Minnesota

In Minnesota? Want to bet on sports? Don’t know what to do? You’ve come to the right place because this is an all-encompassing guide to betting in Minnesota. We’re about to break down everything you would ever need to know.

A little hint of what’s ahead: the state of Minnesota doesn’t allow betting, however, there are alternative means for bettors in the state. The best part? The alternatives are probably better than licensed platforms away. Keep reading cause this is must-know information.

Quick Minnesota Facts

StateAlabama
⚖️ Sports Betting Laws❌Not Available
👫 Population5 Million
👶 Minimum Gambling Age21 Years Old
🏙️ Retail Sports Betting❌Not Available
🌐 Online Sports Betting❌Not Available
📱 Mobile Sports Betting❌Not Available
🐎 Online Horse Betting❌Not Available
🏆 DFS✅ Available
Last updated on: October 4, 2024

Is Sports Betting Legal In Minnesota?

No, it’s not legal. Minnesota is one of a dozen states in the US without any form of legal sports betting. However, there’s reason to believe that won’t last that much longer.

Unlike states like Utah, there’s an actual appetite to get legal sports betting — from both residents and more importantly, lawmakers. Multiple bills have been written up in the past, it just hasn’t gotten enough momentum to pass. Currently, one party (the Democrats) controls the House and Senate, which makes passing laws easier. Plus, Democrats are typically more open to betting than Republicans.

The thing is, if it were to be legalized, it would almost surely be done through tribal casinos. Eleven tribes operate 19 casinos in the state so they’d have exclusive rights for sports wgaers too. It would be up to them if they want to set up shop independently or pattern with known operators like DraftKings or FanDuel.

But Minnesota bettors hungry to throw money on sports now don’t need to wait for a new bill to be passed. Nope, there are offshore betting sites that work right now (and have worked for decades). This is our top recommendation for Minnesotans. Allow us to make our case in the rest of this article.

Oct 04, 2024 08:16 AM

With some way to go before legalisation is achieved, many lobby groups are pushing state legislators to amend sports betting laws. However, despite a push for change, offshore bookies are still the number one choie for Minnesota sports fans! 

Minnesota Sports Betting Timeline

Here's a quick timeline of events that have transpired in the last year or so regarding legalized betting. As you'll see, there is some progress:

2024

February 12, 2024 - Bipartisan support increases the likelihood of a sports betting bill passing in Minnesota, as the state, which has been on the sidelines since the Supreme Court's 2018 decision, contemplates entering the sports betting arena.
 
January 20, 2024 - Senator Jeremy Miller unveils 'Minnesota Sports Betting Act 2.0' for the upcoming legislative session.
 
March 29, 2023 - DraftKings introduces DK Horse, an app allowing Minnesota residents to bet on horse racing, launching before the Kentucky Derby.
 
March 2, 2023 - In a legislative hearing, Rep. Zack Stephenson's sports betting bill HF 2000 advances, projecting potential annual tax revenues of about $12 million.
 
February 25, 2023 - Minnesota legislators Stephenson and Klein propose HF 2000 and SF 1949, aiming to authorize both retail and online sports betting with tribal exclusivity.

May 2024 - A bill to legalize sports betting passed through the House Ways and Means Committee, but has not been approved.

Best Sportsbooks In Each Category in Minnesota

Best overallBetOnline
Best bonusesBetUS
Most unique bonusesBetNow
Top VIP programMyBookie
Best reputationBovada
Best sportsbookBetOnline
Best casinoEverygame
Best mobile appXBet
Best for live bettingEverygame
Best for new playersBovada
Best up-and-coming sportsbookXBet
Last updated on: October 4, 2024

Top 7 Minnesota Sports Betting Sites

We get it, there are so many offshore sportsbooks out there, making it hard to select one or two to bet on. That’s why we’ve taken it upon ourselves to recommend our favorites. Favorites, might we add, that we’ve gained after trying out hundreds of places. Here’s our top-7 bookies for Minnesota bettors:

  1. BetOnline - Competitive odds and early line releases.
  2. BetUS - Extensive range of betting options across multiple sports.
  3. Bovada - User-friendly interface and reliable mobile betting experience.
  4. XBet - Quick payouts and responsive customer support.
  5. Everygame - Long-standing reputation and multi-language support for international bettors.
  6. BetNow - Generous welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions for regular players.
  7. MyBookie - Innovative prop bets and creative wagering opportunities.

