Historically speaking, Virginia has been a largely anti-gambling state. Things have begun to change in recent years, though, and lawmakers here officially voted to allow land-based casinos in early 2020. For years, the popularity of online gambling has grown in this state. Our team of experts is going to explain how you can find the best Virginia casino sites currently operating.
If you’re already tapped into the gambling laws in VA and know how to find the best sites, you can skip the information we’ve provided. Below are some of the very best online casinos in Virginia operating right now. Check them out today!
Dec 28, 2020 Caesar's Palace it's not, but for the first time Northern Virginia is getting in on the expansion of gambling that has been spreading throughout the state. Early next month, Rosie's Gaming is. Best Sites for Real Money Online Gambling in Virginia. Historically speaking, Virginia has been a largely anti-gambling state. Things have begun to change in recent years, though, and lawmakers here officially voted to allow land-based casinos. The only types of casino games in Virginia are those that offer historical horse racing games rather than traditional slot machines. There are no Virginia casinos with table games. All of the casinos in Virginia only offer Class II video gaming machines, which are games that look like slot machines but rather, you are betting against other. Owning a Slot Machine in Virginia. While the state doesn’t want casinos within its borders, it appears to have no problem with private residents owning slot machines. According to Virginia Code 18.2-334, slots of any age can be owned by citizens.
Rank | Gambling Site | Deposit Bonus | Get Started | |
#1 | 280% Up To $14,000 | Visit Site | ||
#2 | Super Slots | 300% Up To $6,000 | Visit Site | |
#3 | 225% Up To $12,250 | Visit Site | ||
#4 | Vegas Casino Online | 100% Up To $11,000 | Visit Site | |
#5 | 250% Up To $5,000 | Visit Site |
Laws towards the gambling industry are changing fast in Virginia. Many still have no idea exactly what is allowed here. We’ll try to help out by going over the specific legality of land-based and online casinos in the state.
Before getting into the legal landscape, though, we’ll provide a few easy steps that you can follow to find the perfect real money Virginia casino.
This is an exciting time for casino fans in Virginia. More options are becoming available here every year. Let’s take a look at the state’s evolving online casino industry.
Four Basic Steps to Finding the Best Virginia Online Casinos
Lawmakers in Virginia have been hesitant to start allowing land-based casinos to operate. Interestingly, a huge number of real money online casinos have been operating in the state for years. Those just getting into real money online casino gambling in Virginia may have a difficult time trying to choose which one to join.
The process is actually easy, though. You just need to know what to look for. Below are four very simple steps that everyone can take to find the perfect internet casino website.
Look at Reviews From Reliable Sources
There are several important things that you should do before joining any Virginia casino sites. The first is checking out reviews of the site from real, trusted sources. A great online casino review should tell you just about everything you need to know about a site.
The best ones will offer information about a site’s payment options and games. Feel free to check out our gambling site reviews page today. We’ll be the first to let you know whether or not an internet casino is worth joining.
Spend Time Looking at Virginia Online Casinos for Yourself
Good reviews will say a lot about an online casino website. In reality, though, you’ll never know whether or not you enjoy a site until you’ve checked it out for yourself. We highly recommend that you spend some time checking out a few different Virginia casino sites.
Eventually, you’ll begin to see some features that you value more than others. Looking at Virginia online casinos in person will also allow you to see how a site really operates. You can test a site’s page load times and see how the different pages are set up!
See Which Payment Options Are Available
When playing online casino games for money in Virginia, the most important feature of an online casino site is its payment system. You will want to ensure that the money you are gambling with is safe. There are some payment options that are known for being better than others.
We tend to recommend real money online casinos in Virginia that allow deposits to be made using debit and credit cards. Many casino sites in Virginia only offer Bitcoin withdrawals. Make sure that fees for deposits and withdrawals are not too high.
Check out the Promotions Being Offered
Promotions are a fantastic tool that internet casinos offer. In case you’re unaware, these are bonus offers that Virginia online casinos give to their new and existing members. They help to boost the amount of money you have to gamble with.
