Is Sports Betting Legal in Minnesota?
Yes, betting on sports is legal in Minnesota.
No, there are trusted offshore sportsbooks serving Minnesota.
- Last Update: February 10, 2025
What sports betting apps are legal in Minnesota?
Since regulated betting apps like FanDuel and DraftKings are unavailable in Minnesota using offshore sportsbooks such as BetOnline and Bovada are recommended as both have 20+ year track records.
Trusted betting sites for players in Minnesota
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What sports betting apps are legal in Minnesota?
If you’re a sports fan searching for Minnesota’s best online betting sites, check out our top four picks below. We’ve summarized why our experts positioned each of these offshore sites as the top-ranked operators.
Each of these sports betting platforms offers a wide variety of wagering options for major sports leagues (NFL, NBA, MLB and more), collegiate sports, international sports and even niche sports betting markets:
- Competitive reduced juice odds at -108
- Comprehensive live betting options
- Best reduced juice lines at -105
- Quick and reliable payouts
- Robust live betting platform
- Opinionated Lines
- Broad range of bonus offers
Nowadays Bovada is best known for their superior mobile app and large variety of political and entertainment bets. Bovada’s bonuses and aggressive rewards program remains among the best.
- An intuitive, user-friendly mobile interface
- An expansive range of betting markets
- High betting limits
- Renowned loyalty program
- Variety of promotions
- Excellent customer service department
How to Bet on Sports in Minnesota
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1 Pick Your SportsbooksChoose an offshore sportsbook available in you prefer. Register by clicking “Join” and complete the simple form.
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2 Claim a BonusSelect from available promotions and deposit match offers. It’s recommended to use crypto if available since generally speaking welcome bonuses are larger if using crypto.
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3 Deposit FundsFind the cashier, pick your payment method—credit cards, wire transfers, or crypto—and confirm your deposit.
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4 Place a BetPick your sport—NFL, NBA, NHL, or more—and add bets to your slip. Enter your stake, then confirm your wager.
Minnesota Sports Betting Updates
This section chronicles the key events and updates in Minnesota’s sports betting scene, providing a comprehensive look at how the state has adapted to and embraced this growing industry:
Local lawmakers are reviving sports betting legislation, with bipartisan support aiming to pass the Minnesota Sports Betting Act 3.0.
After time ran out last session, Minnesota lawmakers aim to revisit sports betting legislation and finalize a deal in 2025.
Minnesota lawmakers fail to pass a sports betting bill despite bipartisan support and agreement from all key players, citing poor time management and political disagreements.
Lawmakers debate a bill to overturn their approval of Minnesota’s historic horse racing terminals. The outcome may also impact discussions around legalizing sports betting in the state.
HF 2000 starts gaining support after receiving the backing of the state’s tribes as well as from the pull-tabs industry after a compromise for tax relief. Lawmakers have until May 20th to approve the bill.
State Senator John Marty proposes new sports betting legislation related to gambling addiction safeguards.
Different sports betting bills are introduced on the first day of the legislative session. Bill 2000 is approved by the Human Services Finance Committee on February 23rd and heads to the State and Local Government Committee.
The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community files a lawsuit against the Minnesota Racing Commission for allowing the state’s horse tracks to use video terminals for blackjack games.
Minnesota’s Senate Commerce and Consumer Committee approves amendment on sports betting bill SF 1949 to ban in-game wagering.
Senator Carrie Ruud introduces legislation that extends a pact that allocates revenue from the state’s lottery to the Minnesota Environmental & Natural Resources Trust Fund.
The Senate fails to pass bills HF2000 and SF2425 which postpones the legalization of sports betting, at least until 2024.
Minnesota State Senator Jeremy Miller announces he plans on introducing the Minnesota Sports Betting Act, which would regulate sports betting in the state.
Two bills face opposition from different groups. Bill HF 2000, which gives tribes a monopoly on sports betting, is opposed by the horse tracks in the state. Bill SF 2425, proposing licenses for both tribes and horse tracks is opposed by the Minnesota Indian Gaming Association (MIGA).
