7 Most Popular Horse Betting Websites

Quick Takeaways:

  • FanDuel offers a user-friendly interface and is available in multiple states, making it a popular choice for online horse betting versus going to the track. It also provides a wide range of deposit options and live streaming of horse races for an immersive betting experience.
  • DraftKings, in partnership with Churchill Downs, offers a standalone app dedicated to horse racing. It also provides free horse racing pools with cash prizes, making it an attractive option for bettors looking for exciting opportunities.
  • Caesars Racebook offers a 100% deposit match for new customers and utilizes a racebook points system. With features like streaming horse races and easy funding and withdrawal options, Caesars Racebook ensures a seamless betting experience.
  • BetMGM Horse Racing provides detailed instructions and past race performance information to help bettors make informed decisions. It also offers a 100% deposit bonus for new customers and ensures quick payouts for added convenience.
  • 1/ST BET offers personalized handicapping tools to enhance the betting experience. With a welcome bonus and legal betting on over 300 racetracks, 1/ST BET provides ample opportunities for horse racing enthusiasts.
  • TVG continues to offer horse betting options. With coverage of more than 150 tracks and promotional offers, TVG ensures a comprehensive and engaging horse betting experience for its users.
  • Twinspires Horse Racing provides access to expert analysis for bettors. Offering the convenience of placing bets on desktop, mobile, and at retail locations, Twinspires Horse Racing caters to a wide range of betting preferences.

1) FanDuel – Online Horse Betting

FanDuel Horse Betting

FanDuel stands out as a top choice for many online horse betting enthusiasts. One of the reasons behind its popularity is the user-friendly interface, making it easy for both seasoned bettors and newcomers to navigate through the platform.

Additionally, FanDuel’s availability in multiple states allows bettors from various regions to enjoy the thrill of horse racing from the comfort of their homes.

The platform offers a wide range of deposit options, ensuring convenient transactions for users.

You get live streaming of horse races, allowing you to watch the action unfold in real-time. Lastly, FanDuel lets you participate in the excitement of major races like Belmont Stakes and Breeders’ Cup.

User-friendly interface

FanDuel has a user-friendly interface, featuring ease of navigation and a seamless betting experience.  Users can easily navigate through the platform and find the information they need to make informed betting decisions.

With a user-friendly interface, even beginners can quickly understand how to place bets and explore different options on the platform.

FanDuel is available in multiple U.S. states and Canada

FanDuel is live and accessible to users in multiple states via online, retail and sportsbook channels.  Here are the states where FanDuel operates:

  • Arizona – Retail and Sportsbook
  • Colorado – Online
  • Connecticut – Retail and Sportsbook
  • Illinois – Retail and Sportsbook
  • Indiana – Retail and Sportsbook
  • Iowa – Retail and Sportsbook
  • Louisiana – Retail and Sportsbook
  • Maryland – Retail and Sportsbook
  • Michigan – Retail and Sportsbook
  • New Jersey – Retail and Sportsbook
  • New York – Retail and Sportsbook
  • Ohio – Retail and Sportsbook
  • Ontario, Canada
  • Pennsylvania – Retail and Sportsbook
  • Tennessee – Online
  • Virginia – Online
  • West Virginia – Retail and Sportsbook
  • Wyoming – Online

FanDuel’s availability in multiple states across the U.S. and Canada gives you much more opportunity to bet on races.  It also expands the reach of FanDuel, attracting a wider audience and deepening the betting pool.

Wide range of deposit options

FanDuel’s diverse selection of deposit options allows you to easily fund your account and enjoy the excitement of betting on live races right from home.

This includes popular payment methods such as credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets. With this variety of options, you can conveniently and securely add funds to your account whenever you need.

Live streaming of horse races

FanDuel also live streams horse races.  You can watch horse races in real time, experiencing all the adrenaline and suspense as if you were physically present at the racetrack.

Livestream races lets you bet in real time with live odds after the race is underway.  This adds a huge element of control over your bets and potential outcomes.  You can double down or hedge any of your pre-race bets based on how the race evolves and what you see.

In some races FanDuel also provides additional commentary and analysis alongside the live video stream, providing valuable insights for bettors.  You can also get replays and race highlights — really useful for reviewing past races or catching up on what happened during a race you laid a bet on.

Live streaming adds a new element of engagement, allowing you to closely follow your favorite horses or jockeys, stay updated on race results in real time, and adjust your betting strategies accordingly. This interactive experience enhances both the entertainment value and potential profitability of horse betting.

