Minnesota Sportsbooks - Where to Bet on Sports in MN

Find the best legal sportsbooks in the The North Star State

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In Minnesota, the gambling landscape is shaped by stringent regulations that primarily confine most betting activities to tribal casinos and racetracks. The act of placing bets outside these domains is considered a misdemeanor, except for exempt activities like lotteries and social poker. 

State authorities have not pursued individual players for online gambling, but Minnesota’s gambling laws encompass provisions for penalties on illegal bettors. In this article, we’ll delve into Minnesota’s sports betting scene, with a particular focus on its vibrant brick-and-mortar establishments.

Most Popular Land-Based Sportsbooks in Minnesota Reviewed

As the options for B&M sportsbooks in Minnesota are lacking, we turn our attention to the vibrant sports betting scene in neighboring Iowa. While Minnesota’s brick-and-mortar sportsbook choices are confined to a handful of racetracks with limited offerings, Iowa emerges as a promising destination. 

For those in Minnesota in search of a richer and more engaging sports betting experience, the finest land-based sportsbooks in Iowa offer a wide array of betting opportunities. Let’s now delve into a closer examination of the most popular options:

Hard Rock Sportsbook at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Address: 111 3rd Street, Sioux City
Phone: (712) 226-7600

Upon entering the Hard Rock Sportsbook at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Sioux City, Iowa, visitors find themselves within a spacious 400-square-foot area dedicated to sports betting. Since its 2019 establishment, it has steadily become a preferred spot for sports enthusiasts. The MN sportsbook welcomes bets from diverse sports: basketball, tennis, soccer, and esports among others.

The Hard Rock Sportsbook provides a broad spectrum of betting options. This includes simple money lines, spread bets, and over/under bets, catering to various preferences. Additionally, for those interested in live games, the sportsbook streams ongoing sports events.

Hard Rock

Beyond the sportsbook, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino houses over 800 slot machines along with an assortment of table games. Patrons can engage in classic games such as blackjack, roulette, and craps or opt for one of the many slot machines available.

For those considering dining options, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino presents several. The World Tour Buffet and the Fuel American Grill are among the choices. Moreover, the sportsbook area houses a bar that serves a range of beverages. The Hard Rock Sportsbook aims to provide not just betting but a holistic entertainment environment.

Betfred at Grand Falls Casino

Address: 1415 Grand Falls Blvd, Larchwood, IA 51241, USA
Phone: +1 712-777-3733

Betfred, a renowned UK-based bookmaker founded by Fred Done in 1967, marked its U.S. debut with a launch at Grand Falls Casino in early 2020. Originating from a single betting shop in Ordsall, Salford, and now headquartered in Birchwood, Warrington, the Grand Falls introduction signifies a crucial step in Betfred’s global expansion.

At the Betfred sportsbook in Grand Falls Casino, patrons can delve into the exciting world of sports betting, with popular options including football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and golf. 

The sportsbook offers a diverse array of bet types to enhance the experience. Common selections among bettors include point spreads, moneylines, over/unders (totals), futures, and prop bets. This rich variety ensures that both newcomers and seasoned bettors find options tailored to their preferences.

Betfred sportsbook

The Betfred Sportsbook at Grand Falls Casino stands as a testament to modern betting luxury, sprawling over an impressive 3,500 sq ft of cutting-edge design. Every corner of this space offers an unobstructed view of vibrant LED video walls and crisp high-definition TVs, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the action. 

For those seeking an exclusive touch, VIP booth reservations are available, providing an elevated experience for groups. Personalized service is guaranteed with dedicated betting windows for individual assistance. 

And as the games unfold, visitors can sink into the comfort of plush chairs and recliners, or utilize the self-service betting kiosks for added convenience.

Barstool Sportsbook at Ameristar

Address: 2200 River Road, Council Bluffs, IA 51501
Phone: (712) 328-8888

Founded by David Portnoy in 2003, Barstool Sports, anchored in New York City, began as an American print publication in Massachusetts. As the years passed, it transformed into a prominent digital media platform, delving into a myriad of topics.

In 2007, Barstool transitioned its content online. By 2020, the brand ventured into sports betting with the introduction of the Barstool Sportsbook mobile application. Furthermore, its presence expanded beyond digital platforms with the inauguration of brick-and-mortar sites

The Barstool Sportsbook provides a broad range of betting choices suitable for all kinds of sports aficionados. From straightforward bets to the intricate dynamics of parlays and teasers, this Iowa sportsbook caters to diverse preferences. It’s also equipped with live sports streaming and multiple betting facilities, including kiosks and service windows.