#1 BetOnline

A promotional image for BetOnline showcases a smartphone displaying their sports betting app interface. The background features semi-transparent images of three athletes: a soccer player, a baseball player, and a basketball player, with the BetOnline logo at the top right.

BetOnline Minnesota Pros & Cons

  • Huge sportsbook menu
  • Early-bird betting lines
  • Bonuses pay peanuts

We begin with BetOnline. Minnesota bettors are going to love betting sports here. Known for its wide range of betting options, BetOnline ensures that whether you’re cheering for the Vikings, Wild, Timberwolves, or another team, you’ll find plenty of ways to get in on the action here.

BetOnline’s sportsbook is all about depth. Sure, you’ll find all the usual suspects like the NFL, NBA, and MLB, but the platform also offers betting on more unique sports and events, the lesser-known ones. From international soccer matches to niche sports like rugby and snooker, BetOnline has it all under one roof.

This is convenient because realistically, Minnesota bettors could do all their betting here. No need to juggle around multiple sites. There’s just an all-in-one factor to being BetOnline.

One other feature that Minnesota bettors are sure to love is BetOnline’s live betting. It’s one thing to place a bet before the game starts, but it’s a whole different ballgame when you’re betting in real time. That’s what life betting is, and BetOnline offers it for the top sports leagues.

BetOnline also keeps you in the loop with early betting lines that go up almost as soon as the previous game ends (if both teams are done playing). This allows you to stay ahead and lock in your bets well before the crowd — this is a smart strategy cause the lines have yet to mature this early on. If you’re a Minnesota bettor who values a dynamic, fast-paced betting environment with plenty of options, BetOnline is a solid choice.

Our score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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#2 BetUS

A promotional image featuring a smartphone displaying a sports betting app offering a $450 bonus for signup. The background includes a baseball player on the left, a basketball player on the right, and logos for BetUS and Online Sport Betting.

BetUS Minnesota Pros & Cons

  • Massive sports betting menu
  • Lucrative promotions
  • Free play expires after 7 days
  • High rollover requirement on deals

Minnesota bettors looking to bet for free plenty and often need to look no further than BetUS. This bookmaker does promotional bonuses better than anyone else in the industry — and that includes licensed operators like FanDuel.

From the moment a bettor signs up, free dollar signs are right there. The welcome offer is currently going for $3125 in free play — far beyond most competitors that might hand out $1000 on the high side. That’s just the sign-up bonus too. BetUS has an assortment of more deals to keep the free play going.

Want to know the biggest promotion though? Surprisingly, it’s a referral bonus. Unlike the modest offers you might find elsewhere, BetUS’s referral program can earn you up to $6,000 in free play — a jaw-dropping sum if we’ve ever seen one.

Of course, BetUS offers more than just killer deals. Another standout feature of BetUS is its extensive range of betting options. Of course, that entails sports betting but also casino. Both options are packed to the brim with betting options. This variety means there’s always something new to explore and keep your betting experience fresh.

In summary, BetUS combines robust promotions and a wide range of betting options into one user-friendly platform. If you’re looking for a site that consistently delivers value and variety, BetUS is a strong contender that won’t disappoint.

Our score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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#3 Bovada

A smartphone displaying the Bovada sports betting app interface with various sports betting options. The background features images of a basketball player on the left and a hockey player on the right. The Bovada logo is at the top right corner.

