Idaho Horse Racing Betting in 2024

Idaho has a rich history in the horse racing industry. Unfortunately, a number of horse race tracks in the Gem State have gone into liquidation, leaving horse racing fans less of a chance to get action on race days. Fortunately, ID online gambling sites are a perfect place to find horse racing action from all over the world.

While these offshore sites are mostly known for offering online sports betting, they offer all forms of gambling. Horse racing fans are finding more accessible and affordable places to place their wagers, and we’ve reviewed the best offshore sportsbooks providing these services and created a top-ten ranking.

The top Idaho horse racing betting sites recommended by our racebook experts can be discovered below. You’ll additionally find an extensive guide covering the horse racing history in ID, the laws surrounding the sport, and the intricate details that go into becoming a top-five online horse racing betting site in Idaho. 

Ranking the Top 10 Sites for Online Horse Betting in Idaho

  1. Bovada – The best site for horse racing betting in Idaho 
  2. BetOnline – The best all-rounder horse betting site in Idaho  
  3. BookMaker – High wagering limits for horse betting in ID  
  4. Heritage Sports – Excellent live horse betting service in Idaho      
  5. BetAnySports – Extensive horse racing betting markets in Idaho  
  6. Everygame – The best racebook bonuses in Idaho  
  7. WagerWeb – A wide variety of horse racing betting 
  8. GTbets – Strong international horse racing coverage and markets  
  9. BetUS – Offers excellent promotions for new and existing customers 
  10. JustBet – Early released horse betting odds and simulcast wagering service in ID

Reviewing the Best Idaho Horse Racing Betting Sites 

Our dedicated team of racebook experts has handpicked the top 10 horse racing betting sites above. Following an intense vetting process, our team has given each operator a rating between A+ and F, therefore separating the best from the rest. 

If you’re contemplating which racebook suits you best, perhaps you can find interest in our five best online betting sites below. They’re all attached with detailed reviews explaining how our experts positioned them as Idaho’s best horse racing betting sites. 

1. Bovada: The Best Site for Horse Racing Betting Site in Idaho  

Bovada Racebook

Even if you’re brand new to horse racing, you’ve most likely stumbled across or heard of the name Bovada. This horse racing and sports betting giant is widely popular throughout the Gem State. With over two decades of bookmaking experience, they’re also one of the most reputable and trustworthy operators. 

Bovada is an online horse betting site, and sportsbook and offers a great library of online casino games. Its position within the industry has made it simple for this operator to deliver the most comprehensive gambling platform that is aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly. In addition, their mobile platform is excellent for bettors on the move, as their horse racing betting site is accessible from any mobile device anywhere in the country.

With its dedicated sports betting app, Bovada’s site is clunky and packed with casino products unless you want to visit that part of the website. They’re specifically notable in their horse racing offerings with excellent odds-on favorites and underdogs. Whether you’re an experienced bettor or a newbie, utilizing Bovada’s form guide can give you the best advice before placing wagers.

While the specific Bovada promo codes for the racebook can be limited, Bovada offers some of the best bonuses in the industry for sports bettors.

Pros:

  • Extensive selection of US horse racing markets 
  • Low minimum deposits
  • Dedicate sports betting app separate from the casino 
  • Decades of experience    

Cons:

  • Betting limits can be lower than competitors  

2. BetOnline: The Best All-Around Horse Betting Site in Idaho 

BetOnline racebook

BetOnline is one of the most sought-after betting account types by bettors worldwide. They boast one of the largest user bases in the betting world, and this stance is supported by over twenty years of experience. Most importantly, the racebook at BetOnline is impeccable, with multiple features that can assist new or veteran bettors. 

BetOnline excels in versatility, with unique features such as the multi-view tab – allowing you to keep track of multiple races – and the interactive form guide that gives you a chance to research races and make informed wagering decisions. 

BetOnline presents more than 550 racetracks for bettors to choose from at U.S. and international racing venues. Key features at this established operator seem never-ending, such as the handicapping tools that allow customers to set a specific price where their bet will be auto-placed or canceled depending on if it reaches the price you desire. 

Bettors will also positively experience using BetOnline with mobile devices on all popular OS systems. Of course, they cover basic needs such as speedy payouts, multiple banking options, top-notch customer services, a huge variety of BetOnline promo codes and much more. 

Pros:

  • Wide variety of horse racing markets for U.S. and international racetracks
  • Excellent handicapping tools 
  • Form guides for horses 
  • Great bonuses and promotions 

Cons:

  • Fees for depositing with a credit card 

3. BookMaker: High Wagering Limits for Bettors in ID   

Bookmaker.eu Racebook

High rollers and big sports bettors needn’t look any further; Bookmaker.eu is the home of sharp handicappers and accepts considerably large wagers. These high wagering limits are also matched with low deposits and stakes for those looking to place a more conservative bet. 

