Kentucky Betting Sites & Sportsbooks 2025
Kentucky sports betting is now fully legal and live! Online KY sportsbooks officially launched on September 28, 2023, giving bettors across the state access to some of the industry’s biggest names — including DraftKings, FanDuel, bet365, BetMGM, Circa, and Caesars — all offering exciting sign-up bonuses and promotional offers for new users.
Both online and retail sports betting are available statewide, following the debut of in-person wagering on September 7, 2023. Whether you prefer betting from your phone or visiting a physical sportsbook, Kentucky now provides safe, regulated, and convenient options for every fan.
Continue reading for the latest updates and insights on Kentucky sports betting — including how to register with licensed operators, expert reviews of the top sportsbooks, and key details on how to get started responsibly.
Best Kentucky Sports betting Apps & Sportsbooks – November 2025
Kentucky Sportsbook Promos & Offers
Kentucky Guide: Legal Sportsbooks, Bonuses & Market Updates
With up to three online sportsbook “skins” allowed per each of Kentucky’s nine horse racing tracks, the state could eventually host as many as 27 legal sports betting apps.
Currently, eight sportsbooks are live, each offering unique welcome bonuses and betting experiences.
Below, we break down the top licensed Kentucky sportsbook apps, their standout features, and the best promotions available right now.
RockyTopInsider: KY Sportsbook Bonuses & Apps
Best for Promotions – Caesars Sportsbook
Few sportsbooks can match Caesars when it comes to promotional value. With a Caesars promo code, players can access generous welcome offers and take advantage of the Caesars Rewards loyalty program, earning credits redeemable both in-app and at Caesars properties across the U.S. Frequent odds boosts and bonuses make it a consistent favorite among Kentucky bettors.
Best for NFL Betting – FanDuel Sportsbook
FanDuel is one of the most popular names in U.S. sports betting and a top choice for NFL fans. With a FanDuel promo code, players can access exclusive bonuses alongside a smooth interface, fast performance, and extensive NFL prop markets. Partnered with Churchill Downs, FanDuel continues to build a strong presence in Kentucky.
Best for Live Betting – DraftKings Sportsbook
Known for its innovation, DraftKings delivers a seamless app experience and a wide range of live-betting markets, allowing users to place wagers mid-game with ease. Free-to-play pools and frequent promotions — especially when using a DraftKings promo code — help keep engagement high. The platform’s unique “pools” feature and responsive in-game betting options further set DraftKings apart from its competitors.
Best for Sports Variety – BetMGM & bet365
If you’re looking beyond the major leagues, BetMGM and bet365 deliver. With a BetMGM promo code, you can also unlock exclusive offers while exploring markets for niche sports like darts, cornhole, lacrosse, and snooker — along with traditional betting options for the NFL, NBA, MLB, and more.
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Kentucky’s Leading Online Sportsbooks
1. BetMGM Kentucky
- Partner: Sandy’s Gaming & Racing
- App Rating:8 (iOS) | 4.4 (Android)
- Best Feature: Edit My Bet — change or adjust open wagers
- Key Takeaway: Maximum flexibility before and after placing bets
- Welcome Bonus: Up to $1,500 back in Bonus Bets if your first wager loses (code: PLAYLSR)
BetMGM combines a sleek interface with competitive odds and exclusive features that appeal to both casual and serious bettors.
2. Bet365 Kentucky
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- Partner: Sandy’s Gaming & Racing
- App Rating:8 (iOS) | 4.7 (Android)
- Best Feature: Personalized display & live-streaming options
- Key Takeaway: Competitive odds on a clean, easy-to-use app
- Welcome Bonus: Choose between Bet $5 → Get $200 in Bonus Bets (win or lose) or a First-Bet Safety Net up to $1,000 (code: LSRBET)
A global powerhouse in sports betting, bet365 — with its exclusive bet365 promo code offers — brings its massive international menu and smooth interface to Kentucky.
3. FanDuel Kentucky
- Partner: Churchill Downs
- App Rating:8 (iOS) | 4.7 (Android)
- Best Feature: Same-Game Parlays
- Key Takeaway: Intuitive, user-friendly design with fast payouts
- Welcome Bonus: Bet $5 → Get $150 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins
FanDuel remains the go-to app for NFL betting and same-game parlays, offering seamless usability and strong odds.
4. Caesars Kentucky
- Partner: The Red Mile Racing
- App Rating:6 (iOS) | 4.5 (Android)
- Best Feature: Caesars Rewards Loyalty Program
- Key Takeaway: Best-in-class promotions and exclusive offers
- Welcome Bonus: Bet $1, Double Your Winnings on Next 10 Wagers (code: LSR20X)
With a trusted name in entertainment and hospitality, Caesars delivers a robust betting experience anchored by top promotions and a premium rewards program.
5. Fanatics Sportsbook Kentucky
- Partner: Oak Grove Racing, Gaming & Hotel
- App Rating:7 (iOS) | 3.5 (Android)
- Best Feature: FanCash rewards & personalized “Discover” page
- Key Takeaway: Innovative features, early-stage usability issues
- Welcome Bonus: Up to $2,000 in No-Sweat Bets
Fanatics is a new name in the sportsbook market, offering exclusive rewards through a Fanatics promo code. Players can earn FanCash for betting, which can be redeemed for bonus bets or official merchandise.
6. DraftKings Kentucky
- Partner: Cumberland Run
- App Rating:8 (iOS) | 4.6 (Android)
- Best Feature: Live-betting depth and pools contests
- Key Takeaway: Strong all-around app with unique engagement tools
- Welcome Bonus: Up to $1,300 in Bonus Bets — no code needed
DraftKings offers unmatched live-betting coverage and dynamic player pools, and with a DraftKings promo code, new users can unlock special bonuses, making it a top choice among active sports bettors.
How to Claim a Kentucky Sportsbook Bonus
- Download a licensed sportsbook app.
- Register your account using accurate personal details.
- Deposit funds through approved payment methods.
- Place your first bet and claim any applicable welcome offer.
The process is quick and standardised across most apps, ensuring a safe and simple start for new bettors.
Common Types of Sportsbook Bonuses
- Deposit Match: The sportsbook matches your deposit (often the first one) with bonus credits.
- Odds Boosts: Enhanced lines that increase potential payouts.
- First Bet Insurance: Get refunded in site credits if your first wager loses.
- Rewards Programs: Earn loyalty points for each bet — redeemable for bonus bets, merchandise, or travel perks.
Kentucky Sports Betting Law Overview
Legalized through House Bill 551, Kentucky’s sports betting framework took effect on June 28, 2023. The bill required a statewide launch within six months — achieved with retail betting on Sept 7, 2023 and online betting on Sept 28, 2023.
Key Provisions:
- Nine racetracks hold sports betting licenses, each allowed up to three online partners (skins).
- Tax rate: 25% on online revenue, 9.75% on retail.
- College and professional sports betting is legal; youth sports betting is prohibited.
- 5% of tax revenue is dedicated to addiction treatment and education programs.
- Age requirements: 21+ for BetMGM, Caesars, Circa, FanDuel, Fanatics; 18+ for DraftKings, bet365, and Churchill Downs.
Popular Sports to Bet On in Kentucky
Kentucky’s passion for college basketball is unmatched — with the University of Kentucky Wildcats and Louisville Cardinals dominating the state’s fandom. NCAA action is a major draw, and top Kentucky college basketball betting sites make it easy for fans to wager on their favorite teams throughout the season.
While Kentucky has no major pro teams, fans frequently wager on nearby franchises:
- NFL: Cincinnati Bengals, Tennessee Titans, Indianapolis Colts
- MLB: Cincinnati Reds, St. Louis Cardinals
- NBA: Indiana Pacers
- NHL: Nashville Predators, St. Louis Blues
What’s Happening in Kentucky Sports Betting Right Now
April 3, 2025
The Kentucky Horse Racing Committee reported a $224.7 million betting handle and $29.8 million in gross gaming revenue for February. These figures highlight the continued strength and growth of Kentucky’s sports betting market since its launch.
October 10, 2024
Kentucky’s sports betting handle reached $151.4 million in August, marking a 17% increase from July. The rise reflects growing user engagement across both online and retail platforms statewide.
August 8, 2024
Circa Sports announced the opening of a temporary retail sportsbook at Mint Gaming Hall Kentucky Downs on August 12. A permanent Circa Sportsbook location is planned to open the following summer, expanding retail betting options in southern Kentucky.
July 31, 2024
The Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation appointed Susan Speckert as its new Chief Operating Officer. Speckert previously served as the organization’s general counsel, bringing strong regulatory and leadership experience to her new role.
May 20, 2024
Xander Schauffele claimed victory at the 2024 PGA Championship held at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, one of Kentucky’s premier golf venues. The event drew national attention and significant betting activity across the state’s sportsbooks.
May 6, 2024
Mystik Dan won the 150th Kentucky Derby in a thrilling photo finish over Sierra Leone and Forever Young. Entering the race at 18-1 odds, Mystik Dan’s victory became one of the most memorable moments in recent Derby history — and a highlight for Kentucky’s new betting era.
With sports betting now live in Kentucky, residents can register and place wagers through a variety of licensed online sportsbooks. While state law allows betting for individuals aged 18 and older, most online sportsbooks in Kentucky set their minimum age requirement at 21 to align with industry standards and ensure responsible gaming practices.
Kentucky sports betting snapshot
Is Sports Betting Legal in Kentucky?
Yes. Sports betting is fully legal in Kentucky, both online and in person. The state officially launched retail sports betting on September 7, 2023, followed by the rollout of online and mobile wagering on September 28, 2023.
Kentucky residents and visitors can now safely place bets through licensed sportsbooks regulated by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission, ensuring secure, transparent, and responsible gaming throughout the state.
Responsible & Legal Betting
Avoid unlicensed offshore sportsbooks — they lack U.S. regulatory oversight and may not honor payouts.
All licensed Kentucky sportsbooks are approved by the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation, ensuring fair play and consumer protection.
Remember: Bet responsibly. Set a budget, never chase losses, and seek help if gambling stops being fun. The national helpline is 1-800-GAMBLER.
