If you’re seeking in-person gambling options in Massachusetts, you’ll find three retail casinos: MGM Springfield in Springfield, Encore Boston Harbor in Everett, and Plainridge Park Casino in Plainville. These establishments offer excellent choices for those interested in indulging in some gambling activities within the Commonwealth.

Regrettably, Massachusetts does not currently permit online casinos. However, neighboring states like Connecticut, Delaware, and New Jersey have legalized them. The question of when Massachusetts will follow suit and allow real-money online casinos remains uncertain.

Fortunately, Massachusetts sports betting has finally been introduced! Individuals can now place their bets at all three brick-and-mortar casinos within the state, as well as through authorized online sports betting applications. This significant progress leads to the plausible assumption that the legalization of online gambling for casino games may follow suit in due course.

We have answers to any inquiries you may have regarding MA online casinos and retail casinos, such as the available options.

Sports betting at Massachusetts casinos

Starting from January 31st this year, retail sports betting was introduced in Massachusetts. Currently, you have the opportunity to place bets in person at three casinos located in the state: MGM Springfield, Encore Boston Harbor, and Plainridge Park Casino.

According to the sports betting law in MA, retail casinos have the opportunity to collaborate with a maximum of two online sports betting operators. Presently, the casino sports betting partners consist of:

• WynnBET MA and Caesars MA Sportsbook are available at Encore Boston Harbor.
• MGM Springfield: BetMGM Sportsbook
• Plainridge Park Casino now offers two new sportsbooks for Massachusetts residents: Barstool Sportsbook MA and Fanatics Sportsbook MA.

In the Bay State, gamblers now have the opportunity to place a diverse range of bets on both professional and college sports. The options seem limitless, encompassing popular wager types such as moneyline, spread, and total (over/under) bets, as well as more specialized categories like player props and parlays.

It should be emphasized that Massachusetts colleges are not eligible for sports betting under the state’s law, unless they participate in tournaments with four or more teams, like March Madness.

On March 10, MA mobile betting apps were introduced subsequent to the initiation of retail betting. Alongside in-person betting, the three retail casinos have obtained online betting licenses and now facilitate mobile betting within their premises.

Are online casinos legal in Massachusetts?

Regrettably, the online casinos you may have in mind are currently not permitted in Massachusetts. Popular platforms such as BetMGM Casino, DraftKings Casino, and WynnBET Casino are all prohibited from offering real-money online services in the state. It is important to note that any websites claiming to be real-money online casinos in Massachusetts are illegal offshore sites, and we strongly discourage their use.

Nevertheless, individuals have the opportunity to engage in legal and regulated online casino-style games in Massachusetts, offering them a legitimate chance to win real money.

In Massachusetts and 47 other states in the US, promotional social casinos offer players the opportunity to play using virtual currency that holds no real-world value. However, this feature allows these websites to operate legally while still offering the chance to redeem the virtual currency for cash prizes.

Chumba Casino stands out as a leading social casino for promotion, boasting a vast collection of over 100 games that encompass slots, blackjack, roulette, and various other enticing options.

When will Massachusetts allow real money online casinos?

The exact timeline for the legalization of real money online casinos in Massachusetts remains uncertain. Nevertheless, with the recent legalization of online sports betting in the state, experts in the industry speculate that this development could pave the way for the eventual launch of legal real money online casinos in Massachusetts.

In Massachusetts, several mobile sportsbooks like DraftKings, FanDuel, WynnBET, BetMGM, and Caesars, not only provide sports betting but also offer online casino services. Considering that these platforms are already authorized for sports betting in MA, it is reasonable to expect that obtaining online casino licenses in the future would not pose significant challenges.

However, at present, it remains uncertain.

Potential Massachusetts online casinos

While the timeline for online casinos in Massachusetts remains uncertain, we do possess a fairly accurate understanding of the leading companies that are likely to initiate operations within the state if it becomes legally permissible. However, the number of online gambling sites that Massachusetts will authorize remains unknown.

Nevertheless, it is highly probable that these four individuals possess undeniable connections and demonstrated interests in Massachusetts, making them the prime candidates on regulators’ priority list for selecting online casino vendors.

