Texas Sportsbooks - Where to Bet on Sports in TX

Find the best legal sportsbooks in The Lone Star State

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In the vast expanse of Texas, where the iconic cowboy image often springs to mind, the legal terrain for Texas sports betting strikes a more conservative note. The Lone Star State permits only a limited scope of gambling activities, chiefly encompassing betting on horse and dog races, state lottery games, and charitable bingo. 

Notably, while the state has allowed Native American tribes to operate two medium-sized casinos, these establishments have faced significant governmental pressures since the early 2000s. Despite this, the land-based gambling avenues still attract patrons, even in the face of online gambling’s looming presence. 

Yet, for those hoping to place a bet on their favorite sports team, Texas maintains its strict stance against sports betting in brick-and-mortar establishments.

Most Popular Land-Based Sportsbooks in Texas Reviewed

Texas, often associated with its vast landscapes and deep-rooted traditions, has yet to embrace the world of Texas land-based sportsbooks. 

Unfortunately for betting enthusiasts, Texas does not house any such establishments. This has led many residents to cast their eyes eastward, towards the neighboring state of Louisiana. Louisiana, in contrast, boasts an array of top-tier betting locations that welcome Texan visitors with open arms. 

In this guide, we will delve into reviews of the most popular sportsbooks found just a stone’s throw away. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or just starting out, you’ll find these spots worth the trip.

The Barstool Sportsbook at Boomtown

Address: 4132 Peters Road Harvey, LA 70058 
Phone: 1-855-805-5596

Emerging as an epicenter for sports enthusiasts, the Sportsbook Lounge at Boomtown Central infuses a rich legacy with modern conveniences. Born from the lineage of Barstool Sports, a brand initiated by Dave Portnoy in the year ’03, this lounge carries an aura of athletic expertise and recreational flair.

In a turn of events, while PENN took over Barstool in 2020, Dave Portnoy reclaimed it in a notable acquisition.

Nestled in Harvey, Louisiana, this hotspot showcases advanced viewing facilities, expansive HDTVs, and real-time odds monitors, augmenting the spectator experience.

For those avid about sports, an array of events await – be it football, soccer, basketball, tennis, or even golf. Catering to varying tastes, they cover both elite and college-level games.

Betting variants range from point spread, head to head, futures, parlay, live betting, and many more, ensuring bettors have diverse options.

BarstoolSportsbook

In addition to wagering, Boomtown New Orleans provides added attractions – a hotel housing 150 rooms, pulsating nightclubs, and gourmet eateries, famous for their seafood and New Orleans delicacies. Plus, the gaming floor is packed with table games and slot experiences to further elevate the thrill.

Caesars Sportsbook at Harrah’s New Orleans

Address: 228 Poydras Street New Orleans, LA 70130
Phone: +1 800-427-7247

Caesars Sportsbook, with its headquarters in Reno, Nevada, has its roots in the 1973 Eldorado Hotel. This entertainment giant now oversees over 50 establishments across the U.S.

Their evolution in the betting arena intensified post the 2021 procurement of William Hill, birthing the Caesars Sportsbook.

This platform caters to diverse betting tastes with options like the money line, over/under, MLB specials, and more, covering a spectrum of sports ranging from boxing to auto racing.

CesarsNewOrleans

The Harrah’s New Orleans extension of Caesars Sportsbook provides numerous nearby attractions – from fine dining and vibrant lounges to snug hotel stays and a fitness hub, all amidst the city’s cultural wonders.

FanDuel Sportsbook at Evangeline Downs

Address: 2235 Creswell Ln, Opelousas, LA 70570, USA
Phone: +1 866-472-2466

Evangeline Downs’ FanDuel Sportsbook symbolizes a partnership in collaboration with Boyd Gaming and the FanDuel Group. This alliance combines Boyd Gaming’s hospitality flair with FanDuel’s gambling prowess, originally rooted in daily fantasy sports.

This amalgamation offers visitors a distinctive confluence of entertainment and adrenaline-packed betting escapades.

FanDuel Evan

The sportsbook portfolio spans across popular choices like basketball, soccer, MMA, and emerging arenas like esports. The betting depth is enriched with options such as totals, combos, and the like.

Evangeline Downs’ offerings are manifold, from leisure activities to live acts. Coupled with a vast gaming space and easy parking, it encapsulates a seamless entertainment package.