Every online casino has different promotions. Take a little time to see which sites are offering what. It’s always a good idea to join Virginia casino sites that offer great welcome bonuses on your first deposit.
Why Are Online Casinos in Virginia Becoming so Popular?
It’s been amazing to see the growth of real money online casino gambling in the United States. Over the past few years, a large number of states have experienced huge surges in online gambling activity. This is certainly the case in Virginia.
This state has banned land-based casinos for decades. As a result, many individuals here choose to play their real money casino games online. There are actually several reasons why casino sites in Virginia have grown so popular, though.
Some experts believe the convenience of these sites has helped the industry grow so quickly. Many are astounded to find out how simple it is to play major casino games. Most of these Virginia casino sites also offer great mobile casino gambling options that allow you to play games using just your phone!
The massive list of different games is also a reason why these sites have become so popular among gamblers. Some real money online casinos in Virginia offer more gambling options than the biggest land-based casinos in Las Vegas. Check out some of these sites that we recommend at the top of this page to see all of the online casino games you can play for real money in Virginia!
Online casino gambling will continue to grow more popular in the coming months. After checking out some Virginia online casinos, you’ll probably understand why this is.
Are There Any Land-Based Casinos in Virginia?
Lawmakers in Virginia decided to ban casino gambling decades ago. It was a shame, as most believe the state would earn millions in additional revenue with the regulation of this industry. It’s now clear that state officials recognize this fact.
Many lawmakers have been pushing to legalize casino gambling in the VA for months. This year, the House and Senate officially approved a bill to allow land-based casinos to begin operating here. Most believe the first gambling venues will begin operating in the state by 2022.
As of 2021, however, no brick and mortar casinos are operating in Virginia.
Is Online Poker Available in Virginia Right Now?
Most are well aware that poker is the most popular real money casino game in the world. Unfortunately, there are no land-based venues in Virginia that offer poker games. Most online casino sites in Virginia, however, offer a wide variety of different poker gambling options.
Internet poker gambling is growing more popular every single month. Not every casino site offers it. If this is the game you’re looking to play, make sure you join a site that’s known to provide poker options!
What’s the Legality of Online Casinos in Virginia?
Due to the harsh laws towards land-based casinos, many believe that internet casino gambling is completely banned in Virginia. That is not the case! The laws are a little ambiguous, yet most agree that Virginia online casinos are allowed.
Section 18.2-325 of the State Statutes gives a description of illegal gambling in Virginia.
“Illegal gambling means the making, placing or receipt, of any bet or wager in this Commonwealth of money or other thing of value, made in exchange for a chance to win a prize, stake or other consideration or thing of value, dependent upon the result of any game, contest or any other event the outcome of which is uncertain or a matter of chance, whether such game, contest or event, occurs or is to occur inside or outside the limits of this Commonwealth.”
On the surface, this seems to indicate that all forms of wagering are prohibited here. That’s not necessarily the case, though. Some claim that this next definition (18-2-334) allows people to play at Virginia casino sites from home.
“Nothing in this article shall be construed to make it illegal to participate in a game of chance conducted in a private residence, provided such private residence is not commonly used for such games of chance and there is no operator as defined in subsection 4.”
At the moment, all online casinos in Virginia are unregulated. They are all based in other countries. With that in mind, it seems that no laws are present to keep residents of Virginia to play through these sites.
Will I Get in Trouble for Playing at Casino Sites in Virginia?
It’s extremely unlikely. Online casinos in Virginia seem to be allowed under the state’s laws. Our team has not come across a single case of any individuals facing legal trouble for playing at internet casino sites.
Here’s How to Stay Safe Playing at Virginia Casino Sites
It’s completely reasonable to have concerns about safety when playing casino games online. As we’ve already mentioned, many are completely unfamiliar with how these Virginia gambling sites even work. The great thing is that it’s very easy to stay safe playing at online casinos nowadays.
Most of the Virginia online casinos work extremely hard to protect their players. There are a few easy steps that everyone can take to help protect themselves as well. Check them out below.