DraftKings Casino

Founded in Boston and still based in Back Bay, DraftKings offers daily fantasy sports contests to residents of Massachusetts on a regular basis. Over the past few years, the company has gained widespread recognition as one of the leading gambling enterprises in the nation, largely attributed to its prominent sports betting division. Notably, its sportsbook app was introduced in Massachusetts on March 10.

Massachusetts’ DraftKings takes advantage of its acquisition of Golden Nugget Online Gaming, a prominent player in New Jersey, to provide a two-in-one online casino experience. With their expertise and extensive range of games, it’s a winning combination.

BetMGM Casino

MGM Resorts is the owner and operator of the MGM Springfield, a physical casino in Massachusetts. Considering this, it is highly probable that BetMGM would be included in Massachusetts’ legal online casino market. What stands out about BetMGM is the extensive range of online games it provides.

BetMGM Casino offers a wide range of slot titles, including standard reel games, video slots, and progressive options such as Divine Fortune and Cleopatra. Additionally, they feature numerous table games like blackjack and roulette, with several variants available. The casino also provides an extensive selection of video poker options, along with exciting variety games like Slingo and virtual sports games for players to enjoy.

The MGM Springfield establishment also features a retail BetMGM Sportsbook, and the BetMGM Massachusetts app was officially launched on March 10.

WynnBET Casino

WynnBET, the online gambling division of the renowned Wynn casino chain, encompasses both the Wynn and Encore casinos. With the presence of Encore Boston Harbor in Everett, Wynn already has a significant presence in Massachusetts. Naturally, the owners of a local casino would aspire to expand their business into the digital realm.

WynnBET’s online casino site prioritizes quality rather than quantity, showcasing beautifully rendered games. Although the site does not overwhelm with an excessive number of games, it offers more than a dozen variants of blackjack and roulette.

Furthermore, WynnBET boasts a variety of alternative games such as Ultimate Texas Hold’em, Let It Ride, and Mississippi Stud. Moreover, it offers over six video poker games for players to enjoy.

FanDuel Casino

The daily fantasy sports company, FanDuel, has become well-known in Massachusetts. Recently, FanDuel has significantly grown its operations by venturing into sports betting and online casinos. Given its proximity to the populous state of Massachusetts, which is close to FanDuel’s headquarters in New York City, it is likely that the company has prioritized expanding its presence there. On March 10, the highly anticipated FanDuel Massachusetts sports betting app was officially launched.

FanDuel Casino prides itself on offering a curated selection of high-quality games rather than overwhelming players with a massive quantity. You’ll find sleek versions of popular titles such as Divine Fortune, Joe Exotic, and Triple Da Vinci Diamonds. Moreover, Slingo fans will be pleased to discover that FanDuel offers plenty of options tailored to their preferences.

Types of online casinos

In the United States, online casinos can be classified into three distinct types. It is beneficial to acquaint yourself with these categories to understand the legality, wisdom, and options available to you.

Legal and licensed

At present, Massachusetts lacks any legally authorized online casinos. By “online casinos,” we refer to genuine gambling websites where real money is involved, similar to the ones mentioned previously. These lawful and licensed online casinos function in a manner comparable to physical casinos, albeit through an online platform. In the event that online casinos become legalized in Massachusetts, it is highly probable that the Massachusetts Gaming Commission would assume the responsibility of overseeing and regulating them.

Offshore

We advise strongly against utilizing offshore sites. While they may not be explicitly legal or illegal, they are completely unregulated, and this should be a cause for concern. Without oversight from organizations like the MGC, there is no assurance that offshore casinos will treat their customers ethically. Additionally, these sites often lack robust digital security measures, leaving your financial and personal information susceptible to cybercriminals. Although it may be difficult to wait for regulated real-money online casinos, we highly recommend exercising patience and doing so.