Barstool sportsbook Ameristar

Ameristar Casino presents an extensive array of traditional gaming alternatives. Housing over 1500 slot machines and classic table games such as Blackjack, Roulette, and Craps, it caters to various gaming tastes. A dedicated poker room is available for those inclined towards strategic gameplay.

Dining options are varied, ranging from the laid-back atmosphere of Double Down Dogs to the refined ambiance of the 360 Steakhouse. The casino also encompasses several bars like the Amerisports Bar for beverage enthusiasts. Additional features include complimentary parking, a retail store, and an indoor swimming facility.

Legal Offline Sportsbooks in Minnesota

Minnesota land-based sportsbooks options in Minnesota are notably limited. In fact, the only sanctioned offline betting available in the state is parimutuel horse race wagering. Traditional Minnesota sportsbooks, as found in some other states, have yet to find a footing in the North Star State.

For land-based gambling options, consider exploring Minnesota’s casinos.

Race Tracks With Sports Betting in Minnesota

Minnesota’s horse racing legacy prominently features Canterbury Park in Shakopee, which began as Canterbury Downs in 1985, and the newer Running Aces Casino, Hotel & Racetrack in Columbus, specializing in standardbred harness racing since 2008. 

The Minnesota Racing Act of 1983 officially sanctioned horse racing, leading to the establishment of these major tracks and the creation of the regulatory Minnesota Racing Commission. 

  • Canterbury Park
    Address: 1100 Canterbury Road South, Shakopee, MN 55379
  • Running Aces Casino, Hotel & Racetrack
    Address: 15201 Running Aces Blvd, Columbus, MN 55025

Casino Resorts With Sports Betting in Minnesota

Minnesota is home to a vibrant array of casinos, catering to a multitude of gaming enthusiasts. As discussions around the legalization of Minnesota sportsbooks in the state gain momentum, there’s a growing expectation that these well-established casinos will play a significant role in shaping the legal sports betting scene. 

Little six

Once MN sportsbooks are legalized, these casinos are poised to become key players in ushering in this fresh era of gaming in Minnesota.

  • Treasure Island Resort & Casino
  • Grand Casino Mille Lacs
  • Running Aces Harness Park
  • Cedar Lakes Casino
  • Little Six Casino
  • Seven Clans Casino Warroad
  • Mystic Lake Casino Hotel
  • Black Bear Casino Resort
  • Jackpot Junction Casino Hotel
  • Seven Clans Casino Thief River Falls
  • Fortune Bay Resort Casino
  • Canterbury Park
  • Northern Lights Casino
  • White Oak Casino
  • Grand Portage Lodge & Casino
  • Fond-du-Luth Casino
  • Prairie’s Edge Casino Resort
  • Grand Casino Hinckley
  • Seven Clans Casino Red Lake
  • Shooting Star Casino

Until then, we recommend these Minnesota online sportsbooks for some Minnesota sports betting action. 

Cruise Ships and Riverboats in Minnesota

Minnesota, the “Land of 10,000 Lakes”, offers a variety of water-based experiences for locals and tourists alike. Among these are the serene and scenic riverboats and cruise ships that traverse the state’s vast waterways, providing a unique vantage point to view its picturesque landscapes.

However, for those looking to engage in Minnesota sports betting while aboard, it’s essential to note that options are currently limited or non-existent. Minnesota’s gambling laws surrounding this form of entertainment are strict, and most cruise ships and riverboats don’t facilitate it.

For enthusiasts who wish to combine the pleasure of a boat trip with sports betting, utilizing Minnesota betting apps is the most convenient alternative. This way, you can enjoy the state’s breathtaking views while potentially making your favorite sports even more exciting.

CruiseCruise
American Queen VoyagesAmerican Cruise Lines
Viking OceanViking River
Paradise Charter Cruises & Minneapolis QueenStillwater River Boats
Magnolia Blossom CruisesPadelford Riverboats
Al & Alma’s Supper Club and Charter CruisesLady Chateau
St. Croix River CruisesCragun’s Gull Lake Cruises

Sports You Can Bet on in Minnesota

Minnesota, with its rich sports culture and history, has a growing interest in sports betting. However, the state’s betting landscape is not as expansive as one might hope. At local land-based Minnesota sportsbooks, the options are currently limited. Here’s a rundown of what you can bet on:

  • Horse racing (through pari-mutuel betting)
Horse sports betting

Given the restricted scope of sports betting in physical betting locations, those seeking a broader range of options might feel a bit let down.

Thankfully, there’s a solution: the best way to delve into sports betting action in Minnesota currently is through Minnesota no deposit bonuses. By making use of these bonuses, bettors can potentially enjoy a more diversified betting experience without making an initial deposit.

