Best Sportsbooks and Promotions in Colorado

Colorado was quick to jump on board with the online sports betting trend, and only 2 years after betting became legal in the US in 2018 you could bet with a bookie online. 

Today, there is a combination of both online and retail betting options, including some of the biggest names in the business.

I first heard about sports betting being legal in Colorado back in 2021, but after some more research, I found out that sports betting was actually legalized in Colorado in November 2019, when Proposition DD passed. The state was very quick to jump on the sports betting bandwagon so, by May 2020, you could place bets from the comfort of your own home.

Colorado’s sports betting regulations

As with any other form of betting, there are rules when it comes to sports betting. Here is what to keep in mind: 

• The legal age for sports betting in Colorado is 21. If you are 21 or older, you are free to place sports bets with any registered and certified sportsbook in the state. If you’re younger than 21, you shouldn’t even be reading this article.
• Colorado’s tax rate on sports betting is only 10%. This is lower than in other states, which means that you get more action for your money. The best part about this is, in my opinion, that you get to place a wider range of bets on your favorite sports.

So, now that you know all about the rules of sports betting in Colorado, the next step is to find out where you can bet. 

Don’t worry, I did my homework about that, too. 

Where to bet IRL in Colorado

The only places in which you can place in-person bets are Central City, Black Hawk, and Cripple Creek. 

The advantage here is that these are truly charming towns and you get to enjoy some very pretty scenery, especially if you want to pair your betting adventure with a mountain trip in the Rockies.

If you want more diversity when it comes to retail betting spots, Black Hawk is the best choice, with 14 casinos you can visit. Next on the list is Cripple Creek with 10 casinos and Central City with only 6. 

Between the three towns, you can place your bets at: 

• Ameristar Casino Black Hawk
• Billy’s Casino
• Colorado Grande
• Golden Mardi Gras Casino
• Grand Z Casino
• Isle of Capri Casino
• Johnny Nolon’s
• Johnny Z’s Casino
• Lady Luck Casino
• Monarch Casino Blackhawk
• Red Dolly Casino
• Saratoga Casino
• Sasquatch Casino
• The Lodge Casino at Black Hawk
• Wild Card Casino
• Wildwood Casino
• Z Casino

The distance from Black Hawk to Central City is just about one mile, so you can easily visit them both and see which casino you like most from the ones they have to offer.

You’ll be happy to know that some of the casinos also offer accommodation, so you can make the most out of your stay.

Online sports betting in Colorado

You can bet online in Colorado - isn't that great. All you need is a phone or laptop and a stable Internet connection, and you’re set.

There are 19 betting sites so you have plenty to choose from. DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM are just a few of the big names in the game and they offer everything from straight bets to parlays. 

The history of sports betting in Colorado

In 2008, Colorado legalized 24/7 casino gambling through Initiative 50, laying the groundwork for a more expansive gaming industry. This foundation paved the way for the state's exploration of legalized sports betting, which gained serious momentum in 2019.

Compared to other states, Colorado's path to sports betting legalization was relatively straightforward, thanks to its clear legislative framework and voter approval. Proposition DD, introduced as part of House Bill 1237 in April 2019, quickly advanced through the legislature and was signed into law by the Governor. In November 2019, voters officially approved Proposition DD, legalizing sports betting.

Colorado’s approach has been widely praised for its efficiency, transparency, and inclusion of both retail and online betting options. These factors enabled operators to establish a presence quickly, and by May 2020, Coloradans had access to a fully operational sports betting market, both online and in land-based locations.

Today, Colorado is recognized as one of the most accessible and successful sports betting markets in the country, offering a robust framework for licensing, taxation, and oversight. This streamlined process has made sports betting a popular and convenient pastime for residents and visitors alike.

For those seeking a full casino experience, plan a visit to Black Hawk, Cripple Creek, or Central City, where you can socialize, gamble, and meet new friends. Alternatively, if you’re on the go and want to explore Colorado’s attractions, sign up with an online sportsbook to take the excitement with you wherever you travel.