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Maryland and horse racing have been linked together for hundreds of years. Today, Maryland is the home of The Preakness Stakes, the Middle Jewel of the prestigious Triple Crown in horse racing. But the history of horses in the state is deep and rich.
In this comprehensive guide, we review the best offshore sportsbooks for betting on horse racing, and we go over the different types of bets you can make, explain how the odds work, what makes horse racing betting sites good, where you can catch the biggest races in person at horse racing venues in Maryland and more.
| SPORTSBOOK | TRUST SCORE | ONLINE SINCE | Expert Review | BONUS | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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2001
|
100% Free Play
|
|||
|
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1996
|
$500 Cash Bonus
|
|||
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2002
|
55% Cash Bonus
|
|||
|
|
2001
|
$250 Free Bet
|
|||
|
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1994
|
30% Cash Bonus
|
Resources:
Table of Contents
Is it legal to bet on horse racing in Maryland?
You can legally bet on horse races both in person and online in Maryland. You just have to be of the minimum gambling age, which is 18 years of age. The age for gambling in Maryland is 21 if you are visiting a casino that serves alcohol, however. Despite the fact that there are state-regulated options for betting on horse races online, we think that offshore sites will provide you with a better overall betting experience.
Maryland Horse Racing FAQs
What is the famous horse race in Maryland?
The Preakness Stakes is a U.S. thoroughbred horse race conducted each year at Baltimore’s Pimlico Race Course. It traditionally occurs on Armed Forces Day, which is the third Saturday in May. It’s known as the “Middle Jewel” of the Triple Crown.
Can you visit Pimlico?
In addition to races, Pimlico is open to the public for dining, special events and tours throughout the year.
How many racetracks are there in Maryland?
Maryland is home to six active racetracks. These are the Pimlico Race Course, Laurel Park, Timonium Race Course (held during State Fair), Fair Hill Races, the Rosecroft Raceway and Ocean Downs.
What horse race is in Baltimore?
The Preakness Stakes is held at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. It is one of the biggest races in the sport, directly following the Kentucky Derby.
Which Triple Crown race is in Maryland?
The Preakness Stakes, which is held each year on Armed Forces Day.
Ranking the Top 10 Offshore Sites for Horse Racing in Maryland
There are some excellent US-based horse racing betting sites such as TwinSpires and TVG that anyone in Maryland can join. Both are serious about horse racing, but the sites we reviewed to make our top 10 offer much more than that.
They also are offshore alternatives, meaning these online sportsbooks are not regulated or taxed by Maryland. They are regulated by the laws of countries such as Costa Rica and Antigua where it is legal to do online casino gambling as well as sports betting.
You will be able to join any of these sites and start betting on the biggest races and more today to win real money, all under one roof:
- BookMaker – Fixed betting odds available
- Heritage Sports – Dedicated racebook with over 60 tracks
- BetOnline – Highest daily rebate (9%) on horses
- BetAnySports – Cash back racebook
- BetUS – Get your money back for finishing 2nd or 3rd in races
- WagerWeb – Great for crypto users
- JustBet – All fixed odds horse racing
- SportsBetting.ag – Get your first horse race bet on the house ($25 value)
Reviewing the Best Maryland Horse Racing Betting Sites
You may still be wondering things like which site has the best bonuses, best betting odds or the most options for banking methods. We take that into consideration and more when we make our list of the best racebooks.
The following are our in-depth reviews of the top five sites from our top 10 list of best horse betting sites for Maryland users.
1. Racebook With Fixed Odds Available: BookMaker
Best For
Trust
9.8/10
Banking
8.6/10
Bonuses
8.2/10
Odds
9/10
Customer Service
9/10
Betting Limits
9.8/10
CURRENT PROMOTION
$500 Cash Bonus
Key Features
- 3% rebate on Win/Place/Show bets
- One of the most respected sportsbooks in the industry
The main appeal of Bookmaker.eu has been the early lines for sports betting for years, but you can also trust their racebook to be one of the best in the industry too with over 50 North American tracks to choose from. They also have international races covered for even more gambling activity and opportunities.
Win or lose, the rebate program will reward bettors with 3% cash back on their Win, Place and Show bets. The exotic wagers receive 8% cash back. You can also do Daily Double bets when there are multiple races held at the same track.
If you plan to wager on horses frequently, then BookMaker’s loyalty program is one of the best in the business. You just may want to check to see if your account is eligible for Diamond status as that tier is only reserved for recreational accounts. BookMaker also provides some generous bonuses to their new and existing customers.
2. Racebook With 60+ Tracks: Heritage Sports
Best For
Trust
9.6/10
Banking
8.6/10
Bonuses
8.2/10
Odds
9/10
Customer Service
9/10
Betting Limits
9.7/10
CURRENT PROMOTION
100% Free Play
Key Features
- 8% daily rebates on horse races
- No restrictions on where bonus money can be used on site
Heritage Sports is one of Costa Rica’s best online casinos and sportsbooks. They have one of the most dedicated racebook sections with a good mobile betting site that makes placing bets simple. They also have a large selection of bonuses and promos available.
You can bet on a variety of overseas races, and you have everything from the standard options (Win/Place/Show) to exotic wagers (Exacta, Trifecta, Superfecta) to getting consecutive races correct (Daily Double, Pick 3, Pick 5, etc.).
Heritage Sports may not nail the sportsbook as well as BetOnline and Bookmaker.eu, but one leg up that they have on the competition is providing detailed race information for each race. You can see the names of the trainer and jockey as well as the weight of the jockey. If you are a hardcore horse racing enthusiast, you may find this info more useful than most.
Heritage Sports also offers one of the best sportsbooks for reduced juice (-108 lines) and live bets. However, there are no live betting markets for horse races, nor is there any streaming available for these races.
