Illinois Casinos and Gambling, online casino illinois.

Online casino illinois

New casino sites to play real money

The tax on raffles and jar games is again one-half of one-percent, which I do not consider as generous as the bingo. The reason why is because many states do not tax the net proceeds of raffles at all and nor do they require any kind of license for the operation of a charitable raffle. This sort of, “convenience gambling,” at its finest is one of the major factors, if not the factor, that lead to those two states ranking right up there with destination casino states in gambling spend (loss) per resident.

Illinois casinos and gambling

Short summary: illinois is fairly liberal when it comes to gambling laws. The charitable gambling regulations are mostly reasonable, the state has a lottery and the casinos can offer whatever they like provided they are located in the water and close for at least two of every 24 hours. The state, like west virginia, also has slot parlors with limited video lottery machines available. The only common forms of gambling not specifically legalized and regulated in the state are online gambling as well as sports betting.

There are plenty of gambling options in the highly gaming-liberal state of illinois. The land of lincoln is a great place to be for gamblers as they have nearly the full gamut of opportunities to play available to them. There is no legalized and state-regulated online gambling at this time, nor is there currently any sports betting, (that won’t take long, we don’t think) but just about anything else is available for you.

The following forms of gambling are available:

• Charitable


• Lottery


• Pari-mutuel (racing)


• Commercial gambling

While it also falls under the general umbrella of, “commercial gambling,” it’s worth mentioning that the land of lincoln also has small establishments, often bars, with a handful of machines that first became big in west virginia and are referred to as, “slot parlors.” technically, vegas had them and referred to them as, “video poker bars,” prior to anyone else, but they are regulated to the same specifics as casinos out there. In states such as west virginia and illinois, these establishments are overseen by the state lottery commissions (which nevada does not have, as they have no lottery) and are governed in terms of game returns, how many games an establishment may possess and what kinds of games they may have.

This sort of, “convenience gambling,” at its finest is one of the major factors, if not the factor, that lead to those two states ranking right up there with destination casino states in gambling spend (loss) per resident.

While the state of illinois engages in both live and simulcast racing operations, the live operations are restricted to horse racing. Fortunately, this is one of the forty states in which the practice of racing greyhound dogs is completely banned and one of the 44 states in which it is either banned or, as a practical matter, just does not take place.

The illinois lottery operates and is part of the multi-state network for national games such as powerball and mega millions. This is not expected to change anytime soon.

As far as charitable gaming is concerned, raffles seem to be generally tolerated without a license in other states, but not here, and there needs to be a license for the organization to offer bingo. There are two types of licenses available:

1. Yearly license: this license costs the organization $200 and gives the organization the ability to operate a weekly bingo game, any weeks that it likes, around the calendar.


2. License per event: for organizations who do not believe they will regularly conduct bingo, the state has an option for you, as well. The option here is to pay $50 for a license that will allow your organization to conduct up to two separate bingo events with each one consisting of up to five days of bingo operations. This is particularly useful if you are a non-profit organization that wishes to operate bingo at a fair, carnival or something along those lines.

The only catch with the per event license is that a single organization may only be granted two such licenses per year, so the result of that is as many as four separate bingo events to total as many as twenty total days.

Regardless of which sort of license an organization chooses, the tax rate on bingo revenues comes in at a fairly trim one-half of one percent. Thus, if your organization were to bring in $100,000 in positive bingo revenues for the year, only $500 in taxes would be due. Don’t you wish your federal income tax worked the same way!?

When it comes to, “monte carlo nights,” which are events in which a charitable organization offers actual casino games, illinois is one of the few states to specifically authorize and regulate that activity. There is a fee of $400 that will allow an organization to conduct up to four such events annually (one day = one event) and each license is good for two years. The tax rate on the actual net proceeds is the same one-half of one percent.

For pull tabs and jar games, an annual license is $500, but that enables an organization to offer those kinds of games anytime they want throughout the entire year. They can offer a 50/50 raffle every single day of the year, if they like. There is also a limited license available for these sorts of games that costs $50 and enables an organization to offer up to two such events consisting of up to five days each, two of these licenses may be obtained per year. It is important to note that these licenses are considered distinct from the bingo licenses, so having one does not enable your organization to do both of these things.

The tax on raffles and jar games is again one-half of one-percent, which I do not consider as generous as the bingo. The reason why is because many states do not tax the net proceeds of raffles at all and nor do they require any kind of license for the operation of a charitable raffle.

Again, the gambling parlors are the ultimate in convenience gambling and seem to be one of the major revenue drivers, in terms of state taxation of gambling revenue, as they are extremely popular and accessible. The places are almost like microscopic casinos with no table games.

Online gambling legality in illinois

The state of illinois has certainly brought up the legalization of online gambling on multiple occasions, but any such attempts thus far have died a legislative death. States such as pennsylvania, new jersey, delaware and (partially) nevada have already done this, so we will see if illinois follows suit given how liberal they usually seem to be when it comes to gambling.

The only problem with illinois when it comes to the legalization and regulation of online gambling is that, like west virginia, they might be concerned that being able to gamble from home could hurt the slot parlors which also hurts lottery commission proceeds. In both of these two states, if you just want to play slots or video keno, gambling couldn’t possibly be more convenient. There’s usually a parlor seemingly within arm’s length unless you live absolutely in the middle of nowhere, or in a county that, for whatever reason, decided to outlaw them.

Either way, parlor operators would almost certainly be against such a measure because it would pull from their business and, quite probably, give business to online casino companies who also happen to be much larger than they are anyway. It’s not like a bar owner with a few video poker machines is going to be able to offer online gambling to the entire state.

The only law in illinois that seems as though it could be applied to players committing unlawful gambling reads like this:

Knowingly plays a game of chance or skill for money or other thing of value, unless excepted in subsection (b) of this section;
knowingly makes a wager upon the result of any game, contest, or any political nomination, appointment or election;

In any case, the law applies to any game that is not specifically authorized by the state. Since the state has yet to specifically authorize online gambling, online gambling would fall under the purview of this law. The result is theoretically a class A misdemeanor, but as far as we can tell, no resident in the land of lincoln has ever been arrested or fined for playing online in his/her own home and we would be absolutely shocked if that were to ever happen.

We will say that illinois enforces their anti-gambling laws pretty strenuously when it comes to unlawful gambling taking place in a physical location, undoubtedly to protect its own financial interests. Here is a story in which a poker ring was busted that saw the arrest of 25 players.

You’re undoubtedly going to be better off gambling online from home than participating in any kind of illegal poker game or other place where illegal forms of gambling are going on. When it comes to physical gambling, illinois has shown a willingness to arrest players and operators alike. Most states, though not all, would just let the players go.

Guide to online casinos in illinois: the best illinois casino sites for 2020

Illinois legalized their first casinos in 1991 and have proved very popular. Casinos are only allowed on the water and generally are on riverboats. Legally each casino must close for at least two hours in a 24 hour time period. All casino games were legal from the beginning although not all casinos host every game type. There are nine casinos currently operating in illinois. Unfortunately, online casinos are not legal in illinois. There have been attempts to legalize but there is a concern it might affect other land based gambling sites.

• We use trusted sources such as: the herald news and the morris herald news to stay on top of all industry related news and developments.


• We aren’t just experts in sports betting, we have dedicated teams across the gambling industry, including for casino games such as slots and have created an online roulette guide.


• We keep on top of any changes to the law by closely following the movements of the illinois gaming board .

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• Morris herald news


• Illinois gaming board

Available casino games in illinois

The casinos in illinois offer a wide variety of games including: slot machines, blackjack, roulette, craps and poker .

It is possible to place bets on horseracing and purchase lottery tickets online, but there are no online casino games available.

• Roulette – players win by guessing where the ball lands when the wheel stops spinning.


• Blackjack – players try to get a card hand as close to 21 as possible.


• Craps – very popular game based on rolling certain combinations of two dice.


• Slots – both video slots and mechanical slots are available.


• Poker – hugely popular card game with many variations of playing type.

Biggest illinois land-based casinos

One of the most popular casinos in illinois is the hollywood casino joliet. The hotel and casino has over 1100 game machines and 20 table games including five poker tables. The par-A-dice casino, opened in 1992 boasts four decks of entertainment with gambling, bar and restaurants.

1. Hollywood casino joliet: 777 hollywood blvd., joliet, illinois


2. Par-A-dice hotel casino – 21 blackjack blvd., east peoria, illinois


3. Rivers casino des plaines – 3000 S. River road, des plaines, illinois


4. Harrah’s casino joliet – 100 east front street, illinois


5. Casino queen – 200 south front street, east st. Louis, illinois

History of casino gambling in illinois

Riverboat casinos made their first appearance in the 1840’s. After the civil war, the majority of unregulated gambling was stopped. Illinois was involved in gambling in horseracing from the 1920’s and was one of the first mid-western states to introduce the lottery. It took until the 1990’s for the casino to make a legal comeback. There were some nuances in the law in that all casinos had to be on the water, must close for a few hours every day and also that the boat must sail every two hours, all of which make gambling in illinois a unique experience.

Illinois casino laws history and facts

year	event
1818	illinois joins the union
1927	horseracing gambling is permitted with the state.
1974	illinois becomes the first mid-west state to begin a state lottery.
1991	casinos are legalized in illinois but only allowed on water. They must close for two hours every 24 hour period. They also have to go into the water every two hours.
1999	the law stating the casino must set sail every two hours is repealed. Casinos can expand into floating casinos rather than being functional boats.
2008	illinois is the first state to ban smoking in casinos, this created a 20% drop in revenue. The casinos still see a healthy spend from visitors.
2019	sports betting is approved by lawmakers and is now available at casinos.

Casino gambling age in illinois

The minimum age in illinois is 21 years old, as there is no online casino recognized by the state there is no minimum age. It is possible for anyone over 18 to take part in the state lottery. Minors may be allowed into the casino buildings but are not allowed on the gambling floor.

Responsible gambling and addiction prevention

The illinois gaming board offers several different options of help and support for people with gambling problems. In 2002 a statewide initiative was launched to help people self-exclude themselves from all illinois casinos. A problem gambling registry is also available which provides information on problem gambling and help or advice. The illinois gaming board website provides phone numbers, links to the forms and other useful information.

Can I play without deposit?

Online casino gaming is not allowed by the current legislation of illinois and as a consequence, the gamblers residing there lack the opportunity to take advantage of any no deposit offers. Some casino operators based outside the state, do cater to illinois players and let them claim no deposit bonuses. That means a certain sum of bonus money is provided either on signup or as a part of a temporary promotion. Such deals are usually subject to play-through requirements which define the number of times the bonus money has to be wagered before becoming available for withdrawal. These offers vary on a site by site basis but are widely available.

Upcoming casino regulation and expected changes

Illinois has a very strong casino industry and a strong gambling industry in general. The biggest change that is likely to be introduced is the legalization of online poker. There have been many attempts to legalize casino games online but it is seen as a potential threat to other gambling. The recent law change to allow sports betting online has given poker players new hope that the change will happen sooner rather than later. IF you are looking for a change, you can visit one of the many casinos in virginia, which are all excellently equipped.

Illinois online gambling

Illinois approves of a wide range of gambling, though it does not have land-based casinos at present. Illinois is the sixth most populous US state and has a large, vibrant gambling industry. The state has legal riverboat casinos, racetrack betting, video lottery terminals, and charitable gambling.

Though the state’s laws are fairly permissive, the state still does not have commercial land-based casinos, legal sports betting, or licensed daily fantasy sports. Each of those could change in the coming years, as senate bill 7 (S7) could amend several of illinois’ longstanding gambling acts.

Illinois’ charitable gaming community includes tens of thousands of charity organizations and a half-dozen forms of charitable gambling. A 2013 amendment to the charitable games act legalized “poker runs”, which are a popular form of charitable gaming not found in many states. Illinois also allows several forms of charitable gaming popular in midwestern and plains states, such as pull-tab games and pickle games.

Best illinois online casinos, sportsbooks & poker sites 2020

Laws that pertain to illinois gambling

Relevant state code: 18-3801 et seq.; 54-2501 et seq.

Illinois allows many forms of gambling, though its attorney generals have taken public stances against unregulated and unlicensed gambling in the past. The state has a broad view of what constitutes gambling, which gives regulators and law enforcement broad authority to prosecute illegal gaming. Notice the broad definition in the relevant code.

Section 28-1

A person commits gambling when he:

Plays a game of chance or skill for money or other thing of value

Riverboat gambling act

(230 ILCS 10/3) (from ch. 120, par. 2403)

3. Riverboat gambling authorized.

(c) riverboat gambling conducted pursuant to this act may be authorized upon any water within the state of illinois or any water other than lake michigan which constitutes a boundary of the state of illinois. A licensee may conduct riverboat gambling authorized under this act regardless of whether it conducts excursion cruises. A licensee may permit the continuous ingress and egress of passengers for the purpose of gambling.

Native american gaming compact act

(230 ILCS 35/5)

5. General assembly approval of native american gaming compacts.

Before the governor may enter into a compact with a native american tribe authorizing the native american tribe to conduct gambling in illinois, the governor must submit a request for authority to enter into the compact to the general assembly. The governor must include with that submission a copy of the proposed compact.

If the general assembly enacts legislation authorizing the governor to enter into the compact within 30 session days after the submission of the request by the governor to the general assembly under subsection (a), the governor may enter into the compact. If the general assembly does not enact legislation authorizing the governor to enter into the compact within 30 session days after the submission of the request by the governor to the general assembly under subsection (a), the governor may not enter into the compact.

Video gambling act

5. Definitions. As used in this act:

“video gaming terminal” means any electronic video game machine that, upon insertion of cash, electronic cards or vouchers, or any combination thereof, is available to play or simulate the play of a video game, including but not limited to video poker, line up, and blackjack, as authorized by the board utilizing a video display and microprocessors in which the player may receive free games or credits that can be redeemed for cash. The term does not include a machine that directly dispenses coins, cash, or tokens or is for amusement purposes only.

“licensed establishment” means any licensed retail establishment where alcoholic liquor is drawn, poured, mixed, or otherwise served for consumption on the premises, whether the establishment operates on a nonprofit or for-profit basis. “licensed establishment” includes any such establishment that has a contractual relationship with an inter-track wagering location licensee licensed under the illinois horse racing act of 1975, provided any contractual relationship shall not include any transfer or offer of revenue from the operation of video gaming under this act to any licensee licensed under the illinois horse racing act of 1975.

(230 ILCS 30/) charitable games act

• 2. Definitions. For purposes of this act, the following definitions apply:


• “charitable games” means the 14 games of chance involving cards, dice, wheels, random selection of numbers, and gambling tickets which may be conducted at charitable games events listed as follows: roulette, blackjack, poker, pull tabs, craps, bang, beat the dealer, big six, gin rummy, five card stud poker, chuck-a-luck, keno, hold-em poker, and merchandise wheel.


• “charitable games event” or “event” means the type of fundraising event authorized by the act at which participants pay to play charitable games for the chance of winning cash or noncash prizes.


• “qualified organization” means:


• A charitable, religious, fraternal, veterans, labor, educational organization, or other institution organized and conducted on a not-for-profit basis with no personal profit inuring to anyone as a result of the operation and which is exempt from federal income taxation under sections 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), 501(c)(5), 501(c)(8), 501(c) (10) or 501(c)(19) of the internal revenue code;


• A veteran’s organization as defined in section 1.1 of the “bingo license and tax act” organized and conducted on a not-for-profit basis with no personal profit inuring to anyone as a result of the operation; or


• An auxiliary organization of a veteran’s organization.


• “religious organization” means any church, congregation, society, or organization founded for the purpose of religious worship.


• “sponsoring organization” means a qualified organization that has obtained a license to conduct a charitable games event in conformance with the provisions of this act.


• “veterans’ organization” means an organization comprised of members of which substantially all are individuals who are veterans or spouses, widows, or widowers of veterans, the primary purpose of which is to promote the welfare of its members and to provide assistance to the general public in such a way as to confer a public benefit.

What gambling is legal in the state of illinois?

Illinois licenses and regulates several forms of gambling. The illinois state lottery is legal and the state is a part of the mega millions and powerball multi-state lottery association. Illinois has pari-mutuel wagering on horse races at six racetracks and 23 off-track betting facilities.

Riverboat gambling is allowed. Illinois has nine riverboat casinos, while the legislature has discussed approving land-based casinos in the past (nothing pending). The state has charitable bingo for nonprofit organizations.

Illinois allows licensed bars, restaurants, and other establishments to place up to five video lottery terminals (vlts) per venue. The state legislature approved VLT gambling in 2009. By 2017, the VLT industry generated more revenue per year than the riverboat casino industry.

Which forms of gambling are legal in illinois?

Type of gambling – offered/licensed? – notes & restrictions

• Online gambling – no – illinois has made no attempt to legalize online poker or casinos.


• Land-based casinos – yes – no, but nine riverboat casinos exist.


• Charitable gaming – yes – bingo. A handful of bingo halls operate.


• Lottery betting – yes – illinois has a state lottery, plus it allows the sale of powerball and mega millions tickets at hundreds of vendors.


• Minimum gambling age – 18 for lotteries, pari-mutuel betting, bingo. 21 for riverboat casinos.

Illinois online poker laws

Name of bill – year submitted – lawmaker – supporters

House sponsors for senate bill 7 are rep. Robert rita, chad hays, rita mayfield, and litesa E. Wallace.

Illinois daily fantasy sports laws

In 2015, attorney general lisa madigan gave her opinion that daily fantasy sports is illegal. This prompted a lawsuit by draftkings and fanduel, which itself prompted lisa madigan to countersue. Ironically, draftkings and fanduel now want both suits dropped, because lisa madigan (whose tenure ends in january 2019) said her opinion did not have the force of laws.

If S7 is signed into law, it looks like daily fantasy sports would be included in its passage. During the oct. 2018 hearing, rep. Lou lang said he supports other forms of gambling to raise revenues – which presumably would include DFS.

Does illinois have land-based casinos?

No, but illinois has nine riverboat casinos. Neighboring indiana passed laws to allow its riverboat casinos to move inland to brick-and-mortar casinos, which allow for more gaming space, convention halls, live concert venues, and other attractions. The indiana cities of gary and hammond are suburbs of chicago, meaning indiana’s land-based casinos compete directly with illinois casinos. For that reason, illinois might allow land-based casinos in the near future.

Which cardrooms & casinos in illinois are near me?

Argosy’s casino alton: 1 piasa street alton, illinois 62002-6276

Telephone:(800) 711-GAME

Games available: 827 slot machines, 3 poker tables, 9 gaming tables

Hollywood casino: 1 west new york street,
aurora, illinois 60506-4120

Telephone:(800) 888-7777

Games available: 1,100 slot machines, 7 poker tables, 21 gaming tables

Rivers casino: 3000 south river road,
des plaines, illinois 60018-4201

Telephone:
(888) 307-0777

Games available: 1,022 slot machines, 51 poker and gaming tables

Par-A-dice hotel casino: 21 blackjack boulevard,
east peoria, illinois 61611-2011

Telephone: (800) 332-5634

Games available: 924 slot machines, 5 poker tables, 26 gaming tables

Casino queen hotel: 200 front street,
east saint louis, illinois 62201-1222

Telephone: (800) 777-0777

Games available: 1,081 gaming machines, 3 poker tables, 23 gaming tables

Grand victoria casino: 250 south grove avenue,
elgin, illinois 60120-6447

Telephone: (847) 468-7000

Games available: 1,088 gaming machines, 4 poker tables, 38 gaming tables

Hollywood casino: 777 hollywood boulevard,
joliet, illinois 60436-1097

Telephone: (888) 436-7737

Games available: 1,100 gaming machines, 25 poker and gaming tables

Harrah’s joliet casino and hotel: 151 north joliet street,
joliet, illinois 60432-4018

Telephone: (800) 427-7247

Games available: 1,100 gaming machines, 8 poker tables, 31 gaming tables

Harrah’s metropolis casino: 100 east front street,
metropolis, illinois 62960-2257

Telephone: (800) 935-1111

Games available: 836 gaming machines, 4 poker tables, 17 gaming tables

Jumer’s casino and hotel: 777 jumers drive, rock island, illinois 61201-7606

Telephone: (800) 477-7747

Games available: 996 gaming machines, 6 poker tables, 22 gaming tables

Does illinois have any legal betting tracks / shops?

Yes, illinois has six legal racetracks where horse racing takes place and pari-mutuel wagers are legal. These are centered in the north of the state in the greater chicago metropolitan area and in the south of the state across the mississippi river from st. Louis, missouri. Illinois does not allow betting shops.

Legal horse betting tracks in illinois

Arlington park: 2200 west euclid avenue, arlington heights, illinois 60005-1004

Telephone:(847) 385-7500

Race book: yes

Hawthorne race casino: 3501 south laramie avenue, cicero, illinois 60804-4598

Telephone:(708) 780-3700

Race book: yes

Fairmont park:9301 collinsville road, collinsville, illinois 62234-1799

Telephone: (314) 436-1516

Race book: yes

Duquoin state fairgrounds: 655 executive drive, du quoin, illinois 62832-3850

Telephone: (618) 542-1515

Race book: yes

Brown county fairgrounds: 309 fairground street, mount sterling, illinois 62353

Telephone: (217) 773-3939

Race book: yes

Illinois state fairgrounds: 801 east sangamon avenue, springfield, illinois 62702-1813

Telephone:(217) 782-6661

Race book: yes

Is off-track betting legal in illinois?

Illinois has 23 off-track betting facilities. These have simulcast betting and a full range of horse races from around the world. Below is a list of the names and addresses of the 23 off-track betting facilities in the state.

List of illinois facilities permitting off-track betting?

Mac’s time out: 315 belle street, alton, illinois 62002-6116

Telephone:(618) 465-1006

Race book: yes

The foundry: 85 executive drive, aurora, illinois 60504-4101

Telephone:(630) 499-0294

Race book: yes

Mcq’s sports, brew and BBQ: 730 north bolingbrook drive, route 53 bolingbrook, illinois 60440-5308

Telephone: (630) 739-1592

Race book: yes

Club corliss OTB:11203 south corliss, chicago, illinois 60628

Telephone: (773) 995-8238

Race book: yes

Joe’s bar on weed street:940 west weed street, chicago, illinois 60642-2539

Telephone: (312) 787-9600

Race book: yes

Club crestwood OTB: 13148 rivercrest drive, crestwood, illinois 60418-4452

Telephone: (708) 489-4700

Race book: yes

At the post sports bar and grill: 554 east devon, elk grove village, illinois 60007-4676

Telephone: (847) 364-4122

Race book: yes

Does illinois allow charitable gambling?

Yes. The national center for charitable statistic said illinois had over 61,000 nonprofit organizations as of 2012. Charitable gaming is allowed, including bingo, pickle games, pull-tabs, and poker runs. Illinois has fewer bingo halls than one might expect, because so many other forms of charitable gaming exist.

In 2013, the illinois legislature passed house bill 2520 and its companion piece, senate bill 3312, which made “poker runs” legal. A poker run is an event where people on motorcycles, bicycles, or other vehicles travel to 5 or more locations (usually bars or restaurants) and draw on playing card from a deck. The winner is the player at the end of the run with the best hand. Poker runs are a popular way for charitable organizations to raise funds.

Originally, to organize a poker run, a motorcycle club or other charity had to pay a $600 fee to organize an event, while each bar owner had to pay a $150 free to license their venue as a run stop. This led to fee sometimes in excess of the money raised for charity. The 2013 law simplified the fee process to $25 and made poker runs more popular.

Bingo halls in illinois:

Tazewell bingo center: 1010 north main street, creve coeur, illinois 61610-3192

Telephone:(309) 698-8117

# of seats: 350

Nameoki bingo center: 13 nameoki village, granite city, illinois 62040

Telephone: (618) 877-7771

# of seats: 200

Majestic hall: 830 north state route 121, mount zion, illinois 62549-1434

Telephone: (217) 864-3842

# of seats: 550

Is social gaming allowed in illinois?

Social gaming is allowed in illinois, though no specific law exists to regulate such gaming. In march 2016, illinois district judge edmond chang tossed a class action lawsuit by thousands of illinois social gamers against doubledown interactive, the social casino division of international game technology (IGT).

The plaintiffs sought to use the illinois loss recovery act (ILRA) to claim they lost between $50 to $1000 gambling with real money on doubledown casino and thus should be reimbursed. Judge chang said state law required both sides to risk something of value for a game to be considered gambling. He ruled that a person cannot “lose” chips they bought, because there is no way to be reimbursed for the virtual chips. Also, doubledown’s “risking potential future sales is not the same thing” as risking real cash, so social casino games are not a form of gambling.

Illinois online gambling law FAQ

Illinois passed legal sports betting in 2019. Several sportsbooks launched in september and october 2019, while those same venues expect to launch sports betting sites in the coming months. At the same time, illinois gamblers can play at offshore online sportsbooks, if they wish to play in the unregulated gaming market. Officials do not prosecute individual illinois residents for such gaming.

Online gambling illinois

Illinois is a fascinating state; the land of lincoln; home to 10 land-based casinos, and the latest in a flurry on states to respond to the 2018 withdrawal of PASPA with gambling legislation. But there’s one big problem, they are yet to implement the new laws.

Like most other states, illinois has not fully legalized gambling, but also allow certain land-based establishments and activities. The state law offers a confusing framework for online gambling illinois players to get a handle on. Unlike in delaware, pennsylvania and new jersey, it’s not quite open season for online casinos just yet. But a new law has been signed and it is about to change everything for online gambling illinois.

Our online casino illinois reviews

On this page, we’ll be taking an in-depth look at whether land-based and online gambling illinois is legal. We will also delve into what exactly the law states you can and cannot do in the great state of illinois. Plus we’ll be giving you the round-up of the best casinos for illinois players - stay tuned!

Illinois is a pro-gambling state which has its own illinois gaming board. Whilst the board doesn't allow online gambling illinois perse, they do allow online horse-race betting at sanctioned sites. What's more, illinois has launched its own online state lottery. But as things currently stand, in late 2019, it is illegal for an online casino to set up shop in illinois.

A landmark bill - 690 - has just been signed by the governor pritzker of illinois; the gambling act, 2019. The act makes significant changes to gaming law in illinois. The illinois gaming board is working through these changes and how to implement and regulate the act. However, as of yet the changes are in the early stages and it is up to the illinois gaming board to manage and put in place this new law. The law aims to liberalize and make online gambling illinois legal as well as expand the land-based gambling scene - which is already pretty lively in this state.

However, as things stand right now, illinois online players keenly wait for the gaming board to implement the new law. Illinois has, along with the aforementioned horse betting and lottery, 10 land-based, as well as river-based casinos in state. Besides these venues, there are many video machine establishments and charitable gambling. Therefore, both forms of both land-based and online gambling are legal in certain types across illinois!

Casinotop10’s best online casinos in illinois need to:

Be licensed and regulated;

Accept players 21+ and USD currency;

Be in line with the 2019 gambling act of illinois.

The legality of land-based casinos & online casinos in illinois

The gambling age in illinois is 21, which includes casinos, lottery and sports betting. Illinois currently allows some forms of land-based and online gambling illinois. As proponents of gambling regulations and online growth, illinois became one of the first states to offer an online state launched lottery. Illinois is definitely a pro-online state!

Current regulation makes provision for the following types of gambling in the law:

● online lottery illinois - they are one of the only states to allow and facilitate online lottery.
● illinois has an established racing board that permits online horse-racing at sanctioned sites.
● charitable games and events as long as they only cover the following activities: blackjack, roulette, poker, craps, pull tabs, bear, bang, the dealer, gin rummy, big six, chuck a luck, five-card stud poker, keno, merchandise wheel, and hold-em poker. This does not extend to illinois online poker.
● the 2009 video gambling act allowed for gambling machines to be set up at the following locations; in licensed retail establishments, truck stops, veteran and fraternal establishments. A max of 5 machines is allowed per site for real money gambling. There are currently more than 2000 gambling machines spread across illinois.
● illinois currently has 10 river-based casinos that they regulate. The 1990, riverboat gambling act legalized them, making illinois the second US state to do so.

In 2012, 2013 and most recently in 2019, there were attempts to legalize all types of online gambling illinois. Additionally, illinois aimed to increase land-based gambling across the whole prairie state. The current proposal, which was signed into law in july 2019 is awaiting implementation and makes way for:

● the expansion of sports gambling through ‘racinos’,
● more video machines,
● 6 new land-based casinos,
● and online gambling via mobile and the internet.

According to propublica illinois (2019), this could mean as much as: “7,000 video gambling establishments, 5,000 lottery-like sports betting kiosk locations, 16 casinos, five racinos and online sports gambling and casinos accessible on millions of mobile phones or the internet. The bill even allows video slot and poker machines at chicago’s airports, O’hare and midway.” it’s something of a gambling revolution and the perfect response to the repeal of PASPA. PASPA ceased online sports betting as illegal in federal law. Federal law supersedes the state level of regulation and creates country-wide law that all states must adhere to.

However, as things currently stand it is still illegal for online casinos to try to make a home in illinois. This is with the exception of the horse-racing and online lottery that the illinois gaming board regulates. With the 2019 gambling act not yet in place, illinois online casinos are banned from operating. The current law specifically addresses this stating that it is illegal to operate, maintain or establish a website that facilitates a person to play a game of skill or chance via the internet for money or anything else of value counted as a wager on the outcome - this even extends to political odds.

Whilst the law addresses the operator's position it does not comment on what residents of illinois may do or restricting them from playing at non-illinois online casinos. This refers to international online casinos having a green light to accept illinois residents. This differs from states like washington, where players are prosecuted for gambling online.

Land-based gambling in illinois today: the river bed scene

Since the 1990 river-bed gambling act, illinois players have to be thankful for the 10 land-based casinos. These casinos currently operate along the chicago side of the lake michigan river-bed, illinois and they offer some fantastic choices.

Of course, if you fancy spinning the reels of a slot or playing video poker, you can head to one of the many establishments enabled by the state under the video gambling act of 2009. This means there’s plenty of land-based gaming options for casino slots and video poker players in illinois littered throughout the state. The majority of these casinos are congregated around lake michigan.

Illinois online gambling laws

As we’ve covered, the 2019 gambling act is set to revolutionize illinois online gambling, even mentioning online and mobile in the wording! But it requires patience as it is a big legislative overhaul. It needs a thorough regulatory framework, an increase in staffing, license design, and so much more. All this is to ensure that online gambling illinois creates a safe, sustainable and taxed online jurisdiction.

Until then it is still illegal for online casinos, other than those licensed as horse betting sites, to be set-up in illinois. However, the law is a grey space for players and only speaks from the operator's point of view and not the players'. As with other states like california, this creates an unclear position for players.

What should I know about online casinos in illinois?

The state runs the online lottery in illinois;

Online horse-racing sites are legal when licensed and regulated by the illinois gaming board;

International online casinos can accept illinois players.

Gambling laws governing offshore casinos & what it means for illinois players

Illinois patiently awaits the full legalization of online gambling illinois for now. Online casinos are regulated by both the laws, where they are established and those where they offer their services. There is no illinois law pertaining to residents gambling online in illinois. Illinois gambling law allows for residents to gamble online in the form of horse-racing and lottery.

Online casino games for online gambling illinois

Obviously, horse-racing, lottery, land-based video machines like slots, charitable games, and river-based casinos are currently legalized by illinois state law. With further legislation upcoming, players can soon expect to enjoy the full range of casino games, both skill and chance including:
● slots - video, classic and progressive
● tables - poker, blackjack, roulette, baccarat.
● video poker
● live casino tables
● scratchcards, lottery, bingo games.

If you’re currently an illinois player, this range of games will be found at any of the top sites. What's more, they would all be USD accepting casinos and offer incredible welcome offers!

Payment options at illinois online casinos

Payment options at online casinos are designed to fit worldwide pockets with options covering cards, e-wallet, bank transfer, voucher and so on in USD. Neteller has just withdrawn from US markets due to licensing concerns, but paypal is an all american favorite. Paypal is available at most international casino sites. So these options can be found once illinois online gambling is legalized. Presently, you find these options on sites for illinois online lottery and horse betting.

Illinois state law is currently changing to legalize online and mobile casinos for illinois online gambling.

Currently, only some forms of online sports betting, like horse-racing are legally permitted in the state of illinois.

It is illegal for illinois casinos to offer online poker, but you may play video poker which is one of a handful of licensed land-based video machine establishments in illinois.

Currently, no but soon you will be able to gamble at online casinos operated and regulated by the illinois gaming board via mobile, desktop or tablet.

Currently, only horse-racing and the lottery are provided online by illinois online sites. To play slots, jackpots, card games and live casino options they will be legal and regulated soon.

Yes, most online casinos accept usds. You will be able to check our casino reviews for full details of how you can pay, play, and withdraw at top casinos.

All casinos recommended at casinotop10 are licensed and regulated sites. The best sites also display the ecogra or itech labs logo, showing they have external RNG and RTP testing and are a fair gaming establishment.

Yes, once online casinos that accept players from illinois are regulated. These will certainly offer very generous welcome offers designed to tempt you to sign up. Often they have a match deposit deal or a no deposit deal. You can find out more about online casino bonuses here.

Debit and credit card such as visa, mastercard and american express are the most popular online payment methods used across the whole of america for online payments, whilst paypal is the favourite e-wallet. However, these payment options are only available for online horse betting and lottery.

Yes, you must pay tax on all gambling winnings if you were a resident of illinois at the time you made the money!

Play at a real money casino illinois today!

With the up and coming illinois online gambling scene, the future looks exciting for keen online gamblers from illinois. Currently, illinois players can enjoy online lottery and online horse race betting. With the new illinois online gambling law, there is more to come and look forward to!

Illinois

There is a proliferation of gambling in this state, we review all the major land casinos in this guide from the most popular to even the small. Other gambling facts for illinois: online casinos are available, with sports betting soon to be made available.

Illinois has had a boom in gambling over the past four years, particularly in slots and video gaming terminals. You can find lots of recreational gaming in truck stops, convenience stores, arcades and malls. With the growth of gaming outside of the mainstream casinos, the mix of popularity has shifted from table games to slots, video and other machine games.

Historically illinois explicitly prohibited many forms of gambling, however, as with a other states in the US casino operators applied a loophole whereby riverboats are exempt and therefore were declared legal. As you guessed it, all forms of gambling were therefore permitted in illinois as long as it was held on a “riverboat”. Over the many years the definition of riverboat changed from the need to physically set sail to being permanently moored to a port.

In today’s current environment, riverboat revenue popularity has fallen dramatically with the prevalence of “mini casinos”. Whilst many people enjoy a night out to a casino, more would prefer a low key social gaming environment. Mini casinos that offer slots, video game terminals, poker machines, and other favorites provide convenience and fun factor for locals. Riverboat casinos are finding it difficult to compete against the change in gambling trend.

Following changes to riverboat gaming laws, land based casinos were soon made legal. Although not in the same scale as las vegas, these casinos offer a good variety of gaming and have become popular since legalization. The blend of riverboat and land based has become interchangeable in their offering. You can check out our listing of casino reviews in the below section of this page.

Of course the biggest game changer in recent years is online gambling. Online gambling in 2019 is yet to be legalised and there is anticipation that this will change in the coming years if not months.

Along with online gaming, online sports books, physical sport books, daily fantasy sports, esports, we anticipate to be legalised in 2019.

Racing (horse and greyhounds) is allowed in illinois, and online horse bets are allowed and operational.

A complete listing of what is permitted is as follows:

• Riverboat casinos


• Video gaming terminals


• Pull tabs and jar games


• Raffles & charitable games


• Bingo


• State lottery and scratch tickets


• Pari-mutuel betting


• Games of skill or chance where no payment or purchase is required to enter

As you can see the gambling landscape is very diverse. There is an allowance for small gambling outlets such as truck stops, permitted to hold video gambling terminals and several slot.Machines, followed by mini casinos at small to medium sites, with the largest sites being riverboat and land based casinos. In addition there is charitable gambling which includes bingo and raffles, the state lottery and horse racing. The only real exclusion is greyhound racing.

Best 4 illinois casinos online

Illinois online gambling

Illinois is at the forefront of becoming the fifth state to have approved online casino gambling. Nevada, new jersey, delaware and pennsylvania are the first four states to have formally approved online casinos.

Although, the status quo, remains technically illegal to play at online casinos, the reality is that no player has ever been charged with breaking the law. The law enforcement turn a blind eye, (so to speak) just as they would to illegal jaywalking.

Illinois ranks as the fifth in the US for playing at offshore online casinos. Wagering an estimated $35.7 million per year, it ranks just above pennsylvania and behind florida. The state with the largest wagering for offshore online casino is california at $180 million.

Overview of illinois casinos

In 2008, illinois was one of, if not the first state to ban smoking in casinos. A study has been conducted to determine if this has had any affect on the revenue and patronage of casinos. The results of the study were not conclusive, because the timing of the ban coincided the global financial crisis.

Illinois casinos

There’s quite a few illinois land casinos to play at. We have reviewed all of them and rank them as follows:

1. Rivers casino des plaines


2. Grand victoria casino elgin


3. Hollywood casino and hotel joliet


4. Jumer’s casino and hotel


5. Harrah’s metropolis casino and hotel


6. Par-A-dice casino and hotel


7. Casino queen


8. Hollywood casino aurora


9. Argosy casino alton

By far the most popular casino is rivers casino des plaines, with twice as many visitors as grand victoria which comes in at a reputable second.

#1 rivers casino des plaines

3000 S. River road, des plaines, illinois
rivers casino is located in the north chicago suburb of des plaines and is without a doubt the number one casino in illinois. Even though this casino is the newest in illinois, only opening in 2011, revenue generated from rivers is more than twice as much than any other. Co-owned by rush street gaming and churchill downs inc, the combination of their experience, have provided that cutting edge experience and professionalism for players. As a fun fact, this casino is built on a shallow layer of water on a purpose built enclosed pit to comply with state gambling guidelines for riverboats.

Gaming – this casino features 1,044 slot machines, 48 gaming tables and seven restaurants. They offer slot machines that are the latest and often being renewed for the newest and best, they have a good variety of table games, blackjack, craps baccarat, texas hold’em and even pai gow. (no poker room is available).

Minimums vary during the time of the day and week, hence you may find the table limits quite high during popular playing hours.

Come and get your “rush” membership, the players reward program at the rivers. They offer one of the best, if not the best, rewards program, and should not be missed. Take advantage, even if you are a drop by visitor.

A ripper of a buffet, great staff who go that extra mile.

This casino is a stand alone casino with no attaching hotel. However you will find no shortage of options to stay nearby. There are many quality hotels such as the crown plaza, hyatt, sheraton and hilton nearby – all the big name hotels are simply around the corner.

• Open from 9am to 7am, 7 days a week


• There is a shuttle service available from the CTA rosemont blue line station. Taxi service is also available at the front of the casino.


• The minimum age is 21 to gamble.


• They do have ATM’s on site, however they charge a $6 fee! If you need cash, then withdraw beforehand.


• No free drinks – alcohol and soda inclusive. Free water is available at the bar.


• A non smokers casino.

#2 grand victoria casino elgin

250 south grove avenue, elgin, illinois
this is a casino that is modern in amenities, functionality but designed in the old fashioned riverboat theme. The casino floor covers 29,850 square feet and offers over 1,000 slots and video poker games, 36 table games, a poker room, four restaurants, a lounge, and two seasonal entertainment venues. A beautiful layout, very clean and tidy. Convenient location and plenty of games to choose from.

Gaming – the GVC, as the locals call it, has the big common games. Roulette, blackjack, live poker and plenty of slots. The minimums veer on the slightly high side. This is shown by the many dollar slot machines but very lower denomination machines. The poker room is located at the lower level and can be reserved for by players. The poker room opens from 8:30am, whilst table games start from 9:45am except for saturday, sundays and holidays which open earlier at 8:30am. Table games include: blackjack, EZ baccarat, 21+3 blackjack, craps. There are a total of 36 tables.

As per the law no free alcoholic beverages can be served.

Food – prime burgerhouse serves the best burgers and fries! Reasonably priced and quick to serve. A good selection of local craft beers on offer. Great casual dining. Buckingham steakhouse is the place to wine and dine in style. Gourmet seafood, chicken and of course steak. Buffet is available at the indulge show kitchen buffet. It’s in fact a combination of 6 restaurants working together to offer the best in fine dining. Crave deli is the coolest grab and go cafe eatery and is open 24/7.

• Open from 8:30am to 6:30am, 7 days a week.


• The minimum age to gamble is 21. Photo ID is regularly checked.


• Parking for large vehicles is available.


• Reservation for the poker tables is available, call to book.


• Withdraw cash prior to arriving at the casino, it costs $5 per withdrawal at ATM’s on site.

#3 hollywood casino joliet

777 hollywood blvd., joliet, illinois
the newly remodeled 50,000 square floor casino floor with more than 1,100 of the best slots and video poker machines, a great selection of table games such as blackjack, craps, roulette,and more, and a 5-table live action poker room. Contemporary and well kept. Staff are courteous and welcoming. Associated with the riverboat casino is an onshore hotel.

Gaming – the HCJ has over 25 tables that offers blackjack, craps, roulette and a whole lot more. No baccarat is available. Video poker and slots machines are plentiful and never too crowded, although the aisles can be slightly squashy. Denominations range from 0.01 to $100 with the majority being penny slots. The slot machines occupy two floors of gaming with themed slots including the popular wheel of fortune and lightning hill. There is a high limits room.

Alcoholic beverages are not complimentary, but there is complimentary soda, water and coffee.

Food – the food is classy, sophisticated and above all tasty! There is an epic buffet, and it truly is epic. Although the pricing can be in the high range, so try and ask for a coupon or discount. The brunch buffet is really good, and worth the money. There is a great little sports bar – 99 hops house – selling great craft beer, casual food dining and live entertainment.

Hotel and RV parking – free valet parking if you are a member of the casino. The hotel resides onshore across a parking lot. It’s not overly far away, but there is a shuttle service that can take you from the casino to the hotel and back. Large truck and RV parking is also available. You must be at least 21 years of age to stay at the hotel. Room rates can range from $150 to $300 per night.

• Bring your ID, it will be checked. Driver’s license, state ID, military ID or passport is acceptable.


• There is no kids room.


• Opening hours are 7:30am to 5:30am each day, seven days a week.

