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Best ChoiceIs Sports Betting in Chicago Legal?
Gambling has been part of the social scene in Chicago for nearly 200 years. But legal sports betting arrived only as recently as 2019, which is when a sports betting bill was signed into law by state governor JB Pritzker.
Chicago sports betting at retail sportsbooks began in March 2020, and Chicago online sportsbooks rolled into action three months later.
One of the most significant developments since then was the relaxation of the requirement for in-person registration for online sportsbooks in March 2022. The advent of online registration has made it significantly easier to open an account, and an increased handle across Illinois sports betting.
The Best Online Chicago Sportsbooks
Many of Chicago's 2.7 million residents are sports fans - and the good news for them is that online sports betting in Chicago is provided by some of the leading operators available in the industry today.
Online betting enthusiasts in the Windy City can choose between leading Chicago sportsbooks offered by the following operators:
ESPN BET Sportsbook - Most Anticipated Chicago Sportsbook
The latest addition to the Chicago sports betting scene is ESPN BET Illinois. In a partnership with PENN Entertainment, ESPN is the industry leader in sports news, and now sports betting. ESPN BET is live. If you are in Chicago, or anywhere else in Illinois, use code ILBET to get a Bet $10 Get $150 bonus bet. This offer is only available when you use the code ILBET.
BetMGM Chicago
BetMGM joined the list of operators offering online Chicago sports betting services as recently as March 2022. The change in sports betting law that removed the in-person registration requirement also opened the door to online-only licenses.
This is one of the finest online sportsbooks available in the States with legalized sports betting. It offers a host of sports markets and bonuses, and a high level of personalization in the wagering experience.
BetMGM is one of the operators offering bonus bets as a welcome offer - use a BetMGM bonus code Illinois to activate this promo if you have one.
Caesars Chicago
Caesars brings an assertive marketing approach, backed up by a top-quality sports betting experience, to the task of competing for customers with rival Chicago sportsbooks.
This is an operator known for the frequency and creativity of its bonuses, many of which focus on games involving popular local teams such as the Chicago Bears and the Chicago Bulls.
It is also renowned for going the extra mile with its welcome offer bonus bets, which makes the Caesars Sportsbook Illinois promo well worth checking out.
DraftKings Chicago
The DraftKings sportsbook is always one of the most popular online destinations in states with legal sports betting. It appears at or near the top of the table for revenue and handle - which is the case here. As well as its online prominence, the DraftKings at Casino Queen sportsbook is one of the leading retail sportsbooks in the state.
Visitors to the DraftKings sportsbook enjoy the broad selection of sports and leagues on offer, and the DraftKings sportsbook is particularly friendly for mobile customers.
You are unlikely to need a DraftKings promo code Illinois to access the welcome offer here, which comes in the form of bonus bets.
FanDuel Chicago
FanDuel tends to be top of the charts for sports betting revenue in the states where it holds a license. This is the brand that sets the gold standard for operators who want to take sports bets - and its many customers know it.
Chicago sports fans appreciate the broad selection of sports events and markets with a local tinge. FanDuel is an official sports betting partner of the Chicago Bulls, the Chicago White Sox and the Blackhawks of the NHL. It also offers a retail sportsbook at the United Center, Par-A-Dice Casino and Fairmount Park.
FanDuel is one of many operators offering bonus bets as a welcome bonus to new customers. You probably will not need a FanDuel promo code Illinois to access that offer - but if you are supplied with one, make sure you use it.
PointsBet Chicago
PointsBet offers Chicago sports betting through its partnership with Hawthorne race course, located just a few miles from downtown Chicago. This is an outstanding online sportsbook with a host of great features including ultra-competitive odds and the chance to try a different style of wagering called PointsBetting.
There are also a host of great features on the website and a slew of excellent bonuses. If you find a PointsBet promo code Illinois, make sure you use it to take advantage of the second-chance bets offered to new customers.
As well as the chance to wager online, you can also place bets at the retail sportsbook operated by PointsBet at Hawthorne race course.
📝 Editors Note: The PointsBet Sportsbook is rebranding to the Fanatics Sportsbook in the near future.
BetRivers Chicago
BetRivers is owned by Rush Street Interactive, which has its headquarters in downtown Chicago. So it was appropriate that the first legal sports wager was placed in the state at Rivers Casino in March 2020 - and that BetRivers launched the first legal online sportsbook here three months later.
You can expect to find plenty of Chicago sports betting markets at BetRivers, which is an exclusive sports betting partner of the Chicago Bears. There is also a great rewards program that can be used by all Rush Street Interactive gambling customers.
The welcome bonus here gives you the chance to pick up free bets, so make sure you use any BetRivers promo code Illinois you find to activate this offer.
Retail Chicago Sportsbook Locations
The days of having to sign up for a sportsbook in person are long gone. However, many Chicago sports bettors still prefer to have that physical bet slip in hand at a sportsbook. Here are some retail sportsbooks
DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field
The highly anticipated DraftKings Sportsbook in Illinois opened its doors at the iconic Wrigley Field on June 27th, adding an electrifying dimension to the city's sports betting scene. Nestled within the hallowed grounds of this historic baseball stadium, the DraftKings Sportsbook promises an immersive and thrilling experience for fans. The establishment plans to eventually add retail sports betting with approval from the Illinois Gaming Board.
With its state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge technology and a wide range of sports betting options, it's poised to become the ultimate destination for both avid bettors and casual sports fans alike. From a 2,000-square-foot video wall to a restaurant and bar, this venue is sure to be a sports bettor's heaven.
Whether you're a die-hard Cubs supporter or simply seeking an unparalleled sports betting experience, the DraftKings Sportsbook right outside Wrigley Field is set to deliver unforgettable moments and capture the true essence of Chicago's sports culture.
Circa Sportsbook at the American Place Casino
Circa Sports recently made its debut in Illinois, marking a significant milestone for the company. This expansion includes the launch of both the mobile app and a retail sportsbook at American Place Casino in Waukegan. Circa Sports Illinois provides bettors with a unique retail experience, boasting larger betting limits compared to its competitors. The retail sportsbook features dedicated wagering areas, kiosks, ticket windows, and a plethora of televisions displaying real-time odds.
FanDuel Sportsbook at the United Center
Chicago got a familiar member to it's retail sportsbooks as FanDuel Expands Betting Options with the United Center Sportsbook. This makes it easier than ever for Chicago sports bettors to get their bets on their way to their seats before watching the Bulls or Blackhawks.
Rivers Casino
Rivers Casino is the closest casino to the center of Chicago and is located near O'Hare Airport. It has an online partnership with BetRivers and was the site of the first legal sports bet in Chicago history in March 2020.
For the record, the former Chicago Blackhawks star Eddie Olcyzk placed it, a $100 bet on the Chicago White Sox to win the American League pennant that year. The Sox did not even make the playoffs.
As well as hosting a retail sportsbook operated by BetRivers, the Rivers Casino is home to a generous number of table games and more than 1,000 slot machines.
BetRivers social casino is also an option for Chicago gamblers.
Hawthorne Race Course
Horse racing has long been a popular sport in Chicago - and Hawthorne, based in the western suburbs of the Windy City, is the oldest continually run family-owned racetrack in North America.
It is in the process of being converted into a racino, offering both horse racing and casino gaming. The new incarnation of this famous venue is due to open in 2023 and it will offer slots, table games and sports betting facilities, as well as horse racing action.
The temporary retail sportsbook already in operation here is run by PointsBet. Since 2020, it has been offering the chance to place bets on the Chicago Cubs, the Chicago Bears and the Chicago Fire, as well as racing at other venues and sports around the world.
Grand Victoria Casino
The Grand Victoria is located in Elgin, on the western outskirts of the Windy City. This is a comfortable environment for Chicago sports fans who travel out looking to place bets on the big game.
You are welcomed by big, comfortable chairs and can watch your favorite action on large, flat-screen TVs. The retail betting here is provided by the Caesars sportsbook, where you can bet on Connor Bedard Odds.
The casino is also happy to offer online sports betting here - you can place your first bet on the Caesars sportsbook and take advantage of the bonus bets that constitutes the welcome bonus there.
Hollywood Casino Aurora
Aurora, less than an hour's drive to the west of central Chicago, is home to sports betting terminals and other facilities driven by ESPN BET.
The location at 1 W New York St, features 10 sports betting kiosks, HD televisions and even a Jumbotron on which you can watch your favorite team in action. If you want to bet on sports here, you can do it with ESPN BET, which is also the casino's online partner.
Hollywood Casino Joliet
Not far to the southeast of the Aurora location is its sister casino in Joliet. This is another location owned by Penn National Gaming where you can bet on sports through ESPN BET.
There are more than 40 HD televisions here, so you should never miss the game you want to wager on. The casino's online betting partner is, naturally, ESPN BET.
While Chicago Sportsbook betting options aren't unlimited, IllinoisBet provides hypothetical odds on props like Corey Crawford Hall of Fame Odds.
Chicago Teams to Bet On
Illinois boasts a lineup of formidable professional sports teams, each with a massive and dedicated following. These teams serve as the driving force behind the thriving sports gambling industry in the state.
Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears, an NFL powerhouse, have a rich history and a fervent fan base. With their home at Soldier Field, betting on the Bears is a local tradition. Pay attention to point spreads and over/under bets, as the Bears can create exciting opportunities for astute bettors. You can bet on the weekly games, player props, or futures like the Bears Playoff Chances or Bears Super Bowl Odds.
