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While no one will confuse Washington State for Kentucky or New York when it comes to being a hotspot for horse racing, there is one of the nicest tracks in the country in The Evergreen State at Emerald Downs. Even better, Washington is a state where it is perfectly legal to wager on horse racing, both in person and on your mobile device.
We have compiled this guide that will detail many aspects of Washington horse racing betting. You will get reviews on the top Washington State online sportsbooks to join for wagering in addition to learning about the different types of bets available, which land-based venues you can visit to place bets and what advantages you get from using an offshore sportsbook in Washington.
| SPORTSBOOK | TRUST SCORE | ONLINE SINCE | Expert Review | BONUS | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
1996
|
$500 Cash Bonus
|
|||
|
|
2001
|
100% Free Play
|
|||
|
|
2002
|
55% Cash Bonus
|
|||
|
|
2011
|
$750 Cash Bonus
|
|||
|
|
2001
|
$250 Free Bet
|
Resources:
Table of Contents
What is the legal status of horse racing betting in Washington?
Betting on horse races is totally legal for both in-person track betting and online wagers at offshore horse betting sites in the state of Washington. These offshore platforms feature a wide variety of different betting markets, beyond just horse racing. You can also take advantage of the competitive odds and generous bonuses that they have on offer.
If you’d like to get more acquainted with The Evergreen State’s other forms of gambling, we recommend checking out our Washington online betting guide, which will cover everything you need to know.
Washington Horse Racing FAQs
Does Washington state have horse racing?
Washington state has horse racing. The main track is Emerald Downs, located in Auburn, which hosts thoroughbred racing during its season.
Does Seattle have horse racing?
Emerald Downs in Auburn is the closest track to the city, located about 30 minutes outside of Seattle.
Where can I bet on horses in Washington state?
You can bet on horses in Washington state at various locations, including Emerald Downs, Sun Downs, and off-track betting locations such as casinos and sports bars. Additionally, you can use a wide variety of offshore platforms, including BookMaker and Heritage Sports.
Can I bet on the Kentucky Derby in Washington State?
You can bet on the Kentucky Derby in Washington State with an offshore horse racing site.
What is the major horse race in Washington?
The major horse race in Washington is the Longacres Mile Handicap. It’s the most prestigious race at Emerald Downs.
Ranking the 10 Best Sportsbooks for Horse Racing in Washington
Our experts have reviewed and tested 10 online racebooks for Washington State bettors with online sports betting markets, casino-style gambling and many other forms of online gambling in addition to their online horse betting options.
All of the top horse betting sites we recommend are offshore sportsbooks, which don’t need to be licensed in Washington to offer their services:
- Bovada – Offers virtual race betting
- BookMaker – Respected reputation
- Heritage Sports – Great mobile site for horse racing
- BetOnline – Offers a daily 9% rebate on horses
- BetAnySports – Daily rebates of up to 6% on racebook
- BetUS – Money-back specials for horse races
- WagerWeb – Fast and free Bitcoin withdrawals
- JustBet – Does not use pari-mutuel pools
- SportsBetting.ag – Free $25 bet on your first horse race
Reviewing the Best Washington Horse Racing Betting Sites
We have prepared in-depth reviews of the five best offshore sportsbooks for horse racing in Washington. Below, we look at the pros and cons of each one as well as other factors like banking methods and bonuses available:
1. Great Site Design for Horse Races: Bovada
Best For
Trust
9.9/10
Banking
8.6/10
Bonuses
8.8/10
Odds
8.9/10
Customer Service
9/10
Betting Limits
9.8/10
CURRENT PROMOTION
$750 Cash Bonus
Key Features
- Drop-down menus make it one of the easiest sites to place racing bets
- Generous crypto bonuses can be used in the racebook
- One of the only competitors offering live streaming of virtual horse races
Bovada is one of the most popular offshore sportsbooks for American users, as it also has an extensive racing section. The simplistic site design really bodes well, with drop-down menus that make it easy to choose your type of horse bet, build your bet slip and place your wager.
Bovada offers everything in its racebook from Breeders’ Cup futures to races all over the world to virtual races with video, as well as greyhounds, supercars and even camels. Yes, fake camels that you can bet real money on.
The appeal of Bovada goes beyond the racing options as you also get to experience a great sportsbook with a top-notch prop builder, the most popular poker room in the country, a full casino and great bonuses. There are frequently new Bovada promo codes on offer as well.
2. Trustworthy Racebook: 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
- Exotic horse wagers get an 8% rebate
- Winning players will not be limited
- Longstanding reputation in business
- Some of the highest limits around for horse racing
Bookmaker.eu is well known for establishing the earliest lines on sports, but they also are a great place for horse racing enthusiasts. With over 50 North American tracks, you can bet on many races with fixed odds as there are no pari-mutuel pools at BookMaker.
Bettors will receive 3% cash back on all win, place and show bets. Do note that phone services are currently unavailable for wagering on horses, but you can always visit the mobile betting site to make these bets.
Regardless of your deposit method, you can expect up to $500 as your sign-up bonus at BookMaker. There is a 10x rollover requirement before that bonus can be withdrawn as real money. You can also join BookMaker’s loyalty program for more rewards.
3. Great for Live Betting: 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
- Reduced juice lines and cashback combo
- Bet on daily double and Pick 3/4/5 for horses
- Spend the bonus money anywhere you want on the site
Heritage Sports was once an invite-only sportsbook from Costa Rica that has since opened its pearly gates to all users. Horse racing fans will be happy to see over 60 tracks with races for a variety of bet types, from the standard win, place and show to exotic wagers (exacta, trifecta and superfecta) to daily doubles.
Hardcore horse racing fans will appreciate the detail in the racing information on their platform. Beyond the standard info like the horse’s name, the jockey’s name and the odds, you will even get the trainer’s name and the weight of the jockey. You do not see that info at Bovada or Bookmaker.eu.
Heritage Sports is also proud of its reduced juice (-108 odds) lines for sports betting. They offer a prop builder that is harder to use than Bovada’s, but it is a quality one with better options than other competition. You also will get to play live dealer games, online casino games and an esports hub with League of Legends and more.
One of the unique promotions at Heritage Sports is personalized as you get a free birthday parlay worth up to $500. You also are free to use the bonus money you get through other promotions (non-birthday ones) on any section of the site, which is a nice boost as many sites restrict where the bonuses can be spent.
Finally, every eighth deposit is on the house based on the average of your previous seven deposits.
4. Best 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
- Super-fast payouts and always no fees with crypto
- Risk-free $25 horse bet for beginners
- 9% daily rebate is among the highest in the business for horse races
- Race info shows names of jockeys and trainers for savvy bettors
BetOnline is one of Panama’s finest A+ rated online sites. It does everything well, but horse racing fans will especially love the 9% daily rebate you can get for exotic wagers using the internet (5% for telephone-placed exotic wagers). Regular wagers (win, show or place) will get a 4% rebate, which is still a point higher than most of the competition. There is also an enticing BetOnline promo code where your first horse racing bet is on the house ($25 value).
If you are looking for more than horse racing, BetOnline has one of the best sportsbooks with incredibly high limits for high rollers to flex. You also will get opinionated lines on major sports markets that other sites will not offer. There is also a detailed casino with some of the best variety of choices of games in the business.
Comparing the Best Sites Washington Has to Offer for Horse Racing
Your personal preference always matters too, but for context on how we ranked these offshore sites, we wanted to underline some of the features and factors we focused on. For example, one site’s strength could be its welcome bonus and its weakness could be the web design.
A competitor may be the exact opposite (weak welcome bonus, strong design) and that is where your personal preference and what matters most to you comes into play. We just want to highlight what we see with each site when it comes to making our list of the best sportsbooks.
Special Features for Horse Racing
Live streaming is slowly being added to online betting sites and being able to watch horse racing would certainly be a big boost to any of them as a go-to destination for betting. But for now, you will mostly have to stick to sites like TVG and TwinSpires if you want to livestream horse races.
You also may like to get expert analysis such as the “More Sports” show on BetUS TV that talks about horse racing among other markets.
User-Friendly Design
Looking at horse race betting odds on some offshore sites can be more intimidating than picking winners in a football or baseball schedule.
This is why we look for sites that have good drop-down menus that make it easy to place a variety of horse racing bets like the ones you will find on Bovada.
We also like a site that is nice to look at, runs smoothly and won’t see the server get overwhelmed at peak betting times.
Brand Recognition
Sites that have been around since the mid-1990s, such as Bookmaker and BetOnline, give you the ease of mind that you are dealing with a trustworthy company that will protect your sensitive information and data.
Payment Methods
The more options you have for transactions, the better score the site will receive for its payment methods. Most do a pretty good job of offering major credit cards, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, P2P and wire transfers. But it is also important to note the fees associated with different payment methods at these sites.
Customer Service
Just like with payment methods, the more choices for customer service, the better the score will be for the site. Some people prefer a good old-fashioned phone call for help, while others are going to want live chat options. Any site offering these options 24/7 is going to score well in customer service.
Horse Racing Odds
It is a good idea to have accounts with multiple sites so you can shop for the best odds for races. Most will offer the same odds for horse racing, but when there’s a long shot you have a good feeling about, you might be able to get a much better price at one site compared to a competitor.
Horse Racing Betting Markets
Certain racebooks offer more exotic options, but here are some of the most common markets any good racebook should have:
- Win
- Show
- Place
- Pick 3
- Pick 5
- Exotic
- Trifecta
- Superfecta
- Super High Five
- Double Bet
The industry standard bets are win, place and show, so if you see a site that offers nothing beyond those three, it is best to find another option for horse race betting.
Live Horse Racing Betting
With so many using their phones to bet now, live betting is a booming market. However, not every site has horse racing as an option for live betting since it is an event that does not last long.
For example, BetOnline offers live betting for six sports but not horse racing. BetUS, one of our top racebooks, does promote live horse race betting.
Some sites will offer simulcast races, streaming directly from the racing facility. This is usually only available for more popular races, like the Preakness Stakes or the Belmont Stakes.
Horse Racing Betting Promotions
Most sites will competitively offer sign-up bonuses and first-deposit matches, but for horse racing enthusiasts, you want to see promotions that are tailored to your interest. For instance, BetUS will give you back $10 any time the horse you bet to win finishes in second or third place. Bookmaker.eu will give you 8% cash back on exotic wagers.
