Kentucky Sports Betting: Best KY Sportsbooks

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Written by Mac Douglass
Senior Sports Betting Editor
Updated on Sep 28, 2023
Fact checked
Reviewed by Nick Slade, Chief Content Officer

Sports Betting is Now Legal In Kentucky

Welcome to our guide to sports betting in Kentucky, where the thrilling world of sports meets the exhilaration of betting, creating a dynamic blend of athleticism, competitive zeal, and golden opportunities to emerge triumphant.

Whether you're a seasoned bettor or just venturing into sports gambling, this guide serves as your roadmap to navigating the intricacies of Kentucky's new betting scene. Delve into the legal nuances, discover premier sportsbooks, traverse diverse betting markets, and arm yourself with strategies to boost your winning odds. 

How to Bet on Sports in Kentucky

A thrilling new form of entertainment has officially kicked off in the Bluegrass State. As of September 28, 2023, sports betting is live and legal in Kentucky, allowing residents to bet on their favorite sports events conveniently from home or on their mobile devices. This exciting development follows the passage of House Bill 551 and the approval of administrative regulations by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission.

With online sports betting now a reality, Kentucky is stepping up to the plate, offering a variety of top-tier sportsbooks, each with enticing sign-up bonuses and promotions to win your loyalty.

To get started, Kentuckians can explore the best sportsbooks available in the state, along with industry-leading sign-up bonuses and promotions that add even more value to their bets.

And here's the kicker: There's no limit to the number of sportsbooks you can join or the range of sign-up bonuses you can cash in on. It's time to play ball!

STEP 1
Be a Kentucky resident
STEP 2
Grab an offer via Dimers
STEP 3
Make a deposit
STEP 4
Place a bet

Requirements for Sports Betting in Kentucky

Sports betting in Kentucky became legal on June 28, 2023, after the passage of House Bill 551 and the approval of administrative regulations by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission. 

However, certain legal requirements must be met in order to participate:

  • Age Requirement: The legal age to bet in Kentucky is 18 years, as per HB 551. This is in line with the local lottery's minimum age for gambling and pari-mutuel horse race betting.
  • GEO Location: You do not need to be a resident of Kentucky to bet on sports in the state. However, you must be physically located within the state lines to place wagers through online sports betting apps or at licensed locations.
  • State Regulations: Remember that while sports betting is legal in Kentucky, it is essential to follow the state's regulations and requirements to ensure responsible and legal betting practices.
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NECESSARY
Have a social security number
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NECESSARY
Be 18+, some sportsbooks require 21+
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NECESSARY
Register in Kentucky
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NECESSARY
Place your bets in Kentucky

Best Sportsbook Promotions in Kentucky

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Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. 18+. Physically present in KY. Eligibility restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos. Subject to regulatory and licensing requirements. Bonus bets are non-cashable and cannot be withdrawn. 

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TRENDING
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Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Hope is here. GamblingHelpLineMA.org or call (800) 327-5050 for 24/7 support (MA). Call 1-877-8HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).
21+ and present in select states. FanDuel is offering online sports wagering in Kansas under an agreement with Kansas Star Casino, LLC. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, KY, MI, NJ, OH, PA, IL, TN, VA, VT), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), 1-800-522-4700 (WY), or visit www.1800gambler.net (WV).

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NEW PLAYERS
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Bettors in Kentucky must be 18+ and physically located in the state to place wagers. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Available to new customers only. A deposit (minimum $10) is required to participate in this offer. You must claim the offer within 30 days of registering your account. Click here For Full T&C's.

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BetMGM.com for Ts & Cs. Must be 21+ to wager. KY only. New Customer Offer (If applicable). All promotions are subject to qualification and eligibility requirements. Rewards issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets. Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Add’l terms. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

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HOTTEST
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New customers who establish an active and verified Fanatics Sportsbook account and place a wager of $5+ cash on any market with odds of -200 or longer are eligible to receive up to a $100 Bonus Bet every day for 10 straight days. That’s up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets across 10 days! Must be 21+ GAMBLING PROBLEM? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (CO/KY/MD/OH/PA/TN/VA/VT/WV), or (888) 789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), (800)-327-5050 or gamblinghelplinema.org (MA), or visit 1800gambler.net (WV)

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No sportsbook is best for everyone. What’s best for you might not be best for someone else. We hope this guide can help narrow down your options, regardless of your betting style or level of experience.

Choosing the Right Sportsbooks in Kentucky 

The Bluegrass State is buzzing, and not just because of the horses. With a burgeoning selection of elite sportsbooks vying for attention, Kentucky's bettors are in the spotlight. And here's a pro tip: Kentuckians aren't limited to just one sportsbook; multiple sign-ups are the name of the game.

With a flurry of enticing sign-up promotions storming the scene, it's a gold rush for those quick to the draw. While we champion the idea of diversifying your sportsbook portfolio to maximize these offers, a word to the wise: keeping a level head through responsible betting is key.

