Are you ready to join the exciting world of Rhode Island sports betting? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll equip you with all the knowledge and information you’ll need to get started. We’ll explore the Ocean State’s sports betting legal landscape, take a closer look at the sportsbooks currently operating in the state, and walk you through the steps you can take to start betting today!
Is Sports Betting Legal in Rhode Island?
A little-known fact about sports betting in the United States is that the smallest state in the country was among the first to legalize the practice. The state of Rhode Island launched retail sports betting in November 2018, just six months after the Professional & Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) of 1992 was overturned by the US Supreme Court.
Not long after, Rhode Island decided to take the next step and allow online and mobile sports betting across the state. Sportsbook Rhode Island went live in September 2019, allowing wagers to be placed online or via mobile app from anywhere in the state. A product of the Rhode Island Lottery, Sportsbook RI was developed through collaborations with International Game Technology (IGT) and William Hill.
As a result, both online and in-person sports betting is available in the Ocean State. Sportsbook RI remains the state’s only mobile operator, with additional online sportsbooks unlikely to gain access to the Rhode Island market anytime soon. In addition, retail sports betting is currently available at Bally’s Twin River Casino Resort in Lincoln and Bally’s Tiverton Casino & Hotel.
Rhode Island Sports Betting Rules & Regulations
The Rhode Island sports betting rules and regulations are fairly simple, but there are a few important things you’ll need to keep in mind.
- You must be at least 18 years or older to participate in sports betting in the state of Rhode Island.
- Online wagering is available, but you’ll need to be physically located within state lines to place bets. Sportsbook Rhode Island will use geolocation technology to determine the location of your mobile device, laptop, or desktop computer.
- In-person betting is also available but only at approved retail sports betting locations (Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino Resort and Bally’s Tiverton Casino & Hotel).
- Both college and professional sporting events are available for betting, but you cannot place wagers on in-state schools. As a result, the Providence Friars and Rhode Island Rams are both off-limits.
- Rhode Island became a remote registration state in July 2020, meaning you can register for an account with Sportsbook RI online, make your first deposit, and start placing bets from the comfort of your home.
What Are the Best Rhode Island Sportsbooks & Betting Sites?
Rhode Island sports bettors are currently limited to just one online sportsbook: Sportsbook RI. Three other states (Montana, New Hampshire, and Oregon) have also opted for the monopoly mobile betting model. Although it is technically possible for Rhode Island to do a 180 and approve new legislation that would allow multiple online sports betting platforms to operate in the state, it is highly unlikely.
Sportsbook Rhode Island
Sportsbook Rhode Island has plenty of great features, but it leaves a lot to be desired in a few important areas. Let’s start with the good. The Sportsbook RI website and mobile app are very user-friendly, ensuring you’ll have no problem navigating between different betting options.
The platform covers a wide range of markets, including the most popular American leagues (e.g., NBA, NFL, MLB, and NHL) as well as niche sports (cycling, darts, etc.). In addition, you’ll get to choose from a variety of different bet types, such as point spreads, moneylines, totals, player props, parlays, futures, Round Robins, and more. In-game betting options are also available.
The first major downside of Sportsbook RI is the lack of a welcome offer or sign-up bonus. Unlike the biggest names in the world of sports betting (e.g., DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, and BetMGM), Sportsbook Rhode Island does not provide first-bet insurance, free bets, deposit matches, or new player bonus offers of any kind.
Additionally, there are just a few payment options accepted (debit card, ACH transfer, and Apple Pay), and 24/7 customer service is not offered. Overall, Sportsbook Rhode Island is a solid option for Rhode Island bettors, but there are a few apparent shortcomings and areas for improvement that are likely the result of a lack of competition in the market.
Other Mobile Sportsbooks
Although Sportsbook RI will remain the state’s only mobile sportsbooks for the foreseeable future, many of the top U.S. sportsbooks may look to launch their platform in the Ocean State if an opportunity should ever arise.
DraftKings Sportsbook currently maintains a monopoly on online sports betting in New Hampshire and could potentially work its way into Rhode Island at some point. The industry giant provides a fantastic mobile app as well as a wide range of betting markets to all customers, making it an appealing option to users all over the country.
Another great option is FanDuel Sportsbook, which is live in other New England states such as Connecticut and Massachusetts. FanDuel provides a generous welcome offer to all new players, has some of the best odds in the business, and offers excellent customer service. If Rhode Island ever was to expand its online betting market, FanDuel could very well be an interested party.
