Category: Guides

Blackjack is one of the oldest and best-loved casino games in the United States. Its popularity lies in its simplicity. You lock horns with the dealer and try to assemble a hand equal to or closer to 21 than the dealer’s without going bust.

You will win a payout (usually 1:1) if you have a better hand. If you win with blackjack (a picture card or ten plus an ace), you win a bigger payout (usually 3:2).

There are plenty of blackjack variants, but American and European Blackjack tend to be the most straightforward. Other varieties with side bets can be fun, enabling you to bet on perfect pairs and 21+3 for higher wins.

In this article, we run through the best ways to play blackjack in Texas. We consider your legal options and present viable blackjack playing opportunities in the Lone Star State.

Is Real-Money Online Blackjack Legal in Texas?

As of 2025, playing online blackjack for real money in Texas is illegal. In fact, all types of online gambling are prohibited in the state, be it table games like blackjack, roulette, and craps, or slot machines and other online casino games. 

It’s only legal to play at real money online casinos in the following six US states in 2025:

• New Jersey
• Michigan
• Pennsylvania
• West Virginia
• Delaware
• Connecticut

Texas and other states are considering new legislation to legalize online sports betting and casino gambling, but we don’t expect anything to pass in 2025. If legislation is to legalize online blackjack and other games in Texas, it will likely come in 2026 or 2027.

So, for now, you can’t legally play blackjack in Texas at casinos like BetMGM, FanDuel, and DraftKings, which are the top-rated real-money betting sites in the United States. But don’t despair; several options are available if you want to play blackjack in Texas, which we introduce below.

How to Play Blackjack in Texas Legally in 2025

There are essentially two ways to play online blackjack in Texas legally in 2025:

1. At sweepstakes, casinos with virtual currency.
2. At free blackjack sites.

Let’s explore both options in more detail.

Blackjack at Sweepstakes Casinos

Given that real-money blackjack in Texas is illegal, blackjack at sweepstakes casinos is your best option. If you’re unfamiliar with sweepstakes casinos, the concept is simple enough to understand.

These platforms provide access to many of the same games available at real money casinos. So, you can play slot machine games, video poker, table games, and even live dealer games. Though sweeps casinos focus primarily on slots, many of the best sites offer a decent range of blackjack and other table games for you to play.

Sweepstakes casinos are perfectly legal in Texas because they don’t provide real money gambling opportunities. Instead, they invite you to play these casino games with two types of virtual currency.

The first is usually known as a gold coin, which allows you to play all games for free without a chance of winning real prizes. You can access gold coins for free by participating in giveaways. Alternatively, you can buy gold coin bundles to top up your balance whenever you like.

The other currency is known as a sweepstake coin. You can use this currency to play casino games like blackjack in promotional mode. If you win, you will add more sweepstakes coins to your balance.

When you reach the minimum redemption limit set by the casino (often 50 or 100 coins), you can redeem the virtual coins for a gift card or real money prize. Most sweeps coins are worth $1, so to withdraw them, you will need a balance of $50 or $100 at most sites.

You cannot buy sweeps coins at these casinos. You can only access them for free via promotions or when you purchase a gold coin package.

As there are many legitimate sweepstakes casinos in the US, below are the best options if you’re keen to play blackjack in Texas in 2025.

Hello Millions

While Hello Millions is best known for its excellent slot machine offering, you can also play blackjack here. The best two games are in the social live casino at Hello Millions – Gravity Blackjack and Speed Blackjack.

You can play these games with sweepstakes coins, and if you win, you can cash out when you reach the redemption limit. You must have a Hello Millions balance of 10 SC (worth $10) to redeem a gift card or 75 SC (worth $75) to redeem a cash prize.

Stake.us

The best option for blackjack in Texas is Stake.us, but this site is only available to crypto users, with no fiat currency purchase options. Stake’s Original Blackjack is excellent, offering a simple, no-frills online gameplay option.

In the live dealer lobby, you can play Gravity Blackjack and Take Deal or Risk Blackjack, two exciting variants hosted by real dealers. The minimum redemption at Stake.us depends on your currency. For instance, you need at least BTC 0.00020000 to access a gift card or crypto prize.

High 5 Casino

Widely regarded as the best mobile-first sweepstakes casino in the US, High 5 is another excellent place to play blackjack in Texas. Like Hello Millions and Stake.us, High 5 offers several live blackjack variants, including Hearts Blackjack, Clubs Blackjack, and Limitless Blackjack.

Redemptions at High 5 Casino are a little on the high side. You must have a balance of sweeps coins equal to $100 before redeeming a gift card or cash prize.

Blackjack at Free Sites

If sweepstakes casinos don’t appeal to you and you want to play blackjack online for fun, there are several excellent free blackjack sites in Texas. These games are brilliant for honing your blackjack strategy and enjoying the thrill of the game without a wagering element.

You don’t have to sign up for these sites to play blackjack; simply visit the website and play for free until your heart’s content. We recommend the following sites for free blackjack in Texas in 2025:

• 24/7 Blackjack: Courtesy of 24/7 Games, 24/7 Blackjack is a free, no-frills blackjack option available in Texas. Play unlimited games with no ads to work on your blackjack strategy.
• CardzMania: If you’re looking for a free online blackjack game with a social element, play this free game at CardzMania. Join up to 12 players and chat with others as the game progresses.

What About Blackjack in Texas at Land-Based Casinos?

As mentioned, online blackjack is illegal in Texas. However, there are a couple of options for playing real-money games at a land-based casino in the state.

For instance, the tribal Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino in Eagle Pass, Texas, is the best legal land-based gambling option within state lines. However, there are no blackjack tables here, only slots and bingo titles.

Likewise, Naskila is another legal land-based casino in Texas, but there are no live tables here either, only gaming machines.

So, if you want to play at a blackjack table, your best option is to travel to WinStar World Casino, which is on the Texas border in Thackerville, OK.

WinStar is home to low and high-limit games with variants like Blackjack Match, Blazing 7s Blackjack, and Classic Blackjack, all available on the casino floor.

While it’s not technically in Texas, it’s the closest and best land-based casino if you want to play real-money blackjack legally. Find out more about the blackjack games available at WinStar here.

Our Verdict: Best Site for Legal Online Blackjack in Texas

As real-money table games remain illegal in Texas in 2025, you can’t play blackjack at popular US online casinos like BetMGM, FanDuel, or DraftKings. As we await new legislation, your best option is to play blackjack at sweepstakes casinos like Hello Millions and Stake.us.

As explained above, sweepstakes casinos operate with virtual currency. If you play and win blackjack with sweepstakes coins, you can redeem them for cash prizes or gift cards, enabling you to win while playing blackjack online.

Alternatively, there are several excellent free casino sites in Texas where you can visit and play unlimited blackjack without signing up.

If you want to play blackjack in Texas at a land-based casino, we recommend traveling to Thackerville, OK, to play at WinStar. It’s the biggest casino in the world and offers a much better variety of games than the casinos at Naskila and Eagle Pass, which are located within state lines.

If real-money blackjack becomes legal in Texas, we will update this page with our recommendations, so check back regularly for updates.

There are so many Texas slot machines to play this year. To ensure we recommend only the best games, we’ve dug through the archives of all major game studios to put together our Texan top ten.

These games will appeal to all manner of Texans, and they’re all available to play right now.

Please note that real money online gambling is currently illegal in Texas. Therefore, to play these games for real money, please visit one of the legal land-based casinos in the state. Alternatively, you can play these games for free with virtual currency at popular Texas sweepstakes casinos.

So, without further ado, here are the ten best Texas slot machines to play this year.

1: Texas Tea | IGT

• Released in 2005
• 97.35% RTP
• 10,000x max win
• 9 paylines
• Low variance

What better way to start an article about Texas slot machines than with Texas Tea, one of the most iconic slots in North America? Much-loved in Las Vegas, IGT’s Texas Tea has been a mainstay of casino floors for decades and is available online and offline today.

The low volatility means regular wins land across the nine fixed paylines, while the impressive 97.35% RTP ensures that you don’t have to wait an eternity for wins to drop. If luck is on your side, you could walk away with the game’s max payout of 10,000x your bet.

Graphically, Texas Tea is a throwback, designed in a cartoon style at the heart of the Texan desert, with armadillos, cacti, prospectors, and barons. The game is loosely based on the extraction of crude oil in Texas, hence the name, and it’s one of our top picks to play in 2025.

2: Narcos Mexico | Red Tiger

• Released in 2022
• 95.70% RTP
• 10,486x max win
• 243 paylines
• High variance

Just across the Texan border, drug lords still operate today, which is the theme in Narcos Mexico, based on the hit TV show. The base game plays out on a standard 5×3 grid, but the presence of 243 paylines means you can land wins all over the grid.

The high variance means you must be patient for wins to land, but if you make it through to the special features, you can win over 10,000x your stake.

The cartel spins round is the place to be, which takes place on a 10×10 grid and features a re-spins round that delivers substantial potential prizes.