Bovada Minnesota Pros & Cons

  • Reliable and trustworthy brand
  • Easy-to-use platform
  • Boring-looking platform
  • Sportsbook deals are small

Bovada is a tried-and-true platform that’s been around long enough to earn the trust of bettors everywhere. Heck, Bovada predates platforms like DraftKings even. The platform’s reputation for reliability is a big draw, especially for those who want to bet with confidence.

What we love most about using Bovada as its simplicity. What’s the phrase, “so easy a caveman could do it?” Yeah, that’s Bovada. The site just works like it’s supposed to. It is easy to navigate through and find the bet you’re looking for, depositing money is the same, and so is actually betting.

If you’re reading this and you’ve never bet online before, we especially encourage Bovada. The site’s simplicity makes it easy for complete first-timers to get on and use the site without too many issues (so long as they know how to read odds).

Bovada is a solid choice for bettors who appreciate a reliable and easy-to-use platform. With its straightforward design, broad range of betting options, and strong reputation, Bovada is a great pick for anyone in Minnesota looking to enjoy a smooth and secure betting experience.

Our score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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#4 XBet

A promotional image featuring the XBet logo in the top right, a mobile phone displaying a betting app in the center, and athletes in the background. The left side shows a basketball player, while the right side depicts a baseball pitcher.

XBet Minnesota Pros & Cons

  • Killer mobile app
  • Sweet in-play betting
  • Contests are vanilla

Are you a bettor that’s always on the go? Wanting to bet even if you’re at work, at the bar, or just stuck in traffic? If so, XBet is a must-try platform.

You see, XBet leads the way in mobile betting. It offers a sleek and modern experience that’s hard to beat. The app’s design is both functional and easy on the eyes. They’ve clearly put in the work to ensure their interface is up-to-date and user-friendly, making it a top pick for those who want to bet from anywhere.

More than that, the mobile app just overperforms. Unlike some platforms that can lag or feel clunky, XBet’s site runs smoothly no matter where you are. Some apps struggle with casino bets on mobile, but not XBet. This responsiveness makes XBet reliable to use whenever and wherever.

XBet also scores points for accessibility. You don’t need to download an app from the Apple or Google stores — just pull up XBet in your mobile browser, and you’re good to go. This seamless access makes it easy to start betting without any extra steps, keeping the process simple and straightforward.

In a world where mobile betting is taking over, XBet is well-positioned to lead the charge. With a platform that’s both stylish and functional, it’s a great choice for bettors who want a reliable and modern mobile betting experience.

Our score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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#5 Everygame

A promotional image for Everygame features a phone displaying the Everygame app interface. A tennis player is shown on the left, and a jockey on a horse is on the right. The background is predominantly red with overlay text highlighting online sports betting and casino options.

Everygame Minnesota Pros & Cons

  • Awesome live betting feature
  • Great soccer betting menu
  • Platform needs a new design
  • Bonuses pay out cheap

Everygame has earned its place as a trusted name in the betting world, especially for those who appreciate a platform with deep roots and a solid reputation. Originally known as Intertops, this site has evolved over the years while maintaining its commitment to delivering a top-notch betting experience.

One of Everygame’s strongest features is its live betting platform, which is designed to keep up with the fast pace of ongoing sports events. Unlike other sites that might lag or struggle with real-time updates, Everygame delivers a smooth experience that allows you to place bets as the action unfolds. This is critical in fast-moving sports like basketball.

For soccer enthusiasts, Everygame has your name written all over it. Thanks to its European origins, the platform offers a deep selection of soccer bets, covering everything from the Premier League to La Liga to international tournaments (World Cup or Euros). The site routinely has special promos around soccer too.

Everygame continues to build on its reputation with a platform that balances tradition with innovation. The platform has improved steadily since rebranding. If they continue at this pace, they’ll be a force to be reckoned with.

Our score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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#6 BetNow

An advertisement for BetNow sports betting app featuring a smartphone displaying the app interface. Background includes images of athletes in action. Text highlights promotions like 200% or 150% initial deposit bonuses. 'Join Now' button is prominent on the screen.