The opening of Minnesota’s 2023 legislative session took place. Representative Zack Stephenson, who played an important part in 2022’s attempt to legalize sports betting, confirmed Minnesotans should expect a mirror of sports betting bill HF 778, which, as locals may remember, passed the House of Representatives but failed in the Senate.
As sports betting in Minnesota remains illegal, locals have traveled to Iowa, where wagering on sports has flourished with the return of the NFL. $200 million wagers were disclosed in September’s report, a vast 61% upswing from August.
A poll held by the Star Tribune, MPR News and Kare 11 revealed that close to 50% of Minnesota locals want sports betting legalized in the state.
Media outlet MinnPost discussed what’s needed for Minnesota to legalize sports betting. A resounding answer pointed towards the tribes and horse racing tracks, both of which need to compromise on the situation for anything positive to surface.
A bill proposing the legalization of sports betting in Minnesota is introduced in the state legislature.
A bill to legalize sports betting is introduced in the Minnesota House of Representatives, but it fails to gain traction and does not advance.
The U.S. Supreme Court hears oral arguments in the case of Murphy v. NCAA, which challenges the constitutionality of the federal ban on sports betting.
A bill to authorize a state-run lottery to offer sports betting is introduced in the Minnesota Senate, but it fails to pass.
A bill to legalize sports betting in Minnesota is introduced in the state legislature, but it fails to gain traction and does not advance.
The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) is signed into law, prohibiting states from authorizing or regulating sports betting.
The sports betting legal landscape in Minnesota has been marred with delays and regulatory challenges. As a result, the only legal sportsbooks for betting on popular sports, events and even politics are online sports betting sites located internationally. The Land of 10,000 Lakes will have to wait for legislative changes before any local sports betting licenses are issued.
How We Rank the Best Minnesota Betting Sites
Our experts have vigorously researched and personally tested hundreds of the best sites available for betting in Minnesota. Here’s a breakdown of the must-haves for any sportsbook that wants to rank highly in our rating system:
Competitive Betting Odds
The sports betting market is cutthroat, and the best sites stand out by offering sharper odds. Whether it’s through reduced juice, opinionated lines or odds boosts, these sites give bettors a better chance to find value. That’s why many bettors open accounts at multiple sportsbooks—to shop around and snag the best price for every bet.
Wide Range of Betting Markets
A quality online sportsbook should cover it all—from major pro sports and college games to niche leagues across the globe. Variety in bet types is also crucial, including singles, parlays, props, teasers, futures and live bets. This level of diversity ensures there’s something for every type of bettor, from casual players to seasoned experts. The more options, the better.
Flexible Banking Options
Sportsbooks need to offer a mix of traditional and modern payment methods. You should find options like credit cards, debit cards and bank transfers alongside eWallets and cryptocurrency deposits.
Processing times, fees and limits also matter. Credit cards often come with higher fees, while crypto is typically the fastest way to cash out.
Generous Promotions & Bonuses
Great sportsbooks offer two main types of promotions to boost your bets and maximize your value:
- Welcome Bonuses: Usually a match on your first deposit, often 100% or more, sometimes requiring a promo code.
- Ongoing Offers: Look for risk-free bets, reload bonuses, odds boosts and refer-a-friend perks. A good loyalty program is another plus, rewarding frequent bettors with points and exclusive benefits.
Live Betting Features
Live betting is booming, especially with the rise of mobile sports betting. The best sportsbooks provide a smooth live betting experience, complete with data visuals to keep you updated if you’re not watching the game. You should also find live markets for popular props and fast odds updates.
Easy-to-Use Mobile Platform
With mobile betting dominating the scene, sportsbooks need to offer a seamless mobile experience. Whether you’re on an app or an optimized website, it should be easy to navigate, build parlays, switch between leagues and handle deposits or withdrawals. A top-tier site can handle the traffic spikes during major games and keep live bets flowing without a hitch.