But in this ever-evolving world of sports betting, how does one pick the winner in Kentucky's sportsbook stakes? Look beyond the glitz. Prioritize user experience, dig into reputations, explore the sports markets on offer, weigh up those odds, and always keep an eye out for the next big promo. And for those looking for a sure bet, stick with licensed operators, which is the hallmark of a trustworthy betting experience.

FanDuel Sportsbook Kentucky

FanDuel isn't just joining the Kentucky sportsbook scene—it's aiming to redefine it. Known for its seamless user experience, sharp odds, and vast sports catalog, what truly makes FanDuel shine is its unique same-game parlay feature. 

DraftKings Sportsbook Kentucky

DraftKings, no stranger to the limelight, has brought its A-game to Kentucky. With a legacy rooted in daily fantasy sports, its platform boasts an array of betting options. With features like the betting carousel and immersive betting pools, DraftKings is all about enhancing the player experience.

BetMGM Sportsbook Kentucky

Enter BetMGM, the fruit of a partnership between giants: MGM Resorts International and Entain. Serving up a smorgasbord of sports and betting choices, BetMGM is on track to redefine the betting journey in Kentucky. The unique "edit my bet" option stands out, allowing users to tailor wagers as they see fit.

bet365 Sportsbook Kentucky

As Kentucky's betting landscape reaches new heights, bet365 is on the horizon, promising to elevate the game. Known globally for its prowess, bet365's entry marks a collaboration between MGM Resorts International and Entain. One of bet365's aces is the "edit my bet" feature, offering punters a fresh level of control. It's about adapting on-the-fly and reshaping bets in real-time. Combining its established pedigree, user-centric approach, and sheer commitment, bet365 is all set to shake up Kentucky's sports betting domain. 

Why You Can Trust Dimers' Experts

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Dimers' Expert Tips

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Damien Souness
Chief Innovation Officer

As Kentucky opens up legal online sports betting on September 28, remember to prioritize yourself when choosing a sportsbook. Your unique circumstances matter. Consider your personal betting goals, budget, and risk appetite. By understanding these factors, you'll make an informed decision and find a sportsbook that aligns with your preferences. Always gamble responsibly.

Sports You Can Bet on in Kentucky

With the legalization of sports betting in Kentucky, residents can now place wagers on a variety of sports events. While the specific list of sports available for betting may vary depending on the sportsbook, some of the most popular sports you can bet on in Kentucky include:

  • Football (NFL and college football)
  • Basketball (NBA and college basketball)
  • Baseball (MLB)
  • Hockey (NHL)
  • Soccer (MLS, Premier League, and other international leagues)
  • Golf (PGA Tour and other major tournaments)
  • Tennis (ATP and WTA tours)
  • Auto racing (NASCAR, Formula 1)
  • Boxing and mixed martial arts (UFC)
  • Horse racing (Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, Belmont Stakes, and other major races)

Keep in mind that the availability of specific sports and events may vary depending on the sportsbook you choose. 

Kentucky Best Bets

Using advanced analytics and innovative data analysis, our Kentucky selections undergo a rigorous selection process, resulting in high-probability bets. Running 10,000 simulations for every chosen event, we employ Dimers' state-of-the-art, AI-driven algorithm to reveal hidden opportunities and an edge against the sportsbooks.

These predictions and odds include moneylines, over/unders, point spreads, and player or team props, offering bettors a wide range of options to choose from based on their risk tolerance and betting style.

Our aim? To shine a light on the brightest betting prospects for our users, giving them an edge and an even greater chance at winning big.

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Kentucky Mobile Sports Betting History

Kentucky has a long history of gambling, with the inaugural Kentucky Derby held in 1875. However, sports betting in the state has only recently become legal. 

The legalization of sports betting in Kentucky followed several failed attempts in previous years. The passage of HB 551 marked a significant milestone for the state, opening up new opportunities for residents to engage in legal sports wagering on various events, including professional sports, college sports, e-sports, and international events.

Here are some key milestones in Kentucky's sports betting history:

A timeline of Kentucky sports betting history is below:
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    March 31, 2023

    Governor Andy Beshear signed House Bill 551 into law, legalizing sports betting in Kentucky.

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    June 28, 2023

    HB551 went into effect, officially legalizing sports betting in the state.

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    September 7, 2023

    Retail sports betting launched in Kentucky, allowing in-person wagering at licensed locations.

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    September 28, 2023

    Online sports betting goes live in Kentucky, enabling residents to place bets through mobile apps and websites.

Kentucky Sports Betting Resources

With an abundance of betting opportunities in Kentucky, sports bettors in the state are advised to take advantage of the numerous resources at their disposal. In the following sections, we delve into the fundamentals of sports betting and provide essential information to assist you in discovering the most favorable value for your sports wagers in Kentucky.

Responsible Gambling for Kentucky Sports Bettors

With the imminent arrival of legal sports betting in Kentucky this September, the importance of responsible gambling takes center stage. While the world of sports betting is teeming with excitement, especially when coupled with alluring promotions, it's paramount to approach it with a mindful and responsible attitude. Below, we present a comprehensive guide tailored to Kentucky sports bettors, offering insights into responsible gambling practices. For more comprehensive information on practicing responsible gambling, you can refer to our in-depth resource.

