Casinos in Ohio

Want to gamble in Ohio? Here’s all you need to know…

Ohio is one of those beautiful states in America that has a whole lot more than sensational landscapes and scenery to offer—it also is the home to some fabulous gambling options. That’s right… Ohio is home to a rather wide range of commercial casinos, racinos and race parks, which residents and visitors are welcomed to enjoy all year round. Those from the surrounding states of Ohio, who may either be visiting or unable to gamble due to restrictions in their home state, can enjoy all their favorite gambling options.

 

The great thing about Ohio casinos is the fact that there are many options for those people to stay the night at the various casino resorts that are offered. This option means that when their day or evening of gaming is up, they have the option to take 40 winks and prepare for more fun and excitement when they wake up refreshed. Most of the gaming establishments in Ohio, and certainly the establishments in our list, also offer great dining options too, so you’ll never go hungry or thirsty while gaming ‘till your heart’s content.

 

At Casinos in US, we have put together a collection of all the best gaming facilities in the state so that you can familiarize yourselves with some of the most popular options before making your final decision. We would urge you to use our directory as guidance first, and then do a little research of your own prior to reaching the gambling establishment. Check on the casino/racino website to check that:

• They offer great promotional offers and tournaments.
• There aren’t any specific dress codes or other requirements to adhere to.
• There is parking offered at the facility.
• There are dining options for when you feel like a bite.
• Convenient and secure banking options are offered.
• Residents of Ohio are allowed to gamble.
• The minimum age for gaming (some ages may differ depending on the establishment).

So there you have it—a few facts about gambling in Ohio which should have you well on your way to finding the right gaming establishment. Keep in mind the points mentioned above while browsing through our directory, and begin on your journey to the top casinos in Ohio! Enjoy!

Ohio Gambling Laws

For many years, Ohio had limited and very strict options for gamblers, but the situation started to change in 2009, when the first state casinos were licensed by the Ohio Casino Control Commission. Since then a lot of investors and players were attracted to the state, that gave an impulse for extension of gambling.

Casinos

Authorized casinos in Ohio are relatively new. So far, there are only four land-based casinos: Horseshoe Casino in Cleveland, the Hollywood Casino in Columbus, the Horseshoe Casino in Cincinnati and the Hollywood Casino in Toledo. Class 3 games are available in those venues (table games and slots). Ohio casinos are taxed at a rate of 33% on Gross Casino Revenue. Players must be at least 21 years old to play legal there.

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Poker

Live poker games and tournaments are legal within four licensed casinos in this state. There are also private social poker games, available and legal when nobody operates the profit from running and hosting the game. As for the online poker, it is considered illegal by the law.

 

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Sports Betting

It is legal to bet on horse racing in Ohio through pari-mutuel agreement. Thoroughbred racing is available at Belterra Park and Thistledown. Harness racing is also available in Lebanon Raceway and Northfield Park Racetrack. These facilities allow live and simulcast racing. Off-track betting is also allowed. Under the law, those aged 18 and above can bet in these facilities.

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State Lottery

Ohio was among the first US states that legalized lottery games – in 1973. They include instant as well as interstate games, like Power Ball, Mega Millions, Keno and others. Like any other state lotteries, part of the Ohio lottery profits will be directed to the state’s education funding. The state’s authorized horse race tracks are also permitted to operate video lottery sales. Only 18 years old and above can play the lottery.

 

Charitable Gaming

Bingo and raffles, conducted by non-profit, tax-exempted organizations with the aim of fund-raising are legal within the state. Under the revised code of the state, 50% of the revenues of the raffle event must be intended for a charitable cause. Games of chance like poker, roulette and craps are also covered by the charitable gaming laws. They are considered legal when provided by the operator that is authorized by the Office of the Attorney General and conducted only at festivals of charitable organizations.. Bingo players and volunteers must at least be 18 years old. Alcohol is strictly prohibited during these events.

Online Gambling

Ohio does not legalize any forms of online gambling, so, there are no online casinos or online poker rooms legalized.

 

Despite the fact, that there are legal places to gamble, Ohio still faces challenges. In fact, according to toledoblade.com, three facilities were raided on January 29 in the towns of Bryan and Montpelier because of the presence of illegal gambling operations.