Only Place Bets Through Reputable Real Money Casino Sites
The easiest way to stay completely safe while playing casino games online is to join a reputable site. As long as you do this, there’s a very small chance you’ll ever encounter any issues. Make sure to do research before joining any internet casino site!
Never Bet More Than You Can Afford
Real money online casino gambling is extremely fun. Sometimes, people get a little carried away with their wagering habits, though. We recommend that you keep track of how much money you’re betting at all times. If you see that things are getting out of hand, take a break for a little while. Virginia casino sites will be around when you’re ready to gamble and manage your bankroll responsibly.
Reach out to Customer Support When Issues Arise
Customer support is one of the best tools available through internet casino sites. It’s the system set in place to help you when you need it. Make sure that you’re always willing to ask for assistance when you encounter any issues.
Understand How All Promotions Work
Many believe that promotions have helped to grow the online real money casino industry immensely. Many Virginia online casinos offer incredible bonuses to their members every single day. Before using any promotion, though, make sure you understand exactly how it works. Some promotional offers can end up making it difficult to withdraw your winnings.
Keep Your Casino Account Information Private
You should never give the username and password of your online casino account to anyone you don’t know. This includes individuals who claim to be involved with the site. People with access to this information can collect your money without you knowing about it. Always keep your account information private!
FAQs About Online Gambling in Virginia
When Will Online Casinos in Virginia Become Regulated?
This is a question many people have been asking for years. Unfortunately, no one has the answer. Lawmakers in this state have just recently begun to embrace the land-based casino industry. No legislation has been approved to regulate internet casinos.
What Casino Games Offer the Best Chance to Win Big?
Many who are getting into casino gambling for the first time want to win big, fast. This can happen, but most people usually win after really learning how a game works. Many claim blackjack is the top option. Others think craps offers the best jackpots. Learn how to play a game and you’ll begin to learn the best paths to victory.
Is Online Casino Gambling Easier Than Land-Based Gambling?
In terms of convenience, absolutely. Online casino sites in Virginia allow you to make bets from anywhere with an internet connection. Your chances of winning are the same, though.
What Are Some of the Best Virginia Online Casinos Operating Right Now?
This is one that many are torn on. As of right now, it seems like Bovada and El Royale Casino are two of the best online casinos in Virginia right now. Both are known for offering safe payment options and a huge range of fantastic real money casino games. Check them out today!
Should I Start Playing Online Casino Games for Money in Virginia?
Yes. At the moment, there are no land-based casinos in Virginia. No one really knows when this will change. If you want to play casino games, the online route is your best option. Just make sure that you join a reputable site.
Conclusion on Real Money Virginia Online Casinos
For many years, Virginia was known as an anti-gambling state. That’s beginning to change now. It’s clear that a huge number of individuals from VA love making casino wagers online.
It wouldn’t be a major surprise to see Virginia oniline casinos become state-regulated in the next few years. Take a look at our gambling news page from time to time for updates on the state’s legal situation as it changes.
As always, feel free to reach out to our team with any additional questions. Good luck making your real money bets!
Introduction to Virginia Slot Machine Casino Gambling in 2020
Virginia slot machine casino gambling does not exist … yet. Last year, the state legislature and Governor approved three new casinos, but each awaits approval by voters in their local municipalities.
This post continues my weekly State-By-State Slot Machine Casino Gambling Series, an online resource dedicated to guiding slot machine casino gambler to success. Now in its third year, each weekly post reviews slots gambling in a single U.S. state, territory, or federal district.
Keep Reading … Or Watch Instead!
Or … Listen Instead!
Find my podcast wherever you listen to audio!
Relevant Legal Statutes on Gambling in Virginia*
The minimum legal gambling age in Virginia depends upon the gambling activity:
- Land-Based Casinos: 21 (expected)
- Poker Rooms: Not available
- Bingo: 18
- Lottery: 18
- Pari-Mutuel Wagering: 18
On March 22, 2019, Virginia Governor Ralph Northam signed State Bill 1126 into law. This state law does not authorize casinos in Virginia. However, in effect, it establishes
- A Commission to study casino gaming regulations
- A framework for the Lottery Board to oversee gaming
- How eligible cities conduct a local casino approval referendum
Details of the state bill suggest eligible cities are Danville, Bristol, and Portsmouth. Regarding timing, the city of Bristol has scheduled their referendum for November 2020.
*The purpose of this section is to inform the public of state gambling laws and how the laws might apply to various forms of gaming. It is not legal advice.
Slot Machine Private Ownership in Virginia
It is legal to own a slot machine privately in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Gaming Control Board in Virginia
The framework included in the 2019 passing of Virginia State Bill 1126 includes giving oversight of sports betting regulations to the Virginia Racing Commission. This expansion of its responsibilities is in addition to its current responsibilities overseeing horserace pari-mutuel wagering.
The Virginia Lottery Board will obtain responsibility for casino gambling, but specific gaming regulations are not yet available. Establishing these gaming regulations is currently underway by Virginia’s Joint Legislative and Review Commission.
Casinos in Virginia
There are currently no casinos with slot machines in Virginia.
Commercial Casinos in Virginia
There are currently no commercial casinos in Virginia. However, three eligible cities may have casinos after approval by voters. The Bristol referendum occurs first in November 2020.
These three potential casino locations include the cities of:
- Danville located 144 miles southwest of Richmond near North Carolina
- Bristol located 113 miles northeast of Knoxville near Tennessee
- Portsmouth located 97 miles southeast of Richmond near Chesapeake
Tribal Casinos in Virginia
The Pamunkey Indian Tribe gained federal recognition in 2015 and is pursuing establishing a tribal casino. They intend to have improved educational and employment opportunities to ensure the long-term success of the tribe.
4 stars games casino promo codes. At this time, the tribe is searching for a suitable site for a casino resort located within Virginia. Potential sites for a tribal casino now include Richmond and Norfolk.
Continual and effective opposition of tribal casinos in Virginia comes from the casino operator of MGM National Harbor in nearby Maryland.
Other Gambling Establishments
As an alternative to enjoying Virginia slot machine casino gambling, consider exploring casino options in a nearby state. Bordering Virginia is:
- North: Maryland Slots and District of Columbia Slots
- East: The Atlantic Ocean
- South: North Carolina Slots and Tennessee Slots
- West: Kentucky Slots and West Virginia Slots
Each of the links above will take you to my blog for that neighboring U.S. state to Virginia.
Colonial Downs Racetrack offers slot-like historical horse racing (HHR) electronic gaming machines. This horseracing facility is in the eastern part of Virginia located 30 miles east of Richmond.
Our Virginia Slots Facebook Group
Are you interested in sharing and learning with other slots enthusiasts in Virginia? If so, join our Virginia slots community on Facebook. All you’ll need is a Facebook profile to join this closed Facebook Group freely.
There, you’ll be able to privately share your slots experiences as well as chat with players about slots gambling in Virginia. Join us!
Payout Returns in Virginia
As Virginia casinos await voter approvals, the state legislature is working to establish slot machine gaming regulations. Therefore, it is not yet known if Virginia will offer theoretical payout limits or return statistics.
Summary of Virginia Slot Machine Casino Gambling in 2020
Virginia slot machine casino gambling does exist but is now on the horizon. Commercial casinos are awaiting approval by voters in Bristol, Danville, and Portsmouth.
Casino Slots In Virginia Woolf
Annual Progress in Virginia Slot Machine Casino Gambling
In the last year, there has been no change to the slots gaming industry in Virginia. However, potential changes are imminent.
Related Articles from Professor Slots
Other State-By-State Articles from Professor Slots
Casino Slots In Virginia Beach
- Previous: Vermont Slot Machine Casino Gambling
- Next: Washington Slot Machine Casino Gambling
Casino Gambling In Virginia
Have fun, be safe, and make good choices!
By Jon H. Friedl, Jr. Ph.D., President
Jon Friedl, LLC
By Jon H. Friedl, Jr. Ph.D., President
Jon Friedl, LLC