#4 jumer’s casino & hotel

777 jumer drive, rock island, illinois
A smoke free casino, has over 42,000 square feet of gaming space populated with more than 1,000 slot and video poker machines, 24 table games, live action poker and a high limit slot room – all on one gaming floor. In addition to two stand alone bars, the property includes 4 restaurants, a gift shop, and lakeside driving range with floating targets. A five-storey hotel with 205 rooms including 11 luxury suites is directly connected to the property. Clean, good service, and you can play on the slot for a while without it burning through your wallet quickly.

Gaming – 1,000 slot machines! New games and popular games! Wheel of fortune – tick, lightning links – tick, walking dead – tick. It’s got them all. A wide variety of denominations and progressive slots. You can hit the big jackpot and be set for life.

24 table games galore that covers:

• Ultimate texas holdem


• Mississippi stud


• Three card poker


• Blackjack


• Roulette


• Craps

Poker room is spacious, cool, and exciting. Use your skills to win! Get your poker face game on and play! Call one hour in advance to register for a spot at the table.

Food – DJ’s steakhouse – the best in fine dining. Excellent, tasty steaks, chicken, seafood and other exquisite dishes. Player’s buffet – the best buffet around town. A huge variety that crosses from american favorites through to the chinese and italian. Enjoy the desserts! Blue square café – the best in casual dining. Burgers, hot dogs, pizza, sandwiches, salad and soups. Great comfort food.

Hotel – 205 spacious, freshly renovated hotel room suites. Includes indoor pool and fitness center. A short walk will bring you to the riverboat casino.

#5 harrah’s metropolis casino hotel

100 east front street, metropolis, illinois
A small town casino that is open 24hrs and floating on the ohio river. This riverboat casino currently offers 24,269 square feet of gambling space and serves an average of 1,823 players daily. There are 800 slots and video poker machines and 22 table games. This is a non-smokers casino. Restaurant and late night snack-bar is excellent. A great place for a stop over.

Gaming – check out the poker room – newly renovated, lavish and most of all fun and exciting. Casino table games include: blackjack, craps, roulette, high card flush, three card poker, mini baccarat, and mississippi stud.

Have fun at the 800 slot machines. They’ve got everyone’s favorite wheel of fortune, the walking dead and magic dragon. Hit it big on the progressive jackpots!

As per illinois gambling laws, no free alcoholic beverages.

#6 par-A-dice hotel casino

21 blackjack boulevard, east peoria, illinois
this relatively old casino is the number one spot for gaming and entertainment in central illinois. You will find 5 tables of live-action poker, 21 table games and over 1,000 gaming machines. Great rooms at affordable prices, kind and smiling staff that treat you warmly.

Par-A-dice casino is a riverboat casino, with the hotel on the shore. It is relatively small when compared to las vegas, but not overly small such that there are limited games to play. On the contrary, their game variety is very good. They offer caribbean stud, wheel of fortune, loose slots, hot seat, blackjack, craps, roulette, three card poker, let it ride, and poker, just to name a few.

Gaming – the gaming is across four floors, in which it is entirely non smoking. However, there are designated smoking areas outside, if you wish to smoke. The wagering is touted as one of the lowest minimum in any casino in the state.

Food – no food is sold on the boat only drinks. The soda and water is for free, but the alcohol you will need to pay for. Having said that, the drinks are reasonably cheap. Dining, snacks, eating is therefore onshore. There are a few restaurants and bars. Buffet is available from wednesday through to sunday at the options buffet. A breakfast buffet is also available from wednesday through to sunday, with à la carte breakfast served at nelson’s deli on monday and tuesday.

Location – situated on the peoria lake, part of the illinois river, the location cannot get much better than this. The view is simply stunning, even if you lose a bit of coin on the games, the picturesque surroundings is worth it. Sunrise and sunset is gorgeous.

Hotel – the hotel is not directly connected to the riverboat casino, but it’s only a very short walk away. Professionally run, the staff are friendly and helpful. The lobby contains two computers providing free internet, in addition there is free wi-fi. Parking facilities are free and generous, and there is a shuttle bus that runs to the civic center. Large car parking for trucks and RV’s is available further away from the premise.

You will love it here. Perfect for gaming, the scenery and the wallet. You really get value for money at par-A-dice.

#7 casino queen

200 S front st, east st louis, IL 62201

A relatively small casino that offers just over 1,000 slot machines and a few table games. A little bit outdated, with older slot machines. Could do with a refresher to add a bit more life to the scene. But then again, we can understand why any investor would be hesitant to plow more money into this casino. East st. Louis is not considered the safest of areas, crime rates are relatively high and competition is relatively fierce with missouri casinos just a few minutes drive across the border. Take for example the lumiere place casino hotel which is literally across the river, but offers that extra bit of vegas class. As a player, you therefore have many choices, with perhaps casino queen towards the bottom of the list.

However, if you are looking for somewhere cozy and less crowded to play at, then come to the casino queen. The players are generally locals, and also those who want to take advantage of the RV parking and convenient shuttle service to the busch stadium for certain games and events.

Gaming – table games include: blackjack, craps, roulette, EZ baccarat, three card poker, ultimate texas hold’em. They also have a high limit blackjack room. But there is no poker room available.

There are plenty of slot machines to play at, even though not the newest a lot of fun can still be had. A good mix of progressive, penny, video poker plus a private high limit slot machine room is also available.

RV parking – overnight stay is available at their rooms which overlooks the river. The key stand out for this casino is the attached RV parking. Full hookup is available, with internet and showering and laundry amenities. Very clean, tidy with plenty of facilities.

• Open from 8am to 4am sunday to thursday.


• Open from 8am to 6am friday to saturday.


• Players need to be 21 or older.

#8 hollywood casino aurora

1 W new york st, aurora, illinois
this place is awesome! As you walk into the foyer you are greeted with a kaleidoscope floor pattern, bring me back to the 70’s baby! Has over 40,000 square feet of gambling space devoted to more than 1,161 electronic gaming devices and 20 table games. A superb pool, and well kept surrounding gardens. The parking is a block away, so a short walk is required to enter the casino. Parking is not for free, unless you become a member. Staff are extremely helpful and informative.

Gaming – there is over 1,000 diverse slot machines – reels, progressive, video poker, you name it, they have got it! The newest, state of the art and the most popular. The aurora, keeps the slot gaming experience fresh, never stale. Denominations range up to $100! Some of their most popular slot themed machines include: sahara gold lighting link, high stakes lightning link, happy lantern lightning link and tiki fire lightning link.

If you are new to table games, the aurora staff have the passion and patience to teach you. They have an immense range that includes, blackjack, craps, roulette, mini baccarat, live poker and a lot more. The minimum for blackjack increases during the weekend and falls back during weekdays. Expect the minimum on the weekend to be not lower than $15.

Food – there is a steakhouse – fairbank steakhouse – set in the background of the 1930’s. Offering tasty, huge slabs of steak, seafood, pasta, wine, fresh salad. This steakhouse is brilliant!

Every casino offers a buffet, and for the aurora it is at the epic buffet! The epic is truly epic, an endless variety of dishes, brunch, lunch and dinner. Cuisine styles span from asian, western and italian. It’s got it all.

Looking for something tasty, quick and affordable? Then drop into the take two deli! They have great sandwiches, hot dogs, hamburgers, and pizzas.

Hotel – hollywood casino aurora is stand alone and does not have a hotel.

• Opening hours are 8:30am to 4:30am each day, seven days a week.


• Last call for drinks ends at 2am.

#9 argosy casino alton

1 piasa street, alton, illinois
A small and colorful casino that offers 1,008 slot machines, 14 gaming tables. Table games have variety offering casino classics through to modern games. A brilliant place to just chill out, hang out with friends and grab a bite to eat.

The argosy casino alton is a classy little riverboat casino, that offers everything you would want in gaming and fine dining. The players rewards are fantastic, quality and outstanding staff service, there’s not much more you would want. There is no hotel associated with the argosy, it is a stand alone riverboat casino.

Gaming – there is a huge variety of slots on offer: wheel of fortune, lightning link and geisha, just to name a few – over 800 themed slot machines! The denominations range from penny slots through to $10. Strike it big with the progressive jackpots!

Table games include the popular: blackjack, craps, texas hold ‘em poker, three card poker and roulette.

Food – there are three food outlets available: journey – seafood fine dining with a view that is breathtaking, the captain’s table buffet – everything you would want in a buffet is here, and the hops house – a bar that serves the most refreshing local beer and ales.

Location – only 25 minute drive from st. Louis in alton, illinois. The riverboat floats in the alton lake on the mississippi river. It is also an easy hop skip and a jump over to missouri.

• Non smoking


• Open from 8am to 6am 7 days a week.

Not looking for a massive, over the top super luxurious casino. Then come to the argosy, down to earth, yet small and sophisticated. You will love the ambiance, the views and the fun gaming.

Sports betting

Illinois sports betting is now legalized, but the state has stalled in operationalizing the governance and framework, so that no casino or sports books can open to the public. As a consequence, indiana, which has opened its sports book facilities has garnered many sports bets from illinois residents. This is a shame as a significant amount of tax revenue is flowing interstate as well as inconvenience to illinois bettors.

Slot machines

Small business that are restaurants and bars are permitted to own up to six slot and video game machines in accordance with the illinois video gaming act. This act also permits large truck stops to own up to ten slot machines.

As an individual, residents are permitted to own slot machines that are 25 years or older. By reaching this age limit, slot machines can be deemed as “antiques” and are therefore legal to be possessed. Possession does not permit the use of the slot machine for gambling activities.

State lottery

The illinois state lottery was established in july 1974 and was the first and only single jurisdictional state lottery to televise its drawings nationally until february 2014. It has branched out to participate in the multi jurisdictional games of mega millions and powerball.

In march 2012, illinois was the first state to sell lottery tickets online, and was then one of the first few states to switch to RNG rather than manual number selection.

The lottery also offers the smaller state games of pick 3, pick 4 and lucky day lotto.

In addition to lotto games, instant games in the form of scratch games are also sold by the state lottery.

The illinois lottery has created an android and apple app for players. This provides convenience for playing games, obtaining results and purchasing lottery tickets.

A lawyer’s opinion

Illinois is in the process of expanding its gambling laws, with sports betting at the forefront of these efforts. In addition to sports betting, illinois permits much of what one would expect to see from a progressive, populated state with the notable exception of land-based casinos (river boats, however, are permitted except on lake michigan and in towns with a population in excess of 3 million.) illinois errs on the side of classifying games of both skill and chance as gambling as well as wagering on games, contests, or elections. See ILCS 720 5/28-1et seq.; ILCS 230/5-1et seq.

