Kentucky doesn’t have any tribal or commercial casinos, so the local gambling enthusiasts tend to focus on pari-mutuel betting during the Kentucky Derby. The locals usually go to the neighboring states of Indiana and Ohio in order to get some live brick-and-mortar casino action. Like most US-states, Kentucky operates its own lottery and allows some forms of charitable gambling. The state has limited online gambling regulations, but hasn’t launched its own iGaming industry so far.
Online Gambling in Kentucky
Kentucky Statutes are rather severe when it comes to dealing with unlawful gambling operations, but fortunately the state doesn’t prohibit participating in unlicensed games as a player. This obviously extends to online games, which means that Kentucky residents and visitors are allowed to play on offshore sites despite the fact that the local regulations have been updated in order to specifically criminalize running online gambling sites from within the borders of the state.
Casinos & Sportsbooks Accepting Players From Kentucky
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Casino Games
Kentucky landscape is devoid of any commercial or tribal casinos, so if you’re a Kentucky resident or if you’re simply visiting the state and you’d like to play slots or table games, your only option is to sign up with one of the numerous Kansas-friendly offshore sites. Our experts have already checked which of those sites are trustworthy while simultaneously offering high-quality games. The list is available below and we wholeheartedly believe that every casino enthusiast should give all of those sites a try.
Sports Betting
Kentucky has five major horse racing venues. Obviously, Churchill Downs is the most important one as it is the site of Kentucky Derby. However, those facilities aren’t going to be all that useful if you prefer to wager on other American or European sports, such as baseball, basketball, football, tennis or soccer. In such a case, we recommend sticking to reputable Kentucky-facing sports betting sites, which have been listed below for your convenience.
Poker
Poker has always been an important part of the Kentucky gambling tradition. As briefly touched on above live games for the local scene are usually held at Ohio and Indiana venues. If you don’t really feel like travelling, playing online is your best option. As you probably already know, choosing the right poker network is very important, as it ensures that you’ll be able to access the largest player pool. Below, you’ll find a short list of poker networks that are suitable for a demanding Kentucky-based poker aficionado.
Online Gambling FAQ
Where can I find regulations that pertain to gambling in Kentucky?
Everything is covered by Section 528 of Kentucky Statutes.
What forms of gambling are legal and regulated within the borders of Kentucky?
Pari-mutuel betting, charitable gambling and a state operated lottery are the only regulated gambling options available to Kentucky citizens.
What is the legal status of online gambling in Kentucky?
Participating in online gambling as a player isn’t considered a punishable offence.
Do offshore gambling sites accept Kentucky residents?
Yes, virtually every major site will be glad to accept a new customer from Kentucky.
How can I deposit to an offshore gambling site from Kentucky?
You can use your credit or debit card as long as it has been cleared for international transactions.
How can I withdraw my money from an offshore iGaming site if I live in Kentucky?
You can withdraw your winnings via a wire transfer or via a check by courier if you don’t mind waiting and covering the additional fees.
Is Kentucky planning to regulate online gambling in the future?
Kentucky lawmakers have already passed new middle of the road regulations and they don’t seem to be likely to change their minds.
Gambling History – Interesting Facts
1. Back in the 1900s Kentucky used to be an illegal gambling hotspot, complete with the local gangsters, corruption and massive crime problems.
2. The first Kentucky Derby were held in 1875. The winner of the contest received $2,850.
Kentucky Gambling Resources
Kentucky Revised Statutes:
http://www.lrc.ky.gov/statutes/
Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling:
Kentucky Derby: