If you're in Colorado and wondering why you can't find a DraftKings or BetMGM online casino like in other states, you're not alone. Colorado law currently permits online sports betting but does not allow online casino games like slots, blackjack, or roulette. That means while you can bet on the Broncos or Nuggets from your phone, playing a digital slot machine for real money is off the table. This guide cuts through the confusion and shows you what your legal options are right now, how to play casino-style games, and what the future might hold.
What is Legal in Colorado: Sportsbooks vs. Casinos
Colorado voters approved Proposition DD in 2019, which legalized online and retail sports betting. The law explicitly excludes "internet gaming," which is the legal term for online casino games. As a result, operators like FanDuel and BetRivers can offer their sportsbook apps in Colorado, but they cannot offer their full online casino suites. You'll find over 20 legal sports betting apps in the state, but zero licensed online casinos. This puts Colorado in a different category than states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan, where full online casinos operate legally.
The Social and Sweepstakes Casino Loophole
Since real-money online casinos aren't licensed, many Colorado players turn to social and sweepstakes casinos. These platforms, like Chumba Casino and Global Poker, operate under a different legal model. You purchase virtual "Gold Coins" for fun, and you often receive free "Sweeps Coins" as a bonus. You can use Sweeps Coins to play games, and any winnings can be redeemed for real cash prizes. It's a legal workaround that provides a casino-like experience. Popular games include slots, blackjack, and video poker, and you can cash out via bank transfer or online gift cards.
Playing at Colorado's Land-Based and Tribal Casinos
For the traditional casino experience, you need to visit a physical location. Colorado has over 30 commercial casinos in the historic mountain towns of Black Hawk, Central City, and Cripple Creek. These towns were granted casino gaming in 1990. You'll find thousands of slot machines, video poker terminals, and table games like blackjack, craps, and roulette. Additionally, there are two tribal casinos in the state: Sky Ute Casino Resort in Ignacio and Ute Mountain Casino in Towaoc. These venues often have hotels, restaurants, and entertainment, making them full-scale destinations.
Retail Sportsbooks at Casinos
When you visit a land-based casino in Colorado, you'll also find retail sportsbooks on-site. Brands like Betfred, Circa Sports, and the casino's own branded book let you place bets in person. It's a great way to combine a day of slot play with betting on the big game. For example, you can play blackjack at Ameristar Black Hawk and then walk over to their sportsbook window to place a bet on the Avalanche.
The Future of Online Casinos in Colorado
There is ongoing discussion about expanding gambling laws in Colorado, but online casino legislation faces significant hurdles. Any change would require a statewide voter referendum, and proponents would need to build a strong coalition. The tax revenue argument is powerful—neighboring states like Michigan generated over $1.8 billion in online casino revenue in 2023. However, opposition from existing land-based casinos and concerns about problem gambling create a challenging political environment. Most analysts don't expect a ballot measure before 2026 at the earliest.
How to Deposit and Cash Out in Colorado
For legal sports betting apps, Colorado players have several familiar payment options. You can fund your account using Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, online bank transfer (ACH), or cash at a partner cage inside a physical casino. Withdrawals are typically processed back to your PayPal account or via check or bank transfer. For sweepstakes casinos, deposits for Gold Coins are made via credit/debit card, and cash prizes from Sweeps Coins are usually paid out via bank transfer or Skrill. Always check the specific cashier page for the most current options.
FAQ
Can I use BetMGM Casino or Caesars Palace Online Casino in Colorado?
No, you cannot. While BetMGM and Caesars have sports betting apps in Colorado, their full online casino platforms with slots and table games are geo-blocked. If you try to access them, you'll be notified that the service is not available in your location.
Are sweepstakes casinos really legal and can I actually win money?
Yes, they operate under federal sweepstakes law, making them legal in Colorado and most other states. You can win real money. You play using Sweeps Coins you obtain for free (often as a bonus with a Gold Coin purchase), and you can redeem Sweeps Coins winnings for cash prizes, which are typically processed within a few business days.
What's the gambling age in Colorado?
You must be 21 years or older to gamble at commercial and tribal casinos, as well as to bet on sports. For sweepstakes casinos, the minimum age is usually 18, but you must always verify the specific rules on the platform's website.
Do I have to pay taxes on gambling winnings in Colorado?
Yes. The IRS requires you to report all gambling winnings on your federal tax return. For wins over $1,200 on a slot machine or bingo, or $1,500 on keno, the casino will provide you with a W-2G form. Sports betting and table game winnings are also taxable. Colorado state income tax also applies to gambling winnings.