3. Highest Daily Rebate on Horses: BetOnline
Best For
Trust
9.8/10
Banking
8.6/10
Bonuses
8.8/10
Odds
9.2/10
Customer Service
9/10
Betting Limits
9.8/10
CURRENT PROMOTION
$250 Free Bet
Key Features
- Try your first horse bet on the house ($25 value)
- 9% daily rebate on horses tops the competition’s 8% offer
BetOnline is another top online sportsbook and is one of the best all-around spots for Maryland users. The combination of the sportsbook and poker room is right up there with Everygame for the best in the list, but the racebook is also high quality.
BetOnline boasts the highest daily rebate on horse racing at 9% for any exotic wagers. The regular wagers get a 4% rebate, but that still tops most of the competition, which offers 3%. You can also get your first racebook bet on the house (maximum value of $25), so BetOnline is a great place to start if you’ve never bet on horses before.
BetOnline offers some of the best welcome bonuses, including a combo offer of free bets and free spins.
How We Compared the Best Sites for Horse Racing in Maryland
At Bookmakers Review, we grade each site using a variety of performance metrics that should lead to a quality gambling experience. Since this is centered around horse racing, we wanted to highlight some of the features specific to that part of the site, as well as some of the usual factors that we look at like customer service, bonuses and promotions as well as the site design.
Horse Racing Odds
Anyone who spends any time sports betting or betting on horse races will know that it is worth shopping around multiple sites to find the best price for a bet you like. Due to the competitive nature of these sites, most markets are going to have the same betting odds, but some books will cut you a better deal on a long shot you may have your eye on.
Horse Racing Betting Markets
You can get into some pretty specific racebook bets at certain sites, but proof that you are using a good racebook will be if you see all of these popular bet types at the very least:
- Win
- Show
- Place
- Pick 3
- Pick 5
- Double Bet
- Exotic
- Trifecta
- Superfecta
- Super High Five
If you only see win, place, and show options, then you are dealing with a generic racebook and should seek a different site with more varied betting markets available.
Live Betting on Horse Racing
Live betting is becoming one of the biggest features of the best sportsbooks thanks to the way we are constantly connected to the internet these days. But live betting on a horse race can be difficult since it is over in a short period of time, especially compared to a basketball or baseball game. But a site like BetUS does offer live betting markets for its horse races, and this will likely be something that picks up as time goes by on other sites. Simulcast wagering allows users to watch international races and place bets in real time.
Horse Racing Betting Promotions
These sites all try to one-up each other with competitive welcome bonuses and reload bonuses for deposits. But for horse racing fans, you want to see promotions that are specific to the racebook. Many will offer a daily rebate in the 6-to-9% range for exotic wagers. You can also get $10 back any time your winning horse finishes second or third at BetUS.
Special Features for Horse Racing
Horse racing may not be ideal for live betting due to its duration, but it is ideal for live streaming so that you can watch the whole race on your favorite device. This is something the U.S.-based sites TVG and TwinSpires have picked up on, but it will likely be coming to most offshore sportsbooks in due time given there’s enough demand.
It is also nice to see when a site has a dedicated racebook and offers analysis on horse racing, which you can find on BetUS’ TV service with shows created exclusively for that site.
User-Friendly Design
Having a well-designed mobile site for horse racing is crucial so that people can easily fill out their bet slips. A site like BookMaker does a great job of having drop-down menus to build your win/place/show bets or switch to exotic wagering. Other sites like BetOnline will show you information on the horse’s trainer and jockey that serious racing fans may find useful.
Brand Recognition
When you are dealing with companies that have been in the business for 20-to-30 years, you feel more at ease with sharing your personal data with them and that you will be paid your winnings on time. We definitely give a big boost to the sites that have been around like BookMaker and BetOnline.
Payment Methods
Having a wide variety of options for deposits and withdrawals is very important. Crypto is not everyone’s cup of tea but having a lot of crypto options beyond just Bitcoin is appreciated. But for the more traditional transaction methods, we also will judge a site based on the associated fees and if they are too high or slow to use.
Customer Service
The key here is multiple methods to contact customer service and a clean online reputation. The former is rather easy with most sites offering 24/7 support by email, phone and sometimes video chat. But the latter can be hard since people on the internet love to complain about bad service far more than they say nice things about good service. But when we search for a site, we don’t want to hear horror stories of people getting their accounts suspended or not paid on time. That will hurt a company’s score.
How does horse racing betting work in Maryland?
Betting on horse racing is definitely a lot different from betting on most sports where you are often betting on points, either with a spread or total scored. Horse racing is all about the order in which they finish, and your bets can be as simple as which horse wins the race up to something far bolder and prescient like picking out the top four horses in the exact order.
Before you start betting, you should understand the popular types of bets for each race.
What are the different types of horse racing bets?
The following summarizes the types of bets you can make for a horse race:
- Win: You are wagering on the horse that finishes in first place and wins the race.
- Place: If your horse finishes in first or second place, you win your bet.
- Show: If your horse finishes in first, second, or third place, you win your bet.
- Exacta: You must pick the horses that finish first and second (in exact order) to win the bet.
- Trifecta: You must pick the horses that finish first, second and third (in exact order) to win the bet.
- Superfecta: If you think you can hit a Trifecta, try picking the horse that finishes fourth as well to nail the top four horses in order to win a huge payout.
- Daily Double (AKA Double Wager): You must pick the winning horse in back-to-back races.
- Pick 3/4/5/6: Similar to Daily Double, you must pick the winning horse in three, four, five, or six races in a row.
When using an online racebook, each race will have the horses listed and a drop-down menu or group of tabs will have these different bet types available. Simply choose the type of bet you want to place and pick your horses. Then you just have to add a stake and submit your bet slip.
Maryland Horse Racing Odds Explained
It is extremely important to understand the odds when betting on horses. If you bet $2 on a horse with 12/1 odds to win, then you win 12 times every dollar bet, giving you a return of $26 ($24 win plus $2 stake).