How Can I Bet on Sports in Rhode Island?
Sports betting enthusiasts in Rhode Island have plenty of different options available to them. Listed and explained below are some of the opportunities currently being offered in the Ocean State.
Online Sportsbooks
As previously mentioned, Sportsbook Rhode Island offers online betting to anyone physically located in the state. Those who are 18 years or older can sign up for an account, make a deposit, and start betting on all their favorite teams and leagues from the comfort of their home. Unfortunately, Sportsbook RI is the only mobile sportsbook authorized to operate within state lines, so you will not be able to place bets with DraftKings, FanDuel, or any of the other top U.S. sportsbooks.
Retail Sportsbooks
If you’re looking for an exciting in-person wagering experience, you can visit these Rhode Island casinos; Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino Resort or Bally’s Tiverton Casino & Hotel. Bally’s Twin River Casino is located in the northern part of Rhode Island, just a short drive away from Providence, Cranston, and Warwick. Meanwhile, Bally’s Tiverton Casino & Hotel is a great option for those who live in the southeastern part of the state.
Daily Fantasy Sports
Another enticing option is daily fantasy sports (DFS), which are currently legal under Rhode Island law. DraftKings, FanDuel, OwnersBox, ParlayPlay, Underdog Fantasy, and many other DFS platforms are available in the state and present a unique alternative to traditional sports betting. Anyone who is 18 years or older can start drafting teams and entering a wide range of contests for a chance to win huge cash prizes.
Offshore Sportsbooks
Offshore sportsbooks are online sports betting platforms that operate outside the jurisdiction of Rhode Island or the United States. For Rhode Island bettors, offshore sportsbooks provide an alternative option for accessing a wider range of betting markets and potentially more favorable odds than those offered by Sportsbook RI.
However, it is important to understand that using offshore sportsbooks poses potential risks, such as lack of legal recourse, unregulated operations, and concerns regarding data security and fair betting practices.
Visit Neighboring States
Lastly, if you’re interested in exploring other mobile betting sites or retail sportsbooks, you will always have the option to visit neighboring states. Massachusetts launched online betting in March 2023, and Rhode Island bettors can place wagers with any of the eight available online sports betting platforms (DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, etc.) when they visit the state. Connecticut also offers both online and in-person wagering options.
Where Can I Bet on Sports in Rhode Island?
Each of Rhode Island’s licensed casinos currently offers retail sports betting. Further information about each option is provided below!
Bally’s Twin River Casino Resort
- Location: 100 Twin River Rd, Lincoln, RI 02865
- Phone Number: 401-723-3200
- Odds Provider: IGT
- Launch Date: November 2018
Rhode Island’s first legal sports wager was accepted by Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino Resort in November 2018, and the location continues to offer an authentic, Vegas-style wagering experience to bettors all over Rhode Island as well as visitors from neighboring states.
Bally’s Twin River Lincoln’s Sportsbook Bar & Grill provides a comfortable lounge area, over 100 TVs, odds boards, a fully-stocked bar, and an extensive dining menu with all your game-time favorites. Sports bettors can choose from a wide selection of sports, including football, basketball, baseball, hockey, soccer, MMA, auto racing, golf, and more.
Bally’s Tiverton Casino & Hotel
- Location: 777 Tiverton Casino Blvd, Tiverton, RI 02878
- Phone Number: 401-816-6000
- Odds Provider: IGT
- Launch Date: December 2018
In December 2018, Bally’s Tiverton Casino & Hotel launched its retail sportsbook in eastern Rhode Island. Sportsbook Rhode Island at Bally’s Tiverton Casino & Hotel gives bettors a chance to bet in person on all their favorite college and professional teams.
Spreads, moneylines, totals, futures, parlays, in-game wagers, and many other types of bets are available to customers. With over 50 TVs and a cozy viewing area, Bally’s Tiverton provides a fantastic experience on game day and is certainly worth checking out.
How To Sign Up & Start Betting in Rhode Island
Are you ready to get started? Here are the steps you can take to sign up and start betting online in the state of Rhode Island:
- Visit Sportsbook RI: Download the Sportsbook Rhode Island mobile app to your iOS or Android device. You may also visit the Sportsbook RI website on your mobile device, laptop, or desktop computer.
- Register for an Account: Click “Join Now” to begin the sign-up process. Enter all requested personal information, choose a password, and agree to the platform’s Terms & Conditions to finish registering for an account.