Embracing Responsible Gambling Techniques: The Foundation

  1. Establish Limits: Before you embark on your sports betting journey, it's imperative to define clear boundaries. Determine the maximum amount of money and time you're willing to allocate to your betting endeavors. Adhering to these limits ensures that your actions remain congruent with your financial situation.
  2. Educate Yourself: Understanding the odds and potential outcomes of your bets is a fundamental aspect of responsible gambling. Make decisions grounded in informed judgment, not impulsive impulses. Educate yourself about the nuances of betting to approach each wager thoughtfully.
  3. Prioritize Emotional Well-being: Engaging in sports betting during periods of heightened emotions, such as stress or anxiety, can lead to suboptimal decisions. Maintaining emotional stability is pivotal for making rational choices that align with your strategies and goals.
  4. Acknowledge Vulnerabilities: Individuals with a history of addiction or mental health challenges should exercise vigilance when participating in sports betting. Stay attuned to your vulnerabilities and take proactive steps to prevent patterns of addictive behavior from taking hold.
  5. Wager with Disposable Income: A cardinal rule of responsible gambling is to wager only with disposable income—funds you can afford to lose without compromising essential expenses like rent or bills. This approach ensures that your betting remains an enjoyable form of entertainment, devoid of undue financial strain.
  6. Seek Professional Assistance When Necessary: Should you encounter difficulty in managing your gambling habits or suspect the emergence of a gambling problem, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A multitude of resources are available to provide the support and guidance needed to navigate this challenge.

As the landscape of Kentucky sports betting unfolds, the practice of responsible gambling emerges as an indispensable companion. By adhering to these principles, Kentucky sports bettors can ensure that their betting journey remains a source of entertainment while safeguarding their well-being and financial stability.

Signs of Problematic Gambling:

  • Chasing Highs: Continually seeking the same level of excitement from gambling by placing larger bets or seeking riskier activities

  • Chasing Losses: Attempting to recover previous losses by placing more bets, often leading to further financial setbacks.

  • Neglecting Responsibilities: Ignoring obligations at work, school, or home due to excessive gambling or preoccupation with it.

  • Borrowing Money: Borrowing funds or engaging in financial maneuvers to support gambling activities or cover debts.

  • Lying About Gambling: Concealing the extent of gambling involvement or financial losses from loved ones.

  • Failed Attempts to Quit: Repeatedly attempting to cut down or quit gambling without success.

  • Neglecting Finances: Failing to manage personal finances responsibly, often leading to debts, missed payments, or financial distress.

  • Harming Relationships: Strained or damaged relationships with family, friends, or colleagues due to excessive gambling behavior.

  • Loss of Control: Inability to control gambling behavior, leading to longer gambling sessions than intended.

  • Preoccupation with Gambling: Constantly thinking about gambling, planning the next session, or strategizing bets.

If you or someone you know is exhibiting several of these signs, it may be indicative of problematic gambling behavior. Seeking assistance from professionals or support groups can help address the issue and promote healthier habits.

Resources for Assistance:

Strategies for Responsible Sports Betting:

  • Set Betting Limits: Establish limits on how much you can deposit and wager, ensuring you stay within your budget.

  • Educate Yourself: Understand the games, odds, and strategies involved in gambling to make informed decisions.

  • Time Management: Allocate a specific amount of time for gambling, avoiding excessive or impulsive betting.

  • Emotional Awareness: Bet with a clear mind and stable emotions, avoiding gambling during times of stress or heightened emotions.
  • Use Disposable Income: Only gamble with funds that you can afford to lose, without affecting essential expenses.

  • Avoid Chasing Losses: Refrain from placing additional bets to recover losses, as it can lead to further financial strain.

  • Diversify Interests: Engage in various activities and hobbies beyond gambling to maintain a balanced lifestyle.

  • Accountability: Share your gambling habits with someone you trust, such as a friend or family member, to maintain accountability.

  • Celebrate Wins Responsibly: Enjoy your winnings, but avoid using them solely for more gambling. Consider allocating them for other purposes.

These strategies can help you engage in gambling in a responsible and mindful manner, promoting a positive and balanced approach to the activity.

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Senior Sports Betting Editor

Mac brings a well-traveled perspective and a broad knowledge of sports to his role at Dimers. Specializing in previews for the NFL, particularly the NFC South and NFC East, Mac leverages his keen insights to provide detailed game analyses. He also offers best bets and props for MLB and race previews for Formula 1, a sport he has followed passionately alongside professional tennis and the NBA. 

Known for his knack for discovering the best new user promos across major sportsbooks, Mac is dedicated to sharing these finds with the community, enhancing both the novice and veteran bettor's experience. Having lived in New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Melbourne, Australia, Mac's diverse experiences enrich his understanding of both American and international sports landscapes.

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