Sports betting: illinois legislators recognized the leak of money going to offshore sports betting companies, and, so, in 2019, opened the market to allow interested individuals to register with an illinois-based casino, making sportsbook making legal so long as the bets are placed within the state. Within the next 24 months the market will open further to new ventures in sports betting. Multiple domestic and offshore companies continue to accept illinois residents though draftkings and fanduel continue to battle the state, which seeks to prohibit the platforms from operating in the state due to their so doing prior to sports betting becoming legal.

Race betting: like in many states, horse betting is legal in illinois at its racing tracks as well as other venues that allow pari-mutuel betting. Off-track and online race betting is not specified, though many platforms and illinois betting parlors do accept bets from illinois residents who are eighteen years and older.

Online gambling: the state has yet to pass an online poker or gambling bill, and, thus, similar forms of gambling remain unregulated. Thus, individuals wishing to participate in online gambling, including poker and other such games of skill, and who are twenty-one or older, must place bets online through licensed and regulated domestic and offshore platforms operating outside of the state.

Online gaming: bona fide contests of skill are permitted with social gaming being permitted. Poker that being said, illinois residents who game through an online platform should note that the state will not protect residents who lose money through such sites.

The information in this multi-state research is made available by a licensed, U.S. Attorney, and is for informational purposes only. We make no representations that the information is complete or correct in its entirety. It should not be construed as providing specific legal advice, and you acknowledge that no attorney/client relationship exists between us. This brief should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed gambling and entertainment lawyer in your state.

Technically it is illegal. However given how close the laws are changing to becoming legitimately legal, and that currently there is no appetite for law enforcement to uphold vague gambling laws, the risk is extremely of any charges being laid.

Yes, there are offshore online casino providers that accept many US players. These providers, however, strictly regulate which US states are permitted to gamble and therefore acceptance is dependent on where you reside. Illinois players are accepted by the following online casino providers which gambledex strongly recommends: bovada, slots.Lv and vegas casino online

The minimum age to gamble online in illinois is 21, whilst online bingo and lottery is 18.

Illinois online casinos 2020

If you’re looking to play at illinois online casinos, you’ll have to wait a bit longer. Unfortunately, online casino gaming in illinois is still illegal. However, land-based casinos will see an increase now senate bill 690 passed. This bill allows five new casinos in the cities of danville, waukegan, rockford, cook, and williamson counties.

To learn more about what to expect from illinois online casinos, read the full article below.

Illinois gambling laws

As mentioned, online casino gambling is illegal in illinois. Historically, it’s been a low priority amongst lawmakers. However, illinois does give visitors the chance to play casino games at 10 riverboat casinos. Illinois was the second state to legalize them via the riverboat gambling act of 1990.

Online poker is also included in the ban on online casino gaming. However, sweepstakes poker has managed to stay in play through legal loopholes. Generally, sweepstakes poker is similar to video poker. Conversely, it uses a dual currency system. This allows it to remain as a ‘sweepstakes’ game rather than a ‘casino’ game.

The video gaming act in 2009 allowed for the placement of video lottery terminals (vlts) in retail locations. Vlts are similar to slot machines but do not fall under the same restrictions. As of 2016, there were more than 24,000 vlts at over 5,600 locations across the state.

Senate bill 690

The recently passed SB 690 authorizes a number of new casino expansions in the state. Below, we dig into the highlights.

A chicago casino & airport slots

A new privately-owned casino in the city of chicago after many years of debate. The casino will hold a maximum of 4,000 gaming machines and table games. The license for the chicago-based casino would be subject to an upfront fee of $30,000 for every gaming position, which can go up to $120m if the casino offers a maximum of 4,000 positions.

Also authorized by senate bill 690 is the offering of slot machines in departure areas at O’hare airport and midway airports. The airport slots operations should be included in the chicago casino’s overall allocation of 4,000 gaming positions.

Expanding casinos & racinos

On top of the chicago casino, five other land-based casinos are authorized by SB 690. They are located in danville, waukegan, rockford, cook, and williamson. Each casino will be permitted to have up to 2,000 gaming positions. This is half the allotted number for the chicago-based casino. Furthermore, the casino in williamson county will only have 1,200.

Meanwhile, the three operating illinois racetracks can now turn into racinos. The three racetracks are arlington park, hawthorne race course, and fairmount park. Likewise, the fairmount park racino will be slightly smaller than the hawthorne race and arlington park. It will have 900 gaming positions to the other’s 1,200.

Finally, the ten currently running riverboat casinos will be allowed to add 800 more gaming positions. This raises the cap from 1,200 to 2,000. Plus, riverboat casinos now have permission to become land-based casinos. Thus, they may move into new facilities adjacent to riverboats.

Best illinois online casinos

There are currently no illinois online casinos in action and this isn’t expected to change in the very near future. Instead, lawmakers have been set on changing illinois online sports betting laws which now allows illinois casinos and racetracks with master sports wagering licenses to launch online betting in addition to physical sportsbooks.

If a change of legal status were to occur in illinois, legalizing online slots & online casino games, it is likely that the first operators to enter the market will be the land-based casinos that are already running. Like in most other states that have legalized online casino gaming such as new jersey, the best online gambling sites require a license from a land-based casino. This, however, will not eliminate the possibility of a known online casino brand from teaming up with an illinois brick and mortar casino to provide an online product.

Keep in mind that with the addition of senate bill 690, there is the possibility of six new land-based casinos being added in illinois. These casinos should also have the ability to add an online section to their platform when the legalization of online casino games happens.

Possible future illinois gambling sites

The following illinois riverboat casinos are currently active and first in line to provide online gambling in the state.

• Hollywood casino aurora


• Hollywood casino joliet


• Casino queen


• Grand victoria casino


• Harrah’s joliet


• Argosy casino alton


• Jumer’s casino rock island


• Rivers casino


• Par-a-dice hotel casino


• Harrah’s metropolis

The six land-based casinos in chicago, danville, waukegan, rockford, as well as cook and williamson counties have not yet become operational but will also be possible future illinois gambling sites.

Online poker illinois

Illinois online poker sites are also illegal, much like online casino platforms. It is expected that online poker and online casino gaming will share a similar fate regarding legalization in illinois, with both taking a back seat to online sports betting at the moment. There is currently no timeline for legal online poker in the state.

If and when online poker becomes legalized in illinois, operators will probably come from land-based casino providers. Popular poker brands will also probably likely make a play to enter the market by partnering up with brick and mortar casinos.

If you’re looking to play poker online at the moment, your only option is sweepstakes poker which is available due to loopholes via creative interpretations of gambling laws. Sweepstakes poker sites operate using a dual-currency system and are thus classified as sweepstakes platforms rather than online casinos, which keep them in compliance with US laws. Note however that online sweepstakes poker is not based in the US.

A number of chicago poker rooms can be found throughout the city for live play as well as all over the state of illinois.

Illinois casino apps

Since online casino games and poker are illegal in illinois, there are no casino apps available at the moment in the state nor are there any apps in the pipeline. It will take major legal developments for illinois casino brands to go into production, so don’t expect any casino apps until the legal status of online gambling is resolved.

Illinois sports betting apps, on the other hand, should be available in the very near future, with the legalization of online sportsbooks through senate bill 690. It should be kept in mind that all sportsbooks will be required to register online betting accounts in person at their facilities, similar to nevada, for a period of at least 18 months after SB 690 takes effect. After the 18 month period, the bill will proceed to implement a broader rollout of online sports betting, as specified.

Guide to online gambling in illinois: the best illinois gambling sites for 2020

Illinois daily fantasy

Like with many other states, there is currently no legislation governing daily fantasy games in illinois. This doesn’t mean that players in the state can’t play DFS, rather that it’s an unregulated market and that things have the potential to change in coming years. For now, players can bet freely online.

• We have deep understanding of the illinois gambling laws and follow the changes in the legislation and the activity of the illinois gaming board.


• We keep up with the gambling-related news by following trusted local news media such as chicago tribune and the illinois news network.


• We have extensive experience in creating free gambling guides and operator reviews. Some of oour most popular articles are our slots and roulette guides.

• Illinois gaming board


• Chicago tribune


• Illinois news network


• Illionois state seal

Gambling laws in illinois

Due to the state’s complete ban on online gambling you’d be forgiven for assuming that illinois is pretty restrictive when it comes to betting. In reality, this couldn’t be further from the truth. As a matter of fact, the state is quite liberal when it comes to riverboat gambling, pari-mutuel race and bingo betting, and lotteries. While things aren’t looking great currently for players who prefer to get their thrills on the internet, the winds of change are certainly blowing. 2018 saw the repeal of the professional and amateur sports protection act, which means all states in the US now have the right and ability to enact their own betting laws. Theoretically, this could allow for the legalization of online gambling in illinois in the rear future.

With that in mind, be sure to check this page regularly to stay updated on any developments regarding the legality of online gambling in illinois.

Illinois sports betting

We are extremely excited because of the last changes in the illinois laws! Since may 2019, steps are taken towards the legalisation of sports betting in the state. Of course, authorities and companies are, right, now in discussions and negotiations, trying to find the best possible solution. The main goal is to make the sports betting safe for all players and of course to fight with the practices that are happening under the table, in the face of the black market. Obviously, the change of heart didn’t come just because of the sports lovers, but also because the legalisation will fuel the state’s economy as well. And as you most likely know, illinois has a great passion for sports. Chicago is hometown to the chicago bulls and chicago bears, after all. If you are eager to learn more, you can check our detailed page about illinois sports betting.

Illinois lottery

Citizens and visitors of the prairie state should feel lucky compared to most of the territories comprising the US because here the online lottery has been completely legalized for quite some time now. In fact, illinois was the very first state where it was made legal ou of the entire country. As time has passed, more and more options have become available for the ones wanting to test their luck and win life-altering amounts from either the US powerball, or the mega millions lotto. In case you want to know more, don’t hesitate to check out our thorough illinois lottery page.

History of gambling in illinois

Gambling in the state has its roots as far back as the 19th century, and the industry has seen many changes in legislation come and go over the years. Though casinos in illinois started springing up in the 1880s, it wasn’t until the 1920s when horse race betting was legalized that the illinois gambling industry was truly able to flourish.

Illinois gambling history

year	event
1880s	despite their illegality, many riverboat casinos operated throughout illinois, attracting gamblers from all over the nation.
1927	the first gambling laws introduced in the state legalized horse race betting.
1975	the introduction of the illinois horse racing act further regulates the races and transforms the industry into a major tourist attraction.
1990	riverboat casinos are officially legalized, thanks to the riverboat gambling act.
1999	previous restrictions requiring riverboats to be in motion for gaming to commence are repealed, meaning players can enjoy table games and slots even on docked riverboat casinos.
2009	the video gaming act is introduced, allowing liquor-pouring establishments to feature video gaming terminals for use by their patrons.
2018	the professional and amateur sports protection act is repealed, paving the way for more changes to legislation in the near future.

