Illinois Sports Betting: Top Sportsbooks, Apps, Promos (2026)
Illinois sports betting has been legal and live since 2020.
Our experts rank and review the best Illinois sportsbooks and sports betting apps. Use our guide to claim the top Illinois sportsbook promos available today.
Best Illinois Sportsbook Promos
- GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET (AZ, CO, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MO, NC, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA) or 1-800-BETS OFF (IA). Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ). Call 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN). CALL 1-877-770-STOP (LA). 21+ only. Please gamble responsibly. Must be present in AZ/CO/IA/IL/IN/KS/KY/LA (select parishes)/MD/MI/MO/NC/NJ/OH/PA/TN/VA. Licensee partner Amelia Belle Casino. Minimum $10 deposit required. Minimum odds -500 or greater. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. New customers only. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply.
- Mobile-first betting built for savvy sports fans
- Rated best promos for industry-leading FanCash rewards program
- Intuitive navigation & dynamic live betting with select live streams
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
GDCSBKLive Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
NoIn-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
9Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
YesCash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
YesiOS App
Does it have an iOS App?
YesDesigned for tech-forward bettors, Fanatics Sportsbook combines sports betting with the feel of your favorite apps and shops.
Play NowAccepted payment methods
21+. New customers in AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, or WY. Apply promotion in bet slip and place a $1+ cash wager (min odds -200) daily for 10 consecutive days starting day of account creation. FanCash rewards will equal the qualifying wager amount (max $100 FanCash/day). FanCash issued under this promotion expires at 11:59 p.m. ET 7 days from issuance. Terms, incl. FanCash terms, apply—see Fanatics Sportsbook app. Gambling Problem? Call or Text 1-800-GAMBLER, 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-888-532-3500 (VA), Call (877-8-HOPENY) or text HOPENY (467369).(
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Hope is here. Call (800) 327-5050 or ![\"Gamesense](\"https://s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/objects.kaxmedia.com/genesis/gamesense-logo.png\")
Play it smart from the start! Live Chat @ http://GameSenseMA.com- Top sportsbook for markets
- MGM Rewards converts bets into travel, dining, and entertainment
- Stress-tested customer support
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
GDCBG1KLive Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
YesIn-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
11Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
YesCash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
YesiOS App
Does it have an iOS App?
YesBetMGM offers a competitive platform tailored for purposeful bettors who value both on-screen wins and real-world perks.
Play NowAccepted payment methods
Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET (Available in the US) Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR) 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. See BetMGM.com for Terms. After making a first deposit in the amount of at least ten dollars ($10.00), Participants will receive One (1) No Sweat Token with a maximum stake of one hundred dollars ($100) every day for the first 10 days after successful first deposit. Each No Sweat Token must be used in a single transaction. Any unused amounts will be forfeited.Each No Sweat Token expires in 24 hours. Bonus Bets expire in seven (7) days and are non-withdrawable.- One of the best site UX grades for feature-rich, low-friction betting
- Unbeatable selection of player props
- Best deposits & withdrawals selections
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Not requiredLive Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
YesIn-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
19Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
YesCash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
YesiOS App
Does it have an iOS App?
YesDraftKings is the complete package for bettors who value speed, easy-to-use navigation, and market depth.
Play NowAccepted payment methods
GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/NH/PR/WY). Void in CAN. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new DraftKings customer. $5+ first-time bet req. Max. $150 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets. Stake removed from payout. Reward issued as $50 in Bonus Bets every 7 days via click-to-claim for 14 days. Bonus Bets and click-to-claims expire 7 days (168hrs) after issuance. Terms: sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos. Ends 10/18/26 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK.
- Rated best site UX & mobile app
- Interface built for every type of bettor
- Clean live betting with seamless navigation
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Not requiredLive Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
YesIn-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
18Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
YesCash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
YesiOS App
Does it have an iOS App?
YesFanDuel offers the most intuitive, reliable, and rewarding sportsbook experience for smart bettors anywhere in the U.S.