BetNow Minnesota Pros & Cons

  • Multiple bonuses to pick from
  • Sportsbook rebate
  • Needs more casino games

The name says it all, doesn’t it? It’s true, BetNow makes it easy to jump right into the action with a variety of sports, casino games, and even poker, all at your fingertips.

One of the coolest things about BetNow is their approach to bonuses though. Unlike other sites that offer one big bonus and call it a day, BetNow has a whole lineup of deals that cater to different types of players. We’re talking four different welcome bonuses, three reload deals, and even three rebate programs. Optionally like this is hard to come by elsewhere.

BetNow’s variety doesn’t stop at bonuses either. The platform offers a wide range of sports betting options too. But here’s the kicker: BetNow offers a rebate on bets made in the sportsbooks. They are offering a 2 percent refund on losses, which is practically unheard of. Seriously, we don’t know of any other site that offers a rebate on sports.

This is a copycat industry so it’s shocking when you see a truly one-of-a-kind feature like that sportsbook rebate. But that just speaks to BetNow’s uniqueness. Minnesota bettors are in good hands here.

Our score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

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#7 MyBookie

A promotional graphic for an online sports betting platform. The center features a smartphone displaying the betting app interface with offers and promotions. To the left is a hockey player in action, and to the right is a basketball player. The text "MY BOOKIE" is in the top right corner.

MyBookie Minnesota Pros & Cons

  • Rewards program
  • All-in-one betting destination
  • Contests are boring
  • Rewards program is invite only

MyBookie is like that all-in-one tool you never knew you needed but can’t live without once you’ve tried it. This platform is perfect for bettors who want a little bit of everything under one roof — sports betting, casino games, horse races, and even poker.

But here’s the best part: MyBookie will reward you for betting on these things through its VIP rewards program. Unlike those one-and-done bonuses you see on other sites, MyBookie’s rewards keep on giving. Every bet you place, earns you points that can be swapped for free play. There’s no cap on how much you can rack up either.

However, the VIP program isn’t just open to anybody. Nope, you have to be invited in. Obviously, that could be a drawback if you’re new. But the reason the rewards program works so well is that it’s limited. The free-play potential is huge on it because not everyone is let in. So the invite-only model is both a curse and a blessing.

MyBookie delivers the goods with a platform that’s fun, flexible, and full of rewards. If you’re looking for a place that treats you right (over the long haul) and keeps the excitement rolling, MyBookie is definitely worth checking out.

Our score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Where Are Sportsbooks Like Fanduel, DraftKings, Caesars?

The names in the headline are some of the biggest sportsbook operators in the U.S. — the same goes for ESPN Bet or BetMGM too. The thing is, these are all licensed operators. Thus, they need Minnesota to legalize and grant them a license to operate. That’s off the table until legalization happens.

But even if were legalized, many of these operators face a struggle to enter the state. As we mentioned, Minnesota will likely grant tribal casinos the exclusive right to offer sports betting. Will those casinos want to partner with these operators to service it? Possibly, but there’s no guarantee.

We’re certainly not banking on it. That’s why we think offshore betting sites will remain the best option for Minnesota bettors — and that’s even if it gets legalized. Tribes aren’t the most tech-forward so we're sure any online platform they build will pale in comparison to existing offshore sites and apps.

Betting On Politics, Esports, Entertainment In Minnesota

If you need one more good reason to just bet at offshore sites, then here’s a biggie: offshore sites exclusively allow bets on “non sports.” By nonsports, we’re referring to outcomes like the U.S. presidential election (which features Minnesota’s governor), award shows (e.g. the Grammys or Oscars), esports, and even scripted WWE. These betting markets are freely available at offshore sites.

Licensed apps, even in states where betting is legal, are almost always barred from allowing wagers on these things. Respective regulators are against allowing it for fear of opening up Pandora’s box to everything betting a bet-able event. We personally think these non-sport markets just “spice things up.” This November, amid NFL season, it’ll be fun to speculate on the presidential outcomes. If you agree, there’s only one avenue to do that — offshore platforms.