Illinois state facts

Illinois officially became a state in 1818, and today is the sixth most populous state in the union. Its official state slogan is “land of lincoln”, referring to its status as the birthplace of abraham lincoln. Throughout its history the state has been known as a valuable industrial hub, as well as the home to jazz and blues music.

Facts about illinois

population	12,741,080
min. Income	$1,430.00
biggest offline gambling location	rivers casino des plaines
gambling commissioner	illinois gaming board
spoken languages	english, spanish
biggest local sports team	chicago bulls
illinois tax authority	illinois department of revenue
link to the state law	http://www.Ilga.Gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs2.Asp?Chapterid=25
gambling winning tax	25%
state website link	https://www2.Illinois.Gov/
famous local gamblers	wyatt earp

Gambling age in illinois

As with most states, the legal gambling age in illinois depends on which game you plan on playing. For lotteries, pari-mutuel betting, bingo and pull-tab games, players need only be 18 years of age. When it comes to playing on any of the state’s many river cruise casinos, however, you’ll need to be 21 years of age.

Responsible gambling and addiction prevention

There are many resources available for problem gamblers in the state of illinois. As of 2002, the illinois gaming board operates a statewide riverboat casino voluntary self-exclusion program. In 2018 the board introduced a voluntary, confidential problem gambling registry. By entering into the registry, players in need of help can receive informative emails about treatment resources and addiction prevention. Those entered into the register can also remove themselves at any time.

Upcoming regulation and expected changes

Though there is currently no planned changes to legislation on the horizon, that doesn’t mean that everything discussed on this page is set in stone. As previously mentioned, the 2018 repeal of the professional and amateur sports protection act could pave the way for changes in legislation in many states across the US. Be sure to check back regularly for updates regarding gambling in illinois.

Gambling in illinois

Illinois, popularly referred the prairie state holds a special place in the hearts of gamblers, across the united states of america. It is often referred to as the pioneer of internet-based lotto games, owing to the fact that it was the first US state to permit the selling of lottery tickets online.

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Illinois state guide

Illinois, popularly referred the prairie state holds a special place in the hearts of gamblers, across the united states of america. It is often referred to as the pioneer of internet-based lotto games, owing to the fact that it was the first US state to permit the selling of lottery tickets online. Combining that with a rich history of horse racing and riverboat betting, the state is a fascinating haven for anyone who has an interest in enjoying games of chance .

By september 2019, industry experts project that the state will finally be ready to join the sports betting market , complete with internet betting. Plenty of locals are looking forward to the official launch especially because it will be the start of the new NFL season. The date of launch seems quite strategic , mainly because it will be a time when sports betting is often at its peak in states like nevada where sports betting was already legal. As the lawmakers do the final touches for the state to join the bandwagon of sports and online gaming , let’s take a closer look at how far the state has come.

What types of betting are currently legal in illinois?

· casino betting

Casino gambling is allowed in the prairie state. You can enjoy wagering on various live casino games in 10 riverboat casinos. Although before these hard to be sailed before they allowed gamers to start playing, from 1999 they could be docked. Moreover, there are also charitable casino events that are independently approved by the revenue department. However, even though lawful provision was made for brick and mortar casinos 2011, so far none of them have been built.

· live poker

Live poker games are offered in the riverboat casinos, complete with tournament schedules. Additionally, while there aren’t any special provisions of social poker under illinois law, no gambler has ever been put on trial for playing in any.

· online casinos

After every state was given a chance to dictate the direction of their gambling activities in 2018, lawmakers started laying the groundwork to provide legal, regulated online and sports gaming. However, a lot also needs to be done when it comes to physical gambling facilities to support internet and mobile gaming. Even so, it is expected that by the first quarter of 2020, the state will have started offering online gambling services.

· sports wagering

For sports betting, only on-track pari-mutuel gambling at sanctioned horse racing tracks is permitted. With the coming changes in the law, it is also expected that online sports betting will also be accepted, complete with mobile betting services.

· other forms of betting

Charity and raffle bingo games are permitted, as well as charity ‘casino nights’ as well as the online state lottery launched back in 2001.

The history of gambling laws in illinois

Betting in illinois state started back in the 1800s when unlicensed riverboat casinos flooded the rivers and hosting underground stud poker games. Heading to the 1920s, betting on horse racing was authorized, and it was the first step the state took to control gambling and reap tax revenue from the past-time. In effect, this gradually bred a booming industry where pari-mutuel gambling was relished by mammoth crowds of racing enthusiasts.

Moreover, the prairie state was also amongst the first to establish a state lottery, with their first draw taking part in 1974. As we speak, millions of dollars have been raised with the rapid growth of both state and inter-state lotteries

The riverboat casinos came back in 1991; this was when regulations were approved, permitting them to provide betting games on condition that they were on the move on the rivers (not lakes). 8 years later, the movement article was revoked, a ruling that came as a relief to the patrons who were accustomed to long lines in the evenings before the boats set to sail. Later in 2011, things expanded even further; a new bill allowed for the offering of brick and mortar casinos plus the expansion of the games provided at the racetracks.

Video gaming machines, set up in a broad array of establishments comprising truck-stops and bars became a new fad, following the passing of a string of gambling-related laws. However, it had taken 2 years of back and forth bill amendments and court cases before these machines were deemed legal.

Online betting, however, remained in a blur in illinois, up until the repealing of the PASPA of 1992 in may 2018. For the first time, the state could explore ways of offering regulated sports betting and online gambling. Since they were forerunners of permitting the selling of online lottery tickets, they have since made deliberate efforts to see how sports and internet gaming could be executed.

By june of 2019, things were already taking root by the book in the state assembly, and it seemed probable that within a few months, internet and sports betting would be legally accepted. Like many other US states, illinois is open minded in giving residents the freedom to relish betting games. If things maintain the same progressive trend, the gambling landscape will inevitably have shaped itself by the first quarter of 2020.

What does the future hold for illinois?

The open-minded lawmaking has given the residents of illinois an extensive selection of betting activities, with the potential of online gaming in 2020. The merits of the latest regulations which involve the extension of casinos will be realized soon enough as the way is paved for a new era of recreational gambling. If you are a resident of the prairie state, sit tight because things are about to get better!

Illinois online casinos

Like many other states in the midwest, the casino landscape of illinois is anything but straightforward. While, historically, chicago and the surrounding areas have been known as hotbeds for gambling, that much isn’t really true anymore. In fact, as far as brick and mortar gambling is concerned, it is found few and far between in illinois. The online casinos scene is not so barren, but is definitely a bit different than how it is in states like nevada where most forms of gambling are legalized and regulated to take place online.

Still, with that being said, illinois in recent years has taken a look at what states surrounding them have been doing and are looking at ways in which they can catch up. For this reason and many others, there is a strong feeling that illinois is the next state to have established a legalized casino system that exists online. Until that happens, however, the fact remains that casino play in illinois can best be described as fragmented.

What are the best illinois real money gambling sites?

Is online gambling legal in illinois?

Online gambling establishments have existed in illinois for quite some time now, but they haven’t existed in the way you might think they have. In fact, most bets that are being placed online are on horse races.

Sites accepting horse bets exist, but other than that there is no real regulated system for online casino play in illinois. This may seem difficult to believe, because the framework for legalized online casino play already exists. Add this to the fact that few other midwestern states have anything close to a pre-existent online network for gambling, and it is flat-out puzzling that illinois is not pushing stronger to legalize all types of online casino play.

With that being said, there are plenty of online casinos operating within the state offering all sorts of games for illinois citizens to take advantage of.

In fact, with the way in which the brick and mortar casino scene is set up in illinois, it should come as no surprise that people often opt to gamble online as opposed to any brick and mortar establishments. There is hope that, sometime in the future, illinois lawmakers will wise up and create a system of play that is regulated and legalized much like the horse betting system is now.

In the meantime, however, you can rest-assured knowing that the online casino games currently being offered in the state are more than good enough to satisfy even the most demanding of gambling needs. Most of the online casinos even offer mobile play as to allow you the opportunity to gamble and play your favorite real money casino games no matter where in the state you are. So long as your smartphone or tablet is able to access the internet, most every online casino available to illinois citizens is able to be played.

Legal status of brick and mortar casinos — illinois

If you turn the clocks back to the 1970s, you would be placing yourself right in the midst of a mayoral move to establish waterfront casinos in chicago. At the time, the casinos’ tax revenues would be used to fund snow removal for the city among many other things. Unfortunately, these plans were shot down quickly and brick and mortar casinos had to be held off for a few more decades. Even in the aftermath of this move being shot down, casino advocates continued to push for gambling in the windy city. Time after time, however, these efforts were for naught because the conservative state refused to bend.

In the 1990s, when iowa was pushing to make gambling more accessible, illinois decided to follow suit and offer up 10 riverboat gambling licenses. These riverboat establishments have all the amenities of a traditional casino, which leaves some opportunity for live gambling in illinois. Of course, if you do not live near any major rivers it becomes extremely difficult to play any casino games whatsoever. There also exists some horse racing tracks in the state, but the types of gambling you will find at these establishments does not even compare to that of the riverboat casinos.

To this day there are active efforts aimed at expanding the brick and mortar gambling in illinois, but as it has been in the past these efforts have been met with little success and a lot of opposition. Many feel as though the illegal gambling rings of the early 20 th century have left a permanently sour taste in the mouths of chicagoans, and that is the main reason why legalized brick and mortar sites will never come to be. With all of this being said, however, the state of illinois is continually running up its debt, and we may soon reach a point where they have no choice but to legalize brick and mortar casinos in order to reap the tax benefits that come along with it.

Illinois online casinos & gambling FAQ

• Abbreviation: IL


• State motto: state sovereignty, national union.


• Capital city: springfield


• Population estimate: 12.8 million (6th)


• Website: http://www.Illinois.Gov/

If there is no regulated system, is playing online in illinois safe?

Yes. Despite there being no legalized and regulated online casino system in illinois, there are plenty of reputable online establishments catering to the citizens of the state. Of course, it is necessary that you put in some research before committing to any single online casino, but there are hundreds of sites from which to choose.

Can I play live casinos games online?

More and more frequently we are seeing online casinos make the decision to offer live casino games online. For those unaware, live casino games take your favorite casino game and allow it to be run by a live, filmed, interactive dealer. Rather than play with some computer program, people playing online from home can now interact with a real, live dealer.

Are there bonuses being offered?

Yes. In an effort to draw in as many new players as possible, most sites offer attractive bonuses aimed at boosting the monetary value of your initial deposit. For this reason, new players have a lot of attractive offers from which they can choose in order to get started playing with the most money possible.

Is sports betting allowed?

For some reason, there is a stigma surrounding sports betting in the united states. Players that will play as many online casino games that exist will become petrified when they even think about betting on sports. Though this fear is definitely a true and real one, it is not one that should be bought into. The fact of the matter is that you can bet on sports as an illinois resident.