Horse racing fans, get ready to bet and sweat on the Belmont Stakes and Breeders’ Cup with FanDuel!

FanDuel betting on major races – Belmont Stakes and Breeders’ Cup

FanDuel gives you a tremendous opportunity to place bets on the prestigious Belmont Stakes and Breeders’ Cup.  This is a major bonus for enthusiasts who play the horses regularly, up to and including these major stakes races.

DraftKings: Where bettors unite with horses, tackling odds like true jockeys.

2) DraftKings (aka DK Horse)

DraftKings Horse Betting

As a fan of horse betting, there’s one platform that has caught my attention: DraftKings.  With their standalone app dedicated solely to horse racing, DraftKings caters to the avid bettors who want a seamless and focused experience.

But that’s not all, DraftKings has also made waves with their partnership with none other than Churchill Downs, adding a level of prestige to their offerings.

And if you’re looking for some extra excitement, DraftKings offers free horse racing pools with cash prizes, giving you a chance to win big without spending a dime.

Let’s dive in and explore what makes DraftKings one of the most popular horse betting websites.

DraftKings standalone app for horse racing

The DraftKings app provides users with a dedicated platform for horse racing, with access to high-quality races, analytics, stats, real time odds and much more.

To go along with the standalone app, DraftKings offers super easy deposit options and quick payouts.  This ensures a hassle-free financial transaction process for users.  Here are the options DraftKings offers to fund your account:

  • Credit card
  • EZMoney (ACH)
  • Bank Wire
  • Check
  • Money Order
  • PayPal
  • Apple Pay

This range of funding options pretty much covers the bases for most people.

Partnership between DraftKings and Churchill Downs

Through the partnership with Churchill Downs, users can place bets on top-tier races held at this prestigious Louisville, KY racetrack.

The DraftKings app seamlessly integrates with Churchill Downs’ systems, ensuring you get real-time updates and accurate race information. You also get expert insights and analysis from industry professionals affiliated with Churchill Downs.

DraftKings free horse racing pools with cash prizes

DraftKings offers a unique opportunity for bettors to compete and earn monetary rewards without actually investing any money.  You get full access to these free racing pools when you sign up.

  • Participation: You can join DraftKings racing pools cost-free.
  • Contest Format:  You can place a variety of real life wagers on specific races.  This is an excellent way to hone and showcase your predictive abilities.
  • Cash Rewards: You can earn cash prizes, adding excitement and an element of real financial gain.
  • Education & Practice: In addition to the financial rewards, participating in DraftKings’ free horse racing pools enhances your knowledge and understanding of the sport.

The pools and cash prizes vary in terms of format, rules, and eligibility criteria.  It’s important to carefully review the terms and conditions to understand what you’re getting into.

NEXT UP Caesars Racebook: Where you can bet on horses and feel like a high roller without ever leaving your couch.

3) Caesars Racebook

Caesars Racebook Horse BettingAnother horse betting platform stands out to us: Caesars Racebook.  This standalone app has features and benefits you will love.  Caesars Racebook takes online horse betting to a whole new level.

First, Caesars Racebook offers a 100% deposit match, giving you 2X the betting power right from the start.

Additionally, the platform boasts a unique racebook points system, rewarding users for loyalty and participation with points you can spend later.

Caesars Racebook also provides live streaming of horse races, allowing you to experience the excitement firsthand in real time.

Funding your account and withdrawing winnings is super easy and hassle-free.  No friction there.

100% deposit match for new customers

Caesars Racebook will match 100% of your initial deposit for first time users. This means that when you make your first deposit, Caesars Racebook will match it by 100%, effectively doubling your initial betting funds.

This maximizes your betting potential right from the start!

Caesars Racebook points system

Caesars Racebook has a points system that allows customers to earn points for every bet they place on horse races. These points can then be redeemed for various rewards and benefits through the platform.

Caesars Racebook points system also integrates seamlessly with the Caesars Rewards program.  So if you’ve already got Caesars Rewards you can combine them with the points you earn on Racebook.

You can spend your accumulated points on whatever exclusive rewards are offered through Caesars.  Want a beach vacation?  Fuzzy dice for your ’88 Corvette?  A trip to Caesar’s Palace?  Done.

Streaming horse races

Like FanDuel, Caesars Racebook offers racing enthusiasts convenience and excitement of live streaming horse races. 

