Tennessee, known for its rich musical heritage and scenic beauty, has recently been in the spotlight for its evolving stance on online gambling. Tennessee online casinos have become a topic of interest for many, especially since the state has shown a shift towards accepting online sports betting. This article delves into the current status of online casinos in Tennessee, the latest news, and what the future might hold for enthusiasts in the Volunteer State.
Are online casinos legal in Tennessee?
No, online casinos are not legal in Tennessee. The state defines gambling as “risking anything of value for a profit whose return is to any degree contingent on chance, or any games of chance associated with casinos, including, but not limited to, slot machines, roulette wheels and the like.” This definition forms the basis for the prohibitions on gambling in the Tennessee Code. However, there are some sweepstakes and social casino sites that operate using a unique dual-currency system to remain compliant with sweepstakes law, allowing residents to win big without any charges. Notable sites include Funzpoints, Chumba Casino, and Luckyland Slots.
Latest Tennessee gambling news
- Aug. 17, 2023 – Fanatics Sportsbook goes live online in Tennessee and three other states after its beta testing phase.
- Aug. 14, 2023 – WynnBet announces its decision to stop accepting online wagers in Tennessee and seven other states.
- Aug. 11, 2023 – Sportsbooks report a betting handle of $215.49M and tax contributions of $3.9M in July, as per the Tennessee Sports Wagering Advisory Council.
- Aug. 10, 2023 – Wynn Interactive launches an updated WynnBet mobile app for sports bettors in Tennessee and five other states.
- July 18, 2023 – Tennessee’s online sportsbooks report a betting handle of $230.3 million in June, a decline from May’s $279 million.
Best Tennessee online casinos
While online casinos are not yet legal in Tennessee, we anticipate that once they are, the following will be among the best based on their reputation and offerings in other states:
- DraftKings TN: Known for its sports betting, DraftKings is likely to offer a comprehensive online casino experience with a wide range of games.
- Fanduel TN: Another giant in the sports betting world, Fanduel’s casino offerings in other states suggest they’ll be a top contender in Tennessee.
- Caesars TN: With its long-standing reputation in the casino industry, Caesars is expected to bring a premium online casino experience to Tennessee residents.
- 888 TN: A global leader in online gambling, 888 Casino offers a vast array of games and is likely to be a favorite once it launches in Tennessee.
When might Tennessee legalize online casinos?
While Tennessee was historically one of the most anti-gambling states, the legalization of online sports betting in 2019 marked a significant shift. Several gambling-related bills are currently under consideration in the Tennessee General Assembly, including proposals to legalize casino gambling to fund K-12 education. Although none of these bills are in advanced stages, the growing interest in online betting in Nashville suggests that the state might be more open to gambling expansions in the future.
Different types of casino bonuses
Casino bonuses are incentives offered by online casinos to attract and retain players. They can range from welcome bonuses for new players to reload bonuses, free spins, cashback offers, and loyalty rewards for regular players. The specifics of these bonuses vary by casino and can be influenced by factors like the amount deposited, games played, and frequency of play.
Would Promo Codes Be Available at Online Casinos in TN?
While it’s speculative at this point, based on trends in other states, it’s highly likely that online casinos in Tennessee would offer promo codes. These codes provide players with special bonuses, such as extra funds or free spins, when they sign up or make a deposit.
Most popular casino games in Tennessee
Given the current legal status, it’s challenging to pinpoint the most popular casino games in Tennessee. However, in states with legalized online casinos, slots, blackjack, roulette, and poker tend to be the most favored.
Land-based casinos in Tennessee
Tennessee does not have any land-based casinos within its borders. The state’s laws prohibit commercial casinos, and there are no federally-recognized Native American tribes to negotiate casino compacts. However, residents seeking a casino experience can visit neighboring states like Mississippi, which boasts several casinos in Tunica, or North Carolina with the Harrah’s Cherokee properties.
For Tennesseans in the southwestern part, casinos like Harrah’s, Hollywood, Sam’s Town, and Gold Strike in Tunica, Mississippi, are just 43 miles away from Memphis. Meanwhile, those in the northwestern region can explore the Lady Luck Casino Caruthersville in Missouri. Nashville residents have the option of the Harrah’s Metropolis in Illinois, which is a little over two hours away.
In conclusion, while Tennessee has historically been restrictive regarding gambling, recent developments suggest a potential shift in the state’s stance. With online sports betting already legalized, there’s hope for enthusiasts that online casinos might be the next step in Tennessee’s gambling evolution.