Here are some of the sports these online bookies offer:

  • Football
  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Ice Hockey
  • Golf
  • Tennis
  • Soccer
  • Martial Arts
  • Horse Racing
  • Boxing
  • Table Tennis
  • NASCAR
  • Motor Sports
  • Rugby League
  • Rugby Union
  • eSports
  • Cricket
  • Darts
  • Cycling
  • Politics
  • Entertainment
  • Handball
  • Lacrosse
  • Snooker

Available Bet Types in Minnesota B&M Sportsbooks

When it comes to the types of bets you can place in Minnesota, the spectrum is currently narrow at land-based establishments. The available bet types include:

  • Pari-mutuel betting (specific to horse racing)

Considering this limited range of bet types, avid sports bettors might feel the absence of the diverse betting options commonly found in other states. However, there’s a silver lining: for those looking to explore a wider array of bet types and markets, turning to online sportsbooks can be a viable solution.

Here are some of the types of bets these bookies offer:

  • Moneyline
  • Point Spread
  • Over/Under (Totals)
  • Prop Bets
  • Futures
  • Parlays
  • Teasers
  • Live (In-Play) Betting
  • Correct Score
  • Accumulators

Professional and College Teams in Minnesota

Minnesota boasts a rich sports heritage, being home to a number of professional and college teams across various sports disciplines. Here’s a glance at some of the notable teams from the state:

TeamSportLeague
Minnesota VikingsFootballNFL
Minnesota TimberwolvesBasketballNBA
Minnesota LynxBasketballWNBA
Minnesota TwinsBaseballMLB
Minnesota WildIce HockeyNHL
Minnesota United FCSoccerMLS
Minnesota Golden GophersVariousNCAA Division I
St. Cloud State HuskiesVariousNCAA Division I
Minnesota Duluth BulldogsVariousNCAA Division I
Minnesota State MavericksVariousNCAA Division I
Bemidji State BeaversVariousNCAA Division I

These teams have significantly contributed to the state’s sports culture, drawing fans from all over to witness exhilarating moments of gameplay and competition. Whether it’s professional or college level, Minnesota takes pride in its teams and their achievements.

For those looking to support their favorite Minnesota teams with a wager, it’s always vital to use trusted platforms. Consider placing your bets on the most secure online sportsbooks, ensuring a safe and engaging experience while cheering on your home team.

Online Gambling in Minnesota

Minnesota is renowned for its rich history of gambling, primarily via its tribal casinos. However, the state takes a more conservative approach when it comes to online gambling, with various forms either being explicitly prohibited or existing in a legal gray area.

Online Poker in Minnesota

Minnesota poker sites are prohibited under state regulations, which generally limit gambling to tribal casinos. However, numerous overseas casinos and poker rooms still accept players from the state. Engaging with offshore poker rooms that we recommend is not deemed illegal in Minnesota, and individuals cannot be penalized for participating.

Ignition Poker

State laws don’t expressly ban online poker, but playing on offshore sites could be seen as illegal. Live poker is mostly confined to tribal casinos and racetracks, with no-limit cash games being outlawed, but no-limit tournaments and limit cash games are permitted.

Online Casinos in Minnesota

Minnesota’s laws prohibit online casino gambling. Despite the clear stance against offshore gambling operators, many such Minnesota online casinos accept Minnesota residents. The state hasn’t taken any action against individuals for playing on these platforms, but potential legal consequences, such as forfeiture provisions, could apply to those found gambling unlawfully online.

Online Sports Betting in Minnesota

Sports betting remains illegal in Minnesota. While several efforts have been made to legalize it, especially after the US Supreme Court overturned the federal prohibition, these have all been unsuccessful. 

One significant barrier to its introduction is the state’s tribal interests, which have historically opposed any broad gambling expansion. Currently, the only permissible form of sports wagering in Minnesota is parimutuel horse race betting.

Daily Fantasy Sports in Minnesota

Minnesota has not officially legalized DFS contests. Although sites like DraftKings and FanDuel continue to operate within the state, they do so in a legally ambiguous environment. While there have been pushes to legalize DFS in Minnesota, these efforts have not yet been successful.

Lotteries in Minnesota

The Minnesota State Lottery offers various games, including draw games, scratch-offs, instant-play tickets, and raffles. There was a brief period between 2013 and 2015 where online ticket sales were available, but this initiative was halted due to unsatisfactory results. Now, all lottery tickets must be bought in person from licensed retailers.

Indian Gaming Tribes in Minnesota

Indian gaming in Minnesota has a rich and diverse history. The rise of tribal casinos in the state can be traced back to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988, which established the framework for Native American tribes to operate casinos on their reservations. 

This legislation was a game-changer, allowing tribes the opportunity to generate substantial revenues, which in turn have been used to fund infrastructure projects, provide essential services to tribal members, and promote economic development within their communities. 