Betting Apps In Minnesota

If you’re like most bettors these days, you prefer to bet on the go using your phone. It’s an industry-wide shift that shows zero signs of slowing down. Hell, if virtual reality ever picks up, it’ll only become more widespread.

We get it too. Betting while at the sports bar, work, school, and so on is indeed important. You need that flexibility as a bettor since opportunities always arise in sports. When opportunity does pop up and you’re on the move, reference our guide to betting apps in Minnesota. It’s like this page but laser-focused on the best apps in-state.

Start Betting In Minnesota Today — Our Guides

I know we're throwing a lot of information you’re way right now, but this next stuff is a must-read too. You don’t want to go in blind when sports betting — it’s a recipe for disaster. So here are the essential guides on betting and actually winning at it.

Payment Methods Available For Minnesota Sportsbooks

Many bettors trip themselves up over this one, thinking depositing money is hard just because it’s offshore. That couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, the best sportsbooks make transferring money in and out as easy as possible. Not only that, but these bookies support the top payment methods you’re used to. Here’s a quick primer on depositing with those payment methods:

  • VISA — the co-most popular card accepted on betting sites.
  • Mastercard — the other co-most popular card across the betting landscape.
  • Bitcoin — the payment method that'll earn you the most free play.
  • Bank wire — the tried-and-true payment method.

Minnesota Casinos And Resorts

Casinos in the state of Minnesota are exclusively owned by Native American tribes. If sports betting is ever legalized in the state, it will be with the tribe’s permission, and they will have exclusive rights to operate sportsbooks in their physical venues. The following casinos could be home to sportsbooks in the future if the bill passes and sports betting is legalized in Minnesota:

  • Black Bear Casino Resort in Carlton County
  • Fond-du-luth Casino in St. Louis County
  • Fortune Bay Casino in St. Louis County
  • Grand Casino Hinckley in Pine County
  • Grand Casino Mille Lacs in Mille Lacs County
  • Grand Portage Lodge and Casino in Cook County
  • Jackpot Junction Casino Hotel in Renville County
  • Little Six Casino in Scott County
  • Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Scott County
  • Northern Lights Casino in Cass County
  • Cedar Lakes Casino in Cass County
  • Prairie’s Edge Casino Resort in Yellow Medicine County
  • Seven Clans Casino Red Lake in Beltrami County
  • Seven Clans Casino Warroad in Roseau County
  • Shooting Star Casino in Mahnomen County
  • Treasure Island Resort and Casino in Goodhue County
  • White Oak Casino in Itasca County

The following racetracks could also be home to sports betting in Minnesota:

  • Canterbury Park in Scott County
  • Running Aces Harness Park in Anoka County.

Click here for full details on off-track betting in Minnesota.

History Of Minnesota Legalization Efforts

The Supreme Court opened the floodgates to sports betting with a landmark ruling in 2018. Since then, there's been a lot of movement in Minnesota to get it legalized in-state. Here's a summary of what's happened over the years:

2018-2019: Opportunities are Not Taken Up

Minnesota has been given an opportunity to collect additional revenue in the form of sports betting. It seems like opposition from Native Americans and their Tribal casinos has been enough to stave off the legalization of sports betting for now.

In 2019 two bills were introduced, one in each chamber, that would have legalized sports betting in the state. They would have tied this opportunity to various brick-and-mortar sites in the state, either Tribal casinos exclusively, or also to racetracks.

Neither bill was able to get much progress in the Minnesota legislature.

2020-2024: Still no Significant Movement Towards Legalization

Minnesotans will have to wait. The foreseeable future holds no concrete clues toward sports legalization. Despite attempts to bring Tribes on board, all 11 still seem concretely opposed to sports legalization.

