FloridaBetting.com is the leading source of information on where to bet in Florida, including sports, fantasy, and horse racing betting.

Online Horse Betting Florida

Long regarded the home of winter horse racing in the United States, the development of racing in Florida and its place as a major breeding center for thoroughbreds has combined to make the Sunshine State a year-around fixture for horseplayers looking to bet major stakes races. Florida is home to palm trees, great weather and well over a dozen different locations where horse racing fans can play the ponies. No matter where you are in the Sunshine State, there is a location nearby where you can get in on the action and best of all, Florida is also home to year-round live horse racing excitement. Off track betting Illinois. Betting on horse racing in Florida is a completely legal activity. While most forms of sports betting activity have been restricted and regulated by either state or federal law, betting on the horses has not. Whether you’re placing your wagers at the host track or an. The closest thing people in Florida can gamble on is dog and horse-racing and the sport of jai alai which has been popular and legal to bet on in the state since the 1960s. The only option sports gamblers have to place wagers on games is to use one of several offshore options, which are currently illegal.

We rate and review online gambling sites and mobile betting apps that are licensed to operate in the state of Florida. Our team of experts also offers a complete database of information on Florida casinos, race tracks, poker rooms, lotteries, and off track betting facilities in the state of Florida.

Best Legal Florida Betting Sites

Florida Daily Fantasy Sports Sites

Florida Horse Racing Betting Sites

Sports Betting in Florida

• Where to Bet on Sports in Florida – while sports fans wait for legalized sports betting in Florida, residents have access to the most popular daily fantasy sports app – which are an entertaining real money alternative.
• Daily Fantasy Apps that are allowed in Florida – both Draft Kings and Fan Duel are accessible to anyone in FL, we love both brands for various reasons and highly recommend creating an account at both!

Most forms of sports betting are outlawed in Florida with the only exceptions being parimutuel horse racing, greyhound racing (until 2021) and jai alai. We’ll dig into those activities further down this page, but the main thing to note is traditional sports betting is not permitted.

The odds of Florida gaming laws to authorize sports betting are low over the near future, but there are reasons to be optimistic. Some lawmakers are now in support of legalizing sports betting and have introduced legislation to that end.

In November 2019, Senator Jeff Brandes introduced SB 968 seeking to authorize two forms of sports betting:

• Retail sportsbooks operated by the state lottery
• Online and mobile betting platforms operated by commercial enterprises (such as DraftKings, William Hill, etc.)

Any bill that attempts to legalize Florida sports betting in any form will have to overcome two key hurdles.

First, the passage of Amendment 3 in 2018 has removed the legislature’s ability to expand gambling anywhere in Florida. Now, any gambling expansion must be approved by 60% of the voting public via statewide referendum. Some have made the argument that Amendment 3 may not actually apply to sports betting, but gaming opponents argue otherwise.

The outcome of that debate will either make it fairly easy for the Florida legislature to approve sports betting or significantly complicate the process by requiring statewide voter approval.

Second, the state’s gaming tribes hold considerable sway in all gambling matters and have said they’re not seriously considering sports betting at this time.

The closest alternative to sports betting in Florida right now is daily fantasy sports (DFS). Major DFS sites such as FanDuel and DraftKings are open for business in Florida and allow players to wager and win real money in one-day fantasy sports contests.

Horse Racing in Florida

Horse racing is a major industry in Florida and the state is home to numerous tracks that hold races year-round. Thoroughbred, quarter horse and harness racing are conducted in the South Florida area year-round at various tracks while thoroughbred races are held in the Tampa Bay area from December through May.

Florida horse racing betting is regulated by the Division of Pari-Mutuel Wagering, which is a subdivision of the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Parimutuel wagering is permitted in-person at licensed racetracks, online at licensed florida betting sites and at licensed ADW outlets located across the state.

• Tracks
• Off Track Betting Facilities
• Mobile and Online Options

Greyhound Racing in Florida

Florida is home to eleven active greyhound tracks and state law permits parimutuel greyhound betting. However, that is all set to change starting on January 1^st, 2021. The fate of greyhound betting was decided by voters in the November 2018 midterm elections with a ballot initiative that asked the public if the state should outlaw greyhound racing.

Amendment 13 needed a 60% or greater yes vote in the election and easily cleared that with a final vote of 69% in favor and 31% against. With that vote, live greyhound racing will be prohibited beginning in 2021. Additionally, it will be prohibited to wager on live grey hound races held in Florida.

One bit of good news for greyhound racetrack operators is Amendment 13 included a decoupling measure that will allow the tracks to continue to offer other forms of gambling even after live racing is discontinued in 2021.

Under current Florida gambling law, racetracks are required to hold a minimum number of live races every year in order to offer other, more profitable forms of gaming. That is set to change with the decoupling measure.

Existing racetracks will still be able to offer those games, but nevertheless the long-term future is clear: greyhound racing will slowly wither and die in Florida. While existing racetracks continue forward as long as they can, no new tracks will be built and eventually the whole industry that once lived around greyhound racing will crawl to a stop.

Racing fans will still be allowed to bet on races held in other states via simulcasting, but greyhound racing as it occurs in Florida has a clear expiration date: 1 January 2021. Horse racing betting and online greyhound betting will be unaffected.

Poker, Slots, Blackjack, and Casino Games in Florida.

Florida is home to many casinos with slots, blackjack, roulette, craps and other standard gambling games. The types of games offered at any one casino vary depending on where that casino is located and who runs it due to a complex myriad of state laws, county laws and tribal gaming compacts.

There are three major types of casinos in Florida: tribal casinos, parimutuel facilities or “racinos” with attached casinos, and excursion casinos located on cruise ships.

Tribal casinos offer the most game variety of all land-based casinos in Florida. The Seminole tribe has exclusive rights to offer slots, blackjack and other casino-backed card games. The Miccosukee Tribe operates one casino in Florida, but otherwise the Seminoles dominant Florida tribal gaming.

Horse tracks, greyhound racing tracks and jai alai frontons are permitted to offer poker and video gambling machines such as electronic blackjack and electronic roulette. Additionally, racetracks and jai alai frontons located in Broward County and Miami-Dade County are allowed to host slot machines.

Cruise ship casinos offer the greatest variety of gambling options in Florida because they navigate to international waters where they may offer all types of casino games and sports betting.

Florida once had multiple cruise ship casinos to choose from, but the industry has hit hard times and now just a single cruise ship casino operates in the state. Victory Casino Cruises still sail seven days a week on five and six-hour excursions from Port Canaveral.

Florida Lotteries

Florida lotto games can be played in three main formats – draw games, scratch off games, and fast play games. A legal framework for a Florida online lottery does not exist, so players will have to visit an authorized retailer to purchase tickets in person.

Many states have legalized online lotteries and we hope Florida legislators will do so soon.

Florida Gambling Laws Explained

Most forms of land-based gambling are legal in Florida. The state has legal poker rooms, casinos, racing, jai alai betting and even sports betting if you count the casino cruise ship that travels to international waters every day.

Online betting in Florida is also allowed in the form of daily fantasy sports and online racing betting. Online sports betting, casino games and poker are prohibited – but we are hopeful that will change soon.

Where it gets confusing is understanding exactly when and where the various forms of gambling are legal in Florida. A combination of state law and tribal gaming compacts restrict certain types of gambling to certain locations.

We’ll dig into the details on another page, but the key points to understand Florida gambling laws follow:

• Horse racing tracks, greyhound racing tracks and jai alai frontons may offer racing/jai alai betting and host player-vs-player poker games
• In Miami-Dade County and Broward County only, those same facilities may also operate slot machines and electronic table games not run by human dealers
• The Seminole Tribe of Florida has the exclusive right to offer slot machines outside of Miami-Dade and Broward counties
• The Seminole Tribe of Florida has the exclusive right to offer house-backed card games such as blackjack, baccarat and three card poker run by human dealers
• The Miccosukee Tribe is permitted to offer slots and poker at its casino in Miami

The Seminole gaming compact plays an important role in shaping Florida betting law and the tribe holds considerable sway over lawmakers due to the amount of money it pumps into state coffers every year.

• Seminole Tribe: Florida’s largest gaming tribe and operates six casinos. The Seminoles pay the state more than $300 million a year in return for the exclusive right to offer dealer-operated card games such as blackjack and to be the only provider of slots outside of Miami-Dade County and Broward County
• Miccosukee Tribe: Operates one casino in Miami with slots, poker and bingo. The Miccosukee Tribe has refused to pay taxes on gaming revenues for years and is now fighting the federal government over a $1 billion tax bill

The sport of jai alai is unique to Florida in the USA and although the industry has certainly seen better days, there are still a few places to bet on jai alai. For the most part, jai alai serves as a means for Miami-area casinos to stay compliant with state law that requires gambling venues to host horse races, greyhound races or jai alai matches.

Actual jai alai betting is somewhat rare, but the following facilities do still support jai alai betting markets:

• The Casino at Dania Beach: Evening matches Wednesday – Sunday at 7 PM, matinee matches Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday at 1 PM
• Magic City Casino: Matches every Wednesday – Sunday at 3PM and 7PM
• Casino Miami: Weekend matches at 12PM and 7PM (seasonal availability only)
• King’s Court Jai Alai & Poker Room: Jai alai coming June 2019

Horse racing has long been a favorite pastime for many. Watching the horses go around the track is exciting, but placing your bets on which one is going to make it to the finish line first can also provide a rush.

With a couple of the tracks known for horse racing, there’s a rich history of horse racing for the area. Horse racing is regulated through the state and county areas for each of the tracks.

When in Florida for the horse racing, many of the race tracks provide a casino, dining options, and a resort so you can plan your stay within one of them.
Enjoy all that horse racing in Florida has to offer when you plan a stay. Make sure to get all the horse racing from the area and more with these fine horse racing tracks offered. Florida isn’t the only home to many horse races. But be sure to stop in sunny Florida for a little bit of excitement. As well as a wide assortment of other activities that takes place throughout this state.

Horse Racing History in Florida

In the 1920’s, horse racing started in the state and continued to hit the ground running. With many tracks placed throughout Florida, many people came out to see and bet on the horse races for the area. Horse racing in the past was one of the biggest gaming attractions of the area. This made horse racing tracks one of the most loved and used industries. Florida was not the first to have tracks built, but was one of the close followers after.

Once horse racing became illegal in many areas, a lot of the tracks did not perform so well. Many closed and/or went bankrupt. Currently, the oldest track that’s still used is the Hialeah Park Racetrack. This is where thousands of people continue to flock during the racing months.

Both harness racing and thoroughbred racing is popular throughout the state. Depending on the track visited, you can watch either one of them. Handicap racing is also provided at times. This depends on the outcome of the horses that sign up for the events. Each venue has something different to provide to the guest. Whether it’s a different type of horse racing or even added amenities on the venue.

Each of the tracks has horses that are new, as well as well-known to the horse racing industry. For years, they’ve welcomed many of the big names in horse racing. They continue to provide the necessary improvements. And also wants and needs for the guests that continue to show patriotism to their race tracks.

Many of the tracks opened in the past 30 years, while others have been around for 100+. Each one offers something different than the next. Plan your time in the area with one of the many horse tracks provided in the state of Florida.

1 – Tampa Bay Downs

Tampa Bay is generally where you’re able to find a lot of the nightlife, casinos, and races happening. Many people visit this area for that purpose. Tampa Bay Downs opened in 1926 and have ever since been running their horse racing track. Racing thoroughbred horses on the track, they take bets on which horse is going to make it to the finish line.

Tampa Bay is big on the casino that they provide. But behind the casino there is also a horse racing track for visitors to enjoy. The casino and horse racing tracks are also right next to the golf practice area. The poker room is a separate area inside the casino. This provides visitors with a way to play poker separately from other table games and slots.

Tampa Bay provides a lot to the visitor in the area. With many upscale hotels, beaches, nightlife, casinos and more; there’s always something for visitors to do. Enjoy the horse races during your stay, but take advantage of all that Tampa Bay has to offer.

2 – Gulf Stream Park Racing & Casino

Gulf Stream is a beautiful place to visit. They have a Racing and Casino building welcoming visitors. It provides a great way to spend some time while in the area. Approved by the county, this is one of the largest casino and race tracks throughout all Florida. They provide horse racing December through October.

While visiting or living in the area, many come out to see the races. But they can also enjoy all that the casino area has to provide. It’s thought of as one of the most important venues that you can visit for horse racing in America. Thoroughbred horse racing is at the top of the list at this venue. Visitors can buy tickets and check race times right online. This is a great way to check before heading out to the races. You can also buy tickets for the shows before they all become sold out.

Gulf Stream Park & Racing tends to get busiest in the tourist months. I recommend planning a stay during the other months of the year, though it’s not necessary. Plenty of things can are available in the immediate area outside of the park for visitors to enjoy.

3 – Florida Quarter Horse Racing

This quarter horse racing track caters to quarter horses looking to make it to the finish line. With many of the horses that race raised in the area, you can come and meet the horses before the races. This way, you can check their stats and find out which one can make it to the end. Place your bets right inside the venue and work to grab the biggest purse.

The horsemen have trained to provide the horses with the right mindset to make it around the course. Traveling race horses come to the area to try their luck against some of the competing horses from the area. The horsemen meet with the visitors to provide information on training and horses. This is a bit different than the other race tracks. But still provides the excitement of horse racing within the track.

Quarter horse racing in this area is on a dirt track and looks more like a cowboy event than anything. This is something that a lot of horse racing enthusiasts might enjoy. Especially while in the area and looking for a different type of horse racing to watch. You can place bets on the best horse and horse race man going around the track.

Horse Betting Age Florida

4 – Hialeah Park

Hialeah Park is a favorite outdoor and activity area for those living in the area. It is also one of the most known places for horse racing throughout the country. It is a historic area for those that want to race and watch races. With 40 square blocks of space, the track is also one of the largest in Florida. You can watch the races right online, while also being able to place your bets. Find out which horses are making it to the top when you check stats and watch past races that they’ve competed in.

They hold events and weddings in their venue. They also have a full service live casino that you can visit while waiting for the races. You can dine in one of the six different restaurants right on the grounds. Live entertainment is provided for those that want to come out to see a concert or other show. With plenty for everyone to do while visiting Hialeah Park, it is an ideal place to spend your time.

This is a historic area for horse racing. Visitors can look around to get a feel for the history behind the track and casino. Many of the older pictures are on display for those interested in learning more about horse racing.

5 – Pompano Park

Pompano Park is another place where casino, fine dining, racing and fun come together in one area. With a standard harness racing track, you can come out to watch all the excitement. Additionally, there is more provided to guests that come out to watch the races. With a full casino, hotel and resort, as well as dining options, you can make a whole vacation out of Pompano Park. They’ve been around for years and continue to provide the races that visitors like to see.

The horse racing schedule is online, allowing you to plan your stay. Many of the horses that race on the track live in the state. But some travel from neighboring states to try their luck in the races. You can place your bet on the winning horses of the area or try your luck on one of the new ones coming into town. Enjoy all the racing that comes with Pompano Park. You can check the website for reservations, events, tickets and more. If you’re traveling to the area, this makes it a bit easier to grab the activities that you want to enjoy ahead of time.

Pompano Park is a hidden gem in Florida for horse racing. A lot of visitors enjoy visiting this venue for the casino that they provide. One of the largest in Florida, the track is right on the premises. This makes it easy to find something different than slots. You can buy tickets for the races right inside the casino, as well.

Conclusion

Finding a horse race track for the area shouldn’t have to be hard. With the help of this list, you can plan a stay in one of the areas listed. This provides you with a way to enjoy not only Florida, but also the race tracks that have been around for some time.

When looking for race tracks, it’s important to find out what each one of them provides. Knowing what’s inside them can ensure that you’re happy with the trip that you plan on taking. This way you don’t need to worry about finding extra activities for the area. also, beaches are always nearby.

Horse racing is exciting. It can provide anyone with a way to spend a little time on something that’s enjoyable. Watch as the horse’s race around the tracks. And put your bets down to try and win some money and enjoy all that the area has to provide. Horse racing is more than a pastime; it’s also a competitive, exciting sport.