How to Bet on Horse Races in Washington
Unlike regular sports bets where you are usually betting on a point spread or total number of points, horse racing offers a wide variety of options. You could just bet on which horse will win the race, but if you wanted to bet that a horse will finish in the top three, you can do that too. It is called a “show” wager. If you think you can predict the exact order of the top three horses, that is called a “trifecta” wager.
It is important to familiarize yourself with these terms before you start betting on horse races.
Washington Horse Racing Betting Explained
Whenever you bet online, you can access the names of all of the horses listed in the race. There should be a drop-down menu or set of tabs for choosing the bet type you want to do (win, show, place, exacta, etc.). Then you can start adding your picks to your bet slip, adding your stake and placing your wager.
Understanding the odds is the crucial part. If you bet $2 on a horse with 13/1 odds to win, then you will win 13 times every dollar bet, producing a return of $28 ($26 plus the $2 stake). Just think of betting odds in terms of probability. If a horse has 5/4 odds, that means for every five failures, there are four chances of success or an implied probability of 44.4%.
Horse Racing Betting Odds
Below are the different horse racing betting options:
Fixed Odds for Horse Racing Betting in Washington
Fixed odds betting will lock you into the price you placed your bet on, much like you will see with regular sports betting. The odds on the horse you choose could very well change before the race begins, but your line is fixed and will not change. Fixed odds are most popular in big races, like the Kentucky Derby.
Pari-Mutuel Wagering in Washington
A pari-mutuel system is usually used in horse racing or an event where competitors finish in a ranked order. Instead of betting on a fixed line with a known payout based on those odds, your pari-mutuel bet will go into a pool with everyone else’s and the winning bets will be paid out as a share of the pool after the house take (vig) is subtracted.
Washington Horse Racing Betting Calculator
In a pari-mutuel horse race, you will not know the payout until the race is over. For example, if a pool’s total is $100 and there are 20 bettors, you will each get a $5 dividend. If you had 15 units on it, you would win $75.
But with many of your online bets, you will know the payout immediately. You can however estimate any win by hand if you convert the odds and your stake into a probability.
Washington Horse Racing Odds Chart
The following table shows various odds and the total payout on a $10 wager. For example, on a $10 bet with 3/5 odds, you will win $3 for every $5 wagered. So, the math is ($10*3/5) = $6 in new money plus $10 stake back for a total of $16 payout.
| 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% |
As you can see in the table above, odds of 1/9 have the highest chance of paying out but the lowest payout amount and odds of 16/1 have the highest payout but the lowest chance of actually winning.
What are the different types of horse racing bets?
Here are how the different types of horse racing bets work:
- Win: It is simply a wager on the horse you think will win the race.
- Place: Your horse just has to finish first or second to win the bet.
- Show: Making things a little easier, your horse just needs to finish in the top three to win the bet.
- Exacta: With an exacta box wager, you pick the top two horses in the exact order to win the bet.
- Trifecta: Pick the top three horses in the exact order to win the bet.
- Superfecta: Feeling lucky? Pick the top four horses in the exact order to win the bet.
- Daily Double (AKA Double Wager): Pick the winning horse of two successive races.
- Pick 3/4/5/6: Like with a daily double, you need to pick the correct winning horse for three, four, five or six consecutive races.
Washington Horse Racetracks
There are only a couple of tracks that still offer live racing in The Evergreen State.
Emerald Downs Racetrack (Auburn, Washington)
Washington’s best horse-racing track is located in Auburn. It opened in 1996, replacing Longacres Racetrack, which shut down in 1992.
Some of the popular races at the track include the Emerald Express Stakes, U.S. Bank Stakes, Seattle Handicap and WA State Legislators Stakes.
The highlight of the racing season is always the Longacres Mile Handicap, which has been running since 1935.
Sun Downs Racetrack (Kennewick, Washington)
Operating in Kennewick since 1981, Sun Downs is one of the last standing horse racing tracks in the area.
Due to COVID-19 and a shortage of liability insurance, Sun Downs has not been able to host any live races for a significant period of time.
Hopefully, this well-loved racing facility will reopen in the future.
The History of Gambling on Horse Races in Washington
The following is a timeline of important events in the history of horse racing in Washington State, one of the premier states on the West Coast for horse racing in the United States:
- 2020: Washington state Governor signs a bill that legalizes sports betting in the state, allowing for in-person betting at tribal casinos only. The bill also expands horse race betting by allowing racetracks to offer sports betting alongside pari-mutuel wagering.
- 2004: Advance-deposit wagering on horse racing is approved by the WHRC in Washington, allowing bettors to place bets from off-track locations.
- 1996: Emerald Downs opens in Auburn, WA and becomes the new go-to destination for horse racing in the state.
- 1992: Longacres racetrack closes for good, bringing an end to the longest-running thoroughbred track on the West Coast.
- 1935: The first Longacres Mile Handicap is run with a purse of $12,350. Coldwater was the winning horse.
- 1933: After being built by a 3,000-member crew working around the clock in five months, Longacres Racetrack opens in Renton, WA.
- 1933: The Washington Horse Racing Commission (WHRC) is established to oversee the legal process of pari-mutuel betting on horses in the state and to manage the licensing, regulations and supervision of all races held in Washington State.
- 1909: Washington State Legislature bans gambling, resulting in the demise of Seattle’s first racetrack.
- 1902: Seattle opens The Meadows, its first popular racetrack.