If the lawlessness of Mexican gangs appeals to you, Narcos Mexico is the game to play this year.

3: Bison Battle | Push Gaming

• Released in 2022
• 96.40% RTP
• 50,000x max win
• 20 paylines
• High variance

This brilliant Native American-themed slot from Push Gaming is another treat for Texans. Playing out in a deep canyon that could be located deep in the Texan countryside, this slot plays out over five reels, four rows, and 20 fixed paylines.

The max win potential of 50,000x alone makes it worth playing, but the raft of excellent bonus features is also enticing. The game utilizes many special symbols, including different-colored bison that offer multipliers and instant prizes.

Several free spins rounds, including the ice park and green valley rounds, offer free spins, sticky wilds, and multipliers. These rounds give you the best opportunity to land the biggest payouts, which you can access with a feature buy-in option from 75x the bet.

4: Land of the Free | Nolimit City

• Released in 2024
• 96.08% RTP
• 57,000x max win
• 1,024 paylines
• High variance

In true Nolimit City style, Land of the Free is an edgy, humor-filled slot game that looks at life in a rural American trailer park. The slot stereotypes American trailer park life and isn’t one for the faint-hearted or humorless. But if you’re not bothered by political correctness, you will love this game.

On the 5×4 grid, there are 1,024 different ways to make winning combinations, and the max win of 57,000x the bet is undoubtedly worth playing for.

As with all Nolimit City slots, this game is packed with special features. A conveyor belt delivers everything from a wild bear to a chainsaw-wielding resident, while scatter symbols can trigger the tsunami spins round, in which huge wins are possible.

Look out for the “Presidants,” who can appear during the bonus rounds, as they can deliver anything from 15,000x to 57,000x payouts when they appear.

5: Dead or Alive II | NetEnt

• Released in 2019
• 96.80% RTP
• 111,111x max win
• 9 paylines
• High variance

Saddle up for the best Wild West slot game of all time. NetEnt’s Dead or Alive II is a legendary slot game that has set the standard for what we expect to see in a Western-themed game.

The graphics are on point, the soundtrack takes you back to an old American saloon, and the gameplay is disarmingly simple. The base game invites wins on nine paylines, and the high variance means patience is required.

At least three scatters in view (or a bonus-buy fee) pave the way to one of three bonus rounds – the train heist, old saloon, or high noon. The latter gives you access to wins over 100,000x your bet.

While the original Dead or Alive was good, the sequel is the best Wild West game ever made. Trust us, it’s the Texas slot machine to play in 2025 if you’re looking for an old-school shooter.

6: Duel at Dawn | Hacksaw Gaming

• Released in 2024
• 96.30% RTP
• 15,000x max win
• 19 paylines
• High variance

One of the newest and most exciting Wild West games to enter the market is Hacksaw Gaming’s Duel at Dawn. A pistol-wielding outlaw is the main character, and he watches over the base game that serves up 19 winning ways.

The game boasts an excellent DuelReels feature triggered by the VS symbol. Once active, it pits the outlaw against the sheriff, delivering multipliers of up to 200x to the grid.

The dusk ‘til dawn bonus round offers 10 free spins when four FS scatters land, but there’s also the option to buy your way in. This stand-out bonus round delivers wins of up to 15,000x the bet.

7: Big Bass Bonanza | Pragmatic Play

• Released in 2020
• 96.71%
• 2,100x max win
• 10 paylines
• High variance

Many Texans love a spot of weekend fishing, and there’s no better fishing-themed slot machine game to play in 2025 than Big Bass Bonanza by Pragmatic Play. Though numerous games have followed this title, we love the simplicity and tranquillity of the first game in the series.

Join a friendly fisherman on a weekend trip in Big Bass Bonanza and reel in huge prizes. If you land collect symbols alongside fish, you will net instant wins. You can also reel in 10 free spins; the more spins you land, the higher the multiplier grows.

So, if you’re a keen fisherman, Big Bass Bonanza is the one to play.

8: Hoop Kings | Booming Games

• Released in 2023
• 95.50% RTP
• 5,000x max win
• 10 paylines
• Medium-high variance

If you’re a fan of the Mavericks, Rockets, Spurs, or the NBA in general, Booming Games’ Hoop Kings is the slot for you.

This basketball-themed slot is a sports lover’s dream. It has awesome on-court visuals and straightforward base gameplay that delivers wins on ten lines.

You might trigger the game time feature, which is unlocked when a wild lands on reel three. This can take you into other features, including the slam dunk free spins, in which the game’s biggest payouts will land for lucky players.

9: Top Gun | Playtech

• Released in 2015
• 94.93% RTP
• 1,500x max win
• 243 paylines
• Medium variance

Playtech invites you to take to the skies alongside Val Kilmer and Tom Cruise in its excellent Top Gun slot game, based on the classic 1980s movie of the same name.

The base game plays on a conventional 5×3 grid, but 243 paylines mean you can win when at least three symbols land in view. The RTP is slightly low, but this is typical of branded slots.

All major characters feature in the game, including Charlie, Iceman, Goose, Stinger, and Jasper, and the max win of 1,500x the bet is available if you successfully trigger the Top Gun bonus round while spinning the reels.

10: Mirror Joker | Play’n GO

• Released in 2024
• 96.20% RTP
• 880x max win
• 5-10 paylines
• Medium variance

If you’re looking for a classic, Vegas-style slot game to enjoy in Texas, look no further than Mirror Joker by Play’n GO, the latest in the studio’s Joker series of games.

Most of the gameplay is characterized by a 3×3 setup with five lines, but the grid can increase, offering up to 10 lines for winning combinations.

The Joker acts as a wild, and she can deliver wins of up to 40x when she appears. There’s also a mirror re-spin feature, which expands the grid to offer more winning chances.

The verdict

Texas Tea is a must-play game in the Lone Star State, even though it’s 20 years old. This classic game from IGT is much loved in the state and beyond and is a great title to get started with.

Remember to play responsibly if you’re spinning the reels for real money. Set time and deposit limits, and always bet within your means.

In the past few years, many excellent online casinos have launched in the United States, as online gambling has been legalized in several states. Though Texas hasn’t yet made online casino gambling legal, developments are in the pipeline, and we hope to see legislation passed next year or so that makes it legal to play at top-rated online casinos.

In anticipation, we’ve compiled this online casino comparison to reveal the best online betting sites for slots, table games, and live titles.

We review iconic online betting destinations like BetMGM, Borgata, FanDuel, DraftKings, and Golden Nugget and show you what you can expect when you sign up and play for real money at any of these online casinos.

Are Online Casinos Legal in Texas?

At the time of writing, all forms of online gambling are illegal in Texas. Therefore, you can’t currently sign up for a US-based online casino to play slots, table games, or live dealer titles.

A viable option is a sweepstakes casino like Stake.us or Hello Millions. These social casinos use virtual currencies, and if you win while playing games in promotional mode, you can redeem your coins for a cash prize or gift card.

However, there’s evidence to suggest that Texas will be one of the next states to legalize some forms of online gambling, be it sports betting or online casino gameplay. We’ve already seen several bills discussed in the Senate, and we hope that by the end of 2025 or 2026, a bill legalizing online betting will be passed.

In the meantime, we have put together this online casino comparison article to reveal the best betting sites currently available in the US market. Though you can’t currently access them in Texas, we expect them to be the first platforms to launch when online casino gameplay is legalized in the state.

Online Casino Comparison Table: The Best Online Casinos in the USA

Before we take a deep dive into the top sites in the US, check out our online casino comparison table for an overview of what you can expect from each online betting platform:

Casino	Welcome Bonus	Number of Games	Game Types	Top Studios	State Availability	Payout time
BetMGM	100% up to $1,000 + $25 on the house	2,500+	Slots, jackpots, live dealer, tables, virtual, poker	Evolution, IGT, NetEnt	MI, NJ, PA, WV, ON	3-5 days
Borgata	100% up to $1,000 + $20 bonus on the house	2,500+	Slots, jackpots, live dealer, tables, virtual, poker	IGT, Games Global, Big Time Gaming	NJ, PA	3-5 days
FanDuel	350 bonus spins + $1,000 back in losses	1,000+	Slots, live dealer, live gameshow, progressive jackpots, table games, video poker	NetEnt, IGT, Nextgen Gaming	NJ, PA, MI, WV	24-48 hours
DraftKings	Up to $100 casino credits	900+	Slots, table games, live dealer, live gameshow, video poker	NetEnt, Red Tiger, IGT	MI, NJ, PA, WV, CT	24-48 hours
Golden Nugget	Play $5 for 250 free spins	800+	Slots, table games, video poker, live dealer, live gameshow	NetEnt, IGT, WMS	NJ, MI, WV, PA	3-5 days

BetMGM Casino

BetMGM ranks as the best online casino for game variety in the United States, with over 2,500 games from studios like IGT, NetEnt, and Evolution Gaming. When you create an account as a new customer, BetMGM will match 100% of your first deposit, up to $1,000, and give you $25 in bonus cash to use on the house.