Watch the action unfold in real-time and add bets as the odds change, or just lay back and enjoy the race!

Easy funding and withdrawal

Caesars Racebook offers multiple easy funding options, allowing users to deposit money conveniently and securely into their betting accounts.  These include:

  • ACH Bank Transfer
  • Credit Card
  • Debit Card
  • Green Dot MoneyPak

The withdrawal process is hassle-free and quick. You can withdraw funds at any time.  ACH withdrawals less than $5,000 take 24-48 business hours.

Other Great Caesars Racebook features

Caesars Racebook app offers personalized handicapping tools, detailed race performance information, and access to expert analysis.  You can watch races live, and go back and watch replays.  The stats are fantastic, as well.

NEXT UP BetMGM Horse Racing for quick payouts and a 100% deposit bonus for new customers.

4) BetMGM Horse Racing

BetMGM Horse Betting

Another excellent horse betting platform is BetMGM Horse Racing.  It ranks among our most popular horse betting websites for good reason.

One of the key strengths of BetMGM is its detailed past race performance stats.  If you’re a stats guy (or gal) this invaluable data allows you to make informed decisions and maximize your chances of winning.

Just like Caesars Racebook, new BetMGM customers are greeted with a 100% deposit bonus, doubling your betting power right when you sign up.

Detailed past race performance information

You can instantly access detailed race cards containing important data such as horse names, jockey names, trainer names, distances of races, and race times.

Performance data includes predictive horse racing statistics such as:

To take your research further, you can replay videos of past races to evaluate a horse or jockey on different tracks.  This gives you a great idea of how the horse runs, and any strengths and weaknesses to improve your bets.

To make sure your analysis is sound, BetMGM provides expert analysis and tips from professional handicappers.  This is great input, since no matter how much you know, having a pro’s perspective can help avoid things you might not know about a horse, jockey, trainer, injuries or racetrack.

BetMGM also offers multiple betting calculators to help calculate potential payouts based on different strategies.

100% deposit bonus (2X your betting power!)

BetMGM offers a substantial deposit bonus for new customers where they double your initial deposit. This provides you with extra funds to wager on races right away.  This is a generous welcome bonus!

You can deposit funds to BetMGM via:

  • Credit card
  • Debit card
  • VIP Preferred
  • PayNearMe
  • PayPal
  • PlayPlusGo

The plaform also provides rapid payouts of your winnings.  Once bets are settled and outcomes determined, winners can get quick access to their earnings.  BetMGM pays out earnings wthin 24 hours for most payment methods, and 2-4 business days for VIP Preferred.  Their money handling is trustworthy and you can get your account balance delivered quickly.

NEXT UP – bet like a pro with 1/ST BET – your personalized handicapping buddy with legal access to over 300 racetracks.

5) 1/ST BET

1/ST Bet Horse Betting

One platform stands out for its breadth of access to 300+ racetracks around the world: 1/ST BET.

This platform offers advanced handicapping tools that give bettors valuable insights and predictions.

1/ST BET also welcomes new users with attractive welcome bonuses.

The secure 1/ST BET app comes from the Stronach Group, the company that owns iconic racetracks like Pimlico, Santa Anita and Gulfstream Park and runs the Preakness Stakes.  So, yeah, they know horse racing!

Advanced handicapping tools

1/ST BET’s personalized handicapping tools and analytics are based on brand-new artificial intelligence (AI) and big data technology that automatically creates a fast and personalized experience.  No longer do you have to hunt and peck for information, looking through big stats tables and lists to find what you want.  Just do a simple text search / command and the AI tools take you right to the information you need.  And it gives you personalized context-sensitive prompts based on your past behavior on the site.

The AI tools work using something called “betting factors” — basically inputs and outputs that indicate patterns in the data and bets you place.  The standard betting factors include Performance, Jockey + Trainer, Pedigree and Results as a starting point.  There are 50 factors to choose from, and you can build your own custom factors.  It takes some learning but this automated analysis approach is super powerful.

For example, if you place arbitrage bets often, the AI will automatically present related data and help calculate the odds for your next arb bet.  This can save you minutes and hours of wasted time, and let you focus on placing solid bets without digging for information. It puts it right at your fingertips in a seamless way.

These handicapping tools provide valuable insights into various aspects of horse racing, such as past performance data, track conditions, jockey statistics, and other relevant information.  The technology can analyze vast amounts of data to generate accurate predictions and recommendations.

This is way beyond the capabilities of most horse betting sites, and is really the future of the online horse betting experience in our opinion.  The future is here!

Not only that, but you can use this powerful AI to cash in on over 300 racetracks…

Betting access to 300+ racetracks!

1/ST BET gives you access to bet on horse racing at over 300 racetracks globally.  This is incredible access — the largest we’ve seen so far — and is a major plus if you place a lot of bets at different tracks and race types.

Just a small list of U.S. tracks available include: Gulfstream Park, Belmont Park, Pimlico, Churchill Downs, Keeneland, Woodbine, Saratoga, Del Mar, Aqueduct, Golden Gate Fields, the Meadowlands, Santa Anita Park, Tampa Bay Downs and more!

1/ST BET welcome bonuses

At the time we wrote this article, 1/ST BET was offering a $100 signup bonus for all new customers who place a $500 bet.  That’s a nice 20% boost.  They offer various other signup incentives as well, so check the site if you haven’t yet to see what they’re currently offering.

NEXT UP: The reliable standby TVG…now upscaled by FanDuel!

6) TVG

TVG Horse Betting

TVG has been acquired by FanDuel, but the site runs as its own standalone app.  TVG continues to be a top choice for horse racing enthusiasts.

What sets TVG apart is its extensive access to over 150 tracks, ensuring you never miss out on any racing action.

Like most sites discussed here, TVG provides enticing promotional offers, making it even more appealing for those looking for a venue to place horse racing bets.

By combining their existing user-friendly interface with additional horse racing coverage, TVG FanDuel has successfully provided a comprehensive platform for both sports betting and horse race wagering enthusiasts.

NEXT UP Twinspires Horse Racing, where betting on horses is as easy as winning the Triple Crown…well, almost.

7) Twinspires Horse Racing

TwinSpires Horse Betting

Twinspires is a prominent name in the online horse betting industry. As an affiliate of Churchill Downs, they provide not only a platform for horse betting but also access to expert analysis and insights to enhance your wagering experience.

Whether you prefer the convenience of placing bets from the comfort of your desktop or with their mobile app, Twinspires has got you covered.

Additionally, for those who enjoy the thrill of being at the track, Twinspires also offers retail locations where you can place your bets in person.

Affiliation with Churchill Downs and access to expert analysis

Churchill Downs is directly affiliated with Twinspires, providing users with insider access to analysis from Churchill Downs experts. This enhances the credibility and reliability of the analysis on the platform, giving users valuable insights into the races they are betting on.

The expertise and knowledge shared by these analysts can greatly increase the chances of success for bettors, as they can rely on accurate information and predictions. You gain a comprehensive understanding of upcoming races, track conditions, and any other relevant factors that may impact your betting strategies.

Key Factors for Successful Horse Betting Websites

Horse betting websites have become hugely popular in the last 15 years, attracting a large number of enthusiasts looking for exciting and convenient ways to bet on horse races. These platforms offer a range of features and benefits that contribute to their growing popularity among both beginners and experienced bettors.

  • User-friendly interface and availability in multiple states: Horse betting websites like FanDuel and DraftKings provide a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for users to navigate through the platform. Furthermore, these websites are available in multiple states, allowing users from different regions to enjoy the thrill of horse racing betting.
  • Wide range of deposit options and live streaming of horse races: Leading horse betting websites offer a variety of deposit options, ensuring that users can fund their accounts conveniently. Additionally, these platforms provide live streaming of horse races, enabling users to watch the action unfold in real-time while placing their bets.
  • Betting on major races like Belmont Stakes and Breeders’ Cup: The popularity of horse betting websites is further enhanced by the opportunity to bet on major races such as the Belmont Stakes and Breeders’ Cup. These prestigious events attract a large number of bettors, making them highly anticipated moments for horse racing enthusiasts.
  • Free horse racing pools with cash prizes: DraftKings stands out among other platforms by offering free horse racing pools with cash prizes. This unique feature attracts beginners who want to experience the excitement of betting without risking their own money.
  • Streaming horse races and easy funding and withdrawal options: Caesars Racebook provides its users with the option to stream live horse races, allowing them to stay connected to the action regardless of their location. Moreover, this platform offers easy funding and withdrawal options, ensuring seamless transactions for its customers.
  • Detailed instructions and past race performance information: BetMGM Horse Racing caters to both beginners and experienced bettors by providing detailed instructions on how to place bets effectively. Additionally, this platform offers valuable information on past race performances, allowing users to make informed decisions when betting on horses
  • Deposit Options: Opt for websites that provide a wide range of deposit options, ensuring flexibility and convenience for bettors.
  • Past Race Performance Information: Having access to detailed instructions and past race performance information is essential for both beginners and experienced bettors. This enables them to make well-informed decisions based on the horses’ previous performances

To make the most of your betting journey on these platforms, here are some suggestions:

  1. Familiarize yourself with the specific rules and regulations for each race: Each major race may have its own set of guidelines when it comes to placing bets. It’s crucial to understand these rules before placing your wagers.
  2. Stay updated on the latest news and developments: Keeping track of news surrounding major races like the Belmont Stakes and Breeders’ Cup can give you valuable insights into the performances of horses and jockeys.
  3. Utilize past performance information: Many horse betting websites provide an extensive database of past race performances. Analyzing this data can help you make more informed decisions when placing your bets.
  4. Take advantage of promotional offers: Several platforms offer bonuses or free bets for new customers. Be sure to take advantage of these promotions when signing up.
  5. Make sure you follow the minimum age to bet on horses:  Just because you (or a young partner) are betting online does not mean the local laws and regulations on underage betting don’t apply.  You could be surprised with a visit from the police!

By considering these factors, you will increase your enjoyment and hopefully win more bets!

Seven Facts About the 7 Most Popular Horse Betting Websites:

  • ✅ FanDuel Racing offers a separate app for horse racing with a sleek and easy-to-use interface.
  • ✅ DraftKings launched a standalone app for horse racing in partnership with Churchill Downs.
  • ✅ Caesars Racebook offers a 100% deposit match for new customers and features races from over 300 racetracks.
  • ✅ BetMGM Horse Racing provides explicit instructions on how to bet on races, making it suitable for inexperienced bettors.
  • ✅ 1/ST BET offers personalized handicapping tools and a welcome bonus of $100 to new customers. 
  • ✅ TVG app allows betting on horse racing in more than half of the states in the U.S. and offers cash back on certain races.
  • ✅ TwinSpires Racing is connected to the renowned Churchill Downs, making it a trusted platform for horse racing betting.

FAQs About the Most Popular Horse Betting Websites

What are the best online legal horse racing betting sites?

Some of the leading horse racing online betting sites include FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Twinspires, Caesars, 1/ST BET, and TVG.

What features make FanDuel Racing a popular choice for online horse betting?

FanDuel Racing offers a sleek and easy-to-use interface, accepts various payment methods such as debit/credit cards and PayPal, and even provides a convenient FanDuel Racing Prepaid Card. It offers a wide range of races to bet on, including major events like the Belmont Stakes and Breeders’ Cup. Additionally, bettors can stream horse races live on FanDuel Racing.

How does DraftKings cater to horse racing enthusiasts?

DraftKings has launched a standalone app called DK Horse, which allows customers to bet on horse racing. They also offer free horse racing pools with cash prizes, where bettors can submit their picks before the race begins and have a chance to win a share of the prizes.

What advantages does Caesars Racebook provide for online horse betting?

Caesars Racebook offers a 100% deposit match for new customers and provides racebook points on every wager, which can be redeemed for free bets. Customers can bet on races from over 300 racetracks worldwide and enjoy the convenience of streaming races through the app. Caesars Racebook also ensures easy and secure fund deposits and withdrawals.

Why is BetMGM Horse Racing good for inexperienced bettors?

BetMGM Horse Racing has user-friendly tabs that provide explicit instructions for placing bets on races. The app also offers information on horses’ past performances and displays the time remaining before the race starts. Additionally, BetMGM Horse Racing provides detailed explanations for different types of wagers, helping inexperienced bettors make informed decisions. New customers can also benefit from a 100% deposit bonus of up to $200.

What unique features does 1/ST BET offer for online horse betting?

1/ST BET is a collaboration between a tier-one sports betting company and a horse racing company, resulting in an independently owned betting app. They provide legal horse betting on more than 300 racetracks and offer personalized handicapping tools to assist customers in making bets for major races. New customers who bet $100 within 30 days of signing up can enjoy a welcome bonus of $100.

Do any websites allow you to bet on harness races?

Yes!  Twinspires is the main site that offers online harness racing bets.  The other harness racing gambling venue in the USA is OTB (Off Track Betting).