Legal Offline Sportsbooks in Texas

In the realm of sports betting, Texas has maintained a conservative stance. As of now, legal offline Texas sportsbooks are not a feature of the Lone Star State’s landscape. This lack of brick-and-mortar establishments can be disappointing for residents eager to place their wagers in a traditional setting.

However, it’s crucial to remember that while land-based sportsbooks aren’t an option in Texas, there are still avenues for sports enthusiasts to explore. Texas sports betting sites have started to gain traction, offering a viable and convenient alternative. These digital platforms provide a broad spectrum of betting opportunities without the need for a physical location.

For those longing for the experience of in-person betting, neighboring states might be a solution. But for the vast majority looking for ease and flexibility, these TX sportsbooks are a promising and ever-expanding option.

Race Tracks With Sports Betting in Texas

None of the race tracks in Texas offer sports betting. Sports betting is currently illegal in Texas, with the exception of pari-mutuel wagering on horse and dog racing. This means that you can only bet on horse and dog races that are taking place at a racetrack in Texas.

Texas speedway

There is a bill that has been introduced in the Texas legislature that would legalize sports betting, but it has not yet been passed. If the bill is passed, it is likely that sports betting would be offered at casinos and other licensed gambling establishments in Texas. However, it is not clear if sports betting would be offered at race tracks.

In the meantime, if you are interested in sports betting, you can do so online at a licensed offshore TX sportsbook. These betting apps in Texas provide everything you need for sports betting within the state.

Here is a list of all the race tracks in Texas:

  • Circuit of the Americas (COTA)
  • Texas Motor Speedway
  • Texas Motorplex
  • Heart O’ Texas Speedway
  • Rally Ready Driving School
  • MotorSport Ranch
  • Devil’s Bowl Speedway
  • MSR Houston
  • Eagles Canyon Raceway

Casino Resorts With Sports Betting in Texas

In the heart of the vast expanse of Texas, where traditions run deep and change can be a slow process, there currently aren’t any casino resorts offering sports betting. However, there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon; whispers of an introduced sports betting bill suggest that this might change in the future. 

As eager bettors await this potential shift, many look beyond the state’s borders for their gaming and betting pleasures. Fortunately, just a few hours’ drive away, there are top-tier casino resorts with sports betting that cater to this very need:

  • WinStar World Casino and Resort in Thackerville, Oklahoma – A giant in the casino world, offering a vast array of games and betting opportunities.
  • Choctaw Casino Resort in Durant, Oklahoma – Known for its luxurious accommodations and expansive gaming floors.
  • Arkansas Grand Casino Resort in Pine Bluff, Arkansas – A rising star in the gaming scene, attracting many from neighboring states.

For those Texans with a penchant for gaming and sports betting, these neighboring establishments provide an excellent and nearby alternative until Texas potentially embraces this form of entertainment.

Winstar world casino

And if the anticipation has you itching for immediate sports betting action, there’s no need to hit the road just yet. We recommend exploring online no deposit bonuses in Texas. This offers you a chance to delve into the action without any initial investment, giving a taste of the excitement without even leaving the comfort of your home. 

It is worth noticing that Texas casinos, operated by tribes, offer various gaming options, but they currently do not provide sports betting to their patrons. As a result, enthusiasts seeking to wager on sports events won’t find such services at these venues.

Cruise Ships and Riverboats in Texas

The vast state of Texas offers a diverse range of attractions, with cruise ships and riverboats taking center stage for many water enthusiasts. However, while these vessels provide a unique blend of entertainment and scenic views, sports betting remains notably absent from their list of offerings.

TypeCruise lineDestinations
Cruise shipCarnival Cruise LineCaribbean, Bahamas, Mexico
Cruise shipRoyal Caribbean InternationalCaribbean, Bahamas, Mexico
Cruise shipNorwegian Cruise LineCaribbean, Bahamas, Mexico
Cruise shipPrincess CruisesCaribbean, Bahamas, Mexico
Cruise shipDisney Cruise LineCaribbean
RiverboatLone Star RiverboatLady Bird Lake, Austin
RiverboatSouthern Empress CruisesBrazos River, Brenham
RiverboatVanishing Texas River CruiseLake Buchanan and the Colorado River, Burnet

Yet, if you find yourself aboard one of these cruises and feel the itch for some sports betting action, offshore online alternatives such as these online bookies have got you covered.

