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Best Online Casinos Available in Iowa by Category

Here are the top five offshore casinos we recommend for players in Iowa, and what sets them apart:

  • SlotsandCasino — Best for Online Slots. Choose from over 500 online slots, offering you substantial payouts, and start spinning with up to $1,500 in welcome offers. 

  • Ignition Casino — Top Choice for Diverse Blackjack Table Options. Experience the live casino atmosphere with live dealer blackjack or explore the online blackjack environment with single and double-deck blackjack RNG table games.

  • BetUS — Best Sportsbook. Bet on everything from college football to horse racing, with a considerable welcome bonus and appealing promotions.

  • Bovada — Best Live Poker. Join a separate live poker room with daily sit-n-go’s and multi-day tournaments that offer chances at big wins.

  • DuckyLuck — Best Choice for Versatile Gaming Experience.  Pick from over 430 table games, live dealer options, slots, video poker, and claim generous welcome packages.

SlotsandCasino

Best for Online Slots: With 500+ slots categorized by developers, a user-friendly interface, and popular game snapshots, SlotsandCasino is our casino recommendation for Iowa with the best slots library. Slots are the most popular casino game in Iowa (generating 85% of casino revenue), and SlotsandCasino is a slot lover’s haven. Classic 3-reel, innovative video, or jackpot games—SlotsandCasino’s got it. New players enjoy a match bonus of 300% up to $1500 and includes 100 free spins. They cater to cryptocurrency users, accepting Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, ensuring speedy, secure transactions. If you’re an Iowa player looking for top-notch slot games, then you’ve hit the jackpot with SlotsandCasino.

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4.8
Welcome Bonus $2,500
Casino Games: Slots, Roulette, Video Poker+4 more
, Baccarat, Blackjack, Craps, Speciality Games
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Payment Options: Bitcoin, Check By Mail, Wire Transfer+1 more
, Interac
see less
Pros
  • Over 500 of the best slot games, including IA favorites like Gonzo’s Quest and Cleopatra
  • Play slots with progressive jackpots, classic 3-reel slots, and video slots
  • Welcome bonus of 300% up to $1,500 + 100 free spins
  • Earn up to 25 free spins each time you deposit with crypto
Cons
  • Not all jackpot amounts displayed; players need to click through to individual game pages to see some jackpot totals
  • $2,500 weekly withdrawal limits in your selected account currency
Ignition Casino

Top Choice for Diverse Blackjack Table Options: Ignition Casino is our top choice for Iowans seeking the ultimate blackjack experience. In the 1930s, Iowa legalized blackjack on riverboat casinos, giving it a unique historical connection to the game. Renowned for superior live dealer blackjack, Ignition offers over 30 tables with unlimited bets behind options for added excitement. The live casino includes two Early Payout blackjack tables with a minimal 0.5% house edge. For RNG table blackjack enthusiasts, Ignition provides nine varieties, including single and double-deck options, with impressively low house edges (0.076% and 0.23%, respectively). Ignition Casino’s diverse blackjack selection makes it the ideal platform for rewarding and engaging gameplay.

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4.0
Welcome Bonus $3,000
Casino Games: Slots, Roulette, Video Poker+4 more
, Baccarat, Blackjack, Craps, Sports Betting
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Payment Options: American Express, Mastercard, Visa+5 more
, Bitcoin Cash, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Tether
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Pros
  • Attractive welcome bonuses, reaching up to $1,500, are offered and can be utilized on various blackjack games.
  • Every one of the more than 30 blackjack tables accommodates seven seats, ensuring a constant seating availability.
  • Catering to Iowa residents accustomed to constrained betting options – Buy-in spans from $5 for modest wagers to $10,000 for high-stakes players.
  • Bitcoin-friendly transactions – providing convenient and secure options for users who appreciate anonymity and efficiency.
Cons
  • While some players appreciate the option of anonymous tables, where usernames are concealed, others may need help establishing consistent reads on opponents. This anonymity could be a drawback for those who prefer a more personalized and social gaming experience.
  • No jackpots available on blackjack, despite being available on other table games
BetUS