Play NowAccepted payment methodsMust be 21+ to participate. T&Cs Apply. Play Responsibly. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (CO, DC, IL, KY, LA, MD, MS, NJ, OH, PA, VA, WV, WY), Call 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS), 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-270-7117 for confidential help (MI), Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. (NC), Call or Text 800-889-9789 (TN).
Refer to Cashback Terms & Conditions for full program terms.
Why You Should Claim Illinois Sportsbook Promos
Many sites offer Illinois sportsbook promo codes to attract new customers and retain existing players, and you should maximize these offers as soon as you sign up with a new site:
- You can create an account with multiple sportsbooks and claim a welcome offer promo code at each site.
- You can make riskier bets with offers that return some or all of your stake as bonus bets.
- You can profit while risking less of your own funds than you otherwise would.
Latest News Affecting Illinois Sports Betting
Comparing our Experts' Top Illinois Sportsbooks
The best Illinois betting site for you depends on what you're looking for. Use our expert guidance on this page to choose a legal Illinois sportsbook, and click the links to sign up for your welcome offer.
| Rank | IL Sportsbook | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | BetMGM | Low Fees |
| 2 | bet365 | Bets Over $10 |
| 3 | Caesars Sportsbook | MLB |
| 4 | DraftKings | Player Props |
| 5 | FanDuel | Live Betting |
| 6 | Fanatics Sportsbook | Rewards |
1. BetMGM Sportsbook Illinois: Best for Low Fees
BetMGM is the one operator in Illinois that didn't pass the state's per-bet fee on to bettors directly. Instead of adding a surcharge, it raised its minimum bet, meaning every wager placed here comes fee-free rather than getting nicked $0.25 or $0.50 off the top.
That's paired with strong market selection and parlay tools that make building multi-leg bets straightforward. Every bettor is automatically enrolled in MGM Rewards, as well.
Odds run less competitive in some markets than DraftKings or FanDuel, but for anyone tired of watching a fee eat into small wagers, BetMGM is the only book on this list built that way.
At a Glance
| Launch Date | March 5, 2022 |
| Licensing Partner | Par-A-Dice Hotel & Casino |
| Retail Locations | N/A |
| Choose If | You want to keep more of your funds and rewards per wager |
What Illinois Betting App Users are Saying
Apple
- “Lots of line and wager options. Good promotions. Trustworthy and easy to deposit/withdraw. The app is not as smooth as others, but I’m overlooking this because of a good experience with the book and their customer support.”
Android
- “App is a little slow and clunky, but it does the job and payouts are pretty much instant. Good bonuses and perks. It's the only site I use.”
2. bet365 Illinois: Best for Bets Over $10
bet365 didn't launch in Illinois until March 2025, years behind the rest of this list, but its fee structure is the most forgiving among operators that do charge one: the $0.25 surcharge only applies to bets under $10, and anything above that, bet365 absorbs the cost itself.
Pair that with genuinely deep market coverage and live betting that updates in real time, and it's built for someone placing real money, not micro-bets.
There's no loyalty program to fall back on, so this isn't the pick for bettors chasing rewards. But, for anyone betting more than pocket change per wager, bet365 avoids the worst effects of its fee structure entirely.
At a Glance
| Launch Date | March 16, 2025 |
| Licensing Partner | Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort |
| Retail Locations | N/A |
| Choose If | You bet frequently in $10+ increments |
What Illinois Betting App Users are Saying
Apple
- “One of the better sportsbooks with the best odds, markets, promos and perks but the app has to be one of the worst. ... Would easily be the best sportsbook in the game if they fixed up their app just a bit."
Android
- "Easy to use. Covers Illinois tax on bets over $10."
- "app is a little slow and freezes up too much"
- "I have been using this app for 3 days. I love it. Easy to deposit AND WITHDRAW. I withdraw directly onto my Chime card, and my money is available in minutes. I will be using this app daily from now on."
3. Caesars Sportsbook Illinois: Best for MLB
Caesars has been the White Sox's exclusive casino partner and official sports betting partner since May 2022, with official logos, in-stadium signage, and White Sox experiences that are actually redeemable through Caesars Rewards, not just a name on a jersey.
It entered Illinois in September 2020 as William Hill, a few months behind the original wave, and charges the same $0.25 flat fee as Fanatics on every bet, regardless of size.