Responsive Customer Service
Issues happen—like stat corrections or unexpected player scratches—and bettors need quick solutions. The best sportsbooks offer 24/7 customer support with multiple ways to reach out, including live chat, email, phone and even in-platform messaging.
Reliable customer service can make all the difference when resolving disputes quickly and keeping the betting experience smooth. Plus, having multiple contact options ensures help is always accessible, no matter your preferred method of communication.
Strong Security & Privacy
Betting sites collect personal and financial info, so top-notch security is non-negotiable. Look for sites that prioritize data protection and ensure your details are safe while you enjoy betting. If an online sportsbook uses data encryption and regularly conducts security audits, that’s how you know you’re using a trustworthy platform for your wagers.
These features separate the best sportsbooks from the rest. They make the sportsbook experience feel safer and more enjoyable because you know you’re betting on a trusted site.
Popular Types of Bets in Minnesota
When betting on sports online in Minnesota, you have several options. Each type of bet offers a different way to participate in the action. Here’s a rundown of the main types you’ll encounter.
- Moneyline Bets: This is the simplest form of betting. You pick the team or player you think will win. Odds are assigned to each side. A favorite will have negative odds, meaning you bet more to win less. An underdog has positive odds, offering a chance to win more than you bet if they pull off an upset.
- Point Spread Bets: Point spread betting involves a handicap between two teams. The favorite needs to win by a certain number of points to “cover the spread.” Betting on the underdog? They can lose by fewer points than the spread or win outright for you to win your bet.
- Totals (Over/Under): Here, you’re betting on the total combined score of a game by both teams. The sportsbook sets a line and you bet on whether the actual total will be over or under that number. It’s a popular option because you’re betting on the pace of the game, not the outcome.
- Parlays: Parlays let you combine multiple bets into one. To win, all your picks must be correct. The risk is higher, but so is the potential payout. It’s a favorite for bettors looking for big wins from small bets.
- Pari-Mutuel Wagering: This type of betting is commonly used at horse racing tracks. All wagers are pooled together, and payouts are determined based on the total pool and the number of winning bets. It’s a unique system compared to traditional fixed-odds betting and adds an exciting layer of unpredictability for fans who like to bet on horse races.
- Prop Bets: Prop bets focus on specific outcomes within a game that aren’t tied to the final score. This can include anything from how many touchdowns a player scores to the number of strikeouts a pitcher records.
- Futures: Futures are long-term bets on outcomes like which team will win the championship or who will be named MVP. Odds change as the season progresses, offering different payout opportunities.
- Live Betting: Live betting allows you to place bets on games already in progress. Odds update in real-time based on what’s happening in the game. It’s exciting because you can react to the action as it unfolds.
Each type of bet has its own strategy and level of risk. Whether you’re interested in pari-mutuel betting for horse racing or just interested in the NFL, choosing the right one depends on your knowledge of the sport, the teams involved and how you like to bet.
Bonuses at Minnesota Sports Betting Sites
Minnesota bettors using trusted offshore sportsbooks can take advantage of a wide range of valuable bonuses that enhance their betting opportunities. Here’s what top platforms typically offer:
- Welcome Bonuses: A staple for new players, these offers match your first deposit, effectively doubling your starting bankroll. Always check the terms, as most welcome bonuses come with rollover requirements you must meet before withdrawing winnings.
- Odds Boosts: Odds boosts enhance payouts on specific bets. For example, instead of -150 on a quarterback throwing three touchdowns, boosted odds might improve it to +120. While capped, these promotions are an excellent way to maximize returns on bets you’re already planning.
- Reload Bonuses: Perfect for regular players, reload bonuses match a percentage of your deposit, often ranging from 30% to 100%, helping you keep your account funded.
