Florida has a very specific set of gambling laws, that at first glance would seem quite limiting to residents and visitors alike. However, dig deeper, and there’s a wide range of games available across the state. So, are casinos legal in Florida? If so, what does Floringa look like, and where else can you play games? Here we go.
Casinos in Florida in 2023
One of the most commonly asked questions we see about gaming in The Sunshine State is “are casinos legal in Florida?” The short answer is yes. You’ll find everything from large Seminole Indian Casino Resorts to smaller card rooms offering poker and slot machines scattered throughout.
The issue with answering this question quickly and efficiently is that, technically, only the Seminole Tribe of Florida is legally allowed to offer Las Vegas-style gambling on their properties. That includes blackjack, craps, and roulette, among other table games.
However, as we will discuss later, even this rule isn’t entirely clear-cut. And there are lawmakers pushing for much wider-reaching gambling legislation in the state.
Our guide to casinos in Florida will look more closely at the current state of affairs regarding licensing and regulations. We’ll also examine what might happen in the future and take an overview of your options for gaming right now. To cap it all off, further down, you’ll find a list of the top casinos in FL. Based on our thorough reviews, we have selected the best online casinos in Florida for winter 2022-2023 too.
🚨 Updated Florida Gambling Laws for 2023
As mentioned above, the situation around gambling legislation in Florida can appear somewhat confusing. This section will look at some of the changes to the legal landscape over recent years. It will also explore any developments that may impact Floridians and visitors in the near future.
online casino using paypalThe Seminole Hard Rock Compact: An Overview
In 2010 and then again in 2015 and 2019, former Governor Ron DeSantis (yes, that one) signed amendments into law that allowed the Seminole Indian Tribe of Florida to offer certain forms of gambling on their reservations.
This was possible due to the ratification of Amendment 736, which was passed by voters back in 2010 and updated in subsequent years. Essentially, this constitutional amendment gave the Seminoles exclusive rights to offer certain types of wagering in the state. Specifically, they are permitted to host games including blackjack, baccarat, roulette, and craps on their properties. Provided these games are run and supervised according to the guidelines laid out by the tribal-state gaming compact between the tribe and the state of Florida.
We should note that while the Seminoles have multiple casinos, so to speak, across the state, they do not own all of the properties where these games can be played. Instead, they lease space within qualifying establishments, known as Class III facilities. There are just five of these properties in operation presently. They are…
- Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa Bay
- Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Holywood
- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa
- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Fort Lauderdale
- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Etterackee
You’ll notice that there’s a Hard Rock World franchise amongst them. Yep, the legendary rock ‘n’ roll hotel and casino chain is owned by the Seminoles too.
The latest version of the Seminole Indian Gaming Compact included provisions for the tribe to offer sports betting in the state. However, various competitors challenged this aspect of the agreement in court, leading to a hold being placed on the sports betting elements while judges decided whether they were constitutional. Finally, in May 2021, the US Department of the Interior issued a “service determination” allowing the provisions related to sports betting to come into effect. Sportsbooks began opening across Hard Rock properties during the summer and fall of 2021. We expand upon the new legal landscape of sports gambling in the Sunshine State in this dedicated guide.
So, outside of the Seminole-operated establishments, are casinos legal in Florida? Not technically, no.
The Poker Game That Went Horribly WrWrong
If the idea of private citizens being unable to run casino games from their homes or businesses seems overly restrictive, that’s because it is. However, there is a good reason behind this part of Florida’s gambling legislation. A reason that involves a hapless poker player, a successful lawyer, and $17, a glass pipe, and a police raid that went horribly wrong. We’ll explain…
In 2013, a man named Harlan Pakeman hosted a game of poker in his home. Three guests turned up, and they enjoyed an evening of gambling, drinks, and snacks. The next day, law enforcement officials turned up at Pakeman’s house and carried out a search warrant. Why? Because someone had anonymously tipped off the police that an illegal gambling den was operating from the property. When officers searched the house, they found a small amount of cannabis and paraphernalia. They also established that PKR contributor Pakeman had charged a $17 entry fee for the poker game the previous night. As a result, he was arrested and charged with promoting illegal gambling and drug possession.