It is easiest to think of betting odds in terms of probability. When a horse has 6/5 odds, then for every six failures, there are five chances of success for an implied probability of 45.5%. Meanwhile, that 12/1 bet has just a 7.7% probability of hitting.
To calculate implied probability for fractional odds X/Y, just take the number in the denominator (Y) and divide it by the sum of both numbers (X and Y). So, 4/9 odds would have a 69.2% implied probability, and 12/5 odds would have a 29.4% implied probability.
| Horse Racing Odds | $2 Wager Payout | Implied Probability of Winning |
|---|---|---|
| 1/5 (-500) | $2.40 | 83.33% |
| 1/4 (-400) | $2.50 | 80% |
| 1/3 (-300) | $2.60 | 75% |
| 1/2 (-200) | $3.00 | 66.67% |
| 4/6 (-150) | $3.33 | 60% |
| 1/1 (-100) | $4.00 | 50% |
| 2/1 (+200) | $6.00 | 33.33% |
| 3/1 (+300) | $8.00 | 25% |
| 5/1 (+500) | $12 | 16.67% |
| 10/1 (+1000) | $22 | 9.00% |
| 50/1 (+5000) | $102 | 1.96% |
There are also two major ways in which the betting odds for horse race bets are conducted, and they are explained next.
Fixed Odds for Horse Racing Betting in Maryland
If you bet on sports, you are already familiar with fixed odds betting. That spread that you bet on with -110 odds (the American line) will stay fixed at -110 no matter what happens between the time you placed the wager and the start of the game. You are locked into that number even if it will likely change a little before the match starts.
So, for horse racing, if you bet on a horse early at 4/1 odds and it moves up to 2/1 odds before the race starts, you will be locked into the 4/1 payout if you win. This also means you’ll know exactly how much you’ll win if your wager is accurate.
Pari-Mutuel Betting in Maryland
Considerably different from fixed-odds betting is the pari-mutuel betting system. Pari-mutuel wagers are often used in horse racing or any event that involves a ranked order of competitors. Instead of getting a fixed line, a pari-mutuel wager goes into a pool with all the other wagers. All winning bets are paid from this pool after the vig (house’s take) is taken out.
Offshore sportsbooks such as Bookmaker.eu and JustBet strictly do not use pari-mutuel wagering pools and will only honor fixed odds. Your bets on those sites will have no effect on the odds at the track before the race.
Maryland Horse Racing Betting Calculator
Unlike fixed odds bets, pari-mutuel wager systems mean that you do not know the payout until after the race concludes. For instance, if a pool’s total is $120 and there are 10 bettors, then you each receive a $12 piece of the pie. If you had 10 units on the bet, your total win is $120.
But the majority of online wagers let you know the payout instantaneously. Still, if you need to ballpark the estimate by hand, you can just convert the odds along with your stake as a probability.
Maryland Horse Racing Tracks
You can find six horse racing tracks where you can enjoy commercial gambling in The Free State, including one of the oldest and most popular tracks in the country.
Pimlico Race Course (Baltimore, MD)
Pimlico has been home to The Preakness Stakes since the first run of the Triple Crown event back in 1873, making this one of the most famous horse racing tracks in the world. There will be a renovation project starting soon with a new course set to open by 2026. Pimlico is the next stop for some of the world’s top race horses after they run in the historic Kentucky Derby.
Laurel Park (Laurel, MD)
Opened in 1911, it changed its name to Laurel Park in 1994. It is the site of the popular Maryland Million horse race.
Timonium Race Course (Timonium, MD)
Racing at Timonium takes place each year during the annual State Fair.
Fair Hill Races (Elkton, MD)
The site of steeplechase races, Fair Hill is home to the big Memorial Day event, which has been held since 1934.
Rosecroft Raceway (Fort Washington, MD)
Rosecroft Raceway is one of the two premier harness racing tracks in Maryland. They are still running live events on Tuesdays and Thursdays through December.
Ocean Downs (Berlin, MD)
Maryland’s other harness racing track runs multiple live races each week. They also have a casino with slots, video poker, table games and sports betting with TwinSpires Sportsbook.
The History of Horse Racing in Maryland
Someone could easily write a book about the deep history of horse racing in Maryland. It goes back to a time before the United States even officially existed. The following is just a small timeline of the key moments for horse racing in Maryland:
- 2022: For the first time, Maryland bettors can bet on the Preakness just by going to a local casino with sports betting legalized in late 2021.
- 2008: Voters approve the use of slot machine revenue to revive a decaying horse racing industry.
- 1952: Laurel Park runs its first International Stakes racing event, which would run every year until 1994 and serve as the inspiration for the Breeders’ Cup.
- 1947: Television viewers in Maryland get their first taste of horse racing on TV in an event hosted by sportscaster Jim McKay, who would later go on in the mid-80s to organize the Jim McKay Maryland Million Day, the second-most popular horse racing day in the state after the Preakness.
- 1938: The Great Depression leads to huge popularity in horse racing around the country, and Pimlico is the site for the famous “Match Race of the Century” between War Admiral and Seabiscuit, which was won by underdog Seabiscuit.
- 1920: The Maryland Racing Commission is formed to regulate horse racing in the state.
- 1911: Laurel Park opens its race track in Laurel, MD at a time when tracks were booming across the state thanks to the return of The Preakness Stakes.
- 1890: The Preakness is moved to New York for profit reasons, but it does return to Maryland in 1909 after anti-gambling sentiment sets in up in New York.
- 1873: The first running of The Preakness Stakes at Pimlico takes place.
- 1870: Pimlico Race Course is opened in Baltimore and the winning horse of the track’s first race, Preakness, would give its name to what would become the track’s most famous event.
- 1743: The Annapolis Subscription Plate goes down as the first formal horse race recorded in the state, and the bowl-like trophy is the oldest existing horse racing trophy in North American annals.