🏈 Check out the Justin Fields Next Team Odds.
Chicago Bulls
The United Center comes alive when the Chicago Bulls hit the hardwood. As a storied NBA franchise, the Bulls have a legacy of greatness, including the Michael Jordan era. Today, players like Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan bring excitement to the court.
Take advantage of the Chicago Bulls Odds at the FanDuel Sportsbook at the United Center.
Chicago Blackhawks
The Chicago Blackhawks, a storied franchise in the NHL, command a dedicated fan base and offer intriguing opportunities for sports betting enthusiasts. With a rich history of success, including multiple Stanley Cup championships, the Blackhawks are a perennial contender. Whether you're wagering on individual games or long-term outcomes, the Blackhawks' fast-paced style and tenacity on the ice provide ample excitement for Chicago sports bettors.
🏒 Follow along with the Blackhawks playoff odds throughout the season.
Chicago Cubs
The Chicago Cubs, a team that's woven into the very fabric of Chicago's sports scene. These lovable North Siders have given fans a rollercoaster of emotions over the years, from the infamous Curse of the Billy Goat to the glorious 2016 World Series win. Whether you're into game-by-game action or season-long bets, the Cubs' unpredictable playstyle keeps things interesting.
Chicago White Sox
The Chicago White Sox present a compelling opportunity for sports bettors in the Windy City. With their explosive hitting and solid pitching rotation, they offer a range of bet types to consider. From moneyline wagers on individual games to futures bets on their season performance, the White Sox provide diverse options for Chicago sports betting enthusiasts. Their dynamic playstyle and potential for upsets make them an intriguing choice for those looking to add excitement to their wagers.
🔥 MORE: See where Where White Sox Pitchers Might Go Before Trade Deadline.
Chicago Sports Betting Apps
Many sports fans enjoy the ease and convenience of mobile sports betting - and there are a host of outstanding Illinois betting apps available to make this possible for you. The online sportsbooks listed above deliver some of the best sports betting apps available in states where online sports betting is legal.
You should be able to download your favorite online sports betting app, whether you own an iPhone or an Android device. The relaxation of the sports betting law in Chicago in March 2022 to allow online registration for an account, rather than requiring bettors to go through in-person registration, has made it easier than ever to enjoy playing through a sports betting app.
All the features, bonuses and markets available at sports betting websites should appear on your sports betting app too. The only exception in Chicago is that you can bet on in-state college teams only pre-game and in person.
Chicago Sports Betting Promos
One of the most enjoyable aspects of online betting is that you should be offered an attractive welcome bonus when you open a sports betting account. Many of the best Illinois betting promos can be activated during the process of registering as a customer.
Among leading sportsbooks, the most popular type of welcome offer involves bonus bets. The way bonus bets work is simple; if your first wager wins you collect your winnings, but if it loses you get your stake back in the form of bonus bets.
Other operators, such as ESPN BET, offer you the opportunity to raise your account balance by boosting your first deposit with a deposit match.
How Do You Gamble on Sports in Chicago?
If you decide you want to try out Chicago sports betting, the process you need to follow is made as quick and simple as possible by leading online and retail sportsbooks.
Your first step is to shop around and pick a sportsbook that suits you and your style of sports betting. Check out the features available, read some online reviews from other players and make sure the welcome bonus is right for you.
You will need to provide several pieces of information, such as your name, address, email, phone number, and date of birth. You must be aged 21 or over to place sports bets in Chicago. Once your account is verified and you have deposited some money in it, you are ready to start sports betting.
Chicago Sports Betting History
The path to legalized sports betting in Chicago was cleared in 2018 when the US Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act. This step empowered states to operate a legal and licensed sports betting market if they so wished.
Within a year, a sports betting bill had been passed in Illinois as part of a larger capital bill. The first legal sports bet was placed in March 2020 at Rivers Casino, and online sportsbooks began to go live three months later. There are now seven online sportsbooks available in Chicago, as well as nine retail sportsbooks across the state.
In-person registration for online sports betting accounts was required by law until March 2022. The relaxation of that requirement has had a positive effect on takings; the total handle in Illinois topped $831 million in September 2022, up nearly 40% on the same month a year earlier.
Although online sports betting is now virtually fully accepted, certain minor restrictions remain. For instance, you can place bets on in-state college teams only in person.
Chicago Sports Betting FAQs
Author
Award-winning contributor covering sports betting and casino gaming around the world for decades, Martin Booth is one of the most trusted voices in online gambling. From legislative updates in Illinois to breaking down the top betting apps in IL, Martin covers a gambit of topics for IllinoisBet.com.