Surprising Types of Gambling Apps Tennessee Residents Can UseThe case went to court, and Pakeman employed high-powered attorney, Russell Korn, to defend him. Korn argued successfully that Florida’s ban on gambling constituted an unconstitutional violation of his client’s rights. In his argument, Korn pointed to the language used in the original constitution when Florida became a state. At that time, gambling was only specifically prohibited if someone was charging a fee to participate. Since Pakeman made his money from selling alcohol and beer to players, the gambling charges against him were dropped.
While the drug charges remained, they were eventually dropped too. And the whole debacle prompted the Florida legislature to draft new legislation designed to close the loophole created by the Pakeman verdict. Cue Amendment 7160, which became law in 2010.
Casinos in Florida – The Future?
Is Floringa the new Las Vegas? Well, maybe not. However, some lawmakers are keen to open up the market to include a greater variety of operators and games. One of the most prominent proponents of this cause is Governor Ron DeSantis who appears determined to strike a deal that will allow non-Native American businesses to host games including blackjack, poker, and slots.
DeSantis says he wants to reach a settlement that will benefit schools across the state, stating that “there’s a huge pot of gold here that could go to education.” Some estimates put the potential worth of such a settlement to the tune of $30 million per year.
At the start of 2023, the Governor stated that he wanted to “streamline” the gambling industry in the state, making it less confusing for those wishing to gamble and those running operations. He claimed that there was “mass confusion” and outlined his plans to introduce bills through the Senate and House respectively. These bills were designed to replace the existing Seminole Indian Gaming Compact and sports betting legislation, doing away with the need for constant amendments while also expanding the types of games that can be offered across the state.
However, while the Governor is keen to make these changes, getting everyone else onside won’t be easy. The new bills received their first readings in January but must pass through several committees before they have any chance of becoming law. Even then, opposition will likely come from a number of angles. Firstly, the Seminole Tribe is unlikely to sit idly by while non-Native American businesses are given permission to offer the same games they have the sole rights to at present. Then there’s the matter of the Constitution. To facilitate these changes, two constitutional amendments would be required, meaning voter approval will be necessary.
One thing is for sure; any changes to Florida’s gambling laws will be complex matters, taking many months, if not years, to resolve. Meanwhile, Floridians and visitors to the state enjoy a steady influx of top-quality casinos and card rooms, with more arriving regularly.
What Can I Play at Casinos in FL?
Even though only the Seminole Indian reservations are licensed to provide traditional casino games like blackjack, baccarat, roulette, and craps, there are plenty of alternative options across the state. Many establishments offer electronic versions of these games. While others focus on poker and bingo, both of which are legal in Florida.
Things You Should Know Before Playing Slots Online or in PersonLet’s take a closer look now at each type of game.
Online Casinos in Florida
Although full-service, brick-and-mortar casinos belonging to the Seminole Tribe can only exist on their reservations, there’s nothing in the state’s gambling laws preventing locals and visitors from playing online. In fact, there are numerous sites accepting players from Florida. However, we must stress that not all online casinos can be trusted. Therefore, we recommend using our review filters to ensure you play at only the best ones. For instance, sort by our ratings, or those with the best bonuses, quickest payments, or biggest selection of live dealer tables.
Our editors have handpicked the following online brand as the top FL casino site for winter 2022-2023.
Pure Casino
$1000 Welcome Bonus
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Top-notch customer support
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When looking for the best online casinos in FL, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, ensure the sites you’re interested in are licensed and regulated. Secondly, check out the bonuses, promotions, and VIP programs. Thirdly, evaluate the range and quality of the games on offer. Finally, consider the range of secure, proven payment methods provided for deposits and withdrawals.
For a comprehensive overview of your options online, check out our guide to the . Alternatively, if you’re ready to get stuck into some games right now, head to our dedicated page for the best FL online casino.
The Status of Online Gambling in Florida
Online lottery sales have been legal in Florida since 2018. Payouts over $600 are subject to tax, and unclaimed prizes contribute millions of dollars to the state’s educational budget every year. However, while it’s possible that the online casino and betting landscapes may change in the coming years, as we discussed earlier, any developments are likely to be gradual.
