List Of Illinois Online Casinos | Best IL Gambling Sites & Apps in 2024

Welcome to your ultimate guide for Illinois online casinos! If you’re looking to explore the exciting world of mobile gaming and online casino play in the Prairie State, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide everything you need to know about Illinois casinos, including the legal landscape, top platforms, latest news updates, and much more.

By the time you’re finished reading, you’ll be equipped with all the knowledge and resources you need to have an exhilarating and rewarding online gaming experience in Illinois. Let’s dive right in and discover the best that Illinois casinos have to offer!

Are Online Casinos Legal in Illinois?

Online casinos are not yet legal in Illinois. The state currently prohibits real-money online casino gambling and does not allow these types of platforms to operate within its borders. However, there are promising developments on the horizon, with ongoing discussions and legislative efforts to potentially legalize online casino gaming in the not-so-distant future.

In the meantime, Illinois casino enthusiasts are not completely out of luck. The state has allowed riverboat casinos to operate since 1990, and land-based casinos were given the green light in 2019 via the Rebuild Illinois Act. These venues offer a wide range of gaming options, including slot machines with a variety of different themes and denominations as well as table games, such as blackjack, roulette, craps, and poker.

A full list of Illinois casinos is provided in the table below.

In addition to land-based casinos, social and sweepstakes casinos are completely legal in the Prairie State. These are free-to-play platforms that operate using an innovative sweepstakes model, allowing users to play a variety of online casino games using virtual currency for a chance to win real cash prizes.

Different Types of Illinois Casinos

Illinois casinos can be divided into three distinct categories: online casinos, sweepstakes casinos, and land-based casinos. We will highlight the similarities and differences between each type of casino below.

Online & Mobile Casinos

Online and mobile casinos in Illinois are web-based platforms that allow players to access casino games and gambling activities through their computers, smartphones, or tablets. These websites or mobile apps offer a wide range of virtual casino games, including slots, table games like blackjack and roulette, video poker, and sometimes even live dealer games. Players can wager real money on these platforms and potentially win huge cash prizes.

As previously mentioned, Illinois has not yet legalized traditional online casinos. In fact, these types of platforms are currently only legal in seven U.S. states: Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia.

However, Illinois stands out as one of the most likely candidates to join the growing list of states legalizing online casinos in the near future. The Prairie State has already taken steps towards expanding its online gambling offerings, having launched online sports betting in June 2020. The success and popularity of online sports betting in Illinois may pave the way for further expansion into online casino gambling.

Social & Sweepstakes Casinos

Social and sweepstakes casinos in Illinois offer a unique approach to online casino gaming. These free-to-play platforms use a virtual currency system instead of real money wagers. Players can enjoy a variety of casino games, similar to those found in traditional online casinos, but winnings are paid out in virtual currency or other rewards.

Although the two terms are often used interchangeably, social casinos and sweepstakes casinos are somewhat different from one another. Social casinos focus on the social aspect of gaming, allowing players to interact with friends, participate in tournaments, and share achievements. Sweepstakes casinos, on the other hand, offer a chance to win real cash prizes through sweepstakes contests, often involving free entries or virtual currency purchases.

Both social and sweepstakes casinos are completely legal in the state of Illinois. Hard Rock Social Casino, MyJackpot.com, Pulsz Casino, WOW Vegas, and many other popular platforms are currently available in the state and allow anyone who is 18 years or older to sign up and join in on all the excitement.

Land-Based Casinos & Riverboats

Illinois is home to a wide range of land-based casinos and riverboats. Land-based casinos are physical establishments that offer a wide range of gambling activities, including slot machines, table games, poker rooms, and sometimes even sportsbooks. These casinos feature amenities such as restaurants, bars, entertainment venues, and hotels.

Illinois riverboat casinos, although no longer required to cruise on the water, are floating establishments located on the Illinois River. They offer a similar experience to land-based casinos but with the added historical charm and uniqueness of being on the water. Both land-based casinos and riverboats in Illinois are regulated by the state and operate within the legal framework and guidelines.