Best Sportsbook: BetUS stands out as the ideal choice for passionate University of Iowa Hawkeyes fans in Iowa, offering convenient home betting. In 2022, Iowa residents placed a staggering $2 billion in sports bets, with college football being a favorite. State regulations limit bets on in-state college teams to retail sportsbooks. BetUS, a renowned online sportsbook, covers 25+ sports, providing pre-game, live, and prop bets, spanning international leagues and events like elections. With live streams for favored college teams like the Iowa Hawkeyes, BetUS ensures a seamless experience, establishing itself as Iowa’s premier online sportsbook.

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4.2
Welcome Bonus $2,500
Casino Games: Slots, Roulette, Video Poker+4 more
, Baccarat, Blackjack, Craps, Sports Betting
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Payment Options: American Express, Mastercard, Visa+5 more
, Bitcoin Cash, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Bank Transfer
see less
Pros
  • Wide variety of betting options — NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, NCAA Football, and even one of Iowa’s favorites: Horse Racing
  • Live Betting and Streaming allow users to place bets during ongoing events and provide livestreaming for certain sports
  • 125% welcome bonus that can get you up to $2,500 in bonus money on your first deposit
  • 150% bonus on your first cryptocurrency deposit
Cons
  • Mixed reviews regarding responsiveness and effectiveness of BetUS Customer support
  • Longer withdrawal processing times and limited banking options
Bovada Casino

Best Live Poker: Bovada stands out as the top choice for Iowans seeking an exceptional live poker experience. Iowa boasts a rich poker history from the 1930s riverboat gambling era. Whether you’re looking for quick action in daily sit-and-go games or big wins in multi-day tournaments, Bovada caters to diverse preferences. The platform enhances the gaming experience with features like anonymous tables and fast-fold options, maximizing hands per hour. Bovada is the go-to choice for live poker players in Iowa, delivering a diverse and thrilling poker experience rooted in the state’s gambling heritage.

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4.7
Welcome Bonus $3,750
Casino Games: Slots, Roulette, Video Poker+4 more
, Baccarat, Blackjack, Craps, Sports Betting
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Payment Options: American Express, Mastercard, Visa+7 more
, Bitcoin Cash, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Tether, Money Order, Interac
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Pros
  • Fast-fold option that allows players to quickly move to a new table after folding, adding speed and excitement to gameplay
  • A dedicated live poker room enhances the overall experience for players who prefer real-time, interactive gameplay with live dealers and opponents
  • Impressive welcome bonus of a 100% match up to $1,000, specifically for new players.
  • User-friendly interface for both newcomers and experienced players makes it easy to navigate through different games and tournaments
Cons
  • Live dealer tables are only English-speaking.
  • While some players appreciate the option of an anonymous table, others find it more challenging to build a consistent read on opponents.
DuckyLuck Casino

Best Choice for Versatile Gaming Experience: DuckyLuck is the top choice for versatile gaming in Iowa, offering a diverse platform with over 430 table games, live dealer options, slots, video poker, and unique selections like keno bingo. New players enjoy a generous welcome package with 150 spins and a 500% match bonus (up to $2,500), surpassing competitors’ offers. The casino’s loyalty program provides cashback, gifts, and exclusive perks. DuckyLuck emphasizes user-friendliness on both the website and mobile app, ideal for Iowa newcomers to online casinos. Exceptional customer service and diverse banking options, including crypto-friendly transactions, enhance the overall positive gaming experience tailored for Iowa players.

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4.6
Welcome Bonus $7,500
Casino Games: Slots, Roulette, Video Poker+2 more
, Baccarat, Blackjack
see less
Payment Options: Discover, Mastercard, Visa+5 more
, Bitcoin Cash, Bitcoin, Dogecoin, Ethereum, Litecoin
see less
Pros
  • Website fully optimized for mobile devices, allowing players to seamlessly play their favorite games on-the-go
  • Broad selection of slots, live dealer games, and table games like blackjack and roulette, providing options for different interests and gaming styles
  • The straightforward layout makes it simple to search for games and discover new ones
  • Impressive welcome bonus of 500% up to $2,500 and 150 free spins, enhancing the gaming experience
Cons
  • Limited payout options with Bitcoin, wire transfer, and paper check as the only withdrawal options for US players
  • No poker room or poker tournaments
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Comparing Online Gambling Sites Available in Iowa

Rating 4.6 (Review) 5 (Review) 4.6 (Review) 4.0 (Review)
Established 2013 2017 2018 2022
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How We Rank Online Casinos in Iowa

Best US Casinos thoroughly assesses our recommended online casinos in Iowa, offering detailed reviews highlighting strengths and weaknesses based on six essential criteria. These six factors are the baseline of our evaluation, but our reviews go beyond, comprehensively examining what makes each casino a great choice for Iowa players.

Safety & Security

Safety & Security

Our research examines the presence of relevant security measures at online casinos, prioritizing data protection and fair gaming for Iowa residents.

Game Variety & Quality

Game Variety & Quality

We meticulously assess online casinos, prioritizing a diverse, high-quality game selection that resonates with Iowa players. Our reviews focus on playability, visuals, and sound, highlighting popular choices in Iowa’s gaming community.

Bonuses & Promotions

Bonuses & Promotions

We assess casino bonuses for fairness and appeal, thoroughly examining terms and conditions for clarity and player advantage. Our reviews reflect these evaluations, guiding Iowa players to rewarding promotions.

Payment Options

Payment Options

Our reviews focus on a site’s banking options, noting what popular payment methods it offers, such as bank transfers, credit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies.

Customer Support

Customer Support

In our casino reviews, we evaluate customer support teams for responsiveness, professionalism, and availability. Emphasizing features beneficial to Iowa players, such as 24/7 phone support, live chat, and email during PST/PDT hours.

UI & Mobile Experience

UI & Mobile Experience

Our team looks for and notes sites offering Iowans user-friendly interfaces seamlessly transitioning between desktop and mobile. We confirm HTML5 responsiveness and flawless adaptation to mobile screens, noting these features in our reviews.

Yes, Iowa permits various forms of regulated gambling. This includes online sports betting, daily fantasy sports (DFS), land-based casinos, horse racing, a state lottery, and charitable/social gambling.  While online casinos aren’t regulated in Iowa, many of the online casinos we recommend at Best US Casinos are and available to Iowans. 

Iowa State Gambling Laws and Regulations

The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) is the sole regulatory body overseeing all forms of legal gambling in Iowa.  Here are some of Iowa’s gambling laws and regulations:

  • Iowa Code: A comprehensive compilation of laws that establishes the legal framework for citizens and government officials in Iowa, enacted by the Iowa General Assembly.
  • Chapter 99B of the Iowa Code: The primary law regulating Social & Charitable Gambling in Iowa.
  • Chapter 99D of the Iowa Code: The primary law regulating pari-mutuel betting on horse and dog racing and revenue sharing with the State.
  • Chapter 99E of the Iowa Code: Governs internet fantasy sports contests and service providers. Under this law, the IRGC has the authority to license and regulate daily fantasy sports contest providers.
  • Chapter 99F of the Iowa Code: The primary legal framework for gambling in Iowa, encompasses the regulation of riverboat gambling, land-based casinos, and sports wagering.