- Risk-Free Bets: Risk-free bets allow you to wager without added pressure. If your bet loses, your stake is refunded as free bet credits. Keep in mind that free credits usually have expiration dates, so don’t delay using them.
- Bet Credits: Bet credits or free bets let you place wagers without using your deposited funds. These are commonly earned through welcome bonuses, loyalty programs or other promotions. Like other bonuses, they often expire, so use them while you can.
- Parlay Insurance: This feature refunds your stake as a free bet if one leg of your parlay misses. It’s an excellent safety measure for those pursuing bigger payouts through multi-leg bets.
- Crypto Deposit Bonuses: For Minnesota bettors using cryptocurrency, some sportsbooks offer deposit match bonuses. These provide extra funds to wager with and are paired with the fast, secure transactions crypto is known for.
Fan-Favorite Teams in Minnesota
Minnesota is home to a passionate sports community, with college and professional sports teams that bring fans together. Here’s a look at the teams that keep the state buzzing with excitement:
- Minnesota Vikings (NFL): The Vikings are a cornerstone of the NFL, with a loyal fan base and a history that includes four Super Bowl appearances. Known for their strong defense and playoff pushes, they’re a popular team to watch and bet on.
- Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA): The Timberwolves bring energy to the Twin Cities with their young and talented roster. Fans are excited to see what the future holds for this team as they continue to grow and compete in the NBA.
- University of Minnesota Golden Gophers (NCAA): The Golden Gophers have a proud tradition across sports like football, basketball and hockey. Rivalry games and tournaments always draw big crowds and plenty of excitement.
- Minnesota State Mavericks (NCAA Division II): The Mavericks are a standout in Division II, especially in hockey, where they’ve had great success in the NCAA tournament. They’re a key part of the state’s sports culture.
- Minnesota Twins (MLB): With two World Series titles under their belt, the Twins are a big part of Minnesota’s MLB scene. Games at Target Field are a highlight for fans, offering thrilling moments and plenty of betting opportunities.
- Minnesota Wild (NHL): As a hockey-loving state, the Wild are a fan favorite. Their competitive play and exciting matchups, especially during the playoffs, make them a must-watch for Minnesota hockey fans.
- St. Cloud State Huskies (NCAA Division I Hockey): The Huskies are a powerhouse in college hockey, consistently competing at a high level and developing players who move on to the NHL. Their games are a favorite for hockey fans.
Minnesota’s teams bring fans together, creating a strong sense of community and pride. Whether you’re watching for the love of the game or looking for betting opportunities, these teams offer something for everyone.
Commonly Accepted Banking Methods at MN Sportsbooks
Below is an overview of the most commonly accepted payment methods at online sportsbooks. Understanding these payment options is essential for anyone looking to start betting online in Minnesota.
- Credit Cards & Debit Cards: Visa, MasterCard and sometimes American Express and Discover are commonly accepted for deposits, providing a fast and convenient way to fund sportsbook accounts. It’s important for users to note that while deposits are typically processed instantly, some banks may restrict transactions with online betting platforms and card withdrawals may not always be available.
- Prepaid Cards: Sportsbook-branded prepaid cards (e.g., Play+ cards) offer a reliable alternative for deposits and withdrawals, circumventing potential bank restrictions on gambling transactions. These cards can be easily funded and provide a straightforward way to manage sportsbook funds.
- eWallets: Digital wallets such as PayPal, Skrill and Neteller are favored for their security and efficiency, allowing users to deposit and withdraw funds quickly without directly linking their bank accounts or sharing sensitive financial information with the sportsbook.
- Bank Transfers: Direct bank transfers and ACH (Automated Clearing House) transactions are available for those preferring to use their bank account directly for sportsbook transactions. While secure and reliable for both deposits and withdrawals, these methods may involve longer processing times.
- PayNearMe: This payment service enables bettors to make cash deposits into their sportsbook accounts at participating retail locations, such as convenience stores and pharmacies. While convenient for cash deposits, PayNearMe does not support withdrawals.