There are well over a dozen Illinois land-based casinos and riverboat casinos currently operating in the state of Illinois. Harrah’s Joliet Hotel & Casino, Hollywood Casino Aurora, Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino, and Rivers Casino Des Plaines are a few of the most popular venues for both locals and tourists. In addition, new land-based casinos are set to launch in the upcoming years, including Bally’s Chicago, which is expected to open in 2026 and will be the Windy City’s first casino.

List Of The Best Illinois Social & Sweepstakes Casinos?

Illinois is home to all of the top U.S. social and sweepstakes casinos, including Hard Rock Social Casino, MyJackpot.com, Pulsz Casino, and WOW Vegas. Each of these platforms is relatively new and has something special to offer all casino players in the Prairie State. These four high-quality sites are described in further detail below.

Hard Rock Social Casino

• Available States: All 50 U.S. States
• Best Feature: Wide Range of Exciting Prizes & Rewards
• Full Review: Hard Rock Social Casino Review

Hard Rock Social Casino launched in 2018 and has quickly become one of the top social casinos in the United States and Canada. The platform offers over 200 different games from a wide range of developers (e.g., Blueprint Gaming, NetEnt, Everi, and Incredible Technologies) and gives players a chance to earn exciting prizes, such as tickets to concerts and sporting events as well as discounts at the Hard Rock Online Rock Shop.

MyJackpot.com

• Available States: All 50 U.S. States
• Best Feature: Fantastic Customer Loyalty Program
• Full Review: MyJackpot.com Review

Another popular social casino is MyJackpot.com, which is owned and operated by Whow Games. The site provides players with access to some of the hottest slots and progressive jackpot games on the market. In addition, MyJackpot.com accepts cryptocurrency (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) for any purchases made on the platform and has a fantastic customer rewards program to enhance the overall gaming experience.

Pulsz Casino

• Available States: 47 of 50 U.S. States (all but ID, NV, & WA)
• Best Feature: Extensive Collection of Slots
• Full Review: Pulsz Casino Review

Pulsz Casino went live in 2020 and is a product of Yellow Social Interactive (YSI) Limited, a rapidly-growing social gaming company based in Gibraltar. The platform offers over 500 Vegas-style casino games, including virtual slots with a wide range of features, mechanics, volatilities, and styles. Furthermore, Pulsz Casino allows players to earn real cash prizes and digital gift cards through their gameplay.

WOW Vegas

• Available States: 47 of 50 U.S. States (all but ID, NV, & WA)
• Best Feature: Frequent Bonuses & Promotions
• Full Review: WOW Vegas Review

Last but not least, WOW Vegas Social Casino is a free-to-play platform launched by Wow Entertainment Limited in 2021 and widely available across the United States and Canada. The site features over 300 casino games from three of the top software developers in the industry (3 Oaks, Betsoft, and Pragmatic Play). WOW Vegas also provides excellent customer service and frequent promotions and bonus opportunities to all players.

List Of Online Casinos in Illinois’ Neighboring States

Although they are not yet available in Illinois, traditional online casinos are legal and currently operating in several nearby states. For example, Illinois residents can visit Michigan to play a wide range of casino games from their computer or mobile device for a chance to hit the jackpot. A few of the most popular online casinos in Michigan, which may also look to launch in Illinois should an opportunity ever arise, are discussed below.

BetMGM Casino

• Available States: MI, NJ, PA, & WV
• Best Feature: User-Friendly Mobile App
• Full Review: BetMGM Casino Review

BetMGM Casino is a renowned online casino platform that provides a wide range of exciting gambling options. It offers a diverse selection of casino games, including slots, table games, and live dealer games, catering to the preferences of different players. BetMGM Casino also features a user-friendly interface, secure payment options, and enticing promotions, ensuring an immersive and enjoyable online gaming experience for all users.

Golden Nugget Casino

• Available States: NJ, MI & WV
• Best Feature: Excellent Customer Service
• Full Review: Golden Nugget Casino Review

Golden Nugget Casino is another popular platform available in Michigan and several other U.S. states. With a vast selection of casino games, Golden Nugget Casino provides an extensive and diverse gaming experience. The casino stands out with its user-friendly interface, seamless navigation, and visually appealing design. Additionally, Golden Nugget Casino offers lucrative promotions, secure payment methods, and excellent customer service.