In terms of ignoring the current laws and cracking down on websites that allow residents to play slots, poker, and casino classics like roulette online, not much happens. Occasionally, individuals get in trouble if they attempt to make large sums of money from online gambling and don’t pay the necessary taxes on that cash. However, overall, there is little focus on individual players enjoying games online.
That doesn’t mean we recommend breaking the law, however. Until things become clearer, it makes more sense to stick to the Seminole Indian Casino Resorts or other regulated gaming options within the state. Or, if you want a broader range of games and bonuses, see our recommendations for the top above.
Florida Indian Gaming Casinos
There are five “Class III” gaming properties spread across The Sunshine State that are operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Each of these venues offers a broad selection of traditional casino games including slots, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and poker. You’ll find them listed below, along with links through to our detailed reviews.
- Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa Bay
- Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood
- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa
- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Fort Lauderdale
- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ettarcke
It’s important to note that these casinos are on Native American land. This allows the Seminole Tribe to offer games typically prohibited elsewhere in the state. However, while the casinos themselves can sell drinks and offer food, guests are not permitted to eat chips and drink slot machine profits. Doing so could result in being barred from the property.
Across these five Class III casinos in Florida, you’ll find hundreds of slot machines, plus a wide assortment of table games. Many of the venues feature poker rooms hosting everything from Texas Hold ’em tournaments to Omaha/8 and Seven Card Stud games.
When you throw in top dining options, entertainment from famous musicians, comedians, and other performers, and first-class hotels, it is easy to see why these are among the best casinos in Florida. However, if you think that’s good, wait till you hear about the Class II properties…
Casinos in Florida – The Gray Area
Remember Comanche Red Bucks we mentioned earlier in passing? Well, let’s delve into that a bit more.
Maryland Casinos Worth the Trip - Best Casinos Near MeNow, we’re aware that the details around Class II gaming in Florida can get very complicated indeed. To keep it simple, Class II properties operate bingo halls, with games that often bear little resemblance to traditional bingo. Games are based on a “draw” featuring numbered balls. However, these draws are often continuous, and players can trade their bingo cards for more traditional slot machine experiences. Furthermore, some of these venues accept wagers of $100 or more per play, with players accumulating rewards points and redeemable comp dollars. All sounds a lot like a casino to us.
Anyway, back to the Comanche Red Bucks element. This refers to the fact that these reward schemes can be used to purchase gasoline, cigarettes, and other goods at certain retail locations, making them something akin to casino currency. Neat, huh?
So, where can you enjoy these Class II games and Comanche Red Dollars? Across the state, you’ll find Class II casinos masquerading as bingo halls operating under names including The Casino at Dania Beach, The Casino On The Square, Victory Casino Cruise Lines, and Seminole Casino Coconut Creek®, among others.
These Class II casinos in Florida offer everything from video poker and classic fruit machine slots to keno, scratchcards, and video bingo. Some venues also organize poker tournaments and cash games. Meanwhile, others offer live entertainment and delicious dining options.
Poker Rooms in Florida
As we discussed above, the Seminole Indian Casino Resorts offer poker rooms with a selection of cash games and tournaments. However, there are dozens of other card rooms dotted throughout The Sunshine State. Most of these establishments focus on poker and pai gow games. However, some also offer slots, keno, and other popular titles.
Here are five of the best poker rooms outside of the Seminole casinos.
- Ace’s Grill Poker Room – Dania Beach
- The Card Room – South Miami-Dade
- Isle Poker Room – North Miami Beach
- Palms Poker Room – North Miami Beach
- Veterans Poker Palace – Mount Dora
Many of these rooms specialize in Texas Hold ’em games. Cash tables generally start at $1/$2 blinds, although some rooms offer $0.50/$1 blinds. No-limit games often go as high as $3/$6 blinds with $100 minimum buy-ins. However, it’s always worth calling ahead to check current details, as these can change depending on footfall and staff availability.
Tournaments are another common option at many rooms, costing anywhere from $5 to $150 to enter. Prizepools vary considerably, although many events offer guarantees, providing a set amount of cash regardless of attendance figures.
real money no deposit casinos usaBingo Halls in Florida
Bingo is a legal form of gambling in Florida, and games can be found across the state. Some of the bigger bingo halls resemble casinos and offer electronic versions of slots and other games. As we explained above, some of these venues are essentially Class II casinos masquerading as bingo halls.
