Minnesota Sports Betting & Sportsbooks - How To Bet In Minnesota
Updated April 23, 2026
Updated April 23, 2026
Welcome to your ultimate guide to Minnesota sports betting. If you're eager to get in on the action and ready to join the exciting world of sports wagering, you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll provide everything you need to know about sports betting in the North Star State, including the legal landscape, top sportsbooks, latest news, and much more!
The Professional & Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) of 1992 was overturned by the Supreme Court in May 2018, removing a federal ban on sports betting and allowing U.S. states to decide for themselves whether or not they would legalize the practice within their borders.
Many states acted quickly, introducing new legislation or amending their constitution to authorize online or retail sports betting. Today, more than two-thirds of U.S. states have legalized sports betting in some capacity. Unfortunately, Minnesota is not one of them, despite the considerable efforts of state legislators in recent years.
While sports betting remains unavailable, there are several forms of legal gambling in the state of Minnesota. There are currently 18 tribal casinos scattered all over the state as well as two racetracks (Canterbury Park in Shakopee and Running Aces Casino & Racetrack in Columbus), which each offer on-track betting and simulcast wagering. A state lottery and various forms of charitable gambling are also offered.
It is currently unknown when sports betting will become legal in the state of Minnesota, but many state officials and industry experts believe a launch in late 2024 or early 2025 is very much in the realm of possibility.
After House Bill 778 (which would have allowed up to 11 mobile sportsbook operators in Minnesota) came close to passing in 2022, many believed that 2023 would be the year that sports betting would finally become legal across the state. However, the 2023 Minnesota legislative came to an end in late May, and lawmakers failed to add Minnesota to the list of over 30 U.S. states with legal sports betting options.
Representative Zack Stephenson introduced a new sports betting bill in February 2023, and it appeared to have widespread support across the Minnesota Senate and House of Representatives. Unfortunately, the bill fell short, as time ran out before an agreement could be reached concerning the revenue-sharing model between the state's tribal casinos and racetracks. As a result, sports betting legislation will not be passed until at least 2024, when Minnesota lawmakers reconvene for their next session.
Although sports betting is not yet legal in Minnesota, it's worth exploring a few of the top U.S. sportsbooks that may look to launch in the state in the near future. Here are a few of the most likely candidates:
DraftKings Sportsbook is one of the biggest names in the U.S. sports betting industry. It offers a wide range of betting options, including an unmatched selection of alternative lines and totals. Users will also get to enjoy features like in-game betting and early cash-out options. With its user-friendly interface and reliable platform, DraftKings Sportsbook provides an exciting and convenient experience for all customers.
BetRivers Sportsbook is an online sports betting platform operated by Rush Street Interactive. It is available in states all over the country and offers a comprehensive selection of sports betting markets. BetRivers provides competitive odds, various bet types, and a user-friendly interface. The platform also features live betting options, regular promotions, and a loyalty program for its users.
Tipico Sportsbook is an established international sports betting brand that has expanded its operations to the United States. It offers a unique blend of European betting expertise and a user-friendly interface tailored to American bettors. Tipico provides competitive odds, a wide variety of sports betting markets, and a focus on simplicity and accessibility.
Unibet Sportsbook is a global sports betting brand that has gained popularity in the United States as well. The platform offers a wide range of sports betting options, including popular leagues and events from around the world. Unibet provides competitive odds, live betting options, and a user-friendly interface. The platform also offers promotions, bonuses, and a mobile app for easy betting on the go.
Until sports betting legislation passes in the state, Minnesota bettors will not have a whole lot of ways to get in on the action. However, you're not completely out of luck. Here are a few of the different options available today:
Offshore sportsbooks are online betting platforms that are based outside of the United States. They operate in jurisdictions where sports betting may be legal or have different regulations. These platforms offer betting opportunities on various sports events and cater to bettors from Minnesota and all other U.S. states.
However, it's essential to be aware that using offshore sportsbooks may come with risks, such as legal uncertainties and potential issues with customer protection. Individuals interested in using offshore sportsbooks should exercise caution and thoroughly research the platform's reputation and credibility before engaging in any betting activities.
Minnesota allows daily fantasy sports (DFS) to exist in a legal gray area, as there is no law allowing or prohibiting these types of platforms. As a result, Minnesota residents have access to all the top DFS sites, including DraftKings, FanDuel, Underdog Fantasy, and OwnersBox. These platforms give players a chance to draft teams in a number of different sports (football, basketball, baseball, etc.), enter a wide range of contests, and compete for their share of substantial prize pools.
Betting on horse racing is also legal in the state of Minnesota. The state is home to two racetracks (Canterbury Park and Running Aces Casino & Racetrack), each of which offers pari-mutuel wagering on live races as well as simulcast wagering on races taking place all over the country. In addition, horse racing betting sites (AmWager, TVG, etc.) are available and can be used to place bets online from anywhere in the state.
Lastly, bettors have the option to place wagers online or in person when they visit other U.S. states that have legalized sports betting. Fortunately, Minnesota is surrounded by states that have launched online or retail sportsbooks within their borders. Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin are all viable options and may offer exactly what you're looking for.
Unfortunately, no online or retail sportsbooks are currently authorized to operate in the state of Minnesota. However, Minnesota sports bettors will always have the option to visit neighboring states to place bets online or in person. North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Iowa all border Minnesota and offer sports betting in some capacity.
Iowa legalized sports betting in May 2019 and accepted its first wager in August of the same year. As the only one of Minnesota's neighboring states that offers mobile sports betting, Iowa is the best option for those who live in the southern half of Minnesota or are willing to take an extended road trip to place their bets. There are currently 19 online sportsbooks available in the state, including DraftKings, FanDuel, bet365, and many others.
Minnesota residents will also have the option to visit North Dakota and place in-person bets at three of the state's tribal casinos: Dakota Magic Casino in Hankinson, 4 Bears Casino & Lodge in New Town, and Sky Dancer Casino & Resort in Belcourt. Sky Dancer Casino & Resort is the closest location to Minnesota and offers plenty of self-service kiosks that allow you to place bets on all your favorite sports and leagues.
South Dakota is another potential option for Minnesota sports bettors. You can head to BetKota at The Midnight Star, Tin Lizzie Gaming Resort, Gold Dust Casino & Hotel, or several other locations in Deadwood to make in-person wagers on a wide range of sporting events. In addition, you can visit either of the two tribal casinos that also offer retail sports betting: Dakota Connection Casino in Sisseton or Dakota Sioux Casino and Hotel in Watertown.
Last but not least, Wisconsin offers in-person wagering opportunities to both residents and visitors. Tribal casinos that offer sports betting are available in Milwaukee, Green Bay, and several other cities across the state. Minnesota bettors can visit any of Wisconsin's retail sportsbooks to place wagers on both collegiate and professional sporting events, with the only exception being games involving Wisconsin schools.
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While you may not be able to place wagers in the state just yet, the vibrant sports scene in Minnesota is certainly worth exploring. A few of the state's most popular teams are discussed below.
The NFL's Minnesota Vikings have a dedicated following across the state. The team's purple and gold colors are instantly recognizable, and their iconic Norseman logo represents the team's fierce and proud spirit. With their games played at U.S. Bank Stadium in downtown Minneapolis, the Vikings create an electric atmosphere that draws in fans from all corners of the state.
Despite not yet securing a Super Bowl championship, the team's consistent presence in the playoffs and the excitement surrounding their games have made them a beloved and popular choice among Minnesota sports fans.
The NBA's Minnesota Timberwolves play their home games at the Target Center, located in downtown Minneapolis. While they have had their ups and downs over the years, the Timberwolves have had some notable successes.
In the 2003-2004 season, they reached the Western Conference Finals, marking their deepest playoff run to date. The team has featured plenty of talented players over the years, such as Kevin Garnett, Kevin Love, and Karl-Anthony Towns, who have made significant contributions to the franchise.
The Minnesota Twins, a professional baseball team also based in Minneapolis, hold a special place in the hearts of Minnesotans. The Twins' history dates back to 1901, and they have won the World Series three times over the years. The team's games at Target Field in downtown Minneapolis offer a fantastic experience for fans, with its open-air design and scenic views.
The Twins' navy blue, red, and white colors are proudly displayed by fans who fill the stadium, creating a lively and supportive atmosphere. The team's resilience and commitment to community engagement have helped solidify their popularity, making them a beloved symbol of baseball in Minnesota.
The state's most popular college sports program is the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers, who compete at the Division I level as a member of the Big Ten Conference. The Golden Gophers have a wide range of sports teams, but football and basketball are among the most popular.
The University of Minnesota football team has a long history dating back to 1882. They have won seven national championships and 18 conference titles over the years. The team plays its home games at Huntington Bank Stadium, located on the university's campus in Minneapolis.
While you wait for sports betting to become available in the state of Minnesota, you can use this time to learn the general guidelines to follow and the best strategies to implement to set yourself up for long-term success. Here are some tips and tricks for Minnesota sports bettors:
Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Minnesota?
No, online sports betting is not yet legal in the state of Minnesota. However, it is expected that this will change in the upcoming years.
What Are the Best Minnesota Sportsbooks?
Since Minnesota has not yet legalized sports betting, there are currently no online sportsbooks available in the state. That said, DraftKings, BetRivers, Tipico, and Unibet Sportsbook are a few of the best U.S. sportsbooks that are likely candidates to enter the Minnesota online betting market when an opportunity arises.
Can I Use Offshore Sportsbooks To Bet in Minnesota?
Offshore sportsbooks operate outside the jurisdiction of state and federal laws. As a result, they are a viable option for Minnesota sports bettors. However, it is important to understand these types of platforms carry certain risks, such as a lack of consumer protection or data and privacy breaches.
Is Daily Fantasy Sports Legal in Minnesota?
Daily fantasy sports (DFS) exists in Minnesota without any official legislation. In other words, the state allows DFS sites to operate within its borders, despite there being no laws that specifically permit these types of platforms. As a result, Minnesota residents will have the opportunity to sign up and enter contests with DraftKings, FanDuel, Underdog Fantasy, and many of the other top DFS apps.
Can I Use a VPN To Bet on Sports in Minnesota?
Yes, you can potentially use a virtual private network (VPN) to spoof your location and place bets from a state where sports betting is not yet legal. That said, we highly discourage you from doing so, as you will typically get your account banned and have to forfeit all winnings once your sportsbook finds out.