BookMaker has been an established operator for close to 30 years, and when it comes to horse racing betting in Idaho, they’re one of the most notable racebooks you’ll find. With over one hundred racetracks to wager on, and it doesn’t matter if you’re looking for US races like the Kentucky Derby or international events like the Grand National, BookMaker will have betting lines available.  

New customers will find great value in the welcome bonuses and loyal users are offered regular promotions throughout the year, including a loyalty program that provides punters with BetPoints redeemable for free betting funds and cash. They’re known for paying customers in full and on time, as BookMaker’s racebook is an ideal horse racing betting site in Idaho that will never suspend or ban the accounts of their winning bettors.

Of course, BookMaker covers the basics. Alongside its notable no-ban policy on winning customers – that most rivals can’t match – you’ll receive excellent customer service, a secure website, an extensive range of horse racing betting markets, and a reputable sportsbook and casino. 

Pros:

  • Highest betting limits available 
  • Rebate on racebook wagers 
  • Wide selection of horse racing betting markets 

Cons:

  • Professional bettors are removed from the loyalty program 

4. Heritage Sports: Excellent Live Betting Service for Horse Racing in Idaho

Heritage Sports Racebook

Our team of experts couldn’t help but notice some critical aspects that separate Heritage Sports from the competition. Services such as the $1,000 to win, place, and show betting limit and the extended wagering limits on exotic props can go up to $200. 

Heritage Sports is a well-established sportsbook and casino. Still, our experts have labeled them with an A+ rating because they’re a diverse gambling operator that also delivers an excellent horse racing betting site in Idaho. 

Regarding competitive odds, it’s tough for rivals to match Heritage Sports’ prices. Those looking for a complete bookmaker have found the perfect match. This online Idaho horse racing betting site has racebook rebates, great bonuses, an easy-to-navigate site and a live betting service that allows customers to keep up with every race daily. 

Although Heritage Sports is renowned for its extensive sports betting markets, pony fans need not worry; they’ll find over 60 thoroughbred and harness racetrack markets from U.S. and international horse racing events. With no less than 16 of North America’s most notable racetracks at the ready on any given day, online Idaho horse racing betting sites simply cannot compete with Heritage Sports and their excellent racebook offerings.   

Pros:

  • Racebook rebates 
  • Simulcast wagering on horse events  
  • Simple to navigate website 
  • Notable bonus offers and promos   

Cons:

  • Rollover requirements are higher than some competitors

5. BetAnySports: The Best Racebook Rebates in Idaho

BetAnySports Homepage

As a pioneering gambling company that’s built its reputation on sports wagering, you can guarantee the horse racing betting services at BetAnySports are an exceptional experience for new and existing customers.

Bettors will enjoy the extensive thoroughbred racetracks available at BetAnySports, while this operator also provides a helping of international tracks for good measure. With decades of experience in the business, they’ve evolved into a reputable racebook that presents unique features the competition cannot match. Such as the 9% rebate players can receive on horse racing action whether they win or lose, as well as 10% returns when you win on certain tracks – simply an offer you won’t find anywhere else.

This unique rebate program positions BetAnySports as one of the best Idaho horse racing betting sites, but they also present competitive odds, notable customer service, years of experience, and a site that works effortlessly on desktop and mobile devices.

Pros:

  • Up to 9% racebook rebates (win or lose)
  • Excellent customer service and decades of experience
  • Competitive odds for US and international racetracks

Cons:

  • Smaller bonuses compared to rival sportsbooks
  • Website interface not that desirable

Comparing the Best Online Horse Betting Sites in Idaho

All the Idaho horse racing betting sites in our top ten and top five lists above provide excellent services and betting value. However, you’re likely wondering what system our experts use when deciding which offshore sportsbooks are the best and why their racebook products excel above the competition. Below you’ll find the criteria used to discover the best sites for gambling in Idaho.

Horse Racing Odds 

Horse racing events are loved worldwide, but for a horse racing bettor, building a positive bankroll is essential. Becoming a long-term winner while betting on horse racing in Idaho requires line shopping for the best betting value. Because betting odds with the highest possible profit are imperative, the online betting sites we select must provide the most competitive prices accessible.  

Live Horse Racing Betting 

Placing a horse bet in advance can be crucial to finding the best value; however, live betting can provide some of the most lucrative returns. The biggest thrill in the horse racing industry is wagering on a race as it’s being run, but not every racebook allows customers to do this. Our experts always consider if a top online horse betting site in Idaho has in-play betting available and how well customers can navigate the shifting odds.