- 1868: The American Stud Book is established, leading to the start of organized horse racing across the United States.
Washington Horse Racing Betting Apps
It would be great if these offshore sportsbooks had their own native app; however, most of them only offer online betting sites. You can download specific apps for TVG and TwinSpires but not for BetOnline or Bovada.
However, all our top racebooks have good mobile betting sites optimized to run well on a phone, tablet or desktop. Just open your preferred browser and visit the site to start placing bets on horse racing in Washington.
How to Start Betting at Horse Racing Sites in Washington
Any quality online site will have a simple registration process to get you set up and ready to wager. We have prepared a quick guide to get you through the steps to create an account for racing at Bovada. Most online sportsbooks will have a similar, straightforward registration process. Just follow these steps:
- Go to the website.
- Select one of the red “Bet Now” buttons.
- Enter your account details (name, date of birth, mobile number and email) and create a strong password.
- Visit your account details at the top right of the page and click “Deposit” to add money with your preferred deposit method. Be sure to meet the minimum deposit requirement.
- Choose the “Horses” section at the top right.
- Check out the betting odds for the racetrack of your choosing.
- Pick your win, place and show selections or something more exotic and add them to your bet slip.
- Enter how much you are risking to bet and click “Place Bets” to complete the wager.
Other Types of Gambling in Washington
Currently, in Washington, tribal casinos are legally allowed to operate retail sportsbooks. There is an ongoing battle to expand the gambling laws to include things like collegiate sports betting and the authorization of online betting sites.
Until these advancements are made, Washington residents can use online sportsbooks at offshore sites instead. These offshore sites are not bound to the same laws as the online sportsbooks that operate in the United States.
When using offshore sportsbooks such as the ones reviewed in our guide, you can expect gambling markets for sports betting, poker, table games, casino games (video slots), live dealer games, lottery-style games and esports betting.
What is the best horse racing betting site in Washington?
We implore you to explore the different sites and find the one that best suits your personal preference. But if we were forced to choose just one, we would pick Bovada for its well-designed racebook that makes it easy to place wagers for win, show, place and other exotic wagers as well as explore virtual horse races.
You also will be treated to one of the best sportsbooks in the business with a ton of prop picks and different markets. They also have the busiest online poker site in America and lottery-style games to play in the casino.
It also is a safe site to use with great customer service and crypto-friendly transaction methods. Washington players will be impressed with the depth of gambling options provided at Bovada.
When it comes to sports betting in Washington State, finding the best sites can be challenging. We’ve compiled a list of the top Washington sports betting sites that offer excellent coverage of major sports events and the most competitive odds.
Our top picks provide generous welcome bonuses, exciting promotions and a wide range of betting markets to ensure you have the best betting experience.
Let’s take a look.
| SPORTSBOOK | TRUST SCORE | ONLINE SINCE | Expert Review | BONUS | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
1996
|
$500 Cash Bonus
|
|||
|
|
2001
|
100% Free Play
|
|||
|
|
2002
|
55% Cash Bonus
|
|||
|
|
2011
|
$750 Cash Bonus
|
|||
|
|
2001
|
$250 Free Bet
|
Resources:
Latest Update
June 2024:
Washington State’s legal battle over social casino games ends as High 5 Games’ apps are deemed illegal and find out the court’s rulings.
Washington Sports Betting Apps FAQs
Is Bovada legal in Washington?
Yes, Bovada is legal to use in Washington. No federal laws or regulations prohibit players in the United States from using offshore sites for real-money gaming or sports wagering.
Can I bet on basketball in Washington?
Yes, all of our highest-rated offshore sites, such as Bovada and BetOnline, offer a wide range of basketball betting markets. It is easy to bet on professional sports teams and players in the NBA or on college basketball using any mobile device in Washington.
What gambling sites are legal in Washington State?
All of our top picks for the best mobile gambling sites are fully legal in Washington State. This includes Bovada, BetOnline, BookMaker and Heritage Sports.
How do you bet on NFL games in Washington?
To bet on NFL football in Washington, residents can visit a local sportsbook to bet in person or use an online option like BookMaker or BetAnySports.
How do you bet online in Washington?
To sports bet in Washington, simply pick your favorite offshore sportsbook, make an account and find a betting market. You can bet on your favorite sports and favorite teams with ease.
What sports betting apps can I use in Washington State?
Your choices are limited to either visiting a tribal casino so you can use their apps on their grounds or you can just join an offshore sportsbook, such as Everygame or BetAnySports, as they will accept Washington players.
Are the apps for DraftKings and FanDuel legal in Washington?
DraftKings Sportsbook is technically available to place bets, but you have to do it while at a retail location at a tribal casino such as Tulalip Resort Casino. Using an offshore site, you can bet anywhere from any device.
Table of Contents
Best Washington State Sports Betting Apps
It can be overwhelming to look at the options for online betting sites if you are new to this growing industry. Add in some confusion on what is legal and illegal for you to play in the state of Washington and it justifies why we have this guide prepared for you.
Contrary to all the commercials advertising from companies like Caesars, BetMGM and the other competitors, you are not going to be able to bet with them online in Washington in 2022 as online gambling is illegal in the state.