WynnBet Casino

• Available States: NJ, MI, PA, & WV
• Best Feature: Immersive & Authentic Casino Experience
• Full Review: WynnBet Casino Review

WynnBet Casino is a prominent online casino platform that brings the renowned Wynn brand to the world of online gaming. With its signature touch of luxury and sophistication, WynnBet Casino offers a premium gaming experience like no other. WynnBet Casino stands out with its sleek and elegant interface, seamless navigation, and immersive graphics and sound effects.

List Of Illinois Land-Based Casinos

There are well over a dozen land-based casinos and riverboat casinos in the state of Illinois. Here are a few of the state’s most popular options:

Harrah’s Joliet Hotel & Casino

• Address: 151 N Joliet St, Joliet, IL 60432
• Phone Number: (815) 740-7800

Owned by Vici Properties and operated by Caesars Entertainment, Harrah’s Joliet Casino is a docked riverboat casino set on the Des Plaines River in Joliet, Illinois. The casino offers a 24/7 gaming playground with hundreds of the hottest slots, classic table games, and plenty of opportunities to try your luck and win big. Harrah’s Joliet is one of the state’s most popular casinos and has been offering a top-tier gaming experience since 1993.

Hollywood Casino Aurora

• Address: 1 W New York St, Aurora, IL 60506
• Phone Number: (630) 801-1234

Another popular docked riverboat casino is Hollywood Casino Aurora, which is owned by Gaming and Leisure Properties and operated by Penn Entertainment. Visitors will enjoy 53,00 square feet of gaming space that includes over 1,000 slots, 25 table game games, and a live poker room with Texas Hold’em games, the Bad Beat Jackpot, and more.

In October 2022, Hollywood Casino Aurora announced its intentions to move onto land near I-88 and Farnsworth Avenue, adjacent to the Chicago Premium Outlets. Construction is expected to start in late 2023, and the new casino resort will feature 220 hotel rooms, a retail sportsbook, an events center, an outdoor entertainment area, and multiple restaurants.

Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino

• Address: 21 Blackjack Blvd, East Peoria, IL 61611
• Phone Number: (309) 699-7711

Par-A-Dice Casino is located on the Illinois River in East Peoria, and it opened all the way back in 1991. The riverboat casino offers more than 550 slot machines and 18 table games, including blackjack, baccarat, roulette, craps, and more. In addition, the casino is home to FanDuel Par-A-Dice Sportsbook, where sports betting enthusiasts can place straight bets, parlays, teasers, and many other types of wagers on all their favorite sports and leagues.

Rivers Casino Des Plaines

• Address: 3000 S River Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60018
• Phone Number: (847) 795-0777

Jointly owned by Churchill Downs Incorporated and Rush Street Gaming, Rivers Casino Des Plaines is a premier gambling establishment located in Des Plaines, Illinois. It is situated near the Des Plaines River, offering a scenic backdrop for visitors. Rivers Casino Des Plaines is home to Chicago’s hottest gaming action and features a 78,000-square-foot casino floor with over 1,500 slots and a wide range of table games.

What Other Forms of Gambling Are Legal in Illinois?

In addition to land-based casinos, there are several other legal forms of gambling offered in the Prairie State. Here are each of the options currently available in Illinois:

Sports Betting

Sports betting was legalized in Illinois in 2019 under the Sports Wagering Act, which gave the green light to both retail and online sportsbooks. Bettors who are at least 21 years old can place wagers on a wide range of professional and college sporting events, including football, basketball, baseball, hockey, soccer, and much more.

There are currently seven online sportsbooks authorized to offer mobile sports betting in the state of Illinois: Barstool, BetMGM, BetRivers, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, and PointsBet. In addition, there are more than a dozen retail sportsbooks located in Alton, Cicero, East St. Louis, Joliet, and many other cities across the state.