Fond Du Lac

In Minnesota, several tribes have made the most of this opportunity, establishing gaming enterprises that have become significant contributors to the state’s economy.

Here’s a list of the gaming tribes in Minnesota:

  • Bois Forte Band of Minnesota Chippewa Tribe
  • Fond du Lac Band of Minnesota Chippewa Tribe
  • Grand Portage Band of Minnesota Chippewa Tribe
  • Leech Lake Band of Minnesota Chippewa Tribe
  • Lower Sioux Indian Community in the State of Minnesota
  • Mille Lacs Band of Minnesota Chippewa Tribe
  • Prairie Island Indian Community in the State of Minnesota
  • Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians
  • Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community of Minnesota
  • Upper Sioux Community
  • White Earth Band of Minnesota Chippewa Tribe

Each of these tribes has made a significant impact in their respective regions, providing employment opportunities and improving the quality of life for their members. They’ve played a pivotal role in the evolution of the gaming industry in the state, showcasing the prowess and potential of Native American enterprises.

Available Help for Gambling Addiction in Minnesota

Dealing with a gambling addiction in Minnesota can be challenging, as the allure of the numerous gaming options can sometimes be overwhelming. However, recognizing the problem is the first step towards recovery.

It’s essential to understand that gambling addiction is not a sign of weakness or a lack of willpower but rather a complex issue that many individuals grapple with. Fortunately, Minnesota offers several resources for those seeking help. 

The state has established various organizations and programs dedicated to assisting individuals in managing and overcoming their compulsive gambling habits.

Organizations/Companies offering help in Minnesota:

In the excitement of gaming and betting, it’s essential to keep a clear head and remember the importance of making informed decisions; always ensure you gamble responsibly to protect both your financial and emotional well-being.

Sports Betting Taxes in Minnesota

If you are a resident of Minnesota, the state will tax all of your gambling winnings. This includes earnings from any location in Minnesota, other states, other countries, and online gambling platforms. 

Income tax

These winnings should be reported on your Minnesota return using Form M1, Individual Income Tax. Read the online gambling tax guide for more information on this topic.

Minnesota Sports Betting Tax Rates:

  • Income of up to $27,230 is taxed at 5.35%
  • Income of up to $89,440 is taxed at 6.80%
  • Income of up to $166,040 is taxed at 7.85%
  • Income of over $166,040 is taxed at 9.85%

Gamblers in Minnesota must report all their winnings, and these winnings will be subject to the aforementioned tax rates based on the income slab.

Reporting and Paying Taxes on Sports Betting Winnings

Document Everything: It’s crucial for gamblers to maintain detailed records of their gambling activities. This means keeping track of dates, the type of betting activity, the amount won or lost, and other relevant details.

Form W-2G: If you’ve won a significant amount, you should expect to receive a Form W-2G. This form provides details of your winnings and any tax that was automatically withheld. Even if you do not receive this form, you must report any gambling winnings.

W-2G

Deducting Losses: You can only deduct your gambling losses if you itemize your deductions on Schedule A of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. However, the deduction is limited to the amount of your winnings. You can’t deduct more than you won. It’s important to have documentation, such as receipts, tickets, or a diary, to substantiate your losses and winnings.

Consult a Tax Professional: Given the complexities of gambling tax regulations, especially when dealing with significant sums, it’s always a good idea to consult with a tax professional or CPA. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and ensure you’re compliant with all state and federal tax obligations.

Remember Offshore Sites: While some gamblers believe that winnings from offshore sites don’t need to be reported since the income wasn’t earned within the U.S., this is a misconception. All income, regardless of its source, must be reported to the IRS.

FAQ about gambling in Minnesota

What’s the legal age for sports betting in Minnesota? 

The minimum age for gambling is 18, but if alcohol is being served, participants must be at least 21 years old.

What other options for gambling are available in Minnesota? 

In Minnesota, aside from tribal casinos and state-sponsored lottery games, residents can enjoy charity bingo, raffles, and pari-mutuel horse racing. Additionally, Minnesota casino apps offer a convenient way to experience casino games from home.

How did the federal sports betting ban repeal affect Minnesota’s gambling scene?

The repeal of the federal sports betting ban opened the door for states, including Minnesota, to consider legalizing Minnesota sports betting. While Minnesota has yet to fully embrace legalized sports wagering, the repeal has spurred discussions of potential legislation in the state.

Is daily fantasy sports legal in Minnesota?

While not officially regulated, daily fantasy sports (DFS) are accessible in Minnesota, with FanDuel and DraftKings being two popular platforms.

Where can I legally gamble in Minnesota?

Minnesota has tribal casinos that offer various games, including slots, blackjack, and bingo. There’s also a state lottery and card rooms at racetracks.

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