- 1743: The Maryland Jockey Club is formed in Annapolis for horse racing, becoming the oldest sporting organization in North American history.
Virtual Horse Racing Betting in Maryland
If you are such a fan of horse racing that you want to bet on a virtual race that works like a video slot game with random number-generated outcomes, then a site like BetOnline has a great virtual racing section where you can watch the race unfold too. You could even bet on virtual camel races.
Maryland Horse Racing Betting Apps
While the U.S.-based sites TwinSpires and TVG have great apps you can download from your phone’s app store, the same cannot be said of the offshore sites we have reviewed. They lack their own native app for the time being, but they still have good mobile betting sites that you could easily bring up on your phone or tablet and make your wagers that way. These sites are optimized to run smoothly on a small screen like your smartphone.
How to Start Betting at Horse Racing Sites in Maryland
Our top racebooks all have easy registration processes to get you ready to wager on horse races in a matter of minutes. We have made a guide to show you how easy it is to get started on an offshore sportsbook like BetOnline if you are new to this:
- Visit the BetOnline website.
- Choose a red “Bet Now” button.
- Type in your account information (name, email, birthday, phone number) and create a good password.
- View your account details (top right of the page) and click “Deposit” to fund your account with the banking method that works best for you.
- Enter the “Horses” section at the top right.
- Start picking your Win/Place/Show bets (or something exotic) and add the picks to your bet slip.
- Add your stake and choose “Place Bets” to complete the bet.
What is the best site for horse racing bettors in Maryland?
We do believe your personal preference will factor heavily into your decision for the “best” horse racing site out there. But if we were only selecting one, we would pick BetOnline due to all of the betting options and additional benefits that this site offers to their customers.
Its simple design makes it so easy to make wagers on horse racing from tracks around the world, and its virtual racing section is arguably the best out there. You are also getting one of the highest-quality sportsbooks with an impressive prop builder, and it is right in the mix for having the best online poker section (with tournaments) as well.
You get a generous welcome promo, and it is especially good for crypto-preferred users. They also have a good rewards program for loyal customers as well as solid customer service. Maryland gamblers looking for a great all-around experience should be very pleased with what BetOnline has to offer.
Maryland sports betting has been available online and on mobile apps since 2022, offering a variety of options for bettors. However, choosing the best Maryland sportsbooks can be challenging.
Our comprehensive guide provides the latest updates and reviews, with a special focus on top offshore sportsbooks. Discover how you can maximize your betting experience and claim generous bonuses with the best Maryland sports betting sites.
| SPORTSBOOK | TRUST SCORE | ONLINE SINCE | Expert Review | BONUS | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
2001
|
100% Free Play
|
|||
|
|
1996
|
$500 Cash Bonus
|
|||
|
|
2002
|
55% Cash Bonus
|
|||
|
|
2001
|
$250 Free Bet
|
|||
|
|
1994
|
30% Cash Bonus
|
Resources:
Latest Update
July 2024:
Betfred is set to exit Maryland’s sports betting market by July 31 due to low traction, while new operators, including VSC and Bally Bet, are set to enter the market in July.
Sports Betting Apps in Maryland FAQs
Did Maryland pass sports betting?
Yes, Maryland passed a sports betting law legalizing sports betting on November 23, 2022. There is now a wide range of retail locations that accept sports bets. The legal betting age is 21 at retail sportsbooks in the state.
Does Maryland allow online betting?
Yes, in 2022 a law was passed that made online sports betting legal. The state has legalized sports betting and currently offers 12 online sportsbooks, which include BetMGM, Caesars, PointsBet Maryland and other online sports betting sites apps. Bettors in the state can also use an offshore sportsbook to place bets online.
Can you bet on NFL games in Maryland?
Yes, betting on NFL games is legal in Maryland. You can use licensed sportsbooks like BetMGM and DraftKings, or check out the expanded options and more competitive odds at offshore operators.
Where can I mobile bet in Maryland?
In Maryland, you can place mobile bets through 12 online sportsbooks, including online options such as BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel and ESPN BET. You can also use top-rated offshore options such as BetOnline, Bovada and Heritage Sports. These sportsbooks provide user-friendly platforms and diverse sports options for mobile betting.
How do I place a bet in Maryland?
In Maryland, you can place a bet if you are at least 21 years old and located within the state. To place an online bet, choose an online sportsbook, create a new account and claim your bonus for new players. Then, select your preferred odds and place your bet.
Is Bovada legal in Maryland?
Bovada does not accept player registrations from Maryland.
Table of Contents
Best Maryland Sports Betting Apps
Our industry experts reviewed hundreds of apps to find the absolute best mobile betting options for residents of Maryland. For your convenience, we have created a top 10 list of our favorite offshore sportsbooks:
- BetOnline – Provides opinionated lines for top markets
- Heritage Sports – Access unique perks and live betting
- BetAnySports – Offers the best reduced juice in the industry
- BookMaker – Does not limit winning players and offers the highest limits
- WagerWeb – Offers free crypto payouts for users
- SportsBetting.ag – Offers a 50% welcome bonus for new bettors
- BetUS – Provides informative guides and expert analysis to bolster your betting
- JustBet – Great rewards program for active bettors
These sites allow bettors in Maryland to wager on professional sports teams, college teams and niche sports. They also offer some of the most competitive betting odds and generous bonuses in the sports betting industry.
Maryland’s Sports Betting Timeline
Maryland’s relationship with sports betting has been a remarkable tale of legislative shifts and economic growth. Since the U.S. Supreme Court’s pivotal decision in 2018 to overturn the federal ban on sports betting, the state has embarked on a path of progressive legalization and regulation, culminating in a vibrant market.
This timeline traces the key milestones in Maryland’s sports betting history, starting with legislative efforts and culminating in significant economic achievements and expansions in the industry:
July 2024
Betfred is set to exit Maryland’s sports betting market by July 31 due to low traction, while new operators, including VSC and Bally Bet, are set to enter the market in July.