Your best bets will be the offshore sportsbooks and we have compiled a top 10 list of the best ones for Washington players to join:
- BetOnline – Exclusive opinionated lines
- Bovada – Excellent prop builder
- Heritage Sports – Reduced juice and cash back
- BookMaker – Accepts action from all Washington players
- BetAnySports – Best for reduced juice lines
- WagerWeb – Fast Bitcoin payouts
- SportsBetting.ag – 50% welcome bonus up to $1,000
- BetUS – Expert picks, analysis and BetUS TV
- JustBet – BookMaker’s sister site
Each of these offshore sportsbooks and mobile sports betting apps can provide sports fans in Washington State with a wide range of sports betting markets in addition to competitive betting odds and generous bonuses.
History of Sports Betting in Washington
The history of sports betting in Washington State is a journey marked by a long-standing resistance to gambling, followed by gradual legislative changes toward the legalization and regulation of sports wagering:
June 2024
Washington State’s legal battle over social casino games ends as High 5 Games’ apps are deemed illegal and find out the court’s rulings.
May 2024
The Colville Tribes aim to open a casino in Pasco, Washington’s Tri-Cities, sparking conflict with rival tribes over territorial and economic issues.
April 2024
The Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation propose plans to build the first tribal casino in the Tri-Cities, which will be in Pasco, Franklin County. The project is currently looking to get federal approval.
January 2024
HB 1630 and SB 5587, which aim to expand the availability of sports betting are reintroduced in the Washington state legislature.
September 2023
The Department of Justice filed a response regarding the litigation initiated by multi-state gaming operator Maverick Gaming against the gaming compacts signed with the State of Washington, which allowed tribes to offer sports betting.
July 2023
The Washington State lottery tops $1 billion in sales for the 2023 fiscal year.
2022
The Washington State Gambling Commission begins talks with additional tribes about sports betting compacts, reflecting the growing interest in sports wagering across the state.
June 2023
A class action lawsuit against Double Down Casino resulted in a state court-approved settlement and sets a new precedent for the state showcasing that enforcement against illegal gambling is not limited to police action.
September 2021
The state’s first sportsbook opens at Snoqualmie Casino for in-person bets before later adding online bets to those using an app on tribal ground.
2020
Washington state Governor signs a bill that legalizes sports wagering in the state, allowing for in-person betting at tribal casinos only.
2019
Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn PASPA, Washington state officials begin drafting legislation to legalize sports betting, focusing on tribal casinos.
2014
The Washington State Gambling Commission increases its enforcement actions against illegal online gambling operations, including sports betting websites.
2018
United States Supreme Court overturns federal ban on sports betting, giving states the option to make sports betting legal and create their own regulatory bodies.
2017
Preliminary discussions begin in the Washington State Legislature about the potential legalization of sports betting, in response to increasing national interest and potential changes in federal law.
2012
A proposal to expand gambling options in Washington, including the potential for sports betting, is introduced but does not advance, reflecting the state’s cautious approach to gambling expansion.
2010
Washington experiences an increase in illegal sports betting activities, despite the state’s restrictive gambling laws, mirroring a national trend.
2006
Washington state legislature passes a bill that criminalizes online gambling and imposes harsh penalties for those caught participating in it.
2008
The state of Washington renegotiates gaming compacts with several tribes, leading to the expansion of casino games offered at tribal casinos, but sports betting remains off the table.
1980s
Washington State Gambling Commission begins enforcing a ban on all forms of online gambling, including sports betting.
1990s
Washington State maintains its conservative stance on gambling, with no significant movements towards legalizing sports betting or other forms of gambling.
2000
Despite the federal ban under PASPA, there is growing interest in sports betting among Washington residents, with many participating in informal and unregulated betting pools.
2005
Discussions begin in the Washington legislature about the potential of expanding gambling options beyond casino locations operated by Native American tribes, including the possibility of sports betting.
1973
The Washington State Gambling Commission is established to regulate all forms of gambling in the state.
1933
Washington State Legislature legalizes pari-mutuel betting on horse racing. Track betting locations would be the only form of gambling available for several years.
1910
Washington State Legislature outlaws all forms of gambling in the state.
As sports betting continues to develop in Washington, this history serves as a backdrop for understanding the state’s approach to managing and regulating this form of gambling.
Reviews of the Best Washington State Betting Apps & Mobile Sites for 2024
Dive into our in-depth reviews
Need more information to find the best mobile sports betting app? That’s what we are here for. We have included a detailed review of our top five choices for the best Washington betting apps. All these sportsbooks are located offshore and accept players from Washington State:
1. BetOnline: 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:
- Opinionated lines on major sports leagues
- Exclusive lines come in handy when building parlays
BetOnline is a Costa Rica-based online sportsbook with an A+ rating. You can enjoy live betting on college sports betting markets, including in-state teams like the Washington Huskies, in addition to many more.
A feature that stands out on BetOnline’s mobile sportsbook is the opinionated lines for football, baseball and basketball. Other sites won’t have these prices and the best news is you can include them in your parlays. BetOnline also has a popular poker room as it is part of the third biggest network in the U.S..
Sports bettors with new accounts can use one of BetOnline’s promo codes for a 50% welcome bonus. New players have to deposit $50 or more and they can get up to $250 in free bet credits. This welcome package also includes 100 free casino spins.