- Verify Your Information: Complete the account verification process by following the on-screen instructions provided by Sportsbook Rhode Island. You will need to provide a valid form of identification (e.g., driver’s license, passport, or ID card).
- Make a Deposit: Make your first deposit using one of the payment methods accepted by Sportsbook RI (debit card, ACH transfer, or Apple Pay).
- Start Placing Bets: Begin placing bets on all your favorite players, teams, and leagues. Good luck!
What Teams Can I Bet on in Rhode Island?
While it may not have major professional sports teams of its own, Rhode Island has a passionate fan base that supports a variety of sports at both the collegiate and professional levels. Discussed below are some of the state’s most popular teams and how can you bet on them today!
Providence Friars
The Providence Friars represent Providence College and have a dedicated fan base in Rhode Island. Their basketball program, in particular, garners significant attention and support, with fans filling the Amica Mutual Pavilion to cheer on the team during home games. You cannot currently place wagers on the Friars in Rhode Island, as state law prohibits betting on in-state schools. However, you can visit nearby states (e.g., Massachusetts or Connecticut) to place wagers on Providence all season long.
Boston Celtics
The NBA’s Boston Celtics have a passionate following in Rhode Island. Rhode Islanders eagerly support the Celtics, filling sports bars and venues to watch their games, donning team jerseys and merchandise, and engaging in lively discussions about their favorite players and memorable moments. You can bet on the Celtics’ regular season and postseason games online or in person in the state of Rhode Island.
Boston Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox, a Major League Baseball team based in Massachusetts, have a loyal fan base in Rhode Island. Many Rhode Islanders consider themselves avid Red Sox fans and eagerly support the team during the baseball season, attending games or following their progress closely. When it comes to betting on the Red Sox, you can explore a wide range of options such as moneylines, run lines, totals, and various prop bets throughout the baseball season.
New England Patriots
The NFL’s New England Patriots also enjoy significant support from Rhode Island residents. Their success in recent years, including 6 Super Bowl victories since 2002, has garnered a strong following among football fans in the state. Rhode Island bettors can place bets on the Patriots via the Sportsbook RI website or mobile app, or they may visit either of the state’s two licensed retail sports betting locations.
Strategies & Tips for Rhode Island Bettors
Are you looking for a way to gain an edge or increase your chances of success? We’ve got you covered. Here are some tips and tricks for Rhode Island sports bettors:
- Analyze & Assess: Before placing any bets, conduct thorough research on the teams, players, injuries, and other factors that may influence the outcome of a game. Utilize statistics, trends, and head-to-head records to make informed decisions.
- Practice Proper Bankroll Management: Set a budget for your sports betting activities and stick to it. Also, divide your bankroll into units and wager a consistent percentage on each bet to mitigate risks.
- Keep Records: Maintain a detailed record of your bets, including the type of bet, stake, odds, and outcomes. This record-keeping will enable you to analyze your performance, identify strengths and weaknesses, and make necessary adjustments to your strategy.
- Consider Live Betting: Take advantage of live betting opportunities where you can place wagers during a game. Live betting allows you to observe the flow of the game and make more informed decisions based on the current circumstances.
- Take Advantage of Early Lines: Stay proactive and monitor the opening lines for upcoming games. By identifying favorable early lines, you can secure better odds before they potentially move in a less favorable direction.
- Be Willing To Adapt: The sports betting landscape is constantly evolving, so it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest trends, betting strategies, and analytical tools. Be open to learning from your experiences and adapt your approach as you gain more knowledge and insights.
- Set Realistic Expectations: Sports betting should be seen as a form of entertainment rather than a guaranteed way to make money. Set realistic expectations, avoid chasing losses, and remember that winning and losing streaks are part of the betting experience.
Rhode Island Sports Betting FAQ
Yes, both online and retail sports betting are legal in the state of Rhode Island. You can place wagers using the Sportsbook RI app or in person at Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino Resort and Bally’s Tiverton Casino & Hotel.
Sportsbook Rhode Island is currently the only mobile sportsbook authorized to operate in the state. However, DraftKings, FanDuel, and several of the other top U.S. sportsbooks may look to launch in the Ocean State should an opportunity ever arise.
Yes! You can currently bet on both college and professional sporting events in Rhode Island. However, you cannot place wagers on in-state schools such as Providence College or the University of Rhode Island.
Yes! In July 2020, Rhode Island began allowing sports bettors to register for an account with Sportsbook RI online, meaning you can currently sign up and start placing bets from anywhere in the state.
The legal betting age in the state of Rhode Island is 18 years old.