Since its inception in 1991 with the creation of the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC),

  • Chapter 99G of the Iowa Code: Establishes and regulates the Iowa State Lottery, launching lottery ticket sales in the state and ensuring responsible operation and contribution to state programs.
  • Senate File 617: Legalizes retail and online wagering and daily fantasy sports through partnerships with licensed operators and casinos.
  • House File 2457: This legislation is also known as the “Iowa Jobs Bill”, and its passage legalizes land-based casinos in Iowa, allowing them to operate outside riverboats.
  • House File 599: Authorizes the Iowa Lottery in 1985.
  • House File 643: Expands sports betting options in Iowa to include college sports betting and prop bets.
  • Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA): This federal law passed in 1988, governs tribal gaming activities, including classifying three classes of gaming that pertain to tribal casinos. All tribal casinos in Iowa operate as Class III gaming facilities.
    • Class III Gaming (IGRA): Includes a broad range of casino-style games and activities, such as slot machines, table games (blackjack, poker, etc.) and certain types of lotteries.
  • Tribal-State Gaming Compacts:  The State of Iowa has entered compacts with four tribal nations, establishing a framework for tribal gaming

Are Online Casinos Available in Iowa? 

Yes, online casinos are available in Iowa; however, residents of the Hawkeye State can only access offshore online casinos. Iowa has yet to pass legislation to allow online gambling to be based in the state. All the sites for Iowans you’ll find on Best US Casinos are offshore internationally licensed sites.

Top Online Casino for Iowa Residents

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Is Online Poker Available in Iowa? 

Since online poker falls within the scope of online gambling, online poker is only available in Iowa via offshore sites. At Best US Casinos, the online poker sites we recommend still provide excellent poker experiences to Iowa players — including video poker, live tournaments, Sit & Go, and much more. You can also find Omaha and Texas Hold’em — the two most popular poker variations for Iowa players.

Best Live Poker Site for Iowa Poker Players

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Are Online Racebooks Available in Iowa? 

Yes, Iowans can access online racebooks through state-licensed platforms and offshore sportsbooks. Our recommended offshore sportsbooks offer a wider range of betting options, including simulcast races from tracks across the country.

Place bets on horse races from around the world

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Land-Based Gambling in Iowa

Iowa has four legal types of land-based gambling:  tribal Casinos, state-regulated commercial casinos, pari-mutuel wagering facilities, and in-person sports betting facilities. Other than tribal casinos, all types of land-based gambling in Iowa are regulated by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC)

Tribal Casinos in Iowa

Iowa is one of 30 US states with legal Native American casinos. They were legalized by the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), passed by President Ronald Reagan in 1988. There are four tribal casinos in Iowa, and these tribal casinos are Class III Facilities. Each tribal casino has its own Tribal Gaming Commission responsible for regulating its day-to-day operations. Minimum age requirements are 21 years old for gambling, and 18 years old for bingo.

Here’s a list of the four tribal casinos operating across the Hawkeye State:

CASINO COUNTY ADDRESS WHAT YOU’LL FIND THERE

Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel

(Sac & Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa)

Tama County

1500 315 Blvd, Tama, IA 52439

  • Over 2,100 slot machines
  • 58 table games including blackjack, craps, roulette, and poker
  • Bingo hall
  • Retail sportsbook
  • 402-room hotel
  • Outdoor arena

Prairie Flower Casino (Sac & Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa)

Pottawattamie County

1200 Prairie Flower Dr, Carter Lake, IA 51501

  • Over 1,400 slot machines
  • 30 table games including blackjack, craps, roulette, and poker
  • Retail sportsbook
  • 110-room hotel

WinnaVegas Casino (Sac & Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa)

Woodbury County

777 WinnaVegas Blvd, Sloan, IA 51469

  • Over 1,200 slot machines
  • 24 table games including blackjack, craps, roulette, and poker
  • Bingo hall
  • 336-room hotel

Blackbird Bend Casino (Omaha Tribe of Nebraska)

Monona County

3700 Sioux River Rd, Onawa, IA 51031

  • Over 1,100 slot machines
  • 22 table games including blackjack, craps, roulette, and poker
  • Bingo hall
  • 143-room hotel

Commercial Casinos 

Iowa has 18 commercial casinos that offer slot machines, table games, and electronic gaming machines. The minimum age to gamble is 21 years old, and for racing and bingo, it is 18 years old.