2. Bovada: Great Prop Builder
Best For
Trust
9.9/10
Banking
8.6/10
Bonuses
8.8/10
Odds
8.9/10
Customer Service
9/10
Betting Limits
9.8/10
CURRENT PROMOTION
$750 Cash Bonus
Key Features:
- Great depth of sports markets for live betting
- Prop builder is expansive and easy to use
Bovada is a well-known sportsbook and poker room from Costa Rica. You will get access to many different sports markets from all over the world and the live betting section is one of the deepest around.
You will also find plenty of props, parlays, teasers, futures markets and more for the popular sports leagues (NFL, NBA, MLB, NCAAF, etc.).
If you want to bet on sports and use crypto, then Bovada’s welcome bonus is generously set to a 75% first-deposit match (up to $750). The bonus funds from this Bovada promo code can be used on the sportsbook (5x rollover), racebook (5x rollover) and casino (30x rollover).
3. Heritage Sports: Best for Reduced Juice
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:
- Gain an edge with reduced juice (-108) sports lines
- Elite choice for live betting
Heritage Sports is yet another great choice from Costa Rica. It used to be that users had to get an invite to join, but anyone in Washington can join today. You get treated to both reduced juice (-108 odds) and cash-back rebates. Most sites will make you choose one or the other, but Heritage is providing both in their Reduced-Juice Cash Back Program.
With Heritage Sports, you’re not going to get a huge sign-up bonus (100% up to $500 with a 10x rollover) but you can get continuous rewards from the Reduced-Juice Cash Back Program, along with nice perks like a free parlay for your birthday (worth up to $500) or every eighth deposit on the house.
4. BookMaker: Great for Bettors of All Levels
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:
- Well known for earliest betting lines
- Winning players do not get limited
Bookmaker.eu, a Costa Rica-based book, has been in business since 1996. They are known as “where the line originates” thanks to their early betting odds, which can be great for getting more value out of bets before there is much spread movement.
BookMaker has popular and obscure markets and a growing live betting section on a solid mobile betting page. They also have one of the best racebooks in the industry and a casino.
BookMaker’s welcome bonus will get you up to $500 in bonus cash (10x rollover). There are also solid reload bonuses in its great loyalty program with three tiers ranging from Gold to Diamond. You can get 20% cash up to $2,500 when you reach the Diamond level.
Is it legal to bet on sports in Washington?
Sports betting is legal in Washington, and you can enjoy in-person betting at tribal casinos across the state. While this provides ample opportunity to bet on various sports, it’s important to note that betting on in-state college teams like the Washington Huskies or Gonzaga Bulldogs is still only available at offshore sites..
Offshore sportsbooks offer a legal and accessible way to enjoy online sports betting in Washington state. These platforms provide a wide range of betting options, including international events and college sports, which are not available locally. Until online sports betting becomes fully functional across the state, joining one of the best offshore sportsbooks is the ideal choice for an enhanced and unrestricted betting experience.
How We Rank the Best Washington State Betting Apps & Mobile Sites
We have a grading system to help us rank our top offshore sportsbooks for Washington users. The system goes through a series of metrics that we believe will lead to finding the online sportsbooks that will provide the best betting experience. The following section looks at many of those metrics that we use:
Mobile Betting Usage
A well-designed mobile site or app can make all the difference in a great sportsbook. We need to be able to find the markets we want to bet on quickly and it should be easy to build parlays, fund your account and place bets.
For more on mobile betting sites and mobile apps for offshore sportsbooks, scroll down in our guide.
Mobile Betting Bonus
Welcome bonuses are a great way to get a new user to join a site and other bonuses are the best way to keep them coming back.
Not only do we grade a site on the size of the bonus, but it is also important to note the minimum deposit amount to get one, the expiration date for how long you have to use it and most importantly, what is the rollover requirement? That will determine how many times over you have to wager that bonus amount before you can withdraw it as real cash.
Live Mobile Betting & Streaming
The future of sports betting will feature more live betting markets and the streaming of games. These sites are not quite there yet for streaming, but if more gambling companies get involved with the professional leagues and sports networks, then you should see more of that. But the sites we reviewed have live betting right now.
Some have more markets available than others, but it’s usually the popular ones that matter most anyway like football, basketball and baseball. The ability to live bet on props is going to be a huge advantage for the books that are flexible with their live betting markets beyond just moneyline, spread and totals.
Banking Options
Most sites do a good job of providing various payment methods, like bank transfers, debit cards, credit cards and cryptocurrency.
Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ethereum and Litecoin have become increasingly popular on offshore betting sites. Wire transfers can take several business days and credit card fees can be high.
Many of the best sportsbooks will have crypto tutorials to help you get started out with that. But for those seeking traditional methods like major credit cards and bank transfers, you will have those available for deposits and withdrawals. You’ll just want to research on the site what the fees and processing times are for the different methods because they can vary greatly.
Customer Service
When help is what you need, a variety of methods to contact a site 24/7/365 is what you want to see for customer service. Some people prefer emails and traditional phone calls to video chat, but if you can find all three available, then all the better.
Licensing & Security
When sharing your personal information on any of our recommended online sports betting sites, you can be confident that these sites are all legitimate businesses that are operating under the laws of their local jurisdictions and you have to be at least 18 years of age to join them.
They are safe and secure to use and often are operating under a license from their country, which you can look into on their website for further information. They’ve also been around for decades with some of the top online betting sites on the verge of the third decade of operations.