Odds and promos trail the bigger Illinois sportsbooks here, though you'll tend to find lots of daily odds boosts at Caesars. For MLB bettors in particular, the rewards tie-in makes Caesars worth having in the rotation.
At a Glance
| Launch Date | March 9, 2022 |
| Licensing Partner | Grand Victoria Casino |
| Retail Locations | Grand Victoria Casino; Harrah's Metropolis |
| Choose If | You like to hunt for MLB promos, like odds boosts and rewards |
Hope is here. Call (800) 327-5050 or Play it smart from the start! Live Chat @ http://GameSenseMA.comWhat Illinois Betting App Users are Saying
Apple
- “I love the promos and bonus bets they provide. I think the app could be a bit more stable, logging in is weird half the time. Deposits are easy.”
Android
- “Very impressed. First, the setup and UI/UX is clean and organized. Placing bets is easy and intuitive. Even live betting allows you to keep the original bet on the slip and then if the odds on your bet change, they ask if you'll accept the change and then process the bet. Plus, you can connect it to your Caesars Rewards account.”
4. DraftKings Sportsbook Illinois: Best for Player Props
DraftKings has been part of Illinois' sports betting market since it went live in June 2020, and its player prop menu remains the deepest of any operator on this list, backed by fast-moving live odds and Dynasty Rewards tracking loyalty in the background.
DraftKings is partnered with the Chicago Cubs, but the retail sportsbook it ran at Wrigley Field for two seasons closed for good on May 31, 2026, another casualty of Illinois' tax structure.
DraftKings charges the same $0.50 flat fee as FanDuel, tied for the highest in the state. For prop bettors willing to absorb that cost, the market depth still leads.
At a Glance
| Launch Date | Aug. 5, 2020 |
| Licensing Partner | Casino Queen |
| Retail Locations | DraftKings at Casino Queen Sportsbook |
| Use If | You're willing to pay a little extra for best-in-class props |
What Illinois Betting App Users are Saying
Apple
- “The profit boosts are nice and unlike anything I’ve ever seen on any other app or site. So that’s a plus. The lag on placing bets is a bit annoying, but it’s understandable. The UI is nice and the social hub is a huge plus and extremely underrated.”
Android
- “Wonderful app…instant payouts and easy withdrawals. This is by far my most used app and most enjoyable app. I have control of everything and great betting options. Super easy to use…and there is a social feature and group betting as well, so you and your friends can share bets with each other, making great conversations at work the next day.”
- "I like the app but you shouldn't impose your taxes as a surcharge on the customer"
5. FanDuel Sportsbook Illinois: Best for Live Betting
FanDuel's live betting tools and in-app streaming are as strong here as anywhere else FanDuel operates, and it's been part of Illinois' market since it launched in June 2020.
The "FanDuel Sportsbook" at the United Center opened back in 2022 as a branded lounge and never actually received approval to accept real-money bets. It's a sports bar with FanDuel's name on it, not a betting location.
Combined with the $0.50 flat fee, tied for the worst in the state, FanDuel's best use case in Illinois rests entirely on the strength of its app.
At a Glance
| Launch Date | Aug. 28, 2020 |
| Licensing Partner | Par-A-Dice Hotel & Casino |
| Retail Locations | FanDuel Sportsbook & Horse Racing, Par-A-Dice Sportsbook |
| Use If | You want reliable mobile live betting throughout the state |
What Illinois Betting App Users are Saying
Apple
- “This is by far the easiest to use sports book when wagering and I have never had an issue if I won...no complaints. Keep up all the good work, but if I can offer a suggestion, it would be to create a point system that rewards those who choose to play on this sportsbook.”
Android
- “Tried several apps. FanDuel is the best one for sure. Easy login. Good interface. Quick payouts. Hassle-free withdrawals. Nice promos. Game graphics are better than other sites I've seen. Live stats updates on parlays. Help pages and chat are helpful. With email help, their agents are eager, polite, and most importantly, accurate. They even gave me credit when I was the one who made the mistake.”
