in Ohio offer gamers a more authentic casino experience by providing live dealer games. In this case, the casino live-streams table games as they play out in real-time. Further, players can watch and participate, placing their bets with the dealer over live chat.
Because these games offer a unique experience, they are gaining popularity, and more Ohio casinos are offering them. So, try Ignition, Bovada, or Wild Casino for the best live casinos.
Ohio Online Casinos Vs. Online Casinos in the Neighboring States
Although OH residents can legally bet on sports from 2023, the state prohibits online casinos. However, a quick trip across the border to a neighboring state makes playing online casino games a breeze. For instance, gamers can visit the best online casinos in Indiana or try out the top gambling sites in Pennsylvania. Similarly, the best sports betting sites in West Virginia are also worth looking into, as are Michigan’s top online casinos.
Land-Based Ohio Casinos
Although Ohio legalized online casinos in 2009, the state limited the opening of these establishments to just four cities, Toledo, Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Columbus. Additionally, each town is only permitted to open one casino, so there are no chances of new casinos opening in Ohio. However, the state also authorizes federally recognized Tribes to open casinos of their own. But, gamers will find there are presently no Indian casinos in Ohio. So, let’s take a look at a list of open casinos in OH:
| Casino | Address | Opening Hours |
| Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati | 1000 Broadway Street, Cincinnati | 24-hours |
| Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway | 777 Hollywood Boulevard, Dayton | 24-hours |
| JACK Thistledown Racino | 21501 Emery Road, North Randall | 24-hours |
| Toledo Hollywood Casino | 1968 Miami Street, Toledo | 24-hours |
| JACK Casino Cleveland | 100 Public Square, Cleveland | 24-hours |
| Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs | 6000 S High Street, Columbus | 24-hours |
| Hollywood Casino Columbus | 200 Georgesville Road, Columbus | 24-hours |
| Belterra Park | 6301 Kellogg Road, Cincinnati | 24-hours |
| MGM Northfield Park | 10777 Northfield Road, Northfield | 24-hours |
| Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course | 655 N Canfield Niles Road, Youngstown | 24-hours |
| Miami Valley Gaming | 6000 SR 63, Lebanon | 24-hours |
Best Real Money Online Casino Ohio Has to Offer
While Ohio permits online sports betting, the state stands firm against online casinos. But that doesn’t mean players in OH are without options. Instead, gamers can use the best online casino in Ohio to play their favorite slots or table games.
So, don’t waste a minute more. Instead, sign up with Ignition and claim a whopping welcome bonus.