Here are five of the most popular commercial casinos in Iowa: 

CASINO COUNTY ADDRESS WHAT YOU’LL FIND THERE

Prairie Meadows Racetrack & Casino

Altoona, Polk County

12224 NE 38th Ave, Altoona, IA 50009

  • 3,400+ slot machines
  • 55+ table games including blackjack, craps, roulette, poker, baccarat
  • Retails sportsbook that includes betting on live horse racing (thoroughbred & quarter horses)
  • 277-room hotel

Horseshoe Council Bluffs Casino & Hotel

Council Bluffs, Pottawattamie County

2202 23rd St, Council Bluffs, IA 51501

  • 2,600+ slot machines
  • 70+ table games including blackjack, craps, roulette, poker, baccarat
  • Sportsbook
  • Pool complex
  • 455-room hotel

Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf

Bettendorf, Scott County

777 Isle Casino Dr, Bettendorf, IA 52722

  • 2,800+ slot machines
  • 45+ table games including blackjack, craps, roulette, poker, baccarat
  • Sportsbook
  • 400-room hotel

Rhythm City Casino Resort

Davenport, Scott County

711 1st St, Davenport, IA 52802

  • 2,200+ slot machines
  • 45+ table games including blackjack, craps, roulette, poker, baccarat
  • Sportsbook
  • 200-room hotel
  • Bowling alley

Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs

Council Bluffs, Pottawattamie County

1283 West Broadway, Council Bluffs, IA 51503

  • 2,100+ slot machines
  • 50+ table games including blackjack, craps, roulette, poker, baccarat
  • Sportsbook
  • 372-room hotel
  • Bingo Hall

Sportsbooks

Iowa allows sports betting on professional and collegiate sports, including major leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL.  Prop bets on individual player performance are not allowed. Here’s a list of five of the major land-based Iowa sportsbooks

Here’s a list of five of the major land-based Iowa sportsbooks:  

SPORTSBOOK COUNT ADDRESS WHAT YOU'LL FIND THERE

Rhythm City Casino Resort Sportsbook

15+ betting windows

711 1st St, Davenport, IA 52802

  • 82-foot LED video wall
  • Self-service kiosks
  • 1,500-seat live music venue
  • 200-room hotel
  • Bowling alley

Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs Sportsbook

18+ betting windows

1283 West Broadway, Council Bluffs, IA 51503

  • 40-foot LED video wall
  • Self-service kiosks
  • Indoor swimming pool
  • 372-room hotel

Horseshoe Council Bluffs Casino & Hotel Sportsbook

12+ betting windows

2202 23rd St, Council Bluffs, IA 51501

  • 30-foot LED video wall
  • Self-service kiosks
  • 455-room hotel

Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf Sportsbook

14+ betting windows

777 Isle Casino Dr, Bettendorf, IA 52722

  • 40-foot LED wall
  • Self-service kiosks
  • Indoor theater
  • 400-room hotel

Prairie Meadows Racetrack & Casino Sportsbook

10+ Betting Windows

12224 NE 38th Ave, Altoona, IA 50009

  • 54-foot LED video wall
  • Self-service kiosks
  • Can place bets on Horse racing (Thoroughbred & Quarter Horses)
  • Outdoor concert venue
  • 277-room hotel

Horse Racetracks in Iowa 

Prairie Meadows Racetrack & Casino is Iowa's sole live horse racing track, allowing bets on live races or simulcasts. Iowans can engage in pari-mutuel wagering at licensed casinos listed below:

HORSE RACING TRACKS ADDRESS RACING SEASON POPULAR BETTING EVENTS

Prairie Meadows Racetrack & Casino

12224 NE 38th Ave, Altoona, IA 50009

  • Live Thoroughbred racing: May – September
  • Simulcast wagering: Year-round
  • Live Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing
  • Simulcast races mainly focuses on races from US and Canada
  • Occasionally offers major international races from tracks like Royal Ascot or the Melbourne Cup.

Horseshoe Council Bluffs Casino & Hotel 

2202 23rd St, Council Bluffs, IA 51501

Year-round

  • Simulcast races mainly focuses on races from US and Canada
  • Simulcast Quarter Horse, Thoroughbred and Harness races

Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf

777 Isle Casino Dr, Bettendorf, IA 52722

Year-round

  • Variety of simulcast races: US, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia
  • Simulcast Thoroughbred, Quarter Horse, and limited Harness

Other Ways to Gamble in Iowa

Iowa residents have diverse gambling options, including a State Lottery, charitable gambling options, social & sweepstakes casinos, and Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). Let’s look at these in more detail:

Iowa State Lottery  

The Iowa State Lottery offers various draw games, including Powerball, Mega Millions, Lotto America, scratch-offs, and Lucky for Life, and online play available.  Lottery ticket buyers must be 21 years or older.  The largest Powerball jackpot, reaching $343.9 million, was won by a single player in 2018.

Iowa Charitable Gambling (Bingo, Raffles, Etc.)

In Iowa, charitable gambling is allowed, and qualified charitable organizations can host gaming activities like bingo and raffles. If you are interested in real money bingo, you can check out the options we recommend at online offshore casinos.

Social & Sweepstakes Casinos

Social casinos like Chumba Casino and Luckyland Slots offer virtual currency for entertainment in Iowa. Sweepstakes casinos like Global Poker and LuckyLand Slots allow players to use virtual currency and enter sweepstakes for cash prizes. The legal status of these options is evolving, and while not explicitly legal, both are accessible in the state.

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)

Only DFS operators with valid IRGC licenses can operate in the state, and you need to be 21 years or older to participate. Iowa's open market for DFS brands, including major platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel, provides players with diverse options compared to states with exclusivity agreements.

Here’s a breakdown of the types of games popular for Iowa residents:

Slots

Slots are by far the most popular way to gamble in the state, with more than 56,000 slot machines at casinos across the state. Unsurprisingly, since slots are easy to play, offer a chance at big wins, and keep things interesting with exciting new themes regularly introduced. Developers face little overhead in rolling out new and exciting slot games for Iowans to enjoy.

Blackjack

Blackjack remains a casino classic in Iowa, celebrated for its combination of luck and strategy and attracting players of all levels. It generates 20% of table revenue in the state,  ranking it as one of the most popular games. Online offshore casinos accessible to Iowans offer diverse versions with unparalleled live dealer experiences, ensuring an immersive home gaming experience.

Poker

Poker has a long history in Iowa, dating back to the 1850s Gold Rush era when it became a popular pastime during Riverboat gambling. Poker and its variants remain highly popular for gamblers in Iowa, with over 15 dedicated poker rooms in Iowa casinos. You can find many poker options at our recommended online casinos, making it a popular choice for Iowans.

Craps

Craps consistently generates the highest average bet per player among all table games at Iowa casinos, and its popularity is widespread. The energetic atmosphere and social dynamics around the craps table contribute to its enduring popularity across the state. Our recommended online casinos offer diverse betting options and provide a thrilling experience for Iowan players.

Roulette

In Iowa, both land-based and offshore online casinos have experienced the allure of roulette, and in 2022, it made up 10-15% of total table game revenue at land-based casinos. Its simple yet thrilling gameplay appeals to players seeking a blend of chance and strategy, establishing it as a staple for Iowans pursuing a distinctive and rewarding gaming experience.

Baccarat

Iowa’s rising interest in baccarat has increased demand, prompting casinos like Prairie Meadows to introduce the first-of-its-kind Siamese baccarat table, accommodating 36 players. The game’s sophistication and appeal contribute to its expanding presence in the Hawkeye State.

History of Gambling in Iowa

Timeline of important milestones in the history of Gambling in Iowa:

January 2024

The Iowa Legislature reconvenes this month, and while there is no official online casino bill on the agenda, Rep. Kaufmann has expressed his intention to reintroduce a bill this session.

March 2023

House Study Bill 227, aiming to legalize online casinos, doesn’t advance through the legislative process.