June 2024
Maryland sportsbooks defied the summer slowdown with impressive earnings in May, driven significantly by parlays. Betr, co-founded by Jake Paul and Joey Levy, has received initial approval for a sports betting license; the operator could be Maryland’s first online operator to launch in 2024.
May 2024
Maryland’s casino industry boomed in May 2024, with six casinos generating $173.2 million, a 2.2% increase from May 2023.
April 2024
Budget negotiations by Maryland lawmakers conclude, leaving out online casinos. Now, a referendum may wait until 2027 at the earliest. Maryland’s online casino bill faces an uncertain future as Senate opts out. Supporters will have to wait until 2026 for another chance. Maryland legislators approve a bill to renovate Pimlico Race Course and transition its ownership to the state. Gov. Wes Moore is expected to sign it into law.
February 2024
Maryland lawmakers propose a bill (HB 1087) that seeks to ban betting on college campuses in the state.
January 2024
Senator Ron Watson announces he will file an online casino bill in Maryland’s upcoming legislative session.
November 2023
The state reports a monthly handle of $550.7 million, a figure 10% higher than the state’s previous record set in December 2022. Maryland State Lottery & Gaming Control Agency.
August 2023
Maryland sports betting and gaming from all sectors contribute nearly $1.6 billion in revenue during the fiscal year for 2023.
September 2023
Delegate Jason Buckel proposes legislation to expand retail sportsbooks.
October 2023
Lawmakers and iGaming experts at Morgan State University’s Center for Data Analytics and Sports Gaming Research weigh in on the expansion of online gambling during a meeting.
July 2023
Maryland lawmakers commission a study from the Maryland State Lottery & Gaming Control Agency about the possibility of expanding Maryland’s online gambling and present it by November 15.
June 2023
Fanatics makes its online debut in Maryland, becoming the state’s 10th sports betting app.
2023
Projections suggest that retail and online sportsbook operators in Maryland could generate more than $481 million in revenue from over $4 billion in legal wagers for the year.
November 2020
Maryland voters approve a referendum to legalize sports betting in the state, with nearly two-thirds of the votes in favor.
May 2020
Maryland Governor Larry Hogan signs a bill into law to allow for the regulation and taxation of sports betting in the state, pending the outcome of the November 2020 referendum.
2019
Maryland lawmakers introduce multiple bills to legalize sports betting in the state, but none of them pass.
2018
The U.S. Supreme Court overturns the federal ban on sports betting, allowing states to legalize and regulate it on their own.
Maryland’s sports betting timeline is a testament to the state’s adaptability and forward-thinking approach in the rapidly evolving sports wagering industry.
Reviews of the Best Maryland Betting Apps & Mobile Sites
Dive into our in-depth reviews
The following section is a detailed review of the top five offshore sportsbooks from our top 10 list above. Review the pros and cons of each and see where your personal preference guides you as you look for your top sportsbook for betting in Maryland on your favorite sports:
1. BetOnline: Best for Opinionated Lines
Best For
Trust
9.8/10
Banking
8.6/10
Bonuses
8.8/10
Odds
9.2/10
Customer Service
9/10
Betting Limits
9.8/10
CURRENT PROMOTION
$250 Free Bet
Key Features:
- Free pro league pick'em contests with real cash prizes
- Fun sports-related promotions
BetOnline stands as our number two sports betting app. It offers opinionated lines on major markets like football, basketball and baseball, providing options unmatched by other online sportsbooks.
BetOnline’s diverse betting portfolio includes various leagues and non-sports markets like entertainment and politics. The site’s design is user-friendly, featuring a prop builder, odds booster and an easily navigable live betting section on mobile devices.
New users benefit from promotional offers via BetOnline promo codes. The best is the No Strings Welcome Offer, where first-time depositors can get up to $250 in bet credits, along with 100 free spins for various casino games.
The first player prop wager and live bet wager (valued at $25) are complimentary and users have the opportunity to suggest prop bets for the site.
2. BookMaker: Best for Sharp & New Bettors
Best For
Trust
9.8/10
Banking
8.6/10
Bonuses
8.2/10
Odds
9/10
Customer Service
9/10
Betting Limits
9.8/10
CURRENT PROMOTION
$500 Cash Bonus
Key Features:
- Sharp bettors are not limited
- Highest limits in the industry
If you’re serious about sports betting, then BookMaker’s mobile sportsbook is hard to pass up. This Costa Rica-based sportsbook has been online for over 25 years and has earned a reputation for getting the earliest betting lines out. Sharp bettors can hammer those lines before the public starts skewing things in another direction.
With high betting limits and the ability to request up to five payouts per week, you can get a lot done as a sports bettor with Bookmaker as your primary online sportsbook.
If you join BookMaker’s excellent loyalty program, then you can eventually get 20% cash on your reload bonuses (up to $2,500). The initial welcome bonus is worth as much as $500 in bonus money with a 10x rollover.
3. Heritage Sports: Best for Reduced Juice & Live Betting
Best For
Trust
9.6/10
Banking
8.6/10
Bonuses
8.2/10
Odds
9/10
Customer Service
9/10
Betting Limits
9.7/10
CURRENT PROMOTION
100% Free Play
Key Features:
- Reduced juice cash-back program is great for sports and casino
- Free parlay on your birthday adds a nice personal touch
Heritage Sports is another great mobile sportsbook option that has been around since 2001. Formerly an invite-only service, anyone can join today, including Maryland users.
The reduced juice cash-back program is top-notch. Many sites will offer one or the other, but with Heritage Sports, you will get reduced juice betting lines (-108 lines instead of the standard -110) and cash back every quarter on your sports bets.
You also get some of the best live betting choices in the industry with one of the nicest-looking sites.