Sports You Can Bet on in Texas

Texas has a strong sports culture with a dedicated fanbase. However, it’s important to note that currently, there are no B&M sportsbooks in Texas. While residents eagerly await potential changes in legislation, many turn to these safe online gambling establishments for their betting needs. 

Tennis Federer

There, you might find a wide selection of sports to bet on, such as:

  • NFL Football
  • Basketball
  • Baseball
  • Soccer
  • Ice Hockey
  • Tennis
  • Golf
  • Boxing
  • Mixed Martial Arts
  • Horse Racing

Available Bet Types in Texas B&M Sportsbooks

Texas gambling laws currently restrict land-based Texas sports betting offerings. However, as highlighted in this article, a short drive out of state can introduce you to a broad array of betting options. These include:

  • Moneyline
  • Point Spread
  • Over/Under
  • Parlay
  • Proposition Bet (Prop Bet)
  • Futures
  • Teaser
  • Round Robin
  • Head-to-Head
  • Live Betting

Professional and College Teams in Texas

Texas stands as a beacon of sports in the United States, housing a multitude of both professional and college teams that compete across various leagues. The fervor and dedication of the fans are reflected in the state’s rich sporting history and present achievements.

TeamSportLeague
Dallas CowboysFootballNFL
Houston TexansFootballNFL
San Antonio SpursBasketballNBA
Houston RocketsBasketballNBA
Texas RangersBaseballMLB
Houston AstrosBaseballMLB
Dallas MavericksBasketballNBA
Dallas StarsIce HockeyNHL
Texas LonghornsVariousNCAA
Texas A&M AggiesVariousNCAA
Baylor BearsVariousNCAA 
TCU Horned FrogsVariousNCAA
Texas Tech Red RaidersVariousNCAA
SMU MustangsVariousNCAA
Houston CougarsVariousNCAA

Engaging with the exhilarating world of sports, especially when cheering on your home team, can send emotions soaring to unparalleled heights. In the heat of such moments, always remember to gamble responsibly.

Online Gambling in Texas

Texas remains stringent with its gambling law regulations, with most forms of online gambling being illegal, except for the Texas Lottery. Yet, the appeal of offshore websites tempts some to navigate past these constraints.

Online Poker in Texas

While the game of Texas Hold ’em originates from this state, playing poker online remains illegal. However, the draw of offshore Texas poker websites persists for some Texans seeking a virtual poker table.

Online Casinos in Texas

Casino-oriented online activities mirror their land-based versions in Texas, being firmly off-limits. Nevertheless, offshore Texas casino apps entice a segment of Texan aficionados eager for online casino experiences.

Online Sports Betting in Texas

Presently, online Texas sports betting is illegal. However, there’s hope on the horizon as a bill has been introduced in the legislature aiming to legalize this form of betting.

Online Lotteries in Texas

The Texas Lottery stands out as the exception in the state’s online gambling arena. It’s the only permitted form of online gambling, allowing players to purchase tickets either online or via the Texas Lottery app.

Online Daily Fantasy Sports in Texas

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) holds a complex legal status in Texas. Major platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings operate here, but the state’s legal stance is ambiguous, often leading to contention between DFS companies and Texan authorities.

Online Bingo in Texas

Texas bingo enthusiasts can enjoy the game both at physical venues and online, though digital options are somewhat restricted. Traditional paper bingo thrives at numerous locations, especially at charity events supervised by the Texas Lottery Commission. 

Texas bingo

While online bingo is legal, it’s vital to select regulated platforms..

Indian Gaming Tribes in Texas

Texas boasts a rich tapestry of cultural history, prominently woven by its indigenous communities. Integral to this legacy are the Indian gaming tribes that have pioneered the casino industry within the state. While these casinos nestle on tribal lands, shielded from standard Texan gambling regulations, their existence hasn’t been without contention.

The advent of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) in 1988 allowed federally recognized tribes to inaugurate casinos on their territories. Yet, the IGRA demanded these establishments to be overseen by the state’s regulatory authorities. For Texas, this supervision falls under the purview of the Texas Indian Gaming Commission.