Below, you can find a selection of the best bingo halls in Florida based on guest ratings and scores from our experts.
- Best Bet Naples – Naples
- Daytona Kenny ROmpson’s Super Play Bingo – Daytona Beach
- Seminole Casino Coconut Creek® – Coconut Creek
- The Casino On The Square – Ellaville
- Victory Casino Cruise Lines – Port Canaveral
Some bingo halls are attached to racetracks, offering additional forms of wagering. Elsewhere, digital bingo games can be found at many casinos and card rooms.
Florida Horse Racing Betting
Can you gamble at horse races in Florida? Yes. Are there casinos in Florida offering Las Vegas-style games like roulette and dice? Also yes. Where do you think all the polo players spend their time when they aren’t swingin’ a mallet?
Horse racing has been a legal form of Florida gambling for many decades. Today, six race tracks are operational in the state. Additionally, a selection of greyhound racetracks also accepts bets on dog races.
Top Free Slots Online (and On Mobile) for 2023When it comes to wagering on these meetings, visitors to Florida can use operators based overseas. However, in 2019, governor DeSantis signed the bill that introduced legal online sports betting to the state. As part of this legislation, advanced deposit wagering (ADW) on horse racing and greyhounds was made legal too.
This led to the launch of the official betting site and app for the Florida Lottery called myLOTTERY.com. The site enables anyone aged 18+ to place wagers on races from around the world. Mylottery.com Florida features picks, parlays, straight wagers, exotics, and combination bets, with deposits and withdrawals handled smoothly and securely.
Additionally, various other online betting sites enable you to place your wagers on Florida horse racing events. Just make sure you choose a reputable provider, like the ones featured on our page of the .
Meanwhile, back at the tracks, you’ll find a lively atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to win big. Races usually take place on weekends, with occasional midweek meetings too. Here are six of the best racetracks in Florida.
- Gulfstream Park – Hallandale Beach
- Melbourne Greyhound Track – Melbourne
- North Florida OTB – Callahan
- Pensacola Race Course – Pensacola
- Sarasota Kennel Club – Sarasota
- Tampa Bay Downs – Oldsmar
In addition to wagering on the action, many of these racetracks offer first-rate dining options and entertaining events. Meanwhile, the best venues allow you to bring your own horse to stakes just off the track.
Florida Fantasy 5 – Is a Fantasy 5 Win Guaranteed?
Florida gambling law covers lottery games, including the Fantasy 5 draw. Like many similar lottery games around the world, the object of the exercise is to select five numbers and try to match them to the main draw. However, what sets the Florida Fantasy 5 apart from some other lottery games is the fact that it offers a guaranteed prize.
When the Florida Lottery introduced the Fantasy 5 on January 2, 1994, its main rival was the Multi-State Lottery Association’s Powerball. At that time, the Power Ball offered a guaranteed $1 million jackpot. This gave it an immediate advantage over the new game, as the largest Fantasy 5 win you could hope for was $56,000.
To level the playing field, the Florida Lottery introduced the guaranteed prize on January 31, 1994. Initially, this came in the form of a $20,000 payout if no player hit the top prize. However, that figure has risen significantly over the years. Today, the Florida Fantasy 5 jackpot starts at $100,000 and can roll over up to 20 times, creating jackpots worth several million dollars.
To play, simply visit an authorized retailer or use the Florida Lottery’s official Play Online page. Choose five numbers from 1 to 36, or ask for a Quick Pick to receive a random selection. You can play up to five advances for up to 10 drawings in advance. Tickets cost $1, and from there, you’ll need to match three, four, or five numbers to win prizes worth between $2.50 and $182,721.74.
The Florida Lottery says since the first draw in 1994, more than 430 players have hit the Jacksonville Jumbo Jackpot of $560,000 or more. The biggest Florida Fantasy 5 win in history came in 2016, when a 66-year-old grandmother from Orange City matched all five numbers to scoop $228.7 million. Her ticket was worth even more than that thanks to the jackpot having rolled over 20 times.