You won’t get the biggest promotions with Heritage, but their cash-back program is top-notch and you can get unique perks like a free parlay on your birthday (up to a $500 value) or getting every eighth deposit for free.
4. BetAnySports: Best for Competitive Betting Odds
Best For
Trust
9.6/10
Banking
9/10
Bonuses
8.7/10
Odds
9.6/10
Customer Service
8.5/10
Betting Limits
9.8/10
CURRENT PROMOTION
55% Cash Bonus
Key Features:
- Reduced juice betting lines & competitive betting odds
- Features a wide variety of sports betting markets
BetAnySports stands out as a versatile betting platform catering to mobile bettors who enjoy a wide range of options. From mainstream sports like soccer and basketball to unique markets such as competitive eating and spelling bees, BAS has something for everyone.
What really sets BAS apart are its competitive odds, especially with reduced juice lines for major U.S. sports leagues, ensuring more value on every bet. The mobile site is user-friendly and is designed for quick navigation without any frustrating lags. There’s no need for a separate online betting app, as the browser-optimized site works seamlessly across devices.
Newcomers are greeted with a modest but welcome 30% bonus up to $600 and loyal customers can take advantage of various ongoing promotions.
Best Maryland Sports Betting Bonuses
Maryland sports bettors can take advantage of a variety of attractive bonus offers to get them started. Here are the best sports bonuses available for residents of the Old Line State:
- BetOnline – $250 Free Bet Welcome Bonus: Maryland sports fans can kick off their betting with BetOnline’s generous free bet offer. By depositing at least $50, you’ll receive a 50% match bonus up to $250. This bonus comes with 100 free casino plays. Use the code FREE250 to claim this offer and start betting with a boost.
- Heritage Sports – 100% Free Play Bonus: Heritage Sports offers a 100% free play bonus to new Maryland players. No promo code is required for this offer. A minimum deposit of $100 is needed, and the bonus comes with a 10x rollover requirement, giving new bettors a valuable boost.
- BetAnySports – Less Juice Package: Maryland bettors can enjoy significant savings with BetAnySports’ Less Juice Package. This package offers reduced odds, providing 10-cent lines on popular sports such as NFL, NBA and MLB. This means you can bet more efficiently, risking less for potentially higher returns.
Enhance your sports betting experience in Maryland by taking advantage of these exceptional bonus offers. Whether you’re new to sports betting or a seasoned pro, these promotions provide excellent opportunities to increase your bankroll and enjoy more action.
Is sports betting legal in Maryland?
Yes, sports betting enthusiasts in Maryland secured their first big win in 2021 when sports betting was legalized in the state. Right now, you can visit a casino or gambling establishment and place bets at a retail location:
- Horseshoe Casino Baltimore (Caesars)
- MGM National Harbor (BetMGM)
- Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland (FanDuel)
- Ocean Downs Casino (TwinSpires)
- Hollywood Casino Perrysville (Barstool)
- Riverboat on the Potomac (PointsBet)
- Bingo World Baltimore (BetRivers)
Daily fantasy sports (DFS) has also been legal for years in Maryland through popular companies such as DraftKings and FanDuel.
Eventually, bill HB 940 was introduced in April 2021 to formally lay out how sports betting will work and it was passed overwhelmingly — 47-0 in the Senate and 124-14 in the House — by the Maryland General Assembly. A month later on May 18, Governor Larry Hogan signed the bill into law.
By December 2021, retail sports betting was available at the state casinos with FanDuel, BetMGM and Caesars among the first to strike deals with the casinos. Governor Hogan himself ended up making the first legal sports wager in the state. Online sports bets were legalized in December 2022 but there are limited online betting options when it comes to state-regulated legal sports betting sites.
How We Rank the Best Maryland Betting Apps & Mobile Sites
At Bookmakers Review we research each offshore sportsbook and grade it against a series of important metrics that we think a quality site should possess. We want to share some of those metrics so that you know what to look for when choosing the right online betting site in Maryland:
User Experiences
With so many bets placed on a phone now, a site needs to have a user interface that makes it easy to enjoy mobile betting; live or pre-game. We also want to be able to add money to our account on the fly, build parlays with ease and enjoy a site that won’t crash during high-traffic times like right before the start of the next playoff game.
Live Mobile Betting & Streaming
Live betting continues to get more popular and is one of the best ways to use your handheld device to place bets while actively watching a game. Most of our top 10 sites offer deep live betting markets so, no matter which hour of the day it is, you can likely find some action going on somewhere in the world.
Banking Options
Our top sites do a great job of giving you different banking methods ranging from old-school methods (checks, credit cards, money orders, wire transfers) to more modern options (P2P, eWallets, cryptocurrency options). There are also fees and different waiting times associated with your preferred payment method.
These are available on each site and you should familiarize yourself with the differences when selecting what method is best for you. Sites that provide a detailed crypto guide for those wishing to learn how to use it get a higher grade as well.
Customer Service
The best customer service sites will offer 24/7 support in a variety of contact methods from email to phone calls to video chat. But 24/7 support with quick response time is the ideal goal.
Licensing & Security
You should feel confident that the site you are using is safe, that it will keep your personal information secure and that it is a legitimate company that is licensed to operate in its country of origin. The sites we have chosen for our top 10 all passed this test with flying colors.
Popular Types of Bets for Massachusetts Sportsbooks
When you’re looking to place a bet at a sportsbook in Massachusetts, you’ll find a variety of options to choose from. Each type of bet offers a different way to get involved with the action, catering to different preferences and strategies. Here’s a straightforward guide to the most common types of bets you’ll encounter:
Moneyline Bets: Moneyline betting is as straightforward as it gets. You’re simply picking the winner of a game or event. Odds are assigned to each team or player, indicating the potential payout. A favorite will have negative odds, showing how much you need to bet to win $100, while an underdog will have positive odds, showing how much you win if you bet $100.