One of the reasons that BetMGM is so popular is its incredible lineup of jackpot slots, which is unrivaled in the online casino landscape in the United States. You can also play over 1,000 regular slots from at least a dozen top-rated studios.

While BetMGM’s ongoing promotions are limited, you can earn M Life Rewards when you play here, which you can redeem for stays, meals, and other perks. Available in MI, NJ, PA, WV, and ON and online since 2017, BetMGM deserves its place at the top of the tree and is undoubtedly one of the best real-money casinos in the United States.

Borgata Casino

Borgata’s online casino offering is similar to BetMGM’s, which you might expect from these partners. In fact, you will find many of the same games at each site but with slightly different bonuses and promotions for new and existing players.

We like that you receive $20 on the house immediately after signing up for Borgata, giving you bonus cash to experiment with as a new customer. Then, when you make your first deposit, Borgata will match 100% up to $1,000, just like at BetMGM.

One of the main reasons to play at Borgata is thanks to the outstanding live casino experience, which is the best in the business. You will find a broad selection of live games from Evolution and Ezugi, with live tables from Borgata in Atlantic City alongside awesome gameshows like Crazy Time and Funky Time.

FanDuel Casino

Sports fans will know and love FanDuel for its DFS and online betting offering, but it’s also home to a best-in-class online casino in the US. There are around 1,000 games here, significantly less than at BetMGM and Borgata, but there are more than enough titles to keep you busy.

FanDuel is another online casino offering up to $1,000 as a welcome bonus, but it’s different from the package at Borgata and BetMGM. Rather than getting the funds when you make your first deposit, you can retrieve up to $1,000 back, depending on your initial losses. FanDuel also offers 350 spins on selected slots to all new customers.

Another reason to choose FanDuel over some of the others on this list is that the site is known for speedy withdrawals. While you often have to wait from three to five days to access your winnings from BetMGM and Borgata, FanDuel usually processes payouts within 24-48 hours, resulting in much quicker withdrawals.

DraftKings Casino

Like FanDuel, DraftKings made its reputation in the United States as a top-rated sportsbook and DFS platform. In fact, DraftKings is the go-to betting site for most US sports fans, with a huge array of markets, offers, and great value odds for MLB, NFL, and NBA fixtures.

DraftKings Casino doesn’t have the widest selection of games (around 900), and you will find more variety at Borgata and BetMGM. But it truly stands out as one of the best mobile casinos in the United States, with an outstanding app for iOS and Android users.

Moreover, DraftKings Casino has a brilliant reputation for fast payouts, with most landing in customer accounts within 24-48 hours. We also love that most DK bonuses come with super low wagering requirements, often just 1x, making it easy to cash out your winnings.

So, if you’re a sports fan looking to play online casino games, DK is perhaps your best option. You can start at DraftKings today with up to $100 in bonus credits when you deposit and wager just $5.

Golden Nugget Casino

Golden Nugget’s online casino might not be as well-known as Borgata or MGM, but it operates at a similar level. You will find just under 1,000 games from top studios like IGT and NetEnt, and the live dealer lobby is powered by the latest Evolution Gaming software.

We love that you can join live dealer games directly from the Golden Nugget casino floor, offering a unique and exciting gameplay option not available at all online casinos.

Golden Nugget is a good place for high rollers to play, thanks to the excellent Golden Rewards Club. Earn points as you climb the loyalty ladder, which you can redeem for real perks at all Golden Nugget properties. You will even receive a birthday gift and various perks throughout the year when you gamble and play here.

Please note: None of these online casinos are currently available in Texas. If new legislation is passed through the chambers in 2025 or 2026, we will update this page to reflect which casinos are available in the Lone Star State. In the meantime, feel free to play at top-rated sweepstakes casinos, which are legally available to all Texan players.

Online Casino Comparison Recap – the Best Site for Games

If you’re keen to play at the best online casino in the United States in 2025, we recommend BetMGM or Borgata. Both sites are similar, and they offer over 2,500 games, including slots, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, craps, and live dealer titles.

What’s more, you can earn reward points when you play here while unlocking excellent ongoing promotions to boost your bankroll. As our online casino comparison table shows, each site offers a great selection of games from top studios and a decent bonus to kickstart your gameplay.

Texas betting apps let you access thousands of online casino games like slots, table games, and live game shows on your smartphone or tablet.

The apps are free to download, and when you sign up, you get a welcome package to boost your bankroll. There are great offers at BetMGM, BetRivers, Caesars, and several other top online casino betting apps.

This article explains whether betting apps are currently legal in Texas and introduces you to the best places to play. We also highlight the best things about each of these apps to help you decide the best option for your gaming preferences.

Is App-Based Gambling Allowed in Texas?

As of now, all types of online gambling remain prohibited in Texas. Consequently, residents cannot register with any US-based online casino apps to enjoy slots, table games, or live dealer experiences. This means that, at the time of writing, the betting apps that we introduce below are not currently legal in Texas.

A potential alternative is to explore sweepstakes casinos such as Real Prize, Legendz, or Stake.us. These social gambling platforms operate with virtual currencies, letting you earn coins while playing in promotional modes. Wins can be converted into cash prizes or gift cards if you play and win with sweepstakes coins.

In fact, the best sweepstakes Texas betting app is High 5 Casino. The US-based social casino is highly rated on iOS and Android and offers over 1,500 slots and table games.

Though sweepstakes casinos are your best option for Texas betting apps right now, Indications suggest that Texas could be among the first states to approve certain types of online gambling, including sports betting and online casinos.

Discussions have already taken place in the Senate regarding several proposed bills, and there is optimism that legislation permitting online betting could be enacted soon.

In the interim, we have compiled a guide comparing various online casinos to highlight the top betting apps currently accessible in the US market. While these platforms are not yet available in Texas, we anticipate they will be among the first to launch once online casino gaming is legalized in the state.

The Best Texas Betting Apps

From BetMGM to Caesars, we introduce you to the best Texas betting apps for table games, slots, and other classic casino games:

BetMGM Casino: The Best for Table Games

BetMGM is recognized as the top online casino in the U.S., offering over 2,500 games from leading developers like Big Time Gaming, NetEnt, and Ezugi. If you register and download the app today, you can access a generous welcome bonus with a 100% match on your first deposit.

As a BetMGM app customer, you can receive up to $1,000 when you make your first deposit, and the casino even gives you $25 on the house as a no-deposit bonus, offering the best value in the market.

We highly rate BetMGM as the number one app for table games in the United States. Specifically, you can play blackjack, roulette, baccarat, craps, poker, Sic Bo, and Casino War on the BetMGM app, with RNG and live dealer formats both available.

There’s also an extensive selection of over 1,000 top slot games, with games like Gonzo’s Quest, Wheel of Fortune, Divine Fortune, and Buffalo Grand all accessible via the BetMGM mobile app.

DraftKings Casino: A Great Option for Live Casino Fans

DraftKings established itself as a leading sportsbook and DFS platform in the U.S. Known for being a top choice for American sports enthusiasts, DraftKings offers an impressive range of markets, promotions, and competitive odds for MLB, NFL, and NBA events.

While DraftKings Casino may not have the largest game selection, with around 900 titles, there are still plenty of games to keep you entertained. Moreover, it excels as one of the best mobile casino options in the U.S., with a top-rated app available for both iOS and Android users.

You can play at the excellent live casino when you sign up for an account via the DraftKings app. Navigate to the ‘live dealer’ tab and play brilliant games like Race Track Live, Auto American Roulette Live, Craps, and All Bets Blackjack.

There’s also a superb live game show line-up, including games like Adventures Beyond Wonderland, Crazy Time, and Crazy Coin Flip from Evolution.

Borgata Casino: The Best App for Online Slots

We highly rate Borgata’s excellent mobile app, which scores highly on the Apple Store and Google Play Store. This is an awesome casino app on which to play online slots, with over 1,500 classic and video slots available on smartphones and tablets.

While it’s difficult to know where to get started with such a huge selection of games, we highly recommend the vampire-themed Blood Suckers II, which is one of our favorites. You can also play other classic games here, like IGT’s Cleopatra and Starburst by NetEnt.

When you play games on the Borgata app, you can also spin the reels on progressive jackpot slots, with games like Mercy of the Gods and Mega Moolah offering huge potential wins.

Another thing that stands out about Borgata is the $20 in bonus cash you receive right after registering, allowing new players to explore the site. Additionally, when you make your first deposit, Borgata matches it 100% up to $1,000, mirroring the offer at BetMGM.

FanDuel Casino: The Best Casino App for fast Payouts

Sports enthusiasts are likely familiar with FanDuel for its DFS and online sports betting markets, but it also boasts a top-tier online casino in the U.S. With approximately 1,000 games available, it’s fewer than what you’ll find at BetMGM and Borgata, but still offers plenty of options to keep you entertained.

When you dive into the FanDuel app, you will find a brilliant selection of classic games alongside the latest releases from award-winning studios. For instance, newly released games in 2025 include the excellent Ted Afterparty, Willy Wonka’s Everlasting Gobstopper, and Magnificent Power Bastet, which you can play for real money at FanDuel Casino right now.