Popular Sports to Bet on in Washington
Washington is home to a passionate sports community, offering plenty of opportunities for betting. Whether you’re a fan of football, basketball or hockey, there are many options to explore. Here’s a look at some of the most popular sports to bet on in Washington.
Football – NFL
Football is a big deal in Washington, with fans closely following the Seattle Seahawks. The Seahawks, known for their strong defense and dedicated fan base, have brought home one Super Bowl title and continue to be a strong contender in the league. Betting on NFL games is common, with wagers placed on point spreads, moneylines and prop bets. The excitement of the NFL season, from opening kickoff to the Super Bowl, keeps football betting lively in Washington.
College Football
College football also has a strong following in Washington. The University of Washington Huskies are a dominant team in the Pac-12 Conference. Fans eagerly place bets on their favorite matchups, including point spreads, over/under totals and player performances. Washington State Cougars also have a loyal fan base, adding more excitement to college football betting in the state. The intense rivalries and high stakes games make college football a key part of the sports betting scene in Washington.
Basketball – NBA
Basketball fans in Washington have a lot to cheer for, especially with the Portland Trail Blazers being just a short drive away. Although Washington doesn’t have its own NBA team, the Trail Blazers have a strong following in the state. Betting on NBA games includes options like point spreads, total points and individual player stats. The fast-paced nature of the NBA, combined with the skill of the players, makes basketball a popular sport to bet on in Washington.
College Basketball
College basketball is also popular in Washington, with the Gonzaga Bulldogs leading the charge. Gonzaga has become a powerhouse in college basketball, regularly competing in the NCAA tournament and drawing a lot of betting action. The University of Washington Huskies also contribute to the excitement, especially during March Madness. Bettors focus on point spreads, total points and individual player performances, making college basketball a thrilling option for sports fans in the state.
Baseball – MLB
Baseball has a rich history in Washington, with the Seattle Mariners being the state’s MLB team. The Mariners have a devoted fan base, and betting on baseball games is a favorite pastime. Bettors often place wagers on run lines, totals and player props, taking advantage of the long MLB season to find betting opportunities. The detailed statistics available in baseball allow for a strategic approach to betting, making it a sport where knowledge can lead to success.
Hockey – NHL
Hockey has gained significant popularity in Washington with the introduction of the Seattle Kraken, the state’s NHL team. The Kraken quickly became a beloved team, with fans excited about every game. Betting on hockey includes options like moneylines, point spreads and total goals. The fast-paced action and physical nature of the sport make hockey an exciting choice for bettors in Washington. With the Kraken now part of the NHL, hockey betting is on the rise in the state.
Washington Sports Betting Teams
Washington has had a solid sports history, both with professional teams and some top-notch college programs such as Gonzaga (Bulldogs) and the University of Washington (Huskies). With the recent addition of the Seattle Kraken in the NHL, Seattle has had a team in all four major American sports leagues, but never at the same time. The Supersonics left for Oklahoma City in 2008.
Here are some of the most noteworthy professional and college sports teams in Washington State:
- Seattle Seahawks (NFL): The Seattle Seahawks are a force in the National Football League, known for their loud fan base, dubbed the “12th Man”. They’ve seen significant success over the years, including a Super Bowl victory in 2014. Betting on the Seahawks often revolves around their strong home-field advantage and dynamic defense.
- Seattle Storm (WNBA): The Seattle Storm are one of the WNBA’s most successful franchises, boasting several championships. With stars like Sue Bird and Breanna Stewart, they’ve consistently been a strong team. Betting on the Storm can be promising, especially in key matchups and playoff games.
- Seattle Mariners (MLB): The Mariners have a passionate fan base but have struggled with playoff appearances, owning the longest postseason drought among major North American professional sports. However, with emerging young talents, they’re seen as a team with potential. Bettors might find value in underdog bets and player-specific wagers.
- Seattle Kraken (NHL): The newest addition to Seattle’s sports scene, the Kraken joined the NHL as an expansion team. Their inaugural season has brought excitement and a fresh fan base eager for hockey. Betting on the Kraken might involve more risk due to their new status but could offer unique opportunities as the team develops.
- Seattle Sounders FC (MLS): Seattle Sounders FC are a powerhouse in Major League Soccer, with several MLS Cups to their name. Known for their attacking style and strong fan support, the Sounders provide exciting games with potential for both goalscoring bets and match outcomes.
- Gonzaga University Bulldogs (NCAA): Dominant in men’s basketball, Gonzaga is a perennial contender in the NCAA tournament, making them a popular pick for March Madness bets.
- University of Washington Huskies (NCAA): The Huskies compete strongly in football and basketball, offering varied betting opportunities throughout the season.
- Washington State University Cougars (NCAA): Known for their competitive football team, the Cougars often participate in high-scoring games, appealing to over/under bettors.
- Seattle University (NCAA): While not as prominent in major sports as the others, Seattle University has competitive programs, especially in soccer and basketball, providing niche betting markets.
Washington has a solid selection of teams for all of the fan-favorite sports betting markets, allowing for numerous different betting opportunities for sports fans throughout the state.
Types of Mobile Betting Bonuses
Who doesn’t love a good bonus? While they are a great incentive to join a site, the best sportsbooks understand they have to keep giving you promotions to keep you coming back to use their site. Here are some examples of bonuses and perks you will see after joining these offshore sportsbooks.