Horse Racing Betting Promotions 

Bonuses and promotions are a staple throughout most sportsbooks, racebooks and casinos. However, they can range from very low to extremely high across different bookmakers, with each operator having their terms and conditions. We attempt to find sites with the best rebates, enhanced odds, daily specials that home in on horse racing events, and small rollover requirements for highly-priced bonuses. 

Choosing the Best Idaho Horse Racing Betting Sites 

Horse racing betting is a big-money industry, and with its demand, there is a saturated market, and it becomes difficult for customers to separate the good from the bad. The idealistic Idaho horse racing betting site must meet your needs and more. Although each user will have a personal preference, we attempt to narrow your choices by selecting the top operators that meet our high standards. Below you can find the crucial aspects we value when picking the best Idaho horse racing betting sites. 

Brand Recognition 

Amateur bettors oblivious to online wagering will utilize brand recognition to dictate which racebook is safe, reputable, and trustworthy. Selecting operators with years of experience is the perfect method to determine a site that provides a secure and top-quality experience. You’ll usually find thousands of reviews for these tried and tested operators, extending the trust-factor new users are looking for. 

Regarding brand recognition, it isn’t easy to match BetOnline and Bovada. 

Payment Methods

Every punter looking to place wagers with the best Idaho horse racing betting sites will need a funded betting account to achieve this. The best sportsbook operators have an extensive choice regarding banking options, such as credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrency options. And, of course, bookies that offer no fees on all depositing methods receive extra credit from our experts. 

Safety & Security 

Perhaps the most critical aspect of our expert’s vetting process is horse racing site security. It’s crucial to ensure the bookmaker you register with has SSL encryption and multiple trusted payment methods, not forgetting that they should be a licensed operator under a respected regulator. All of the offshore racebooks in our top-rated guide are licensed; this signals the site you’re using is safe, trustworthy, and is tested regularly to keep its license.  

Speed & Design  

Navigation and aesthetics are essential for modern-day bettors, especially customers using mobile devices with small screens. Nobody wants slow-loading pages or a bookmaker that’s difficult to navigate. Still, a well-designed racebook will allow bettors to make those last-minute bets without the paranoia of not knowing if they can achieve this task in time.  

Customer Service  

Complications can quickly arise when using any online website, and if you need to ask a question or query a complaint, you don’t want to wait around. The top-rated online Idaho horse racing betting sites must provide 24/7 customer support. We don’t include chatbots in this category, as we realize bettors want to communicate with real people. 

Overall Value  

There are many notable online Idaho horse racing betting sites to choose from, but it’s also essential to understand the positives and negatives of each operator. 

Below you’ll find an overview of what makes a top-rated Idaho horse racing betting site. 

SportsbookRatingOnline SincePayment MethodsRead Review
BovadaA+2011Credit Card, BitcoinBovada Review
BetOnlineA+2001Credit Card, Bitcoin, Crypto, Cashiers Check, Bank Transfer P2PBetOnline Review
BookMakerA+1996Credit Card, Bitcoin, P2P, CryptoBookMaker Review
Heritage SportsA+2001Credit Card, Bitcoin, Cashiers Check, Bank Transfer, P2PHeritage Sports Review
BetAnySportsA+2002Credit Card, Bitcoin, Electronic CheckBetAnySports Review
EverygameA1996Credit Card, Bitcoin, Skrill, Neteller, Bank Transfer, P2PEverygame Review
WagerWebA1994Credit Card, Bitcoin, Cashiers Check, Bank Transfer, P2PWagerWeb Review
GTbetsA2011Credit Card, Bitcoin, CryptoGTbets Review
BetUSA2000Credit Card, Bitcoin, Bank Transfer, P2PBetUS Review
JustBetA2000Credit Card, Bitcoin, P2P, CryptoJustBet Review

Horse racing betting is one of the only legalized gambling activities in Idaho, alongside the lottery. Thanks to the Horse Racing Act from 1973, pari-mutuel betting is legal for residents of the Gem State.

The Idaho Horse racing commission oversees the horse racing activities in Idaho and the legal structures found in title 54, chapter 25 of the state legislature.   

Idaho Horse Racing Betting Guide – How to Bet on Horse Races in Idaho 

Idaho locals can simply place horse wagers at one of the on-track locations, a lone off-track betting operator, and by using one of the top-rated Idaho horse racing betting sites such as Bovada, BetOnline, BookMaker or Heritage Sports.  

How does horse racing betting work in Idaho?

Whether you’re looking to place a wager at one of Idaho’s local racetracks or with one of our top 10 offshore sportsbooks, the fundamentals of placing the bet stay the same.

First, you’ll want to research which horses look primed to win; most bettors utilize a form guide to raise their knowledge of the history and stats of each horse competing in a specific race.

Then you need to simply place your wager, either in-person with physical cash or debit/credit card at a land-based track or online with an offshore operator using one of the banking methods available. 

What are the different types of horse racing bets?

Every horse racing event you approach will provide various markets to choose from. Below you can find the most popular markets you can bet on at online betting sites. 

  1. Win: Like a moneyline bet found in alternative sports betting markets, the win market requires you to pick the horse you believe will win the race. Your horse must finish in the first place to win the bet. 
  2. Place: A place wager requires the horse you select to come in second or first. The payout will be the same whether your horse finishes in first or second, but your selected pony must finish in one of those two positions to win your bet. 
  3. Show: Extending from a place bet, a show wager requires your selected horse to finish first, second, or third. 
  4. Exacta: Sometimes referred to as exotic wagers in horse betting, the exact bet requires you to predict the exact finishing order of the first and second places of a race.  
  5. Trifecta: Trifecta homes the same rules as an exacta bet; the only difference is that you’ll need to predict the first, second, and third. Don’t forget; the horses must be predicted in the exact finishing order to win.  
  6. Superfecta: The ultimate and one of the highest-paying exotic wagers is a superfecta. Like the exacta and trifecta, you need to predict the exact finishing order of multiple horses. Superfectas are won when bettors predict the precise order of a single race’s first, second, third, and fourth place finishes.  
  7. Daily Double: A daily double combines two race meetings instead of a single race. To win a daily double, bettors must predict the result of the first two races in a race meeting. 
  8. Pick 3/4/5/6: Like the daily double, bettors must pick race winners from consecutive races. Depending on whether you choose a pick 3, pick 4, pick 5, or pick 6, will determine how many separate race winners you will need to predict from a collection of meetings.

The History of Horse Racing in Idaho  

  • 2021: Legislation approved a bill that forced horse race betting operators to give a percentage of their earnings to horse breeders. 
  • 2018: The state’s first instant racing facility opens in Post Falls. 
  • 2011: Official racing events return to Les Bois Park following its closure in 2008. Five years later, in 2016, the park shut down once again. 
  • 1990: Horse racing simulcasting is legalized.
  • 1970: The lone commercial racetrack in Idaho opened at the Boise Fairgrounds and was renamed Les Bois Park three years later.
  • 1964: The Gem County Fairgrounds and Eastern Idaho State Fair host the first-ever pari-mutuel horse event.
  • 1963: The horse racing act in Idaho is established, allowing pari-mutuel wagering.

Comparing Betting at the Racetrack with Online Horse Racing Betting 

Betting on a physical racetrack presents different pros and cons than using an offshore sportsbook. However, there’s no denying that Idaho’s best horse racing betting sites own significantly more advantages from a betting perspective. 

The available odds online are incomparable to the prices often fixed at a racetrack. With the ability to line shop for your odds from a desktop or mobile device, those betting at a racetrack have no choice but to settle for the odds available.  

The overall selection at a racetrack is also limited compared to the hundreds of horse racing betting markets you can find online, as you can wager on Idaho events, U.S. events, and races taking place internationally. 

Other Types of Gambling in Idaho 

For those looking at betting action outside the racetrack, Idaho horse racing betting sites provide multiple options for gambling. The top-rated sportsbooks in our guide offer an extensive selection of sports betting markets from the NFL, NBA, NFL, MLB, MLS, UFC and all your favorite sports.

You can also find casino gaming. Poker tables, slots, table games and everything in between, our top 10 rated betting sites in Idaho have it all.

What is the best site for horse racing betting in Idaho? 

Now that you’ve concluded our extensive Idaho horse racing betting guide, you’ll understand that our top-rated offshore betting sites are the most accessible and profitable methods for gambling online. While each punter will have their individual preferences, Bovada and BetOnline are our top 2 ranked operators that provide horse racing betting in Idaho, as well as bonuses, competitive odds, and a plethora of notable horse racing features.

FAQs – Idaho Horse Racing Betting  

Is horse racing betting legal in Idaho? 

Yes, pari-mutuel betting at one of Idaho’s tracks is entirely legal. However, the top-rated offshore sportsbooks we’ve covered are a great place for horse racing action; you can find unique horse racing markets or even enjoy simulcast horse racing from venues like Churchill Downs.

What is the big horse race in Idaho?

The Eastern Idaho State Fair in Blackfoot, Idaho, hosts four consecutive days of pari-mutuel racing over two weekends and is one of the Gem State’s most notable horse racing locations. 

Are there horse races in Idaho? 

Yes, Idaho is the home of several horse racing venues that host race meetings. 

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