6. Fanatics Sportsbook Illinois: Best for Rewards
Fanatics is the newest operator of the six, launching in Illinois on April 5, 2024, and it charges the same $0.25 flat fee as Caesars on every bet.
FanCash is the reason to stick around regardless: A percentage of every wager comes back whether it wins or loses, redeemable for bonus bets or Fanatics merchandise.
There's no desktop betting site, but for bettors who prioritize ongoing value over rewards tiers for their loyalty programs, Fanatics delivers something truly unique.
At a Glance
| Launch Date | April 5, 2024 |
| Licensing Partner | Hawthorne Race Course |
| Retail Locations | N/A |
| Choose If | You have your eye on local team merch from Fanatics |
Hope is here. Call (800) 327-5050 or Play it smart from the start! Live Chat @ http://GameSenseMA.comWhat Illinois Betting App Users are Saying
Apple
- “Before I downloaded, I was reading reviews…most of which were very negative. I have had literally zero issues. The app itself is very easy to navigate. The odds are great. Easy to deposit. When you bet on a player prop, you get paid out as soon as the bet hits...I highly recommend this sportsbook.”
Android
- “The app and customer service are exceptional relative to other books. Chat actually works, and they read your questions. Most chat support is awful. The app is easy to blunder or fat finger, so be very cautious with that.”
More Great Illinois Sportsbooks to Explore
| IL Sportsbook | Licensing Partner | Retail Location |
|---|---|---|
| BetRivers | Rivers Casino Des Plaines | BetRivers Sportsbook at Rivers Casino |
| Circa Sports | Full House Resorts | Circa Sports Illinois Sportsbook at The Temporary by American Place Casino |
| Hard Rock Bet | Hard Rock Casino Rockford | Hard Rock Sportsbook at Hard Rock Casino Rockford |
| theScore Bet | Hollywood Casino Aurora | The Sportsbook at Hollywood Casino Joliet |
How We Rate Illinois Sportsbooks & Betting Apps
Our experts have selected the best Illinois sportsbooks and compared them across various categories using our fair and unbiased review process.
We register with every legal Illinois betting site, assessing each platform's features, markets, bet types, customer support, and payments. This enables us to evaluate its overall user experience and determine whether we should recommend it to our users.
"Here at Gambling.com, our goal is to deliver honest, helpful information about Illinois betting apps' pros, cons, features, and functionality."
Licensing & Safety
It is essential to choose a reputable legal sportsbook in Illinois to ensure a safe and secure betting experience. These regulated platforms offer numerous advantages compared to unlicensed or offshore operators. They help maintain the integrity of sports by detecting and preventing illegal activities, as well as underage gambling and identity theft.
That's why every sportsbook we recommend has been licensed through the Illinois Gaming Board. That means they’re all vetted, monitored, and guaranteed to be operating within specific standards for privacy, information security, and fairness to the player.
Trust Factors
Retail Access
Physical sportsbook locations give bettors an in-person option that mobile apps can't. It’s an added benefit when rewards can be redeemed there as well.
Promo Value
Illinois sports betting sites should deliver easily accessible, tailored promos that add real value for local markets.
In-State Partnerships
An in-state team or venue partnership should ideally add functional features and promos.
State-Specific Features
Illinois' betting regulations can either enhance or diminish the value a sportsbook gives to local users. In this case, the per-bet fee weighed heavily in our rankings.
Market History
How long an app has been live in Illinois tells us a lot. A longer track record means more time for bugs to get fixed, support to mature, and users to form opinions.
Core Product
From state to state, the quality should still remain largely consistent, from support responsiveness to payout speed to betting markets.
How to Sign Up for Illinois Sportsbooks & Betting Apps
Getting started with sports betting in Illinois is a simple procedure. Here, you'll find a clear and concise step-by-step manual to assist you:
- Choose a Licensed Sportsbook: Choose a sportsbook that is licensed and regulated in IL. This makes sure your betting experience is safe and fair.
- Download the Mobile App: Visit the iOS App Store or Google Play Store and search for the name of the app. Click "Get" or "Install" to download it to your device.
- Create an Account and Use Welcome Bonus: Sign up for an account on your chosen sportsbook. Most offer a welcome bonus, which can increase your initial betting funds.
- Verify Your Identity: To ensure security, confirm your identity. This usually means providing a copy of your ID or passport.
- Deposit Funds: Put funds into your account. Most sportsbooks accept different payment methods, like credit cards, debit cards, and e-wallets. Ensure you make a minimum qualifying deposit to activate your bonus and unlock its benefits.
- Understand Bonuses & Promotions: Familiarize yourself with the available bonuses and promotions. These can give extra betting funds or bonus bets. If your bonus is associated with a specific bet, remember to place your sports wager at the required qualifying odds.
- Explore Betting Markets: Look at the different betting markets available. These can range from game results to individual player performances.
- Place Your Bets: Once you've done your homework, it's time to place your bets. Remember to bet responsibly and enjoy the process.
- Claim Winnings and/or Bonuses: Once you have met all the requirements, your bonus should be promptly credited to your account.
Illinois Sports Betting at a Glance
| Is IL Sports Betting Legal? | Yes - online & in person |
| Launch Date | June 18, 2020 |
| Legal Betting Age | 21+ |
| Total Licenses | 20 |
| Tax Rate | 20-40% with $0.25-0.50 per bet (online) |
| Regulatory Body | Illinois Gaming Board |
| College Betting Rules | ✓ Bet on out-of-state games online ✓ Bet on in-state games only in person ✕ No player props |
Illinois Sports Betting Laws & Legislation
Sports betting has been legal in Illinois, both online and in person, for individuals 21 years of age and older since Governor J.B. Pritzker signed SB 690 in 2019.
Over time, IL has become one of the largest sports betting markets in the country. As with most other states, the IL market is led by DraftKings and FanDuel. These two sportsbooks account for almost 70% of bets in Illinois, followed by BetRivers and Caesars.
Senate Bill 690, also known as the Illinois Sports Wagering Act, was signed into law in June 2019. Illinois laws prevent you from betting on events not approved by the Gaming Board.
Initially, the law's language required users to register in person for an online sportsbook account at a land-based casino. This requirement was criticized when SB 690 was signed, and the COVID-19 pandemic only made it more challenging. In-person sign-up for online accounts was removed in late 2021.
In 2025, Illinois approved a state budget that introduced a progressive tax on online betting. In response, several sportsbooks, including bet365, DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics, now add a surcharge on bets.
Illinois Sports Betting Licensing
The Illinois Gaming Board oversees gambling in the state. The Board's purview includes sports betting, video gaming, and the regulation of any online Illinois casinos in the future.
Any prospective online sportsbook in Illinois must undergo thorough vetting by the Illinois Gaming Board to obtain a license.
Online sportsbooks can partner with a land-based casino or racecourse to obtain a license, or launch online without a retail partner.
A land-based sportsbook license requires an initial license fee of $10 million. An online sports betting license in the Prairie state costs even more, with a $20 million license fee and a $1 million renewal payment every four years.
Illinois Sports Betting Tax Rate
You must pay taxes on sports betting winnings in IL from both online and retail sportsbooks. If you win more than $600 from an Illinois sports betting site, it is necessary to report your winnings to the IRS and complete a W-2G form.
Illinois Sports Betting Timeline: How We Got Here
- Sept. 9, 2026: Bally's makes two $2 million payments to the City of Chicago under its Host Community Agreement.
- Sept. 4, 2026: The Illinois Gaming Board votes to advance rule changes that would let compulsive gamblers bar themselves from casinos and sports betting for as little as six months, down from the current five-year minimum.
- Aug. 26, 2026: Bally's writes to Chicago aldermen that competition from newly legalized video gambling terminals (VGTs), not its own financial troubles, is behind the company's decision to pause non-gaming construction on its River West casino project.
- July 1, 2026: SB 3019 goes into effect, granting the Illinois Gaming Board formal oversight of daily fantasy sports sites.
- June 16, 2026: Gov. Pritzker signs Senate Bill 3019 into law, amending the Sports Wagering Act to classify exchange wagers as a form of sports wagering.
- May 31, 2026: DraftKings stops taking in-person bets at its sportsbook at Wrigley Field.
- Sept. 2, 2025: bet365 announces a $0.25 surcharge on bets less than $10.
- July 1, 2025: The new tax rate goes into effect, requiring sportsbooks to pay a rate of 20% to 40% based on adjusted gross revenues.
- June 27, 2025: Fanatics announces a $0.25 transaction fee on all sports bets in Illinois.
- June 12, 2025: DraftKings announces a $0.50 charge for every bet placed in Illinois.
- June 10, 2025: In response to the tax rate increase, FanDuel announces a $0.50 surcharge on every Illinois bet.
- June 1, 2025: Illinois lawmakers pass a state budget that includes a progressive tax rate hike on sportsbooks.
- July 1, 2024: Betting on in-state teams online is banned. Bettors must place bets on in-state teams in person at retail locations.
- Sept. 29, 2023: Circa Sports launches online in Illinois.
- March 5, 2022: The requirement that bettors must register in person for an online account is eliminated, allowing users to register from anywhere in the state.
- June 18, 2020: BetRivers becomes the first Illinois sportsbook to launch online.
- March 9, 2020: Rivers Casino in Des Plaines opens Illinois' first retail sportsbook.
- June 28, 2019: The Illinois Sports Wagering Act is signed into law by Gov. Pritzker, establishing the regulatory framework for legal sports wagering in Illinois.
Where Can I Bet in IL?: Retail IL Sportsbooks
| Name | Features |
|---|---|
| Bally Bet Sportsbook in the Quad Cities | 20-ft. LED video wall, 25 big-screen TVs, 3 betting windows, 5 kiosks |
| BetRivers Sportsbook at Rivers Casino | Hi-def LED TV wall, TV screens, 26-seat bar, bartop poker, kiosks, betting windows |
| Caesars Sportsbook at Grand Victoria Casino | Kiosks, seating, TV screens |
| Circa Sports Illinois Sportsbook at The Temporary by American Place Casino | Kiosks, betting windows, live odds board, 36 TVs |
| DraftKings at Casino Queen Sportsbook | 6K-sq-ft, 60-ft. video wall, 28+ LED TVs, live odds board, 5 betting windows, 38 betting kiosks, food & bar |
| DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field | 2K-sq-ft HD LED display with directional sound, 300 seats, food & bar, private rooms available |
| Fanatics Sportsbook at Hawthorne Race Course | TVs, leather seats & couches, bar |
| FanDuel Par-A-Dice Sportsbook | Betting windows |
| FanDuel Sportsbook & Horse Racing at Fairmount Park | 30+ TVs |
| Hard Rock Sportsbook at Hard Rock Casino Rockford | LED TV wall, food & bar, 5 kiosks, 2 betting windows |
| Sportsbook at Argosy Casino Alton | 35 HDTVs, individiual viewing stations, live odds board |
| Penalty Box Sportsbook & Bar at Hollywood Casino Aurora | 20+ big-screen TVs, 10 kiosks, betting windows, luxury seating, food & bar |
| The Sportsbook at Hollywood Casino Joliet | 42-ft video wall, betting windows, food & bar |
Why Bet Online in Illinois
The large majority of sports betting now takes place via mobile apps, as opposed to cashier counters at retail sportsbooks. There are many reasons for this trend, but let’s take a look at some of the most critical factors:
Convenience & Accessibility: You can bet from anywhere within state borders at any time of day, as opposed to a limited number of retail locations at certain hours.
Compare Odds: You can have accounts with multiple sportsbooks to shop for the best betting odds.
Better Live Betting: You don't need to be watching a game to bet alongside it with mobile betting apps.
Better User Experience: Apps and sites offer an instantly responsive and streamlined experience, making digital betting platforms less frustrating than waiting in line to bet.
Claim Multiple Promos: You can sign up for several welcome offers, and online betting sites in Illinois offer steady ongoing promos after you sign up.
Popular Sports & Teams to Bet on in Illinois
Illinois is the sixth most populous state in the US and is represented by a Chicago team in every major sports league, so it’s no surprise that Illinois is one of the biggest sports betting markets in the U.S.