Florida Lottery Rules
What are the rules for the Florida Lottery? Well, the organization oversees a wide range of draws, Scratch-Offs, and instant win games. Among them are the Florida Lotto, Powerball, Jackpot Triple Play, Fantasy 5, Florida 5-Oль-50, Play 4, Play 3, Cash Word, Fast Play, and the Bravo! games.
Each of these has its own rules, odds, and Florida Lottery winners chances. However, in general terms, to play the Florida Lottery, you must be at least 18 years old. Tickets cannot be sold to people aged 17 and under, and they must purchase their tickets inside the state.
In line with federal law, Florida Lottery winners have 180 days from the draw date to claim their prizes. Anyone holding a winning ticket must do so in person at one of the official claiming stations. There is no option to mail in tickets or authorize a family member to claim the money on your behalf.
Various security measures are in place to prevent fraud and ensure fair play. However, it’s worth noting that the Florida Lottery pays out cash prizes in 30 annual payments. Unless you request and are approved for a lump sum payment, both prior to and after drawing down the prize, winning tickets do not earn interest.
Charity Bingo and Raffles
Charitable organizations are permitted to offer bingo and raffles in Florida. However, certain restrictions apply. For example, daily bingo sessions are permitted, with prizes capped at $5,000 per game and $25,000 per session. Occasional bingo events can offer larger prizes, with games held monthly or less frequently.
Poker Games That Will Up Your Social Game - PokerListingsIn terms of raffles, you must be 18 or older to buy a ticket and 16 or older to claim a prize. Organizations can sell them at events, via the internet, or by telephone. However, if selling online or over the phone, they must obtain a transient license from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Additionally, transient vendors are restricted to selling just 10,000 tickets per year for raffles with top prizes worth $5,000 or less. For higher-value draws, there is no limit on the number of tickets that can be sold.
Furthermore, charities can raise money for good causes while accepting risks in exchange for potential prizes. Galas, auctions, and golf tournaments are popular choices, while “Win a Car” competitions are also permitted. Various rules surround these events, including requirements for obtaining licenses and advertising competition odds accurately.
Failing to adhere to the laws surrounding gambling and raffles in Florida can lead to fines and criminal charges. Furthermore, anyone knowingly accepting prostitution or unlawfully obtained property cannot turn a legitimate profit from a gambling event without facing penalties.
Outlook for Florida Gambling Laws
As we discussed in the previous section, the future of gambling in The Sunshine State is complex. For now, Seminole Indian Casino Resorts are the only places to enjoy traditional casino games like roulette, blackjack, and poker. However, as the Seminole Tribe has exclusive rights to offer these games off reserve, there is demand for non-Native American businesses to be granted similar permissions.
Any moves in this direction would require amending the State Constitution, meaning votes would be needed in the House of Representatives, the Senate, and at the ballot box. Then, once any constitutional amendments had been passed, further bills would be required to make changes to Florida gambling laws.
Casino (No Longer Operational): The Games, Features & More Before ClosureFor now, the best option for those wanting to play a wide variety of casino games online is to sign up for a verified and legit . Once you’ve tried those out, why not check out the best , and see if lady luck is on your side today.
The Best Casinos in Florida, USA
We started this piece by asking whether there are any casinos in the state of Florida. Now we know that while traditional brick-and-mortar resorts are limited to Seminole Indian lands, and other establishments focusing on poker and bingo can be found throughout the state. Not forgetting the online options, of course.
However, if you’re still eager to experience the bright lights and glamorous vibes of Las Vegas or Monte Carlo, be sure to check out the rest of our expert guides. Starting with the , followed by our lists of the top casinos in Ohio and Michigan.
References:
- Constitutional amendments relating to gaming (https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2022/1798)
- Florida statutes relating to gambling (https://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?AppMode=DisplayCaption&Title=079%2C%20+079%2C%20:_079_Table%20of%20Contents)
- History of the Seminole Tribe (https://www.seminoletribe.com/history/)
- Houses of Card: The Ancestry of Poker, Bridge, and Whist (Amazon)
- The Story of Bridge (Amazon)
- Boulocault, A. (1877). The game of bouillotte: a description of the game, with the exact rules for its playment, and an analysis of its combinations. D. Van Nostrand. Https://archive.org/details/gameofbouilloc00boulrich/page/n5
- Full text of the Florida Constitution (flsenate.gov)