Promotional social casinos

In Massachusetts and throughout the United States, with the exception of Washington and Idaho, promotional social casino sites are entirely within the bounds of the law. These platforms allow players to exchange their winnings for cash rewards. But how is this legality achieved? Promotional social casinos such as Chumba Casino, Funzpoints, and LuckyLand Slots operate by utilizing fictitious digital currencies, commonly referred to as Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins. By accumulating a sufficient amount of Sweeps Coins, players are able to convert them into cash prizes.

The promotional social model is considered legal in Massachusetts due to the fact that the currency utilized in the games holds no actual value in the real world. While it is possible to convert Sweeps Coins into cash rewards, they cannot be utilized for purchasing groceries.

One of the greatest advantages is that social casinos are well-regulated. The Malta Gaming Authority is responsible for monitoring and ensuring the fairness of all promotional social platforms, guaranteeing that customers are treated fairly and receive their winnings promptly.

Retail Massachusetts casinos

Despite the growing popularity of online gambling in recent years, there remains a significant number of individuals who prefer the traditional in-person gambling experience. Fortunately for them, there are several options available within the borders of Massachusetts. The enactment of the Expanded Gaming Act in 2011, which permitted the establishment of casinos in the state, ensured that these gambling facilities would be reasonably distributed across different locations.

The legislation permitted the establishment of a resort casino in each of three designated areas in Massachusetts. Broadly speaking, these areas encompass the western, eastern (including Boston), and southeastern parts of the state.

Here are the parameters for each region:

• These counties belong to Region A: Suffolk, Middlesex, Essex, Norfolk, and Worcester.
• The counties of Hampshire, Hampden, Franklin, and Berkshire fall under Region B.
• Counties in Region C include Bristol, Plymouth, Nantucket, Dukes, and Barnstable.

Region A is located to the east of Region B, which could potentially cause confusion. Region C is the anticipated location. Currently, casino resorts have been established in Regions A and B. However, Region C does not possess a casino, but we will delve into the reasons behind this shortly. Here are the specific particulars regarding the two casinos in Massachusetts.

Encore Boston Harbor — Region A

The newer of the two sites is Encore Boston Harbor, which is situated on the Mystic River in Everett, just north of downtown Boston. It commenced operations in June 2019, boasting a massive 200,000 square feet of gambling space. The casino offers an impressive array of amenities, including over 2,700 slot machines, 188 table games, and a dedicated poker room.

In January, Encore Boston Harbor recorded a substantial gross gaming revenue of $61.9 million, contributing $15.5 million in taxes. Since June 2019, the venue has amassed an impressive $2.1 billion in gross gaming revenue, resulting in $517.9 million in taxes. Occupying a vast area of 33 acres, the property boasts a comprehensive range of amenities such as a luxurious hotel, a rejuvenating spa, a stylish salon, and an array of delightful dining and drinking establishments. Additionally, Encore Boston Harbor takes pride in its 6-acre park called Harborwalk, offering picturesque river views, scenic walking paths, and convenient connections to nearby bike and pedestrian trails.

The facility has formed a collaboration with WynnBET in relation to sports betting.

MGM Springfield — Region B

In August 2018, MGM Springfield became the inaugural full-service casino to launch in Massachusetts. Located in Springfield itself, this outpost of MGM Resorts is situated on the north side of I-91, mere minutes away from the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

The property boasts over 2,600 slot machines, 180 table games, and a poker room equipped with around twelve tables.

In January, MGM Springfield raked in $22.9 million from its gaming operations, contributing $5.7 million in taxes. Since August 2018, the total gross gaming revenue for MGM Springfield has surpassed $1 billion, resulting in tax contributions of $225.3 million. Apart from its hotel, the establishment provides additional attractions such as Top Golf, a bowling alley, a movie theater, and an ice rink.

MGM Springfield offers a BetMGM Sportsbook for individuals interested in sports betting.

Other gambling locations in Massachusetts

In addition to the legalization of three resort casinos, the Expanded Gaming Act also granted permission for a solitary casino dedicated solely to slots. Consequently, in Massachusetts, there exists a third establishment that identifies as a casino, but it would be more precise to refer to it as a “racino” considering the range of activities it provides.