FanDuel also offers a great selection of progressive jackpot slots, including several games in the Jackpot Royale Express series and brilliant animal-themed progressives like Thundering Tiger and Thundering Gorilla.

But the main reason to choose FanDuel over other online casino apps is thanks to its speedy payouts. Most FanDuel withdrawals are processed instantly, so you should have your winnings within 1-2 days at most, which is much quicker than the 3–5-day average processing time at Borgata and BetMGM.

Caesars Palace: The Best Casino App for Ongoing Rewards

Caesars Palace needs minimal introduction as it’s one of the world’s most recognizable online casino brands. Its excellent online casino app offers over 1,000 slots, a huge selection of table games, and live dealer titles from the world’s biggest and best game studios.

As soon as you create an account at Caesars, you will receive $10 on the house. Then, when you make your first deposit, Caesars will match it up to $1,000. Another great thing about the Caesars welcome bonus is that you can claim up to 2,500 reward credits when you deposit and play.

Caesars is the clear choice if you’re looking for Texas betting apps with ongoing rewards. You earn reward credits every time you deposit and gamble, which you can then redeem for stays at Caesars properties, meals, gifts, and various other perks. You can track your rewards directly from the app, enabling you to easily monitor your progress and redeem prizes.

Disclaimer: Please remember that these online casino apps are inaccessible in Texas. Should new laws pass, we will update this page to indicate which casinos are operating in the state. In the meantime, you can enjoy playing at top-rated sweepstakes casino apps like High 5, which are legal and available to all players in Texas.

The verdict – Which is the Best Texas Betting App?

There are numerous excellent Texas betting apps, but BetMGM is perhaps the pick of the bunch. It offers a brilliant selection of games, an excellent sign-up bonus, and an awesome selection of table games.

If you’re a sports fan, you might want to sign up for FanDuel or DraftKings so you can use their best-in-class sportsbooks alongside the online casino. But if you’re looking for rewards, sign up for the excellent Caesars app today.

Don’t forget that these apps are not currently available in Texas, but if legislation changes, we will update this page to reflect the top apps available in the Lone Star State.

Texas Hold’em is one of the Lone Star State’s most famous exports. First played in the early 1900s in Robstown, East Texas, the game has become the number one poker variant worldwide.

It’s the main game of the World Series of Poker and is enjoyed by professional and recreational gamblers at legal poker rooms, online poker sites, and online casinos from the USA to Australia.

So, given that this hugely popular poker game is a product of the state, how can you legally play Texas Hold’em in Texas?

Let’s explain the legal landscape surrounding online gambling in Texas in 2025. We then reveal how to play Texas Hold’em poker online and live.

Is Online Poker Legal in Texas?

At the time of writing, online poker is illegal in Texas, and no forms of online casino gambling are currently legal, despite various attempts to pass relevant legislation in the Senate.

However, we expect poker and other online gambling games to become legal in Texas in the coming years. So, while you can’t legally play Texas Hold’em for real money online in the state, we reveal the origins of this game and explain how to play online as soon as it becomes legal.

Texas Hold’em Poker: A True Texan Game

Texas Hold’em poker was first played in the Texan town of Robstown in the early 1900s. This was confirmed by a pronouncement in the Texas state legislature in 2007.

Blondie Forbes, one of the most famous Texan gamblers of all time, is often credited with formulating the variant’s rules in 1925, though the original Texas Hold’em hands were probably different from those we play today.

Other legendary poker players – including Doyle Brunson and Crandell Addington – recall traveling to Texas to learn and play the game. However, Brunson remembers knowing the game as “Hold Me Darling” rather than Texas Hold’em.

By 1963, Texas Hold’em had spread to different parts of the USA and was introduced to Las Vegas, Nevada. The first Texas Hold’em game recorded on the Strip occurred at the California Club, though it was soon available at the Golden Nugget and Stardust.

Brunson and Addington popularized the game in Las Vegas, even though they admitted to playing it much earlier in Texas.

Over the years, Texas Hold’em has become the most popular game format. This is primarily due to its ease of play compared to other variants.

Today, you will find Texas Hold’em at practically all online poker sites and variants of the game in different formats at online casinos.

How to Play Texas Hold’em – Basic Rules & Gameplay

Before playing Texas Hold’em online, you must know the basic rules and gameplay. The objective is to use your hole cards and the community cards to make the best possible five-card poker hand.

Each player is dealt two hole cards face down, and five community cards are dealt in the middle of the table over several betting rounds. The community cards are then dealt as follows:

• The flop: The first three cards.
• The turn: The fourth community card.
• The river: The fifth community card.

Before every game, two players at the table must post small and big blinds, which begin the betting. These are required to stimulate wagering and ensure that there’s something to win in every round.

All players must call (match the amount of the big blind), raise (increase the stakes), or fold (leave the game) at the following stages:

• Preflop: This is the first round of betting, which occurs immediately after every player receives their hole cards.
• Flop: After the first round of betting, three community cards are added to the center of the table. Another betting round commences.
• Turn: After the second round of betting, one community card is added to the center of the table. Another betting round commences.
• River: After the third round of betting, one community card is added to the center of the table. The final round of betting commences.
• Showdown: The players remaining in the game show their hole cards and the winning hand is determined. The winner takes all the chips in the pot.

The winner of the game is the player with the best five-card poker hand. Below are the details of the hand rankings in Texas Hold’em from the best to worst hand:

Hand	Explanation	Example
Royal flush	Five cards of the same suit ranked from ace to ten.	A, K, Q, J, 10 of spades
Straight flush	Five cards of the same suit ranked consecutively.	3, 4, 5, 6, 7 of hearts
Four of a kind	Four cards of the same rank	K, K, K, K + 5
Full house	Three cards of the same rank and two cards of the same rank	Q, Q, Q, 4, 4
Flush	Any five cards of the same suit	A, 4, 6, 7, 9 of clubs
Straight	Any five cards ranked consecutively	10 of spades, 9 of hearts, 8 of spades, 7 of hearts, 6 of clubs
Three of a kind	Three cards of the same rank	6, 6, 6, + 5, 9
Two pair	Two cards of the same rank and two more cards of the same rank	J, J, 10, 10, + 4
One pair	Two cards of the same rank	8, 8, + A, 9, 3
High card	Five different cards (ace is high)	A, 4, 8, Q, 2

How to Play Texas Hold’em Poker Online Today

There are a few ways to play Texas Hold’em poker online today:

Real-money Texas Hold’em at Poker Sites

Your first option is to sign up for an online poker site like PokerStars. This is the best way to play cash games and tournaments against other players. However, you must be in one of the few states that currently allow real money gambling online, like New Jersey.

PokerStars is the number one online poker site in the world. It has the best poker software and offers cash games from just $0.01/$0.02 (blinds), making it an excellent option for low-budget players and beginners to learn the ropes.

Another excellent site for online poker is 888Poker, which is part of the 888 group and operates a fantastic casino and sportsbook. 888 offers high-stakes poker games and tournaments, but there are also low-limit games and many live Texas Hold’em cash games throughout the day and night.

You can also check out PartyPoker, another real-money poker site that has been operational for over two decades. PartyPoker offers great bonuses and lots of cash games and tournaments throughout the year.

Real-money Texas Hold’em at Live Casinos

While gambling online is prohibited in Texas, you can visit real casinos, and some of these have poker rooms where you can sit down and enjoy some Texas Hold’em.

We recommend the Kickapoo Lucky Eagle casino in Eagle Pass, which offers no limit and limit Texas Hold’em games. At weekends, the tables run from 10am to 5am.

There’s a lot more choice if you cross over the borders. For example, the Winstar at Thackerville in Oklahoma boasts 55 poker tables.

Free Online Poker – Legally Available in Texas

As real-money online gambling is currently illegal in Texas, the best way to play Texas Hold’em poker online is to play for free.

Sure, you can’t play for real money at these sites, but they allow you to play an unlimited amount of Texas Hold’em as you refine your approach and work on your strategy.

As there’s no money at stake, you can play free online poker legally in Texas right now. We recommend the following sites to get started:

• Global Poker: Play Texas Hold’em and other games with gold and sweeps coins at Global Poker. You can enter tournaments and build your profile on the site.
• WSOP: The World Series of Poker website has an excellent lobby of free poker games, offering access to no-limit Hold’em titles. These games are completely free to play and invite you to compete against other players from across the US and further afield.
• Zynga Poker: One of the world’s most popular free poker sites with over 40 million players, Zynga Poker is a great place to play Texas Hold’em. There are free no-limit Hold’em games and sit & go tournaments 24/7, enabling you to mix things up as you play online.
• Replay Poker: Online since 2005, with a vibrant and helpful online community, Replay Poker is another top site for free online Texas Hold’em. You will find thousands of users on the site at any given time, ensuring that there’s always someone to join a game.