Betting on Minnesota Sports Teams

Minnesota is blessed with having a major sports team in the "Big 4" leagues. All these teams play games in Minneapolis — the state's mega-city. Here's how you can get action on all four:

Minnesota Vikings

The NFL’s Minnesota Vikings were established in 1961 and had one of the highest winning percentages in the league since then. The team is rebuilding with a new quarterback at the moment so it remains to be seen whether those winnings ways remain or not.

Minnesota Timberwolves

The Minnesota Timberwolves are on the rise, thanks to having a breakout start in Anthony Edwards. He's drawn comparisons t Michael Jordan, but honestly, that's probably premature.

Minnesota Twins

Baseball fans in the state of Minnesota follow the Twins, named after the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. The Twins have won a pair of World Series in 1987 and 1991 — making them the most successful team in the state.

Minnesota Wild

The Minnesota Wild is the state’s only NHL team and a young one to boot. Founded in 1997 and having their first season in 2000, they have limited success since then.

Other Types Of Betting In Minnesota

As we’ve mentioned, there are plenty of tribal-owned casinos in Minnesota. Any one of them will offer the usual range of casino games — tables, slots, poker, and so on. All betting has to be done at the casinos though — no online betting (unless using offshore sites).

We should mention these same casinos also offer horse-race betting. It can be done there, but also at local tracks. A number of racetracks in Minnesota are still up and running, and they support wagering freely on site.

The Minnesota lottery is another option. The Powerball is the big draw of all the mini-games. As of this writing, the prize is up over $40 million. As harsh as the state is on online betting, it actually has an online component to the lottery. There’s an app — not to buy tickets, but to track who’s won.

Daily fantasy sports is also a thing in Minnesota. Technically, there’s no law that outright says it’s ok, but by the same token, nothing says it’s illegal either. So yes, we’ve tried to use DFS platforms in the state and it works perfectly fine.

Legal Sports Betting States

Minnesota isn't the only state we've written in-depth guides on. No, we have one for just about every state. Here are quick links to our most popular ones:

Responsible Gambling In Minnesota

As you explore the offshore options available in Minnesota, we encourage you to keep responsibility at the forefront of your mind. Throwing money on sports is obviously a fun way to spend your time (and money), but it’s essential to approach it with care to ensure it remains a positive experience.

Look, we get it, the excitement of hitting a parlay or slot jackpot is intoxicating. In that hypnotic state, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and want to bet more — “ride the hot hand” as they say. However, it’s important to set limits before you start. Decide in advance how much time and money you’re willing to spend, and stick to those boundaries. Trust us, sticking to these boundaries can be even harder than picking the perfect parlay.

Also, be especially mindful of how gambling makes you feel. If you start to notice that you’re gambling to escape stress or that it’s affecting your mood or relationships, it might be time to push pause. Problem gambling can affect anyone, and it’s crucial to recognize the signs early.

We’ve provided some resources to help you stay on track and maintain a healthy relationship with gambling. These are all online-based and easily accessible:

Gambling Addiction Support Network (https://www.gamblingaddictionsupport.org/)

A non-profit organization providing resources and support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.

Center for Responsible Gaming (https://www.centerforresponsiblegaming.org/)

The Center for Responsible Gaming (CRG) is a research institution dedicated to promoting safe gambling practices and addressing gambling-related issues.

24/7 Gambling Support Line (https://www.gamblinghelponline.org/24-7-helpline/)

A round-the-clock helpline offering immediate assistance and guidance for those experiencing gambling-related problems."

And here's some help specifically in Minnesota:

Minnesota State Gambling Helpline (https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/adults/services/gambling-problems)

A 24/7 confidential helpline (1-800-333-HOPE) offering support, treatment referrals, and information for individuals dealing with problem gambling in Minnesota.

Northstar Problem Gambling Alliance (https://northstarproblemgambling.org)

Provides resources, educational materials, and treatment referrals for individuals and families affected by gambling addiction across Minnesota.

Project Turnabout – Vanguard Center for Gambling Recovery (https://projectturnabout.org)

Offers specialized inpatient and outpatient treatment programs for individuals struggling with gambling addiction in Minnesota, along with support for their families.