Plainridge Park Casino

Located in Plainville, the Plainridge Park Casino is the sole gambling establishment in the area dedicated exclusively to slot machines. Situated in the southeastern part of the state, the casino is considerably closer to Providence, Rhode Island, than it is to Boston. With over 1,200 slot machines on its premises, the casino also offers a variety of electronic table games including video poker and video blackjack.

In January, Plainridge Park Casino accumulated $12.2 million in gross gaming revenue, resulting in $6 million worth of taxes. Since June 2015, the total gross gaming revenue generated by Plainridge Park has reached $1.1 billion, contributing $543.1 million in taxes. Additionally, Plainridge Park stands as the sole Massachusetts establishment offering live racing events. These harness races take place annually from April to November, with the venue also providing pari-mutuel wagering opportunities for the races.

Barstool Sportsbook now offers sports betting at the facility, which is owned by PENN Entertainment.

Off-track horse betting venues

In Massachusetts, there are only three off-track horse betting locations, including Plainridge Park. The remaining two establishments were once greyhound tracks that halted live racing activities in the past few years. Despite this, they have continued to operate and offer simulcasting services to customers throughout the year. If you wish to bet on horse races, you can choose to visit any of these venues.

• Raynham Park — Raynham
• Suffolk Downs, situated in East Boston.

It wouldn’t come as a surprise if Raynham Park and Suffolk Downs both started offering sports betting soon.

Potential casinos in Massachusetts

First Light Casino

For several years, the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe has been working towards the construction of a resort-style casino on their tribal lands near Taunton. This ambitious project, known as the First Light Resort and Casino, intends to feature a 150,000-square-foot casino, complete with 3,000 slot machines, 150 table games, and a dedicated poker room.

Put simply, the property would be comparable in size and magnitude to the two existing resort casinos in the state. The selected location for the project, situated close to the junction of Routes 24 and 140, would position a significant casino approximately 40 miles to the south of Boston and less than 20 miles to the east of Providence.

Nevertheless, this casino project has been entangled in a prolonged legal dispute for several years.

On February 10, the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe achieved a significant win in the US District Court. The judge ruled in favor of the tribe, affirming that the federal government’s decision to transfer 68.8 acres of land into the tribe’s reservation trust in 2015 was correct. This move holds great importance as it ensures tribal sovereignty and enables various tribal activities, such as the construction of gambling facilities at the First Light Resort and Casino site.

Construction of the First Light by the Mashpee tribe commenced in 2015; however, a court ruling in 2016 deemed the land placement to be improper, which hindered their progress. The Department of the Interior (DOI) made efforts to challenge the ruling but ultimately decided to abandon the legal battle in 2018, acknowledging that the Mashpee land would not be placed under federal trust.

Despite the initial decision, the tribe remained steadfast and persisted in advocating for their reservation lands to receive equal recognition and treatment as any other federally recognized tribe. Their efforts included lobbying and engaging in arguments. Finally, after a span of three years, the tribe emerged victorious in court.

Despite winning two years ago, the Mashpee tribe continues to face opposition from Michelle Littlefield and a coalition of individuals who oppose the establishment of a casino in Taunton, Massachusetts. Littlefield is expected to challenge the decision made on February 10th through an appeal.

Another factor to consider is the financial feasibility of establishing a fourth casino in Massachusetts.

There is a concern that the operation in Region C may not generate sufficient income, whether it is initiated by the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe with First Light or by another company such as Caesars or Rush Street Interactive.

Critics argue that the lower revenues observed at the other facilities indicate market saturation. Nevertheless, the chosen location for First Light presents an opportunity for significant overflow from Rhode Island.

Rhode Islanders have the option of two full-service casinos in close proximity, such as Bally’s Lincoln, which is similar in size to the Massachusetts casinos. However, the allure of a new casino establishment with its unique features might potentially attract the loyalty of Ocean State residents.

Currently, there is no specific timeline established for the introduction of a fourth full-service casino in Massachusetts. In the event that Littlefield’s appeals persist, the DOI policy may undergo further modifications, contingent upon the election outcome in 2024.