Point Spread Bets: Point spread betting adds a twist to picking a winner. Sportsbooks set a spread to level the playing field between two unevenly matched teams. If you bet on the favorite, they need to win by more than the spread. If you bet on the underdog, they need to win outright or lose by less than the spread.
Totals (Over/Under): Totals betting, also known as over/under, involves betting on the combined score of both teams in a game. The sportsbook sets a number, and you bet on whether the final score will be over or under that number. It’s a popular bet for those who want to root for (or against) both teams.
Parlays: Parlays let you bundle multiple bets into one. To win, all your picks in the parlay must win. While this is harder to achieve, the payoff is significantly higher than placing individual bets. Parlays can be a fun way to stake a small amount for the chance of a large reward.
Props (Proposition Bets): Prop bets are wagers on specific events within a game that don’t directly affect the final outcome. This can include betting on which player will score the first touchdown, how many strikeouts a pitcher will have, or even the coin toss at the start of the game. Props add an element of fun and can be based on player performance or game situations.
Futures: Futures bets involve predicting the outcome of events that will be decided in the future, such as which team will win the championship or who will be awarded MVP. These bets can offer large payouts, especially if you make your picks early in the season.
Understanding these popular bet types can help you make informed decisions and enjoy your betting experience in Massachusetts. Whether you’re in it for the fun or looking to make strategic picks, there’s a type of bet that suits your style.
Types of Maryland Mobile Betting Bonus Codes & Promo Offers
There are always bonuses and sports betting promos available, so online sports betting sites can keep players coming back. It is important to understand how these promo codes work and know what a good deal looks like. The following are different examples of the types of promotions and perks you will see on these offshore sportsbooks.
Welcome Bonuses & Deposit Bonuses
The most popular sportsbook promo that you will often see advertised for an online sportsbook is the welcome bonus. This is usually in the form of matching your first deposit, sometimes up to $1,000 or more depending on the site or online sports betting app and can be claimed during the registration process.
Sometimes your second and third deposits also get matched if the promotion allows for it. Crypto users usually can get a little more on their first-deposit bonuses if they use that method to make their transactions.
But with any welcome bonus, you should read the fine print about what the rollover requirement is. That number is going to tell you how many times you will have to wager that bonus money until it is cleared to be withdrawn from your account as real money. That number can get very high for casino bonuses, but the sports rollover requirements are usually among the lowest.
Returning Customer Promotions
It is always nice to see your loyalty rewarded. Some sportsbooks will offer you more lucrative promotions based on your betting level with the site. The more you bet, the more likely those rewards are going to be a larger number.
But there is a variety of returning customer promotions you can expect to see:
- Odds Boosts: These are common for sports bets. You may see a line that is usually -110 get boosted to +150 for that day as part of a promotion. You just have to opt in and claim the promotion to get the odds. There is usually a strict limit associated with these boosts and they are one-time bets that cannot be combined into parlays. Some feel that you should always fade the books when they offer these boosts, but there are plenty of times when they do hit and anyone who played them got a nice boost in profit.
- Reload Bonuses: These are basically just deposit matches for people who have a history of depositing money on a site. Put in $100 and expect them to match 50% or so. If you were going to make a deposit anyway that day, it is basically getting free money. These are offered often.
- Risk-free Bets & Bonus Bets: These promotional wagers are always fun to see available. If you make a bet of a certain amount and it loses, you can get your stake back as a free bet. Just be aware those free bets earned through these promotional wagers usually expire within a week.
- Free Bets: These can come as the reward to a risk-free bet or as part of a promotion for the first time you place a certain bet, such as your first live bet, first parlay or first horse race bet.
Online sports betting sites frequently offer these types of ongoing promotions to existing customers.
Popular Sports to Bet on in Maryland
Maryland offers a variety of sports betting options, making it a great place for fans who enjoy placing wagers. From professional leagues to college sports, there are plenty of teams to support and bet on. Here’s a look at some of the most popular sports and teams in Maryland.
Football – NFL
Football is a major draw in Maryland, with the Baltimore Ravens being the state’s pride. The Ravens have a strong following, thanks to their consistent performances and a Super Bowl win in 2013. Fans eagerly bet on NFL games, focusing on point spreads, moneylines and prop bets. The excitement of the Ravens’ games, combined with the chance to win money, makes NFL betting very popular in the state.
College Football
College football is also popular in Maryland. The University of Maryland Terrapins is the primary team, attracting fans who enjoy the excitement of college sports. Betting on college football games can include point spreads, over/under totals and player props. The passionate fan base and the competitive nature of college football make it a favorite betting market in the state.
Basketball – NBA
While Maryland does not have its own NBA team, many residents follow the Washington Wizards. The Wizards, based nearby in Washington, D.C., have a loyal fan base in Maryland. Betting on NBA games includes wagers on point spreads, total points scored and player performances. The fast pace of basketball and the star power in the league make NBA betting an engaging option for Maryland residents.
College Basketball
College basketball has a dedicated following in Maryland, particularly for the Maryland Terrapins. The Terrapins have a strong basketball program, and their games draw significant interest from fans and bettors alike. Common bets include point spreads, total points and player performances. The excitement of the regular season, along with the thrill of March Madness, makes college basketball an exciting option for bettors in Maryland.
Baseball – MLB
Baseball fans in Maryland mostly support the Baltimore Orioles. The Orioles have a rich history and a dedicated fan base. Bets on MLB games often include run lines, totals and player stats. The long season provides many opportunities for betting, and the detailed statistics help fans make informed decisions. The excitement of the games, especially during key matchups, keeps baseball betting lively throughout the season.
Hockey – NHL
Hockey also has a presence in Maryland, with many fans supporting the Washington Capitals. The Capitals, known for their exciting play and a Stanley Cup win in 2018, have a strong following. Betting on NHL games includes options like money lines, point spreads and total goals. The fast action on the ice and the intensity of the games make hockey betting a thrilling choice.
