Route 66 Sports Betting: A Deep Dive into the Legal Landscape and Betting Opportunities

Route 66 Sports Betting: A Deep Dive into the Legal Landscape and Betting Opportunities

Introduction to Route 66 and Its Gambling Culture

Route 66, famously known as the “Main Street of America,” spans over 2,400 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. This iconic highway passes through eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. Along its historic path, travelers encounter a rich blend of Americana, including vintage diners, classic motels, and now—thanks to shifting legislation—legalized sports betting in several states.

States on Route 66 with Legal Sports Betting

Illinois

Illinois has emerged as a robust sports betting state. Both retail and online sports wagering are legal. Residents and visitors can place bets via popular sportsbooks such as DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetRivers. Retail sportsbooks are located in casinos across the state, including major hubs like Chicago and Joliet—cities easily accessible from Route 66.

Missouri

Missouri, despite multiple legislative attempts, has not yet legalized sports betting as of mid-2025. While daily fantasy sports (DFS) are permitted, traditional sportsbooks remain outlawed. Travelers passing through Missouri will not find legal betting options but can resume betting upon crossing into Kansas or Illinois.

Kansas

Kansas legalized sports betting in 2022. The state offers both retail and online options through operators like Barstool, Caesars, and BetMGM. Visitors on Route 66 can place wagers at in-person sportsbooks located in Dodge City and Wichita or through mobile apps.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma’s sports betting laws are currently in limbo. While tribal casinos have negotiated compacts with the state to offer sports betting, full legalization has not yet been formalized. Retail casinos, however, remain a strong part of Oklahoma’s gambling scene. Sports betting might be available in select tribal casinos, but not through mainstream online platforms.

Texas

Texas, despite its size and massive sports fanbase, has not legalized sports betting. All forms of sports wagering are illegal, including online and retail sportsbooks. Advocacy groups continue to push for legislation, but significant resistance remains in the state legislature.

New Mexico

New Mexico presents a unique situation: while the state has not passed specific sports betting laws, tribal casinos operate sportsbooks under the interpretation of existing gaming compacts. Bettors along Route 66 can legally wager on sports in several tribal casinos such as the Santa Ana Star Casino Hotel near Albuquerque.

Arizona

Arizona has fully embraced legalized sports betting, allowing both retail and mobile betting. The state offers licenses to tribal casinos and professional sports teams. Major operators like FanDuel and BetMGM are active in the state. Sports betting kiosks can also be found in bars and stadiums, offering Route 66 travelers convenient access.

California

California, despite being one of the most populous states, has not legalized sports betting. Ballot measures in 2022 failed due to disagreements between tribal groups and commercial operators. As of 2025, sports betting remains illegal, but pressure continues to mount for legislative reform.

Mobile vs. Retail Betting Along Route 66

For those traveling Route 66, mobile betting is the most convenient option—provided they are in a state where it’s legal. Apps use geolocation technology to confirm a bettor’s physical presence within a legal jurisdiction. In contrast, retail sportsbooks require in-person attendance, often in tribal casinos or commercial gambling establishments.

Popular Sports Bets Along the Route

Bettors along Route 66 frequently wager on:

• NFL and college football (especially in Texas and Oklahoma)
• NBA games (notably the Chicago Bulls and Phoenix Suns)
• MLB games (such as the St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago Cubs)
• NCAA March Madness
• UFC and boxing events
• NASCAR and motorsports

Responsible Gambling on the Road

While sports betting adds entertainment to the Route 66 experience, travelers should practice responsible gambling. Key tips include:

• Setting strict betting budgets
• Avoiding betting while impaired
• Using self-exclusion tools available on major sportsbooks
• Staying updated on state laws to avoid legal issues

Final Thoughts

Route 66 offers more than just scenic views and historic diners—it now features an evolving sports betting landscape that reflects America’s shifting stance on gambling. From mobile apps in Illinois and Arizona to tribal casinos in New Mexico, the betting opportunities are diverse. However, laws vary drastically across states, making it essential for travelers to stay informed and bet responsibly.