Welcome Bonuses
Matching your first deposit sure sounds like a sweet deal. Some sites will even offer bonuses on your second and third deposits. But the first deposit match is usually the highest money total you can expect in a bonus from a site when you become a member.
The main thing to check though is the rollover requirement because that is how many times you will have to wager the bonus money before it becomes available to withdraw as real cash. Fortunately for sports bets, the rollover requirements will be much lower (1-5x) than if you were getting bonus money to play the casino (20-50x).
Ongoing Promotions
Customers deserve bonuses for showing their loyalty to a sportsbook. There are a variety of ways this happens:
- Enhanced Odds: Some promotions are designed to offer players better betting odds. These lines are more opinionated or can come with special profit boosts.
- Reload Bonuses: From time to time, you can opt-in to reload promotions where if you wager $100, the site will match 50% or sometimes 100% of your deposit. It’s really the same thing as a deposit match, but it’s for future deposits and not just your first deposit after you joined the site.
- Risk-free Bets: A great perk at a sportsbook, make your wager and if it loses, you will receive your stake back in the form of a bonus bet or site credit.
- Free Bets: You can get these as a reward for a risk-free bet or sometimes if you make a deposit of a certain amount, you get a percentage back in free bets as well. For newer users, you may get to try a free bet on your first bet at the racebook or sportsbook.
Online sportsbooks can provide a wide variety of bonuses and ongoing promotions that retail sportsbooks simply can not match. However, bettors should be aware of any wagering requirements or rollover requirements associated with any bonus offer or promo before taking advantage of one.
Mobile Site vs. App for Betting in Washington
Going forward, you can expect more online betting sites to introduce an app version of their sportsbook and whole online casino experience. But the mobile sites, as they are now, usually work well enough to get the job done for your wagering needs. We have compared some of the pros and cons of using a mobile site vs. a mobile app:
Mobile Site
No downloads are necessary to view a mobile site. You just go to the site and log in to your account:
Pros:
- Won’t take up storage space on mobile devices
- Don’t have to download software updates
Cons:
- More security risks
- May have to memorize or store password
Mobile App
With an app that you download on your Apple or Android device, it will be a slightly different experience from using sports betting sites through your browser:
Pros:
- One touch and you’re in the app
- Can quickly log in using your fingerprint on most new phones
- One less password to remember or store somewhere
- Better for taking screenshots of bet slips when you want to show off a win or bad beat
- Usually, a nicer design than the site
Cons:
- Not ideal if you are researching sports and betting at the same time
- App and updates take up storage space on mobile devices
- Geolocation verification can be very annoying
Tips for Betting in Washington
When looking at sports betting in Washington, it’s key to have a strategy. Here are some straightforward tips to help you start on the right foot.
- Know the Legal Framework: First, understand what’s allowed in Washington. Betting laws can vary greatly from one place to another. Make sure you’re betting within legal boundaries. Stick to approved sportsbooks and platforms to avoid any legal trouble.
- Choose the Right Sportsbook: Not all sportsbooks offer the same odds or the same options. Look for ones with good reviews, reliable customer service and a variety of betting options. Compare odds between different sportsbooks to find the best deal for your bets.
- Start Small: If you’re new to betting, it’s wise to start with small amounts. This way, you can learn the ropes without risking too much. As you become more comfortable and knowledgeable, you can adjust your betting amounts.
- Research is Key: Do your homework before placing any bets. Look at team performance, player injuries and weather conditions. These factors can significantly impact the outcome of a game. Staying informed will help you make better betting decisions.
- Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget for your betting activities and stick to it. Don’t chase losses by betting more than you can afford. Managing your money wisely is crucial for long-term success in betting.
- Understand Betting Options: There are many different ways to bet on sports. From simple win-lose bets to more complex bets like point spreads and totals. Make sure you understand how these work before putting your money down.
- Keep Emotions in Check: It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of betting, especially if you’re betting on your favorite team. However, it’s important to make decisions based on logic and research, not personal bias or emotion.
By following these tips, you’ll be better prepared to participate in sports betting in Washington. Remember, betting should be fun, so always bet responsibly and within your means.
Washington Betting Apps & Mobile Sites for iPhone & Android
Most smartphone users in the world either have an Android or iPhone. Users of both are very familiar with going to the Play Store or Apple Store to download and install apps. That would be the same, simple process with sportsbooks’ apps, but the fact is most of the sportsbooks discussed here do not have their own native app that you can download through your phone’s store or from the company’s website.
You would have to check each site for availability, but some sportsbooks will offer a way to be saved to your phone’s home screen when you visit their site.
For example, Bovada will have an option at the bottom of the screen that says “Add to home screen” before downloading an app to your phone that you can add to your home page or another preferred spot. After touching the icon, you will be able to quickly log in to your account.
But even if there is no download option, each sportsbook has a good mobile betting site that is optimized for smartphone use and you can always bookmark your favorites for quick access. You could also go up to the menu setting and choose “Add to Home screen” to add an icon that will open the sportsbook when you touch it.
Washington Betting Guides
Our experts have created a variety of guides that cover more than just the sports betting industry. For a comprehensive look at gambling in your state, check out the rest of our guides:
