Gambling in the State of Massachusetts

Legal forms of gambling in Massachusetts include commercial casinos and horse racing that includes live, mobile, and off-track betting parlors. One Massachusetts casino is slots-only. Sports betting is legal in Massachusetts. This includes retail and online sportsbooks. There is also a state lottery.

Gambling in the United States

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Massachusetts casinos

There are three commercial casinos in Massachusetts. In 2011, legislation expanded gambling in the state. This included allowing these casinos. Expanding gambling also opened the door for tribal casinos. A gaming compact with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe was signed by the governor and approved by the US Department of the Interior. However, ongoing legal battles have prevented progress on the First Light Casino and Resort in Taunton.

Casinos offer a selection of table games, slots, video poker, poker games, and sports betting. Available table games include baccarat, blackjack, craps, Four Card Poker, Let It Ride, Pontoon 21, roulette, Three Card Poker, and Ultimate Texas Hold’em.

Encore Boston Harbor

On June 23, 2019, Encore Boston Harbor opened. It has 185 table games, 2700 slot and video poker machines, a 24-table poker room, and a sportsbook. The property also hosts multiple restaurants, a spa, a salon, and a 671-room hotel.

MGM Springfield

MGM Springfield opened on August 24, 2018. The casino has 93 table games, 2500 slot and video poker machines, a 23-table poker room, and a BetMGM Sportsbook. Other property amenities include a 251-room hotel, a seasonal outdoor pool, retail shops, and multiple restaurants.

Plainridge Park Casino

On June 24, 2015, Plainridge Park Casino opened to the public. The Penn Entertainment property has live harness racing, simulcast wagering, a sportsbook, slots, video poker, and electronic table games, including stadium gaming. A food court is also available. Racing season runs from April through November.

Sports betting in Massachusetts

Retail sportsbooks in Massachusetts launched on January 31, 2023. These sportsbooks are available inside casinos. Mobile sportsbooks launched later that year starting on March 10. Licensed mobile sportsbooks include Bally Bet, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, Fanatics, FanDuel, and Penn Sports Interactive. Betr and WynnBet were previously licensed in the state but did not renew after the initial one-year temporary licensing period.

Sports bettors must be at least 21 years of age. This includes fantasy sports contests.

Online gambling options in Massachusetts

Mobile sports betting and fantasy sports contests are legal for players 21 and older. Pari-mutuel wagering is also legal online and through mobile apps. Wagering is only permitted on horse races. Horse bettors must be at least 18 years of age.

Live harness horse races

The Division of Racing oversees the racing industry in Massachusetts. There are no active thoroughbred racetracks. However, Plainridge Park Casino hosts live harness races. Harness races are held starting in April through November. Live and simulcast wagering are available. Advance deposit wagering (ADW) is available online and using mobile apps. Horse bettors must be at least 18 years old.

Wagering on live greyhound dog racing was banned as of January 1, 2010. Then, on August 1, 2023, wagering on simulcast greyhound races and running greyhound races for simulcast purposes also became illegal. Simulcast horse wagering is permitted at Raynham Park, a closed greyhound racetrack.

The Mass Lottery

The Mass Lottery offers players a selection of drawings and instant games. Draw games include Keno, The Wheel of Luck, The Numbers Game, Mass Cash, Powerball, Mega Millions, Lucky for Life, and Megabucks. Instant tickets range from $1 to $50 per game. Players must be at least 18 to purchase or redeem lottery tickets.

Charitable gambling includes bingo, casino nights, and raffles held by non-profit organizations.


Massachusetts gambling FAQs

Are casinos legal in Massachusetts?

Yes. There are three commercial casinos.

What is the minimum age to gamble in Massachusetts casinos?

Casino players must be 21 years of age or older.


Are sportsbooks legal in Massachusetts?

Yes. Retail and mobile sportsbooks are legal. Retail sportsbooks launched on January 1, 2023.

Is mobile sports betting legal in Massachusetts?

Yes. Mobile sportsbooks launched starting on March 10, 2023.

What is the minimum age to bet on sports?

Sports bettors must be at least 21 years of age. This includes fantasy sports contests.


What types of online gambling are legal in Massachusetts?

Mobile sports betting and fantasy sports contests are available. Pari-mutuel wagering is also available online and through mobile apps.


Are live horse races held in Massachusetts?

Yes. There is one racetrack that hosts harness races.

Can you wager on horse races in Massachusetts?

Yes. Pari-mutuel wagering is legal on horses for bettors 18 and older.


Is there a state lottery in Massachusetts?

Yes. Drawings and instant games are available to players 18 years and older.

How old must you be to play lotto games in Massachusetts?

Lottery players must be at least 18 years of age.

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Last Updated on March 25, 2024 by John Mehaffey