The Bottom Line: How to Play Texas Hold’em Poker Online

As of March 2025, playing real money online poker in Texas is illegal. However, we expect new legislation to change the landscape in the coming years, meaning real-money poker will likely be legalized.

In the meantime, you can play poker for free at any of the sites introduced above, or visit one of the brick-and-mortar casinos with dedicated poker rooms.

We’ll update this page as soon as new legislation is passed to permit legal real-money online poker in Texas.

Texas is an untapped gambling hub, with sports betting and online casino gameplay on the House and Senate agendas recently. Though no bills have passed to legalize betting in the Lone Star State as of early 2025, many in the industry think Texas will be one of the next states to legalize online gambling.

So, here, we consider which real-money casinos will likely launch in Texas, including DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM. We also present one viable way of legally playing online casinos in Texas in 2025 via top sweeps casinos like High 5 and Legendz. But first, a recap on the current landscape of legal online gambling in Texas.

Are online casinos legal in Texas in 2025?

Right now, online casinos are not legal in Texas. Therefore, you cannot currently sign up for any real-money online casinos. We advise against using a VPN to hide your location, as you may have to forfeit any winnings should KYC checks be required. Moreover, using a VPN to play at online casinos in Texas is against the law and could land you in trouble.

Therefore, the real-money casinos we introduce below are sites that will likely become available soon should the Texas legislature legalize online casino gambling in the coming months or years. Moreover, we introduce some sweepstakes casinos later in this article, which you can sign up for and play now in Texas.

The best real-money online casinos & where they are legal

Though real-money online casinos are not currently legal in Texas, we expect changes in the legislation in the coming months or years. Here, we look at some of the top US casinos that have already expressed an interest in the Texan market and consider which are most likely to launch should real-money casinos be legalized in Texas in 2025 or 2026:

FanDuel Casino

Currently legal in MI, PA, NJ, WV, & CT

FanDuel is perhaps the top-rated real-money casino in the USA right now, legal in five states. FanDuel is also one of the big American betting firms keen to push for the legalization of wagering in Texas in 2025, so when the market is legalized, expect them to be one of the first sportsbooks and casinos to arrive[1].

DraftKings Casino

Currently legal in NJ, PA, WV, & MI

Like FanDuel, DraftKings will probably be one of the first online casinos to launch in Texas, should the required legislation be passed in 2025 or 2026. In an attempt to bring legal sports betting to the Lone Star State, DraftKings hired a lobbyist last year and is ramping up its efforts[2].

While most Texans are aware of the DraftKings Sportsbook, its online casino offering is growing in numerous states. Players can choose from hundreds of slots, table games, and live titles.

Fanatics Casino

Currently legal in MI, NJ, PA, and WV

Many American sports fans and slot machine players love the Fanatics brand, and we expect it to be one of the first betting platforms available to Texans if gambling is legalized in. Fanatics is renowned in the US for excellent bonuses, a rewarding loyalty program, and low deposit limits.

Though the game library at Fanatics lacks the variety of DK and FD, there are around 500 titles that Texans may be able to play in the coming months or years, with new titles regularly added.

BetMGM Casino

Currently legal in CT, DE, MI, NJ, PA, & WV

BetMGM boasts one of the most extensive online casinos in the US market and is legally available in six states: Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

Classic slots, jackpot slots, roulette games, blackjack, and live casino gameshows all feature at BetMGM’s casino, with over 1000 titles to play.

BetMGM’s CEO has been outspoken about his aspirations to open in numerous other states, including Texas and California, for sports betting and casino gambling. Adam Greenblatt, BetMGM CEO, said last year: “California is not in our near-term model; Texas is.[3]”

Granted, he didn’t say how close he thinks a Texas launch is, but we can be encouraged by his comments and expect BetMGM to launch in Texas when the market opens.

The best sweepstakes casinos in 2025 available in Texas

As we wait for the legal arrival of online casinos, there are lots of excellent sweepstakes casinos that you can currently play at legally.

Unlike real-money casinos, sweepstakes casinos use two types of virtual currency. The first is gold coins, which can be used for free play, and the other is sweeps coins, which can be used for promotional play.

If you play and win with promotional coins, you can redeem cash prizes and gift cards should you meet the minimum withdrawal amount. Therefore, it is possible to legally win cash and gift card prizes while playing at sweeps casinos in Texas.

Here are our top picks in 2025 that accept players from the Lone Star State:

High 5 Casino

The best mobile-friendly sweepstakes casino available to Texans, High 5 has a brilliant selection of 1,000+ games, including exclusive High 5 slots and Pragmatic titles. There’s also a live casino lobby from Vivo, alongside numerous RNG table games.

You can kickstart your gameplay today at High 5 Casino with the generous no-deposit welcome bonus and then top up your account by logging in daily. Make sure you download the High 5 app for iOS or Android for the best experience on your phone.

Legendz Casino

Legendz is a top sweepstakes casino and sportsbook available to Texans. The sportsbook is a brilliant place for virtual betting on the NFL, NBA, and MLB, offering extensive markets and betting options for sports fans.

At Legendz Casino, you can play over 250 slots from studios like Pragmatic Play and Popiplay, while there’s a live casino lobby powered by Live 88. For sheer gaming and sports betting variety, Legendz social casino is perhaps the best option in Texas in 2025.

Hello Millions Casino

Though Hello Millions is restricted in many states, it will be legally available in Texas in 2025. Kick things off here with a generous no-deposit welcome bonus, then access free virtual coins by participating in social media giveaways and tournaments. If you want to buy a coin package, you can do so for just $1.99, and there are lots of ongoing promotions to keep your balance topped up.

This is also one of the best sweepstakes casinos in Texas for game variety, with 700+ titles, including Pragmatic Play slots, Slingo titles, and a selection of live dealer games from Playtech and Beter Live. Although there’s no virtual sportsbook here, Hello Millions is a great place for Texans to legally play online casino games in 2025.

RealPrize Casino

If you’re a fan of Vegas-style slot machine games, look no further than RealPrize Casino, home of over 300 classic and video slot games. Top titles from Pragmatic Play, 4ThePlayer, and Kalamba Games all feature at RealPrize, which is gaining a reputation as one of the very best social casinos in the US market in 2025.

You can get started with a generous helping of gold coins and sweeps coins without depositing RealPrize. Then, you will receive coins every day you sign in, and when you follow RealPrize on Facebook, you can participate in numerous giveaways for free coins. If you want to add to your balance, you can buy a bundle from $3, and redemptions start at 45 coins.

The bottom line – The best Texan online casinos in 2025

Real-money online casino gameplay remains illegal in Texas in 2025. Therefore, none of the best US online casinos are available to players. That said, we expect progress in the legislation relating to gambling in Texas this year or next. Should a bill pass through the house, we’re likely to see big players like FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM enter the market as soon as online casino games are legal in Texas.

Right now, and as an alternative to real-money casino games, you can sign up and play at several excellent sweepstakes casinos in Texas, including High 5, Legendz, and Hello Millions. These sites invite you to play casino games with virtual currencies.

You can redeem a cash prize or gift card if you win and meet the redemption limit. Sweepstakes casinos are currently legal in Texas.

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[1] https://www.covers.com/industry/fanduel-california-texas-florida-difficulties-sept-26-2024

[2] https://www.covers.com/industry/draftkings-ramps-up-texas-lobbying-efforts-november-15-2024

[3] https://www.covers.com/industry/texas-california-legalization-effort-sports-betting-odds-march-2024

Casino bonuses and special promotions add a whole extra level of excitement to the world of online gambling. They are a highlight to look forward to when you sign up with a new casino platform.

Unfortunately for Texan gambling enthusiasts, these bonuses remain agonizingly out of reach as Texas is one of the states with very strict gambling legislation. In fact, at this stage in the game, online casinos are illegal in the Lone Star State, and access to the best online casino platforms in the US is strictly forbidden.

We have hope that change is on the horizon as discussions continue about revisiting state gambling laws. Should we join the charge and accept online gambling as the world embraces this fascinating industry, Texas players could gain access to an array of exciting casino bonuses.

It will open the doors to all the amazing welcome bonuses, among some of the most generous, as operators compete for your business. Welcome bonuses are an excellent introduction to online casinos; free spins can provide an engaging entry point to online slots, while bonus funds and free bets can be used to play tables, live casino games, and explore the lobby at your leisure.

This article looks into some of the best bonuses offered by casinos operating in US states where online gambling is legal to give you an idea of what you can expect. From matched deposits to free spins, these bonuses demonstrate what the future could hold for Texas residents if the state opens its doors to online gambling.

1: BetMGM Casino

Welcome Bonus: 100% Deposit Match up to $1,000 + $25 Casino Cash

The BetMGM Casino brand needs little introduction for anyone interested in the industry. It is famed for operating iconic casinos like the Bellagio and MGM Grand in Vegas.

When new players sign up for an online account at BetMGM Casino, they are treated to a two-part welcome bonus that is one of the best in the industry. The first is a no-deposit bonus of $25 in casino cash, which is deposited to your account on registration.

The second is a 100% deposit match, which means the operator will match your deposit in bonus funds up to a maximum of $1,000. So, if you were to sign up and deposit $1,000, you would have $2,025 to start playing with.

Terms are attached to this and all casino bonuses, which should always be reviewed before claiming any offers. The $25 casino cash bonus expires 3 days from issue and cannot be used on jackpot slot machines, poker games, or for placing sports bets. And the deposit match requires a 15x playthrough before withdrawals can be made, which must be completed within 30 days.

Beyond the welcome bonus, BetMGM Casino offers a range of ongoing bonuses and special offers that change throughout the year in keeping with seasonal changes or sports events (if you wish to bet at the sportsbook, too). It also offers player tournaments, refer-a-friend rewards, a rewards program for returning players, and state-specific bonuses that change from state to state.

2: BetRivers Casino

Welcome Bonus: 24 Hours of Casino Losses Back up to $500

BetRivers Casino is another big-name operator in the country. It serves some 16+ states with various levels of gaming and sports betting services as state legislation permits. The operator has a well-stocked casino lobby offering slots, video poker, live casino games, classic table games, and much more. Plus, there is a fully integrated sportsbook for all your sports betting needs.

When you sign up for a new BetRivers account, the operator offers a cashback bonus, which requires a casino bonus code to activate. The bonus guarantees a match of your real money net losses from your first 24 hours of membership up to $500. Terms for this bonus include a 1x playthrough, a 30-day expiry, and a minimum $10 deposit to qualify.

Ongoing promotions at BetRivers include player tournaments with bonus money and free bet prizes, jackpot giveaways, and the iRush Rewards program, where you can redeem points earned playing for prizes in the Bonus Store.

BetRivers offers state-specific bonuses and a range of sportsbook promotions like second chance bonus bets. Also, there is a BetRivers online community dedicated to fans, where you can connect with fellow players, participate in exclusive competitions, and win fantastic prizes. 

3: DraftKings Casino

Welcome Bonus: Up to $1,000 in Casino Cash + 200 Free Spins

DraftKings Casino is another popular choice among US-based casino players. This reputable operator offers a fantastic range of online casino games, including slots, live casino, classic table games, and a comprehensive sportsbook.

The DraftKings welcome bonus is slightly different again and rewards you more the more bets placed. Again, it’s a two-part bonus. First, deposit and play $5 to receive 200 free spins for specific slot titles within 7 days of issue.

The second part is depositing and playing at least $100 to receive $5 in casino cash. The more you wager, the more you receive up to $1,000 in casino cash. Your casino cash must be used within 7 days of issue and cannot be withdrawn.

Other bonuses at DraftKings include a $150 bonus bet new player bonus on the sportsbook when you sign up, deposit and wager $5 on certain bets. $50 in Pick6 credits when you play $5 on your first pickset as a new Pick6 customer. Or a refer-a-friend bonus that rewards members for encouraging their friends to join the fun and sign up for a new account on the platform.

4: Caesars Palace Online Casino

Welcome Bonus: $10 Sign-Up Bonus + 100% Deposit Match up to $1,000 + 2,500 Reward Credits

It’s hard to imagine a casino player on the planet who isn’t aware of the iconic Caesars Palace Casino brand, so it’s hardly a surprise that this legendary casino has joined the online casino bandwagon and now offers its services to US players in all states where online gambling is permitted.

The welcome bonus for new players at Caesars is another multi-part affair. This time, trumping all that’s come before it with a no-deposit sign-up bonus, a deposit match up to $1,000, plus 2,500 reward credits to start you on your journey on its loyalty program.

It starts with the bonus credit awarded when your new account has been registered and verified. Then, after you make your first deposit and wager a minimum of $25, you’ll receive your deposit match as long as it’s within 7 days of registration.

Aside from the welcome bonus, returning players can also enjoy a selection of ongoing promotions, which change frequently and include rewards like reload bonuses, daily deals, player tournaments, and a refer-a-friend bonus.

The Caesars Rewards program is also linked to the land-based sites, so you can earn points when you visit in person or online and redeem them for fantastic real-life rewards, including hotel stays, dining, and shopping.

5: Bet365 Casino

Welcome Bonus: Claim up to 500 Free Spins in 20 Days

Last on our list is the Bet365 Casino, which offers free spins and a welcome bonus with a twist. When you register for an account as a new player and place your first deposit of $10 or more, you qualify for the Free Spins Giveaway.

This bonus gives you 10 chances to pick either the blue, red, or yellow button to reveal your daily prize of 5, 10, 20, or 50 spins. Your spins can be played on the following in-house games: Magic Force, Maximum Vegas, or Super Mega Ultra Wheel.

You must wait at least 24 hours between picking your spins and have 20 days to claim all 10 picks. Your free spins are credited instantly on reveal and expire seven days from issue. Spins are played at $0.20 per spin and have no wagering requirements attached.

Texas Casino Bonus Offers Await When Gambling Legislation Changes

As we wait for local legislation to catch up with the global market, players in Texas can but look on in admiration at the incredible bonuses US-based players can enjoy in states where online gambling is legal. There is a lot of competition from top-name operators, who are willing to throw high-value bonuses at players as a thank-you for their custom and loyalty.

As discussions about revising Texas’s gambling legislation continue, there’s hope that the Lone Star State will soon join the growing list of states embracing this exciting form of entertainment. When that day comes, Texans can look forward to accessing the same high-quality casino platforms and thrilling bonuses and finally get your chance to join in on the action.

Gambling near Texas is a good option for placing legal real money wagers. After all, real money wagering is illegal in most forms in Texas, including at online casinos and sportsbooks.

In this article, we introduce you to the current state of gambling in Texas and show you the best options for gambling near Texas.

We also present tips on how to bet within your means and reveal how to keep up to date with the latest developments relating to gambling in Texas in the near future.

Is Real Money Gambling Legal in Texas?

Texas is one of the US States where most forms of real-money gambling are illegal. You cannot legally sign up for or bet at online sportsbooks like FanDuel or Fanatics or play at real-money online casinos such as BetMGM or Borgata.

The only land-based gambling options in Texas are on tribal lands, with Naskila Casino and Kickapoo Lucky Eagle as the two best options within state lines.

In the US, every state has its own gambling laws and legislation. This is why it might be legal in one state to gamble online at sportsbooks but illegal in the neighboring state to play at online casinos.

Moreover, the legal online gambling landscape is constantly evolving, with many states recognizing the potential tax revenues from legal online gambling while debating bills in the House and Senate.

Though it is still illegal to gamble online and at land-based venues (excluding tribal properties) in Texas, we expect changes in the coming years.

Numerous recent efforts to legalize gambling have received support from Texas Governor Greg Abbott, and there’s a growing realization that regulated real-money gambling could benefit the state in various ways.

Alternatives – Sweepstakes Casinos, Lottery, & Parimutuel Wagering

As we await legislative changes relating to real money gambling in Texas, the following types of gambling are permitted within state lines:

Sweepstakes Casinos

Sweepstakes casinos are the best alternative to real-money casino gambling. These sites use virtual currency and offer access to slots, table games, and live dealer tables.

You can play for free, but if you win while using “sweeps coins,” you can redeem your virtual currency for cash prizes or gift cards, provided you meet the minimum redemption. Popular sweepstakes casinos in Texas include:

• RealPrize
• McLuck
• Stake.us
• Hello Millions
• High 5 Casino

Lottery

If you’re 18 or older, you can legally play the Texas State Lottery. You can buy tickets online, and if your numbers come up, you will receive a cash prize.

Parimutuel Wagering

Although sports betting is illegal in Texas, you can get involved in parimutuel wagering at specific venues. Rather than backing a horse or dog at fixed odds, parimutuel wagering is where you buy a ticket for a runner, and if it wins, you will win a share of the pool. Parimutuel wagering is available in Texas at the following venues:

• Lone Star Park, Grand Prairie
• Retama Park, Selma
• Sam Houston Race Park, Houston

Gambling Near Texas – The Legal Online Betting Landscape in the US

If you want to play at real money casinos or bet at sportsbooks legally, you must look outside of state lines. Below, we provide an overview of where gambling online is currently legal in the United States.

Where is Online Casino Gambling Legal in the United States?

At the time of this writing, it’s legal to play at online casinos in the following states:

• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Michigan
• New Jersey
• Pennsylvania
• West Virginia

Only these six states have legalized online casino gameplay within their borders. Unfortunately, none of them are on the doorstep of Texas, so you can’t just hop over state lines to play your favorite casino games.

Still, if you regularly travel domestically in the USA for business or pleasure, you can legally play casino games online in any of the above states during your visit. We recommend the following platforms as the best online casinos in the US, offering brilliant game variety and generous bonuses:

• BetMGM Casino
• Borgata Casino
• FanDuel Casino
• BetRivers Casino
• DraftKings Casino

What About Legal Online Sports Betting in the United States?

Legal online sports betting is more widespread than legal online casino gambling in the United States. Currently, 29 US states permit online sports betting in some form, and numerous states, including Texas, are considering legislation to allow it in the coming months or years.

As of 2025, below are the states in which all forms of sports betting are illegal:

• Alabama
• Alaska
• California
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Minnesota
• Oklahoma
• South Carolina
• Texas
• Utah

For online sports gambling near Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas are perhaps the best options. Participating in online sports gambling in Arizona is also legal, not far from Western Texas.

Should you want to get involved in sports gambling near Texas, we recommend the following sportsbooks as your best options:

• Fanatics Sportsbook
• FanDuel Sportsbook
• DraftKings Sportsbook
• BetRivers Sportsbook

Land-Based Gambling Near Texas

While your online gambling options are restricted near Texas, there are several good options if you want to cross state lines to visit land-based gambling venues. Below are some of our recommended spots for real-money gambling near Texas in 2025:

Louisiana

Louisiana is home to numerous excellent land-based casinos, each of which you can reach from Texas via road or air. Those within reaching distance of Texas that offer decent gambling options include:

• Coushatta Casino Resort, Kinder, LA
• Delta Downs Racetrack & Casino, Vinton, LA

Oklahoma

Directly north of Texas, Oklahoma is known for numerous excellent land-based casinos, several on the state border with the Lone Star State. Our recommendations include:

• WinStar World Casino, Thackerville, OK
• Choctaw Casino & Resort, Durant, OK

New Mexico

If you live in West Texas, New Mexico is the best spot for legal land-based gambling. While you might have to travel a little further into the state, there are some brilliant casinos and racetracks in New Mexico, including:

• Inn of the Mountain Gods, Mescalero, NM
• Zia Park Casino Hotel & Racetrack, Hobbs, NM

Tips for Gambling Near Texas

We expect significant changes in the online and land-based gambling landscape in Texas in the coming years. But as we wait for new laws and legislation, gambling near Texas is perhaps your best option.

Here are some tips relating to legal gambling to bet within your means and avoid doing anything illegal:

Don’t use a VPN to gamble illegally

The prominence of Virtual Private Networks (VPN) makes it tempting to disguise your location and gamble illegally within state lines in Texas. But we’d encourage you not to do this. You must provide proof of your address to withdraw your winnings from an online casino or sportsbook.

If this is in Texas, the casino or sportsbook will likely withhold your winnings as you signed up illegally. So, avoid using a VPN and wait until the sites are legally available in Texas.

Keep up to date with the latest legislation

Over the past few years, the Texas State Legislature has considered several bills (including HB 2843) relating to legal gambling in Texas. Though nothing has passed, we expect more legislation to filter through this year.

So, keep up to date with the latest developments by following this page and the latest posts on our website. We will update you as soon as gambling in Texas is legal.

Visit legitimate gambling venues near Texas

Be careful when choosing where to gamble near Texas. Only ever visit legal, licensed venues with good reviews and a positive reputation.

If unsure, stick to the land-based gambling venues we recommend above. We have visited each of these venues and recommend them as viable places for gambling near Texas.

Gamble responsibly

Responsible gambling is crucial to your enjoyment of real money betting, whether on sports or casino games. To gamble responsibly, always adjust your stake and bet only what you can afford to lose.

If you feel like your gambling is getting out of hand, reach out to a family member or friend for support. You can also seek help from Gamblers Anonymous or other help groups online.

The Bottom Line

As real money wagering is currently illegal in the state, gambling near Texas in Louisiana, New Mexico, or Oklahoma is a viable alternative.

You may also consider creating an account at a sweepstakes casino, participating in parimutuel betting, or playing the state lottery, each of which is currently legal in Texas.

Given that gambling is expected to become legal in Texas in the coming years, this page will keep you updated on the best options for real-money wagering at sportsbooks and casinos.

As the state that inspired the most famous poker game in the world, you might think that playing online poker in Texas is straightforward. However, due to state regulations relating to online gambling, it’s not quite as simple as you might have hoped.

This article provides a complete guide to online poker in Texas. We begin with a look at the current legal landscape of online poker and explain what you need to know. Then, we introduce you to sites where you can legally play online poker in Texas.

Finally, we recommend the best poker games to consider when playing this legendary card game in the Lone Star State.

Is Online Poker Legal in Texas?

Real money online gambling is illegal in Texas in 2025. Therefore, you cannot legally sign up for a US-based poker site to play cash games or enter tournaments in the state.

It’s also illegal to play online poker games in Texas. So, that rules out live casino variants of Texas Hold’em and Caribbean Stud and even makes it unlawful to play video poker titles from Game King and other studios.

Texas has some of the most restrictive gambling laws in the United States. At this time, all forms of online gambling, excluding the State Lottery, are illegal.

That said, lawmakers have made numerous attempts in recent years to legalize sports betting and some online casino games in the state. However, the most recent effort to pass a bill through both chambers failed in 2023[1], so there’s still a long way to go before online poker and other gambling games are legal in Texas.

How to Play Online Poker Legally in Texas

Unfortunately, you cannot sign up for a real-money poker site like PokerStars to play cash games or tournaments in Texas. Playing casino-style poker games like Casino Hold’em at sites such as BetMGM and DraftKings is also out.

So, how can you legally play online poker in Texas? The good news is that there are a few options to consider, which we introduce below:

Sweepstakes Online Poker

Also known as social poker, sweepstakes poker is your best option if you want to legally play online poker in Texas. Sweepstakes casinos, sportsbooks, and poker sites are all legal in Texas, letting you play with virtual currency rather than real money.

Right now, the best sweepstakes poker sites in Texas are:

Clubs Poker

Alt Text: The homepage at Clubs Poker in Texas.

We rate Clubs Poker as the top social casino site in the United States, available in Texas and 43 other states. You can play unlimited online poker with Gold Coins and Clubs Poker and enter sweepstakes games for prizes using free Sweeps Coins.

When you create an account, 2,500 Gold Coins and 0.5 Sweeps Coins will be added to your account with no purchase necessary. The following games and variants are offered:

• Texas Hold’em
• Omaha
• HORSE
• Stud
• 2-7 Single Draw

If you play and win with Sweeps Coins at Club Poker, you can redeem your coins for cash prizes. You must have a balance of at least 50 SC to redeem a prize, and you can redeem up to 5,000 per day.

Clubs Poker makes it extremely easy to access free Sweeps Coins. You earn SC with every GC purchase, and you can access free coins by logging into your account daily and participating in social media contests.

Global Poker

Alt Text: The homepage at Global Poker in Texas.

Another viable option for online sweepstakes poker in Texas is Global Poker. It’s free to sign up and play here, and if you play and win with Sweeps Coins, you can redeem cash prizes.

One of our favorite things about Global Poker is the low-value redemptions. You can redeem a gift card prize with a balance of just 10 SC. You can redeem a cash prize with 50 SC in your poker account.

Global Poker offers a wide selection of variants with different limits. You can also participate in tournaments, which are advertised on the site.

If you don’t want to play in promotional mode, you can play at Global Poker for free using Gold Coins. This is a great way to practice online poker while honing your strategy.

Free Online Poker in Texas

Sweepstakes betting sites are your best option for legally playing online poker in Texas. They feature the best of both worlds. You can sign up for free before joining games and playing with sweeps coins, which can be redeemed for real cash prizes.

But if you’re not bothered about the financial element of online poker, you can play free online poker at numerous top sites in Texas, including:

• World Series of Poker (WSOP): The WSOP site is our top-rated destination for free online poker in Texas. Play free variants of Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and numerous Three-card poker games against players from all over the world.
• 24/7 Free Poker: Powered by 247Games.com, 24/7 is a no-frills free online poker site giving you immediate access to online poker with no sign-up required. Choose the gameplay level and play as much as you like, with no risk attached.
• Zynga Poker: You can also play free poker games at Zynga, one of the world’s most popular poker platforms. This is the best option for playing poker on your smartphone or tablet, thanks to Zynga’s excellent iOS and Android apps.

Legal Offline Poker in Texas: Private Poker Clubs

Until PokerStars and BetMGM become legally available in Texas, the above sites are your best free and sweepstakes play options. Even though Texas was the birthplace of the most legendary poker variant, this game remains illegal online.

However, you can legally play poker offline in Texas, thanks to the state’s many flourishing private poker clubs. There are currently 68 private poker clubs in Texas from Amarillo to Wichita Falls.

The biggest private poker club in Texas is the Lodge Card Club in Austin, with 68 tables. In Dallas, Shuffle 214 is home to 31 tables, while Lucky J Social Club is Houston’s biggest poker club, with 38 tables.

These clubs are legal in Texas for two reasons:

1. They operate in a “private” place.
2. They do not take a rake and are thus deemed not for any “economic benefit.”

These clubs operate in a grey area, as they certainly profit from the membership fees of the players who join the clubs. At most poker clubs in Texas, daily, monthly, and annual memberships are available.

Currently, monthly memberships run from $30 to $150, depending on the club. Then, to enter a tournament, a player must pay for his or her seat, which usually starts at $10 for cash games and about $20 for tournaments.

Essentially, these clubs operate a bit like sweepstakes online poker sites. They circumvent the regulations to remain legal and are a viable option if you want to play poker in Texas legally in 2025.

The Best Poker Games in Texas

Now that we’ve established the best places for online poker in Texas, which are the best games to play? Here are our recommendations:

Texas Hold’em

The world’s most popular variant of poker was created in the Lone Star State. Texas Hold’em requires you to create the best five-card poker hand with the two cards you’re dealt and the five community cards in the middle of the table.

Five-Card Draw

Each player is given five cards to begin the game. Then, you can trade up to three of your cards for new ones or stick with what you have. At the end of the game, the player with the best-ranking poker hand wins.

Omaha

Similar to Texas Hold’em, Omaha has four betting rounds and five community cards. However, each of the community cards is shown from the very start of the game, and every player receives four pocket cards, not two.

The Bottom Line: How to Play Online Poker in Texas

Although real-money online poker in Texas is illegal, there are numerous ways to play this legendary card game in the state.

As highlighted above, your best option is to sign up for a sweepstakes poker site like Clubs Poker or Global Poker, where you can play with virtual currency. Then, if you win, you can redeem your virtual currency for a cash prize or gift card.

Alternatively, play poker for free at sites like WSOP to hone your strategy. Then, visit any of the 68 private poker clubs in Texas and become a member. You can then play Texas Hold’em, Five-Card Draw, Omaha, and other variants for real money.

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[1] https://www.texastribune.org/2025/02/11/texas-legislature-gambling-casinos-sports-betting/

Slot machines are the most popular online casino game in the United States. Played by millions of people every year, they line the floors of the biggest and best casinos, from Las Vegas to Atlantic City.

But the world’s most exciting slot games are also available on online platforms like BetMGM, FanDuel, and DraftKings. So, you can create an account, deposit, and spin the reels for your chance to win.

As we await the legalization of online casinos in Texas, this article introduces you to the most-played slot games in the United States. From Starburst to Age of the Gods, these games feature big wins, free spins, and jackpot prizes.

So, read on for the most-played online slots for real money in Texas and beyond.

Are Online Slots for Real Money in Texas Legal?

It’s currently illegal to play real-money online slots in Texas. However, you can play at legitimate sweepstakes casinos in Texas, with Hello Millions, Stake.us, and RealPrize.com all popular among Texans.

The good news is that many popular slot machine games are available at real-money and sweepstakes casinos. So, the only difference is that you use virtual currency to play slots at sweepstakes sites rather than real cash.

Another option is to play the top slot machine games for free. These online games have free demos you can play directly on the developer’s website. Though you can’t win any real money, you can enjoy the gameplay and prepare for the real release of the game in Texas.

We’re encouraged by recent developments and the fact that Governor Abbott has spoken positively about legalizing online gambling in the state.

While it might be a little early to expect real-money gambling to arrive in the state, we hope online slots for real money in Texas will be readily available in 2026 or 2027.

As we wait for the legalization of real money online wagering in Texas, we introduce you to the most popular online slot machines in the USA at the time of writing. We reveal what you need to know to play these slots and reveal the exciting bonus features you can trigger in each.

Starburst

• Studio: NetEnt
• RTP: 96.09%
• Max win: 500x per spin

Alt Text: Starburst gameplay.

The space-themed slot game Starburst is the most-played online casino game in the world. Released in 2012, this intergalactic adventure boasts simple cosmic gameplay and low volatility, meaning it’s the perfect slot for beginners looking for regular wins.

There are 20 paylines in the base game, and the star feature is the Starburst Wild, which can land anywhere in the game to help you form winning combinations. If luck is on your side, the maximum win available in Starburst is 500x your bet per spin.

Age of the Gods

• Studio: Playtech
• RTP: 95.02%
• Max win: Progressive jackpot

Alt Text: Age of the Gods artwork.

There are over 30 Age of the Gods slots from Playtech, highlighting just how popular this series is in the online casino world. But our favorite game in the series is the original Age of the Gods, a thrilling Greek odyssey with a progressive jackpot up for grabs. The average progressive payout in Age of the Gods is over $600,000[1], so this is one of the best slots to play if you’re searching for big wins.

Though the graphics might seem a little simpler compared to newer Greek-themed releases, this game’s charm is its simplicity and the throwback to classic slots. You can land wins on 20 paylines, and the Athena free spins round delivers wins of up to 50,000 times the bet. It’s a classic for a reason – play Age of the Gods today for the best ancient Greek slot game of all time.

Cleopatra

• Studio: IGT
• RTP: 95.02%
• Max win: 10,000x

Alt Text: Cleopatra slot artwork.

From ancient Greece to ancient Egypt, IGT’s Cleopatra is the most popular desert-themed slot game of all time. It has spawned several subsequent releases, including the excellent Cleopatra 2 and Cleopatra’s Gold, which are both extremely popular at top US casinos like BetMGM and FanDuel.

One of our favorite things about Cleopatra is the free spins bonus round, in which a 3x multiplier appears to increase your payouts. The bonus round begins with 15 free spins, and more can follow.

Cleopatra is such an iconic slot game that it’s available at practically every land-based and online casino in the USA. It has spawned an entire industry of ancient Egyptian slot games, none of which shape up to the original. So, join the Desert Queen in one of the most-played slot games in the world.

Cash Eruption

• Studio: IGT
• RTP: 96.00%
• Max win: Progressive jackpot

Alt Text: Cash Eruption slot gameplay.

Though a relative newcomer since its 2020 release, IGT’s Cash Eruption has become one of the most-played slot games at top online casinos in the United States. In fact, at the time of writing, it’s the most-played game at BetMGM and Borgata Casino, highlighting its huge popularity in the US market.

As with many IGT slots, the developer has kept the design simple yet engaging, focusing instead on the in-game features. A wild symbol can land to help you form wins, while the Cash Eruption scatters are your gateway to the bonus round, in which multipliers and re-spins contribute to your payouts.

Bright and brilliant, Cash Eruption is a fiery treat available at all the top online casinos in the US.

Blood Suckers II

• Studio: NetEnt
• RTP: 96.90%
• Max win: 1,298x

Alt Text: Blood Suckers II artwork.

It’s not always easy to follow up an iconic slot game with an even better sequel, but NetEnt managed it with the release of Blood Suckers II. The original game was great, but the sequel’s low volatility, low minimum bet, and high RTP made it extremely accessible to all players.

As such, soon after its 2017 release, this vampire-slaying slot game usurped the original and became an instant hit in the US, ranking as one of NetEnt’s most-played games.

The blood rose scatters in the base game pave the way for the free spins bonus round, and hidden treasure in a dark crypt could land on the reels to deliver the game’s max win. Blood Suckers II is well put together and highly engaging, making it a great slot for all players.

Sweet Bonanza

• Studio: Pragmatic Play
• RTP: 96.49%
• Max win: 21,100x

Alt Text: Sweet Bonanza slot game.

Fruit-themed slot machine games have come a long way since the original Liberty Bell, and Sweet Bonanza is arguably the most-played “fruity” in the world. Sweet candies can land across the grid in this awesome scatter-pays slot, and a 21,100x max multiplier is much higher than the 5,000x max win available in most Pragmatic Play slots.

If you decide to play Sweet Bonanza, look out for the lollipop scatters. At least three lollipops trigger the free spins round, which offers multipliers of up to 100x the bet that sticks to your bonus wins. Pragmatic Play has a huge catalog of over 350 slots, but Sweet Bonanza is the studio’s most popular and most iconic game.

Buffalo Blitz

• Studio:
• RTP: 95.96%
• Max win: 10,000x

Alt Text: Buffalo Blitz slot gameplay.

You will find dozens or even hundreds of animal-themed slots at online casinos today, but Buffalo Blitz is perhaps the most iconic. This Playtech slot is so popular that it recently received a live casino makeover, in which a live dealer guides you through the gameplay and invites you to join unique and exciting bonus rounds.

The original game is also fantastic and is available at practically all US casinos. It has 4,096 ways to win across six reels, and the high volatility means that big wins can and do happen.

We love the Buffalo Blitz bonus round, which offers up to 100 free spins with generous multipliers. The graphics are great, and though dozens of other buffalo-themed slots have followed, Buffalo Blitz is still the best.

Play the Best Online Slots for Real Money in Texas

If you’re keen to play the number one slot game in the world, Starburst is the one. Travel to outer space and trigger Starburst Wilds to form winning combinations across the grid.

When you’re done with your intergalactic voyage, travel back in time to the ancient world to play Age of the Gods and Cleopatra, two classic slots that have stood the test of time.

Though real money slot machine gameplay is currently illegal in Texas, you can play these games for free in demo mode. Alternatively, find them at sweepstakes casinos and play with virtual currency.

We hope that real-money slot gameplay will be legalized in the coming year or so in Texas, so come back to this page when the legislation is announced, and we’ll show you where to play these iconic slot games.

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[1] https://www.casinolistings.com/jackpots/playtech/age-of-gods-ultimate-power-jackpot