- NFL Teams: Chicago Bears
- NBA Teams: Chicago Bulls
- MLB Teams: Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox
- NHL Teams: Chicago Blackhawks
- Prominent College Teams: Illinois Fighting Illini, Northwestern Wildcats, Eastern Illinois Panthers, DePaul Blue Demons
- WNBA Teams: Chicago Sky
- MLS Teams: Chicago Fire
- NWSL Teams: Chicago Stars FC
Remember, betting on Illinois college teams is legal. However, you must place these bets in person at a retail sportsbook. You can't place prop bets on any NCAA college events, regardless of where the teams play.
Responsible Gambling in Illinois
Like many US states, Illinois has strict regulations in place to ensure that gambling platforms keep players safe. All Illinois sportsbooks provide responsible gambling information, including tips on how to stay in control. Each platform also provides account tools, such as time-outs, deposits, bets, and spend limits, to help bettors manage their betting.
The Illinois Gaming Board assists individuals struggling with problem gambling. The Board also operates a state-wide self-exclusion program that players can join to prohibit themselves from gambling. Details of support groups and problem gambling tools are available, as well as instructions on how to self-exclude from all Illinois betting sites.
Additionally, most Illinois online sportsbooks will provide links to responsible gambling organizations that offer professional help to players.
Illinois Betting Site FAQs
Can I bet on sports in Illinois?
Yes, you can bet on sports legally in IL. There are some of the top online sportsbooks you can bet on in Illinois, which you can sign up for using the links on this page. To bet in person, you can also visit retail sportsbooks at a land-based casino.
Do you have to be 21 to sports bet in Illinois?
Yes. You must be 21 or older to legally use Illinois betting sites, and you need to be physically located within state lines while placing wagers. This applies whether you're playing online or visiting an Illinois retail sportsbook in person. All licensed operators require ID verification to confirm your age and eligibility before you bet.
Can you bet on Illinois teams if you live in Illinois?
Illinois sports bettors can find loads of online betting markets for a range of professional and college sports, including betting lines for Illinois teams. You can place bets on major league teams anywhere in the state, but you must visit a retail sportsbook to wager on Illinois college teams.
Are Illinois online sports betting apps legal?
Yes. Illinois sports betting apps are fully legal, and bettors can currently choose from seven licensed sportsbook apps operating in the state. To place bets, you'll need to allow your chosen Illinois sports betting site to access your device's geolocation services, which confirms you're physically within state lines, a requirement under Illinois gaming law for every wager placed.
What is the best sportsbook in Illinois?
The best sportsbook in Illinois will always depend on the person. There are several top-quality Illinois online sportsbooks, each offering benefits for new sign-ups, but FanDuel is graded as our No. 1 sportsbook in Illinois.
Find out more about which sites provide the best odds, bonuses, and features by reading our reviews.
Can you bet online on college sports in Illinois?
Yes, you can bet online on college sports in Illinois, but there are some restrictions. Online sportsbooks are prohibited from offering bets on Illinois college teams. This means that while you can bet on college sports, you cannot place these bets online if the teams are from Illinois.
You also cannot place prop bets on any NCAA players.
How do I claim Illinois sportsbook promos?
To claim an Illinois promo code bonus, click the link for that offer on this page. Sign up with an Illinois online sportsbook, enter your promo code (if required), and follow any additional terms, like making a minimum deposit, to claim your welcome offer and start betting in Illinois.
What types of Illinois sportsbook promotions are available?
- Bonus Bets: Site credits that allow you to wager on an event without using your own money
- Insured Bets: Match your losses up to a particular amount if your bet loses
- Odds Boosts: Enhanced odds for specific events or bet types
- Deposit Bonus: Match a percentage of your deposit with bonus funds
How do I download & install Illinois sports betting apps?
- Click or tap the “BET NOW” buttons on this page to claim your Illinois betting offer.
- Visit the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and search for the sportsbook you’d like to install.
- Select the app to start the installation.
- Once the download is complete, open the app, fill in your personal and verification information, and create your account.
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