Welcome to your ultimate guide for Massachusetts online casinos! Are you ready to explore the exciting world of online casino gaming in the Bay State? Get ready for an immersive experience filled with thrilling slots, classic table games, and the chance to win big from the comfort of your own home.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Massachusetts casinos, including the legal landscape, top platforms, game options, best strategies, and more. By the time we’re finished, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on a thrilling online casino adventure in your home state. Now, let’s dive right in!
Are Online Casinos Legal in Massachusetts?
As of November 2024, online casino gambling is prohibited in the state of Massachusetts. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission does not issues licenses to real-money online casinos, and these types of platforms are not yet authorized to operate in the Bay State. There are currently only two legal forms of online gambling available in Massachusetts: sports betting with licensed mobile sportsbooks and pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing with licensed advance-deposit wagering (ADW) sites.
However, Massachusetts casino enthusiasts still have several different ways to get in on the action. Today, the state has two full-scale retail casinos (Encore Boston Harbor and MGM Springfield), which operate under Category 1 licenses and are permitted to offer both slot machines and table games. The state also features one slots parlor (Plainridge Park Casino), which operates under a Category 2 license and is allowed to offer up to 1,250 slot machines but no table games.
In addition, sweepstakes casinos are completely legal in Massachusetts. These free-to-play platforms do not offer real-money wagering but instead use an innovative sweepstakes model that allows users to play a variety of casino-style games for a chance to win real cash prizes. Sweepstakes casinos are a fantastic alternative to real-money online casinos and are discussed in further detail in the next section.
Different Types of Massachusetts Casinos
Massachusetts casinos can be organized into three distinct categories: real-money online casinos, social and sweepstakes casinos, and land-based casinos. The major similarities and differences between these types of casinos, as well as their current availability in the state of Massachusetts, are covered below.
Real-Money Online Casinos
Real-money online casinos are internet-based platforms where players can wager and win real money through various casino games. Players can sign up, deposit funds using secure payment methods, and play a wide range of games such as slots, table games, live dealer games, and more. Real-money online casinos offer a realistic casino experience and often provide bonuses, promotions, and loyalty programs to attract and retain players.
Unfortunately, these types of platforms are not yet available in Massachusetts. Although the industry has seen tremendous growth in recent years, there are currently only seven U.S. states in which online casino gambling is legal and regulated: Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia.
As a result, residents of the Bay State will need to either visit one of the states that offer traditional online casinos or wait until new gambling legislation is passed in order to participate.
Social & Sweepstakes Casinos
Social casinos and sweepstakes casinos are virtual platforms that offer a similar experience to real-money online casinos (i.e., thrilling gameplay on your computer, tablet, or mobile device from anywhere with an internet connection). However, unlike traditional online casinos, social casinos and sweepstakes casinos do not require an initial deposit or payment of any kind, and users will not have to risk their hard-earned money to play the games offered on the site.
Both social and sweepstakes casinos are completely legal in the state of Massachusetts and are a great option for anyone 18 years or older. Although the terms are often used interchangeably, social casinos and sweepstakes casinos have a few important differences that should be discussed.
Social casinos primarily focus on providing an entertaining gaming experience, as players can enjoy a wide range of casino games using virtual currency or virtual chips. These platforms emphasize social interaction, allowing players to connect with friends, share achievements, and compete for the top spot on leaderboards. Any winnings or rewards obtained in social casinos are typically in the form of additional virtual currency or non-cash prizes.
On the other hand, sweepstakes casinos offer the opportunity to win real cash prizes through sweepstakes promotions. While no purchase or deposit is required to participate, players can enter sweepstakes by playing the casino games and meeting specific eligibility criteria. Sweepstakes casinos operate within the legal framework of sweepstakes laws and regulations, ensuring fair participation and prize distribution.
Land-Based Casinos
Land-based casinos are physical establishments where players can gamble in person. These casinos typically offer slots, table games, and poker rooms as well as amenities such as restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues to create a lively and immersive atmosphere for visitors. In addition, they employ trained staff, including dealers and security personnel, to ensure the smooth operation of games and maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for players.
In-person casino gambling was unavailable in Massachusetts for many years. However, in November 2011, Governor Deval Patrick signed the Expanded Gaming Act into law, allowing up to three destination casino resorts and a single slots facility to open in the state. Since then, several casinos have opened in Massachusetts, including the Encore Boston Harbor in Everett, MGM Springfield in Springfield, and Plainridge Park Casino in Plainville (which operates as a slots parlor).
In addition, Massachusetts currently has two federally-recognized Native American tribes seeking either federal approval or state licensing to build a casino on their lands. The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe plans to open First Light Casino & Resort in Taunton, while the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head intends to open Aquinnah Cliffs Casino in Aquinnah. However, it is currently unknown when these locations will officially open to the public, as ongoing legal challenges have prolonged the process and created uncertainty about the timeline.
List Of The Best Massachusetts Social & Sweepstakes Casinos?
All of the most popular U.S. social casinos and sweepstakes casinos are currently available in the state of Massachusetts. A few of the best platforms to consider joining are discussed below!
BetRivers.net
- Available States: All 50 U.S. States
- Best Feature: Plenty of Table Games & Live Dealer Games
- Full Review: BetRivers.net Review
Owned and operated by Rush Street Interactive (RSI), BetRivers.net is one of the top social casinos in the United States and Canada. The platform provides an extensive selection of table games and live dealer games, and all new players will receive a fantastic sign-up bonus to help them get off to a great start on the site. In addition, BetRivers.net offers excellent customer service, ensuring all questions and concerns are addressed in a timely manner.
Golden Hearts Games
- Available States: All 50 U.S. States
- Best Feature: Charitable Component Involved
- Full Review: Golden Hearts Games Review
Another popular option is Golden Hearts Games, which launched in August 2020 and offers an online gaming experience like no other. Players will have access to 24/7 bingo games, which begin every 10 minutes and offer a wide range of jackpot prizes. Golden Hearts Games also gives users an opportunity to raise money for the charity of their choice while also playing for a chance to win real cash prizes and digital gift cards.
MyJackpot.com
- Available States: All 50 U.S. States
- Best Feature: Fantastic Customer Rewards Program
- Full Review: MyJackpot.com Review
MyJackpot.com is owned by Whow Games, a leading developer of online social games based in Germany, and provides all the benefits of a real-money online casino without the financial risk. This includes exciting bonus opportunities, premium software, and thrilling gameplay. It is also worth mentioning that MyJackpot.com has one of the best customer loyalty programs among social casinos, guaranteeing players will be properly rewarded for their consistent play and dedication to the site.
WOW Vegas
- Available States: 47 of 50 U.S. States (all but ID, NV, & WA)
- Best Feature: User-Friendly & Reliable Website
- Full Review: WOW Vegas Review
WOW Vegas was launched by Wow Entertainment Limited in 2021 and has quickly become one of the top sweepstakes casinos throughout all of North America. The platform provides over 300 casino-style games from some of the top software developers in the industry, including 3 Oaks, Betsoft, and Pragmatic Play. WOW Vegas also has a user-friendly website, allowing players to easily navigate between different categories of games and promotional offers.
List Of Real-Money Online Casinos in Massachusetts’ Neighboring States
Although real-money online casinos are not yet available in Massachusetts, they are legal and currently operating in several nearby states. Massachusetts residents will always have the option to visit Connecticut, New Jersey, or Pennsylvania to experience the thrill and excitement offered by these types of platforms and get a sneak peek at what will become available should the state ever pass new legislation allowing online casino gambling. Here are a few of the top U.S. real-money online casinos:
DraftKings Casino
- Available States: CT, MI, NJ, PA, & WA
- Best Feature: Frequent Bonuses & Promotions
- Full Review: DraftKings Casino Review
DraftKings Casino is an online casino platform operated by DraftKings, a well-known name in the sports betting and daily fantasy sports industry. The casino offers a variety of games, including slots, table games, and live dealer games, providing players with an immersive gambling experience. With a user-friendly interface, generous promotions, and a reputation for innovation, DraftKings Casino has become a popular choice for those looking to enjoy casino games from the comfort of their own homes.
FanDuel Casino
- Available States: MI, NJ, PA, & WA
- Best Feature: Top-Tier Mobile App
- Full Review: FanDuel Casino Review
FanDuel Casino is another popular real-money online casino in the United States. With a strong emphasis on user experience, FanDuel Casino provides a seamless and visually appealing gaming environment. Players can enjoy a wide array of games, accompanied by exclusive promotions and bonuses, making FanDuel Casino an enticing destination for those seeking thrilling online casino entertainment.
Party Casino
- Available States: NJ
- Best Feature: Excellent Selection of Slots
- Full Review: Party Casino Review
Operated by GVC Holdings, Party Casino offers a diverse selection of casino games, including slots, table games, and live dealer options, providing players with a comprehensive gambling experience. With its user-friendly interface, attractive graphics, and exciting promotions, Party Casino aims to create an enjoyable and immersive gaming environment for residents of New Jersey looking for online casino entertainment.
Wheel of Fortune Casino
- Available States: NJ
- Best Feature: Amazing Customer Service
- Full Review: Wheel of Fortune Casino Review
Based on the iconic American game show, Wheel of Fortune Casino launched in March 2023 and has quickly become a premier online gaming destination for residents of the Garden State. The platform provides plenty of virtual slots with a wide range of themes, catering to the diverse preferences of online casino players. Additionally, Wheel of Fortune Casino accepts a variety of payment methods and offers excellent customer service.
List Of Massachusetts Land-Based Casinos
As previously mentioned, there are three commercial casinos currently operating in the state of Massachusetts: Encore Boston Harbor, MGM Springfield, and Plainridge Park Casino. Further information about each of these premier gaming destinations is provided below!
Encore Boston Harbor
- Address: 1 Broadway, Everett, MA 02149
- Phone Number: (857) 770-7000
Owned by Realty Income and operated by Wynn Resorts, Encore Boston Harbor is a luxury casino and resort in Everett that opened in June 2019. Visitors will enjoy over 2,700 slot machines, 185 table games, 24 poker tables, and much more. In addition, the casino includes a state-of-the-art WynnBET Sportsbook and over 100 self-service sports betting kiosks conveniently located across the property.
MGM Springfield
- Address: One MGM Way, Springfield, MA 01103
- Phone Number: (413) 273-5000
MGM Springfield is a hotel and casino complex owned by Vici Properties and operated by MGM Resorts International. It first opened its doors in August 2018 and currently offers over 125,000 square feet of total gaming space, including over 2,500 slot machines, 120 table games, a high-limit room, and a poker room with 23 tables. The casino is open 24/7 and also features multiple dining options, a BetMGM Sportsbook, a bowling alley, and a Topgolf Swing Suite.
Plainridge Park Casino
- Address: 301 Washington St, Plainville, MA 02762
- Phone Number: (508) 576-4500
Plainridge Park Casino is a harness racing track and slot machine parlor in Plainville, Massachusetts. The casino is owned by Gaming and Leisure Properties and operated by Penn Entertainment, and it provides over 1200 of the newest slots, video poker, & electronic table games. Plainridge Park Casino is located just minutes from Providence, Rhode Island and Boston, Massachusetts and conveniently located off I-495.
What Other Forms of Gambling Are Legal in Massachusetts?
In addition to land-based casinos, there are several other legal forms of gambling offered in Massachusetts. Here is a general overview of the options currently available to residents and visitors of the Bay State:
Sports Betting
Sports betting was officially legalized in Massachusetts in August 2022 when Governor Charlie Baker signed House Bill 5164 into law. Retail sports betting launched in January 2023, and mobile sports betting became available just two months later in March. There are currently eight online sportsbooks licensed and operating in the Bay State (Barstool, BetMGM, betr, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, Fanatics, and WynnBet), with additional platforms expected to launch in the near future.
In addition, in-person wagering on sporting events is available at all three Massachusetts land-based casinos and will soon be offered at two of the state’s off-track betting facilities (Raynham Park and Suffolk Downs). Anyone who is 21 years or older can place bets on both professional and college sporting events in the state of Massachusetts. However, wagers on games involving in-state schools, such as Boston College or UMass, are prohibited, except when they are competing in tournaments.
Horse Racing
Pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing is legal in the state of Massachusetts for anyone who is 18 years or older. Bets can be made on races taking place all over the country by visiting any of the state’s simulcast wagering facilities or using licensed advance-deposit wagering (ADW) sites, such as TwinSpires, FanDuel Racing, or Caesars Racebook. Wagers can also be placed at Plainridge Racecourse in Plainville on live races that typically take place from April to December every year.
Daily Fantasy Sports
Daily fantasy sports (DFS) contests have been legal in Massachusetts since 2016. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission is tasked with regulating the industry to ensure fair play and responsible gambling practices, and all DFS operators are required to register with the commission before accepting participants from the state.
DraftKings, FanDuel, Underdog Fantasy, ParlayPlay, and many other popular DFS sites and apps are available in the Bay State, and residents currently have access to a wide range of daily fantasy sports contests and competitions that offer a chance to win huge cash prizes.
Massachusetts Lottery
The Massachusetts Lottery is a state-operated lottery system that offers various games of chance for residents to play and potentially win cash prizes. It was established in 1971 and offers a wide range of games, including draw games (Megabucks Doubler, Mass Cash, Numbers Game, etc.) and instant-win scratch tickets. Players can purchase tickets from authorized retailers throughout the state, and the proceeds support various programs, such as education, public health, and local aid.
Charitable Gaming
Lastly, Massachusetts allows non-profit organizations to offer certain forms of charitable gambling (such as raffles, bingo games, and casino nights) to raise funds for charitable, religious, educational, or community-based initiatives. These activities are regulated by the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office to ensure compliance with state laws.
How To Sign Up & Start Playing Casino Games in Massachusetts
Time needed: 7 minutes
Are you ready to sign up and start playing all your favorite casino games for a chance to win cash, digital gift cards, and other incredible prizes? Just follow the steps provided below!
- Choose Your Massachusetts Sweepstakes Casino
Research and select a reputable sweepstakes casino that operates in Massachusetts. Make sure it is a legitimate platform that complies with sweepstakes laws and regulations. We highly recommend BetRivers.net, Golden Hearts Games, MyJackpot.com, and WOW Vegas. These platforms offer a wide range of games and generous welcome offers to all new players.
- Sign Up for an Account
Visit the website of your chosen sweepstakes casino and locate the “Sign Up” or “Create Account” button. Click on it to begin the registration process. You will be prompted to provide necessary information such as your name, email address, and date of birth. Fill in the required details accurately, choose your username and password, and agree to the Terms & Conditions to finish creating your account.
- Complete the Account Verification Process
After signing up, the sweepstakes casino may require you to verify your account. This is typically done by clicking on a verification link sent to the email address you provided during registration. In some cases, you will also need to upload a picture of your driver’s license or state ID to confirm your age and identity. Follow the specific instructions provided by your Massachusetts sweepstakes casino to complete the account verification process.
- Claim Your Sign-Up Bonus
Once you finish signing up and verifying your account, you will instantly receive a sign-up bonus from your casino in the form of virtual credits or tokens. This bonus can be used to play any of the casino games offered and will help you get off to a fantastic start on the site.
- Start Playing Games & Winning Prizes
With your account set up and the sign-up bonus claimed, you can now start exploring the sweepstakes casino’s game offerings. Sweepstakes casinos typically provide a variety of casino-style games, such as slots, blackjack, poker, and more. Play the games using the virtual currency provided by your sweepstakes casino and try your luck to win real prizes. Good luck!
Tips and Tricks for Massachusetts Casino Players
While there is no foolproof way to guarantee big winnings while playing casino games online or at land-based casinos, there are plenty of general guidelines to follow and useful strategies to implement to increase your chances of success. Here are the best tips and tricks for Massachusetts casino players:
- Understand the Games: Before playing any casino game, take the time to learn the rules and strategies. Familiarize yourself with the game’s odds, payouts, and any specific rules that may apply.
- Set a Budget: Determine how much money you are willing to spend on gambling and stick to that budget. Avoid chasing losses by betting more than you can afford to lose.
- Take Advantage of Promotions: If you’re playing online, explore the various bonuses and promotions offered by different casinos. These can provide you with extra funds to play with and increase your chances of winning.
- Practice With Free Games: Many online casinos offer free versions of popular games where you can practice and improve your skills without risking any real money. Use this opportunity to familiarize yourself with the games and develop strategies.
- Take Breaks: Whether you’re playing online or at a physical casino, it’s essential to take regular breaks. Stretch, hydrate, and give yourself time to relax. This helps maintain focus and prevents fatigue, which can lead to poor decision-making.
- Join Loyalty Programs: If you frequent a specific casino, consider joining their loyalty program. These programs often provide perks, rewards, and special offers that can enhance your overall casino experience.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest news and developments in the gambling industry, both online and in Massachusetts. This includes changes in regulations, new game releases, and emerging trends.
Massachusetts Online Casino FAQ
No, real-money online casinos are not yet legal in Massachusetts. It is currently unknown if or when online casino gambling will become available in the Bay State.
Yes! There are currently three land-based casinos operating in Massachusetts: Encore Boston Harbor, MGM Springfield, and Plainridge Park Casino.
Yes! Social and sweepstakes casinos are completely legal in the state of Massachusetts and are a fantastic alternative to real-money online casinos, which are not yet available in the Bay State. We highly recommend the following platforms: BetRivers.net, Golden Hearts Games, MyJackpot.com, and WOW Vegas.
Land-based casinos in Massachusetts require individuals to be 21 years or older to participate. On the other hand, social and sweepstakes casinos in the state of Massachusetts typically only require players to be at least 18 years of age.
No, you cannot use offshore casinos in Massachusetts. Offshore online casinos are not legally permitted in Massachusetts. The state has its own regulations and licensing process for casinos and gambling establishments, and offshore casinos do not comply with these regulations.