Nevertheless, the presence of these casinos has sparked debates. Detractors argue they pose unfair competition to non-tribal businesses. In contrast, proponents assert their significance as revenue generators for both tribes and the Texan coffers.

Kickapoo tribe

While the future of Indian gaming in Texas hangs in balance with potential legislative changes either banning all gambling forms or introducing newer ones, what remains undeniable is the mark they’ve left on the Texan landscape.

Texas Gaming Tribes:

  • Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas
    Establishment: Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino in Eagle Pass
  • Tigua Indians of the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo
    Establishment: Speaking Rock Casino in El Paso
  • Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas
    Establishment: Naskila Gaming in Livingston.

Available Help for Gambling Addiction in Texas

In Texas, those grappling with gambling addiction are not alone; several organizations are steadfastly committed to providing the necessary help and resources. From national initiatives to state-specific programs, a wide selection of help is available. 

These organizations not only offer helplines but also conduct meetings and sessions, delivering hope and guidance to those in need.

Contact Information for Assistance:

  • National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG)
  • Gamblers Anonymous (GA)
    • For meetings in Texas, check the GA website.
  • Texas Council on Problem and Compulsive Gambling (TCPCG)
    • Helpline: 1-888-427-4887
  • Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS)
    • Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
  • Individual and Group Therapy
    • For therapists specializing in gambling addiction, an online search or consultation with your insurance provider can guide you.
  • Support Groups
    • Numerous support groups are available across the state to provide community and assistance for those working through their addiction.

Sports Betting Taxes in Texas

While sports betting is currently illegal in Texas, there’s a legislative proposal in the pipeline that, if passed, would usher in a new era for sports enthusiasts. One of the pivotal aspects of this bill is its taxation component, which directly impacts potential winnings from sports bets.

Details of the Proposed Sports Betting Tax

  • Tax Rate: The proposal suggests a tax rate of 24% on all Texas sports betting winnings.
  • No Minimum Threshold: All sports betting winnings, irrespective of their size, would be subject to this tax. There’s no proposed exemption for smaller amounts.
  • Collecting Entity: The tax would be overseen and collected by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, centralizing the process.
  • Allocation of Tax Revenue: Funds collected from this tax would be earmarked for specific purposes, primarily education and programs supporting veterans.
  • Effective Date: Should the bill receive approval, the tax would be instated on the first day of the fiscal year subsequent to the bill’s enactment date.
Taxes

However, it’s crucial to remember that the specifics of this proposed tax are not set in stone. As with most legislative discussions, there can be alterations, meaning the tax rate might undergo adjustments, or the bill might not see the light of day.

FAQ about gambling in Texas

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

Sports betting is currently illegal in Texas, but if legalized, the likely minimum gambling age would be 21. However, this is subject to change based on future legislative decisions. For more details, check out our article about the minimum gambling age in each state.

Is daily fantasy sports legal in Texas?

In 2016, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton declared daily fantasy sports (DFS) as legal, asserting it isn’t gambling under Texas law, a stance upheld by a Texas court in 2017.

How did the federal sports betting ban repeal affect the Texas gambling scene?

The repeal of the federal sports betting ban in May 2023 catalyzed discussions in Texas regarding its legalization, with a June 2023 poll revealing 62% of Texans supported such a move. 

Is horse race betting legal in Texas?

Yes, pari-mutuel betting on horse and greyhound races is legal at licensed racetracks in Texas.

What’s the future of gambling legalization in Texas?

The landscape of gambling in Texas is evolving, with active discussions and bills proposing the legalization of additional forms like sports betting. While the outcome isn’t definitive, there’s a hopeful momentum toward expanding legal sports betting options in the state.

Are there any legal Texas sportsbooks currently operating?

No, there aren’t any legally operating Texas sportsbooks at the moment. However, some residents turn to offshore alternatives for Texas sports betting. It’s worth mentioning that ongoing legislative discussions might pave the way for sportsbooks within Texas in the future.

When can we expect Texas sports betting to be legalized?

While there’s a growing interest in legalizing sports betting in Texas, the exact timeline remains uncertain. Many Texans are currently using offshore alternatives for sports betting, but it largely depends on the outcome of current legislative efforts and public sentiment for official state legalization.

What sports will be available for betting at Texas sportsbooks?

If sports betting gets legalized in Texas, sportsbooks will likely offer wagers on a broad range of sports, both domestic and international.

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