The other proposed gambling facility

Southeastern Massachusetts is home to two tribes that have received federal recognition. However, one of these tribes, the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah), has decided against entering into a compact with the state of Massachusetts for Class III gambling on their tribal lands. Instead, their focus lies solely on constructing an electronic bingo parlor on an empty parcel of land owned by the tribe, located near Aquinnah.

Similar to the situation with the Mashpee Wampanoag, the tribe’s plans have faced multiple legal obstacles and challenges. Surprisingly, the resistance against their plans is coming from the town of Aquinnah itself. While a Class II facility and bingo may seem innocuous, it’s crucial to comprehend that the machines the tribe intends to use are similar to slot machines rather than regular video bingo. Consequently, town officials have vehemently opposed the establishment of a nearby gambling venue due to concerns about heightened traffic and crime rates.

Initially, they achieved success by asserting that a land deal from 1987 invalidated the tribe’s ability to construct the bingo hall. Nevertheless, in 2017, the Wampanoags achieved a decisive triumph in court, affirming their right to proceed with the facility’s construction and paving the path for its commencement.

Regrettably, there was a condition attached to the court’s decision. While the tribe has legal permission to proceed with construction, they are still required to obtain the necessary zoning clearances and regulatory licenses, which are under the jurisdiction of the town. Therefore, unless an agreement can be reached between tribal leaders and Aquinnah officials, the Wampanoag Tribe will be unable to expand the gambling landscape in Massachusetts.

Types of casino-style games in Massachusetts

Massachusetts offers a diverse range of games across its three active casinos, ensuring that individuals in the Bay State can easily find their preferred game(s) of choice to place a wager.

If MA online casinos are legalized, it is highly probable that the real money gambling site will offer the same games as their land-based counterparts. Additionally, promotional social casinos often offer similar games that are equally enjoyable. Here are brief descriptions of the games typically found in Massachusetts casinos:

Slots

Massachusetts casinos are filled with slot machines that are found everywhere. Each full-service casino and the only racino in the state boast a collection of over 1,000 machines, while the larger establishments have an impressive count of nearly 3,000 each. Casinos favor slots due to their high likelihood of producing consistent returns, while players are drawn to them for the thrilling opportunity of winning big.

In Massachusetts, there are various types of slots available. These include the traditional reel games, available in both three and five reels, as well as the contemporary video slots. Additionally, certain slots are interconnected and offer a progressive jackpot, providing players with the opportunity to win a significant amount of money that could potentially change their lives.

Aside from the usual slot games, Massachusetts also offers various electronic gambling machines. These machines encompass options for video poker, video blackjack, video roulette, and other electronic versions of typical table games. Unlike reel games, video poker stands out due to its element of choice. Electronic table games are favored for their quicker gameplay compared to live versions and typically have a lower minimum bet.

Blackjack

Blackjack is arguably the most favored table game in US casinos, if not the most prevalent. Its basic rules are fairly straightforward, and it boasts one of the smallest advantages for the house among all gambling options. To be honest, players don’t necessarily need to be entirely sober to excel at this game.

Massachusetts residents who enjoy playing blackjack have a diverse range of table options at the two casino venues. Moreover, they have the opportunity to explore various blackjack variations. Notably, players can experience Spanish 21, a version that eliminates the tens from the decks and offers several enticing side bet choices.

Other table games

Aside from blackjack, the Massachusetts casinos offer a range of other popular table games, including:

• Craps remains a favored option among table game enthusiasts, often igniting bursts of excitement within a casino. While offering a multitude of betting options, the essence of the game revolves around predicting whether the two dice will yield a sum of seven, the most frequent result, or any other combination.
• Roulette is a popular table game found in casinos worldwide, including Massachusetts, and it completes the trio alongside blackjack and craps. In this game, a dealer spins a small ball within a bowl-shaped wheel containing 38 slots, including numbers 1 through 36, a single zero, and a double zero. Players place bets on which slot the ball will eventually settle into. There are also variations available, such as European roulette, which is identical to the American version but removes one of the zeroes.
• Baccarat, a game similar to blackjack, requires drawing cards to reach a specific total. Unlike blackjack, where tens and face cards hold value, in baccarat they are worth zero. Number cards retain their face value, and the objective is to approach a total of nine. The game involves two sides, known as the player and the banker, each with distinct characteristics. A baccarat player has the option to support either side during a hand.
• In Three Card Poker, players face off against the dealer to see who can create the strongest three-card hand. To begin, players place an ante bet and then decide whether to fold and forfeit their ante or double their bet with a “play” bet to challenge the dealer. The dealer must have a queen or higher to qualify; if not, the play bet returns to the player and the ante is paid out at a 1:1 ratio. However, if the player’s hand is higher in value than a qualified dealer hand, the payouts can be significantly higher than 1:1, offering the chance to win big in a short amount of time.
• Four card poker is a game that resembles three card poker. The objective remains the same: outdo the dealer’s hand with your own. However, in this variation, the aim is to create the strongest four-card hand. To achieve this, players are dealt five cards, while the dealer receives six. Apart from the standard ante and play bets, there is an additional wager known as aces up. This side bet provides additional winnings for four-card hands that include a pair of aces or higher.
• In Let it ride, players work together with the dealer to achieve their goal of creating a five-card hand with at least a pair of jacks. To begin the game, you place three equal bets on the table and receive three cards, while the dealer receives two cards face down. If your hand contains a pair of jacks or better, or if you simply want to take a risk, you have the option to “let it ride” and continue playing. The dealer then reveals the other two cards and determines your payout based on the strength of your hand. However, if you prefer, you can withdraw one of your bets and view one of the dealer’s face down cards. If there is still no improvement, you have the choice to withdraw another bet and, depending on the fifth card, either win or lose the remaining bet.
• The Big 6 game is widely recognized for its unique vertical wheel, featuring slots that display different dollar amounts. Players place bets on their preferred denominations and the outcome is determined by where the wheel stops. It is often jokingly referred to as the original wheel of fortune, but the reality is that luck typically favors the casino in this game.
• Ultimate Texas hold’em is a table game that may sound like the well-known poker game, but its gameplay actually shares more similarities with three card poker, four card poker, and let it ride. Unlike traditional Texas hold’em, players in this game start by placing an ante bet and a blind bet. They then decide whether to check or raise based on their hand strength. Similar to other poker variants, the game progresses until the river, and the dealer’s hand is only revealed at the end of the action.

Poker

Poker stands out as the unique outlier in the realm of casino gambling. It is usually found in secluded corners of the casino, maintaining a strict no-smoking policy while the rest of the establishment allows smoking freely. Nevertheless, poker enthusiasts are a committed group, and Massachusetts offers plenty of opportunities for them. Both MGM Springfield and Encore Boston Harbor provide dedicated poker rooms, each equipped with over twelve tables for players to enjoy.

No Limit Texas Hold’em is the predominant game in poker rooms. However, there are other options like Pot Limit Omaha or seven-card stud, but it’s advisable to call ahead and confirm their availability. Both casinos provide cash games and tournaments, but for detailed information on joining a tournament, it’s recommended to gather more details. Additionally, these poker rooms often feature bad beat jackpots, offering the opportunity for a fortunate poker hand to win thousands of additional dollars for the entire table.

Keno

Keno, an enjoyable casino game, can be conveniently accessed through the Massachusetts Lottery. Similar to a lottery draw game, players choose numbers from a grid and aim to match as many as possible during scheduled drawings throughout the day. Often found in restaurants, it serves as a delightful distraction while enjoying a meal. Notably, MGM Springfield’s TAP Sports Bar is a prominent venue for playing keno in Massachusetts.

Resources

If you need further clarification or desire additional details about Massachusetts casinos, numerous supplementary resources are available for your reference. The following websites, both online and physical, offer the most informative content on casinos in Massachusetts.

• Encore Boston Harbor
• MGM Springfield
• Plainridge Park Casino
• Massachusetts Gaming Commission
• Massachusetts Lottery
• Massachusetts Legislature
• Massachusetts Problem Gambling

Massachusetts Casinos FAQs

How old do I need to be to gamble at Massachusetts casinos?