Are more brick and mortar casinos on the horizon?

As of now, there is very little talk surrounding the establishment of more brick and mortar casinos. There is a feeling that this might change as other states push for more legalized gaming, but for now illinois government seems content with riverboat gambling and horse betting.

Illinois gambling and sports betting news

Online gambling is now legal in illinois! Nothing has started yet, but in the coming months, illinoisans will be able to place sports bets at stadiums, casinos and online.

The license-application process began in illinois on dec. 19, which the illinois gaming board oversees.

Applications are open to casinos, racetracks, stadiums, lottery vendors and stand-alone mobile operators.

On sept. 27, 2019, the 30-day window for comments on the new illinois sports betting bill closed. There were concerns that the in-person, sign-up process could affect the rollout of sports betting in the prairie state and give the surrounding states a head start.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed bill SB 690 into law on june 28. This bill not only set up a licensing framework for sportsbooks, but it also expanded the number of casinos and gambling terminals.

We expect illinois sports betting to go live in early 2020.

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Legal gambling options in illinois

Online sports betting

You’ll be able to legally gamble online within illinois’ state lines beginning in the spring of 2020.

Casinos, lottery outlets, stadiums and racetracks can apply for licenses, along with three online-only licenses.

We expect brands, including betrivers, fox bet, fanduel and draftkings to offer sports betting via apps and online. You’ll be able to bet on pro sports and college games (as long as those college games occur outside of the state).

As well as all the popular single match and parlay bets, new forms of sports betting will be available online. These include in-play betting on live events and cash-out betting.

Online lottery

The illinois lottery has been running since 1974. Today, you’ll find regular in-state draws as well as the big multi-state prizes like the powerball and mega millions.

Unusually, you can buy lottery tickets online in illinois. Instant-play games are available, many of which are themed.

Examples include deal or no deal and games featuring local sports teams.

The IL lottery has several charitable funds which support children, veterans and infrastructure.

Retail sports betting

Racetracks, casinos and off-track betting (OTB) offices will be among the venues to host retail sportsbooks in the prairie state.

We expect many to partner with operators, like william hill and fanduel, to run retail sportsbooks.

The sportsbooks will likely feature multiple screens that showcase the latest odds and the games live. You’ll be able to bet while enjoying the bar and restaurant facilities in many sportsbook venues.

With online licenses awarded to the venues, you’ll be able to deposit cash into your mobile betting accounts, too.

Daily fantasy sports

Daily fantasy sports (DFS) contests run in illinois, despite this being a contentious legal area.

Major sites, including fanduel and draftkings, offering real money picks. Both operators are currently fighting an opinion from the attorney general that DFS contests are illegal gambling.

There have been attempts to regulate and license DFS contests over the last few years, though bills haven’t managed to make it through the legislative process.

Live and online casinos

Illinois will likely witness an increase in the number of land-based casinos, including a new venue in chicago as well as five others.

Currently, 10 illinois casinos offer slots, table games and some also offer poker.

Bill SB 690 did not allow for regulated online casinos in illinois.

The only legal online options are at casinos using sweepstakes gambling laws. These sites operate countrywide and use a virtual currency called “sweeps cash.”

Live and online poker rooms

There are two types of live poker in illinois.

Many of the major casinos offer poker games, including the harrah’s venues, hollywood casino and the grand victoria casino. The other sites are charity poker rooms.

Illinois hosts many significant poker tournament events, including the world series of poker circuit, as well as locally run festivals.

Bill SB 690 didn’t include any provision for online poker.

The only legal online poker option is global poker, which operates under sweepstakes gambling rules.

POSSIBLE ILLINOIS ONLINE SPORTSBOOK OPERATORS

Alongside the list of possibilities for sportsbook locations, a long list of sportsbook operators could be showing up in illinois quite soon.

Since illinois is such a populous state (sixth, just behind pennsylvania), there shouldn’t be any shortage of interest for operators that want to expand their customer bases.

We can figure out some of the most likely candidates due to the state’s existing casino operators. Many of these operators either already have a sports betting partner in other locations, or handle the operations themselves.

For instance, the argosy casino alton and the two hollywood casinos are both owned by penn national gaming.

Penn national has an ongoing relationship with draftkings, so it seems likely that the company in black and green will be launching in the land of lincoln at some point soon.

In another case, caesars entertainment owns both harrah’s properties in illinois. Caesars has used scientific games to power its sports betting operations in the past, so expanding into the prairie state would make sense.

In short, several companies have to be the odds-on favorites to pop up in illinois soon. However, bear in mind that three standalone online licenses are up for grabs under the new law, too. So, it’s hard to count any company out right now.

Illinois gambling FAQ

Is gambling legal in illinois?

Yes, casinos, horse racing, lottery gambling and charitable gambling have been legal in illinois for many years.

More recently, bill SB 690 adds online and retail sports betting to this list. Gov. Pritzker signed this bill in june of 2019. The licensing process is under the jurisdiction of the illinois gaming board.

The first batch of sportsbooks will go live in early 2020.

This bill will increase the number of brick-and-mortar casinos by six, including one in chicago. The number of gambling machines in the state will also increase.

Will online casinos open in illinois, too?

No, bill SB 690 didn’t include a provision for online casino games.

The only options for online casino games are the nationwide sites that operate legally in the state under sweepstakes gambling laws. Brands include chumba casino and luckyland slots.

If online sports betting is a success and contributes substantial revenues to the state coffers, we might see an online casino bill in the future.

Will online poker launch in illinois?

No, as with casino games, online poker was not included in the current legislation. There is a sweepstakes site (global poker) that will legally offer online poker games in illinois.

Are offshore sportsbooks legal or safe?

No, depositing at offshore sportsbooks is a major risk. With legal and regulated online sports betting now available in illinois, there isn’t any need to risk your money this way.

These books are based in small nations in the caribbean or central america, where there is little oversight. You won’t have anyone to turn to if you have nonpayment or other dispute.

With legal IL sports betting, you’ll have a lot of advantages.

These include regular deposit options (following in-person registration) like credit cards or bank transfers, the best odds and range of bets, plus the security of the illinois gaming board to turn to should you need them.

Compare this will need to deposit using bitcoin or expensive prepaid vouchers offshore, and you’ll quickly realize that legal sports betting is the safest option.

What is the legal gambling age in illinois?

You must be 21 years or older to place a bet legally in illinois.

What can I bet on in illinois?

Most forms of gambling are available in the prairie state, though not all of them are available online. These include:

• Casinogames and slots at live casinos or sweepstakes gambling sites.


• Pokerat casinos or charity poker rooms or via sweepstakes gambling.


• Sportsbetting online or at retail venues (excluding bets on college sports that happen in-state).


• Lotterygames include illinois-only draws, multi-state draws, scratch cards and online games.


• Horse racing bets via the pari-mutuel pools, live and online.


• DFScontests run in IL, though these are the topic of legal challenges.

There are also bingo and draws allowed under charitable gambling regulations.

Resources

How to download a sports betting app

Your first task is to choose from the major brand online sportsbooks that are coming to illinois.

You can take advantage of the free bets and matched welcome bonuses at several of them to see which interface you like the best.

You can access online sportsbooks in two ways.

First, you can use your web browser, which works on both desktops (or laptops).

Secondly, you can access your favorite sportsbook via your mobile device. For the best mobile experience, downloading an app is the way to go.

The IL sportsbooks will detect your device and automatically offer you the right type of download:

• Apple devices: if you go to a betting website via your iphone or ipad, you’ll be directed to the apple app store to complete the sportsbook app download.


• Androiddevices: since google doesn’t allow any gambling apps, you’ll need to download the sports betting app from the sportsbook website instead. On some devices, you’ll need to update your settings to allow downloads from “unknown sources.”

Note that some sports betting apps require additional geolocation detection to know that you are within state lines before you place a bet.

How to sign up to an online betting account

All the sports betting brands need your individual information when you register an account.

You’ll find the ways the sites collect this varies a little. When you first visit a website, hit the sign-up button and follow the prompts.

The betting site will ask you to provide a screen name, your email address, date of birth, address, telephone number and the last four digits of your social security number.

ID documents aren’t typically a part of the request, though you might be asked for them if you require additional security screening.

The final stage is to verify at the retail sportsbook associated with your brand. This requirement will expire in two years when the first mobile-only licenses are made available.

How to fund your sportsbook account?

Unlike shady offshore sportsbooks, you’ll be able to fund your illinois gambling account using the same options you use to make online purchases.

You’ll be able to deposit and withdraw safely using any of the following options:

• Credit or debit cards: all sportsbooks will welcome visa and mastercard; you will also be able to use discover or amex at selected brands.


• Prepaid debit cards: in other states, major operators, like draftkings, have created branded prepaid cards. You fund these from your bank (or regular card) and can then keep your gambling bankroll and regular spending separated.


• Bank transfers using ACH: this type of local transfer is also known as e-checks. You can get additional verification, which speeds this up.


• Billpay: treat sports betting as a utility bill, using bill pay at major banks only.


• Bankwires: this method has more significant charges than ACH, though many people who deposit substantial sums of cash use it. Some books accept cashier’s checks and money orders.


• Paypal: this popular e-wallet lets you keep your bank and online merchants and sportsbooks separate. Alternative brands, including skrill and neteller, are available.


• Cash payment options: you can take cash to the casino cage (when you complete your registration) or use a commercial service like paynearme.

Note that legal sportsbooks will ask you to use the same method you used to deposit funds to withdraw (where this is possible), which helps control fraud and money laundering.

Retail sportsbooks in illinois

All of the tribal and riverboat casinos in illinois can apply for a sports betting license.

There are also off-track betting offices that may expand to include full sportsbooks, plus seven stadiums, one racetrack and lottery retail outlets. Until the licensing process wraps up in early 2020, we do not know the complete list.

Here are the 10 illinois casinos that we expect to be the first wave of retail sportsbooks:

• Casino queen, east st. Louis


• Harrah’s casino, joliet


• Harrah’s casino, metropolis


• Hollywood casino, aurora


• Hollywood casino, joliet


• Grand victoria casino, elgin


• Argosy casino, alton


• Rivers casino, des plaines


• Par-a-dice hotel casino, east peoria


• Jumer’s casino & hotel, rock island

Responsible gambling

Responsible gambling programs include all the protections and assistance for those who develop issues with their gaming habits.

Online sportsbooks provide additional tools and assistance to balance the ease of access. While most people gamble for fun and do so safely and responsibly, a small percentage of people have issues.

Responsible gambling features include:

• Advice on what constitutes problem gambling (a self-assessment quiz).


• A list of charities’ telephone numbers and websites that offer help.


• Tools to manage bet and deposit amounts, and time spent on the gambling site.


• Tools to take a timeout or completely self-exclude.

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