Horse Racing

Horse racing has a long-standing tradition in Illinois, and it is legal and regulated in the state. Illinois is home to several racetracks, including Arlington International Racecourse, Fairmount Park Racetrack, and Hawthorne Race Course. These tracks offer live horse racing events where spectators can watch and place wagers on the races.

In addition to live racing, Illinois has off-track betting (OTB) facilities where individuals can bet on races from other tracks across the country. This allows people to enjoy horse racing and betting even when there are no live races taking place in Illinois. Lastly, horse racing enthusiasts have the option to use advance-deposit wagering (ADW) sites, such as TwinSpires and FanDuel Racing, to place wagers online from anywhere in the state.

Daily Fantasy Sports

An Illinois Supreme Court decision in May 2020 confirmed the legality of certain formats of daily fantasy sports (DFS) in the state. The ruling clarified that DFS contests, where participants create virtual teams and compete based on the performance of real athletes, are considered games of skill rather than games of chance. This distinction is important because games of skill are generally exempt from the state’s gambling laws.

As a result, Illinois residents who are at least 18 years or older have the option to sign up and enter a variety of paid contests with DraftKings, FanDuel, Underdog Fantasy, OwnersBox, and many other popular DFS platforms. Players can test their skills against other participants and have the chance to win their share of huge prize pools based on the performance of their virtual teams.

Illinois Lottery

The Illinois Lottery is a state-run program that offers various games to residents aged 18 and above. These games include scratch-off tickets, draw games such as Powerball and Mega Millions, Lotto, Lucky Day Lotto, and Pick 3 and Pick 4.

Scratch-off tickets offer instant prizes, while draw games involve purchasing tickets and waiting for the draw to determine if you’ve won. Players can choose their numbers or opt for quick-pick options where the numbers are randomly generated. The revenue generated from lottery ticket sales is used to fund education and capital projects in the state.

Charitable Gaming

Illinois permits certain forms of charitable gaming to be conducted by qualified organizations. This includes activities like raffles, pull tabs, jar games, and bingo. Charitable gaming allows nonprofit and charitable organizations to raise funds for their causes, and organizations interested in conducting charitable gaming must comply with specific regulations and licensing requirements to ensure transparency and fairness in the operation.

How To Sign Up & Start Playing Casino Games in Illinois

Tips & Tricks for Illinois Casino Players

While there is no foolproof method to guarantee big winnings during casino play, there are plenty of strategies to use and guidelines to follow to increase your chances of success. Here are the best tips and tricks for Illinois casino players:

• Understand the Games: Take the time to learn the rules and strategies of the casino games you plan to play. Familiarize yourself with the odds, payout rates, and any specific rules or variations. This knowledge can increase your chances of making informed decisions and potentially improve your overall experience.
• Use Basic Strategy Guides: If you enjoy playing games like blackjack, use basic strategy guides. These guides provide optimal playing decisions based on mathematical calculations. By following a basic strategy, you can maximize your chances of winning and minimize mistakes during gameplay.
• Seek High RTP Games: Look for games with a high Return to Player (RTP) percentage. RTP represents the average percentage of wagered money that is returned to players over time. Games with higher RTPs offer better long-term winning potential. Research the RTPs of various games and focus on those with favorable percentages.
• Avoid Chasing Your Losses: It’s important to maintain a healthy mindset while playing casino games. Avoid the temptation to chase losses by increasing your bets or playing longer than planned. Set a loss limit and be prepared to walk away if you reach it. Remember, gambling should be for entertainment, and it’s essential to approach it with a balanced perspective.
• Explore VIP Programs: If you’re a seasoned casino player, inquire about VIP or high-roller programs. These programs cater to players who frequently visit and wager significant amounts. VIP benefits can include personalized services, exclusive events, enhanced rewards, and dedicated hosts. Take advantage of the perks available to valued players.
• Network & Share Experiences: Engage with fellow players and participate in casino forums or communities. Sharing experiences, strategies, and insights with like-minded individuals can enhance your knowledge and potentially lead to valuable information or tips.

Illinois Online Casino FAQ