- Wire Transfers: For those handling larger transactions, wire transfers offer a secure way to move funds directly between your bank and the sportsbook. Though reliable, this method can be slower and may involve higher fees compared to other payment options.
- Cryptocurrency: An increasingly preferred option, cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin and others are accepted by a growing number of sportsbooks. Cryptocurrencies offer the benefits of extra privacy, rapid transactions and often lower transaction fees.
Take a close look at the details of each banking option—like fees, processing times and any restrictions—to find what works best for you. With the right payment method, mobile sports betting in Minnesota becomes easy and fun, letting you focus on the excitement of the game and planning your bets.
Responsible Gambling in Minnesota
Minnesota sportsbooks ensure you have access to tools that encourage responsible gambling. Betting should remain enjoyable, but it’s wise to recognize the potential risks. Set deposit limits or create time management trackers to help you maintain control.
If things feel like they’re getting out of balance, support is just a step away. Keep your betting experience fun by staying mindful of healthy habits. Remember, enjoying the thrill of sports betting works best when you prioritize responsible choices.
Conclusion
To place sports bets as a Minnesota resident, you might think that you have to cross state lines. However, you can still bet without ever having to leave your home through online sportsbooks. The best option is through online, international sportsbooks like Heritage Sports, Everygame and BetOnline.
These platforms offer much higher betting limits, generous bonuses and hundreds of sports betting markets—perks you won’t find at retail sportsbooks.
Minnesota Betting Sites FAQs
Can you bet online in Minnesota?
Yes, in Minnesota, residents can enjoy licensed sportsbooks that are located internationally. They feature high betting limits, flexible banking options and a wide variety of markets. As the state’s sports betting legislation evolves, these platforms are the more secure way for betting online through a mobile device or desktop.
Is DraftKings Sportsbook legal in Minnesota?
DraftKings Sportsbook isn’t available in Minnesota, but residents can still access its daily fantasy sports contests. Many bettors turn to reputable global sportsbooks offering broad sports betting options. These include international markets, unique props, higher payouts, flexible entry fees and exclusive bonuses.
Is FanDuel Sportsbook legal in Minnesota?
FanDuel, a popular site for daily fantasy sports, isn’t available to Minnesota residents. However, they can use licensed online sportsbooks for sports betting. These platforms have high betting limits, competitive odds and exclusive bonuses. They also have a wide range of leagues and unique prop markets.
How do I bet on sports if I live in Minnesota?
Minnesota bettors often turn to trusted online betting sites that feature custom prop bets, live betting and a full range of leagues, from NFL matchups to niche international sports. With fast crypto payouts and flexible entry options, these sites cater to all kinds of players. The legal gambling age in Minnesota is 21.
Are there any mobile sports betting apps in Minnesota?
Many Minnesota residents use mobile-friendly apps from top international sportsbooks. These platforms provide live betting, customizable betting lines and an array of sports, from major leagues to niche markets. With secure transactions and easy navigation, these apps offer a convenient betting experience.
Minnesota Betting Guides
We recommend giving one of our other comprehensive betting guides a read if you want to know more about online gambling in Minnesota:
Minnesota Betting News
Minnesota Senator’s Sports Betting Stalls in Committee
Minnesota’s online sports betting bill, SF 757, failed in a Senate committee after a 6-6 vote, with concerns over problem gambling outweighing support from the
Minnesota Sports Betting Legislation Back on the Table
After several unsuccessful attempts, sports betting legislation is back on the docket, and bipartisan support may finally whisk the bill to the governor’s desk.
Minnesota Could Be Next State to Pass Sports Betting
Minnesota legislators have been on the cusp of passing sports betting legislation, but just when it seemed a deal was done, time ran out in
Minnesota Lawmakers Fail to Pass Sports Betting Bill (Again)
Minnesota lawmakers failed to pass a sports betting bill despite bipartisan support and agreements among tribes, tracks, and charities. Poor time management and political disagreements