Maryland’s sports scene offers a variety of options for fans and bettors. Whether you’re into the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL or college sports, there’s always a game to bet on in the Old Line State.
Sports Teams in Maryland
Maryland is home to a diverse array of professional and collegiate sports teams that have garnered substantial followings both regionally and nationally. This state’s sports landscape is marked by a rich history and a passionate fan base, making it a notable hub for various sporting activities.
The following list highlights some of the most popular professional and collegiate sports teams in Maryland, each with its unique heritage and achievements:
- Baltimore Ravens (NFL): Established in 1996, the Ravens are a professional American football team based in Baltimore. They have won two Super Bowl championships, making them one of the most successful teams in the NFL in the 21st century.
- Washington Commanders (NFL): Based in Washington D.C., the Commanders are a professional American football team established in 1932. Originally known as the Washington Redskins, they have won three Super Bowl championships. The team is popular among fans in the Washington metropolitan area, including Maryland.
- Baltimore Orioles (MLB): A Major League Baseball team, the Orioles have a storied history dating back to their establishment in 1901. They have won three World Series titles and are known for their iconic ballpark, Oriole Park at Camden Yards.
- Washington Wizards (NBA): Although based in Washington, D.C., the Wizards have a significant fan base in Maryland. This professional basketball team has seen various periods of success since its inception in 1961.
- Washington Capitals (NHL): Like the Wizards, the Capitals play in Washington, D.C., but are widely supported throughout Maryland. Established in 1974, they won their first Stanley Cup in 2018.
- University of Maryland Terrapins (NCAA): Representing the University of Maryland in collegiate sports, the Terrapins compete in the Big Ten Conference. They are particularly known for their achievements in basketball, football and lacrosse.
- Navy Midshipmen (NCAA): Based at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, the Midshipmen are renowned for their football program. Their annual football game against the Army Black Knights is one of the most storied rivalries in college sports.
Maryland’s sports scene is a vibrant part of its cultural fabric, offering a range of teams for fans to rally behind. From the gridiron of the NFL to the diamond of MLB and from the intensity of NBA and NHL games to the spirited competitions of collegiate sports, Maryland offers a rich tapestry of athletic prowess and team spirit.
How to Read Sports Betting Odds in Maryland
Understanding sports betting odds is essential for anyone using mobile sports betting apps in Maryland. Odds tell you how much you can win on a bet compared to how much you put in. Here’s a simple guide on how to read them.
- American Odds: American odds, also known as moneyline odds, are very common on sportsbook apps. They usually have a plus (+) or minus (-) sign in front of a number. A minus sign indicates the favorite and the number shows how much you need to bet to win $100. For example, -150 means you bet $150 to win $100. A plus sign indicates the underdog and the number shows how much you win if you bet $100. For example, +200 means you win $200 on a $100 bet.
- Decimal Odds: Decimal odds are straightforward and are becoming more popular on online betting apps. They show how much you win for every $1 wagered, including your original bet. For example, odds of 1.5 mean you win $1.50 for every $1 bet. To calculate your total return, multiply your bet by the decimal odds.
- Fractional Odds: Fractional odds are often used in horse racing and are represented by two numbers separated by a slash, like 5/1. This means you win $5 for every $1 bet, plus your original bet back. To calculate your potential profit, multiply your bet by the top number (numerator), then divide by the bottom number (denominator).
By understanding how to read the betting odds, you’ll not only enhance your betting strategy but also enjoy a more informed betting experience. This foundational knowledge is your key to engaging with sports betting in Maryland confidently.
Tips for Reading Odds
You can use the following betting tips to maximize your chances of success:
- Know the Types: Familiarize yourself with American, decimal and fractional odds so you can understand and compare them easily.
- Calculate Potential Returns: Always calculate your potential returns before placing a bet. This helps you understand the risks and rewards.
- Compare Odds: Use different sportsbook apps to compare odds. Slight differences can mean more winnings or lower risks.
- Understand the Context: Odds reflect the bookmaker’s view of the event’s likelihood, but they also include a margin to ensure profit. Knowing the context of the game and doing your research can give you an edge.
By understanding how to read and interpret odds, you can make more informed decisions and enjoy a better sports betting experience on Maryland’s online betting sites.
Mobile Site vs. App for Betting in Maryland
Most users generally look for a downloadable mobile sportsbook app when getting into sports betting. However, the online betting sites in our list currently lack a native app that can be downloaded on the App Store for iOS users or the Play Store on an Android device.
But you can always check out the mobile site on your favorite device, which can then be bookmarked or saved to your home screen for quick, future access. We looked at some of the pros and cons of the methods of engaging in mobile sports betting on a mobile site compared to a mobile app.
Mobile Site
Every offshore sportsbook in our list has a solid mobile site that you can access to place bets. Just visit the site and log in:
Pros:
- Not taking up storage space on your phone with a growing cache the more you use it
- Not using your monthly data allotment on your phone
- No need to worry about downloading app updates or removing old versions of app to install new ones
Cons:
- Higher security risks
- May have to type in passwords more often
Mobile App
Using a native app is going to be like using the website, but you will notice some differences:
Pros:
- One-click access to enter the app
- Use your phone’s high-tech login method (fingerprint or code) for quick access to your account
- Use the stored password on your phone so you don’t have to remember it or write it down somewhere
- You can quickly share photos of your bets with friends or social media following
- These usually have better aesthetics than the regular mobile site
Cons:
- Easier to multi-task (research stats) while betting on a PC or larger screen than on your phone
- Must always be on the lookout for app updates, which take up storage
- Geolocation on a phone can be very hit-or-miss
- Apps can lag more than the site based on the strength of your Wi-Fi connection
Maryland Betting Guides
For those in Maryland interested in other forms of gambling, we have these other expert guides:
