In-Person Sports Betting in New York: Everything You Need to Know
In-person sports betting in New York has been legal since July 2019, following the approval of a regulatory framework established by the New York State Gaming Commission. Although the state initially focused on mobile sports betting—launched in January 2022—the in-person betting experience remains an important component of New York’s gambling ecosystem, especially for residents in upstate regions and visitors seeking a traditional sportsbook environment. Here’s a comprehensive guide to in-person sports betting in the Empire State.
Where You Can Place In-Person Sports Bets
In-person sports betting is currently allowed only at licensed commercial casinos and select tribal casinos located in upstate New York. These venues are authorized to operate physical sportsbooks where patrons can place bets at kiosks or with live ticket writers. Notable locations include:
- Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady – One of the first to open a sportsbook, operated in partnership with BetRivers.
- Del Lago Resort & Casino – Sportsbook powered by DraftKings, offering multiple TVs, odds boards, and comfortable seating.
- Resorts World Catskills – Offers the Sportsbook 360 lounge with wraparound video walls and in-person windows.
- Tioga Downs Casino Resort – Partnered with FanDuel, offering live odds and in-person betting for major sporting events.
- Akwesasne Mohawk Casino Resort – Tribal-owned and operated with a retail sportsbook experience.
These facilities provide an atmosphere comparable to Las Vegas sportsbooks, including food and beverage service, viewing lounges, and live odds displays.
How In-Person Sports Betting Works
To place a bet in person, you must be at least 21 years old and physically present at a licensed sportsbook location. Here’s how the process works:
- Visit a Licensed Casino – Head to any of the approved sportsbooks within the casino premises.
- Browse Betting Options – Check the odds board or ask a ticket writer for available markets including point spreads, moneylines, totals (over/under), parlays, and futures.
- Place Your Bet – You can either fill out a paper betting slip or use self-service kiosks. Cash is the most common form of payment for in-person bets.
- Keep Your Ticket Safe – Winning tickets must be redeemed at the casino where the bet was placed. Some sportsbooks offer printed slips while others allow digital redemption via loyalty accounts.
Advantages of In-Person Sports Betting
- Personal Experience – Nothing beats the atmosphere of a live sportsbook, especially during major events like the Super Bowl or March Madness.
- No Geolocation Issues – Unlike mobile apps that require GPS verification, in-person betting is straightforward with no digital barriers.
- Instant Cash Transactions – Payouts are immediate for winning tickets, and there are no online withdrawal processing delays.
- Professional Assistance – Live ticket writers are available to answer questions and guide first-time bettors through the process.
Limitations Compared to Online Betting
While in-person sports betting provides a unique and social experience, it does come with some drawbacks when compared to online platforms:
- Limited Accessibility – Most retail sportsbooks are located in upstate New York, far from residents in New York City or Long Island.
- Operational Hours – Casinos and sportsbooks have operating hours, meaning you can’t bet around the clock like with mobile apps.
- Less Market Variety – Online sportsbooks often offer a wider range of markets, including international sports and niche props not available in-person.
Future of In-Person Sports Betting in New York
As mobile betting continues to dominate the market in terms of volume and revenue, the role of in-person betting is shifting. However, brick-and-mortar sportsbooks continue to serve as entertainment hubs and social destinations, particularly for high-stakes bettors and fans who prefer the live experience. There are also discussions about expanding sports betting lounges to downstate locations, should legislation eventually allow it.
Conclusion
In-person sports betting in New York remains a viable and exciting option for bettors who enjoy the atmosphere of a traditional sportsbook. While mobile apps offer convenience, the in-person experience delivers entertainment, immediacy, and social engagement. Whether you’re visiting Schenectady, the Finger Lakes, or the Catskills, New York’s casinos provide a premium setting to wager on your favorite teams.