May 2022

July 2019

Online sportsbooks and internet fantasy sports contests are legalized.

May 1998

Casinos are permitted to operate outside of riverboats.

June 1994

Riverboat casinos can move onto land, provided they remain near water.

February 1992

Three tribal-state gaming compacts are first negotiated.

April 1991

The first three riverboat casinos open in Iowa. 1.5 million people attend, and winnings total $46 million.

July 1989

Riverboat casinos on the Mississippi and Missouri rivers are legalized.

March 1973

Competition from legal slot machines in states like Illinois and decreased public interest in riverboat casinos leads to the end of the first era of riverboat casinos in Iowa.

June 1933

The “Mississippi Belle” sets sail, and its consequent success fuels further national conversation about gambling legalization.

September 1931

A city referendum in Dubuque, Iowa paves the way for legalized gambling through the approval of a single riverboat casino license.

The Future of Iowa Online Gambling 

Despite online casinos not being legalized in Iowa, Iowans can still enjoy online casino games and poker through offshore sites. The future gambling landscape depends on in-progress legislation, lobbyist pressures, and tribal considerations:

Legislative landscape:

  • HB227, currently in committee, aims to legalize online casino gaming and poker. Its passage would solidify Iowa’s position as a significant online gambling hub in the Midwest.

Lobbyist Groups:

  • Casinos and entertainment companies strongly support online casino legalization, seeing it as a lucrative revenue stream.

Tribal considerations:

  • Iowa’s four Native American tribes hold exclusive rights to operate casinos in the state, and their stance on online gambling will be crucial.
  • Some tribes, already operating casinos, might see online casinos as competition, while others could view it as a new revenue stream through partnerships.

Government sentiment:

  • The IRGC seems open to online casino expansion but advocates for responsible implementation.
  • Governor Kim Reynolds has yet to take a strong public stance, likely waiting to see the legislative process unfold.

How to Gamble at an Online Casino in Iowa

When you want to sign up for an online casino, you will want to make sure you complete a few key steps, so you don’t miss anything important.

1
Research and Choose an Online Casino

Start by researching and comparing a trustworthy online casino that accepts Iowa players, such as the ones we recommend. Consider factors like game selection, bonuses, reputation, and payment options, and look for licensed and regulated platforms with positive reviews.

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2
Register for an Account

Visit the selected online casino’s website and click on the “Register” or “Sign Up” button. Provide your personal information, including name, address, date of birth, and email address. Create a username that is unique and a strong password for your account. A link will then be sent to your email that you’ll need to verify before you can proceed to the next step.

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Explore Available Bonuses

Before making your first deposit, we suggest checking if the online casino offers any welcome bonuses or promotions to increase your bankroll and improve your playing experience. Make sure you read the bonus terms and conditions carefully.

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Choose a Payment Method

Select the best payment method for you to make your deposit. Most online casinos offer various options, including debit/credit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers and cryptocurrency. Be sure to choose the method that works best for you.

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Make a Deposit

Ensure you are logged in to your casino account. Navigate to the “Cashier” or “Deposit” section. Choose your preferred deposit method, then put in the amount you can deposit, then follow the instructions to complete the transaction. Be aware of any minimum or maximum amounts for the deposit imposed by the casino. Your funds should be credited to your account instantly or within a short period.

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6
Claim Your Bonus

If you are eligible for a bonus, you must claim it during the deposit process. Some casinos might then request that you enter a bonus code, while others activate it automatically. Ensure you read the terms and conditions carefully to understand any wagering requirements.

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Confirm the Deposit

Upon completing your deposit, the online casino will typically provide a confirmation message or display your updated account balance. Make sure to jot down any transaction reference numbers for future reference.

Screenshot of Account After Verification
8
Browse and Choose Games

Remember that online casinos available to Illinois players like the ones we suggest have a wide range of games. These games include slots, table games, live dealer games, and more. It’s crucial to choose a game that interests you and suits your playing style and budget. Before placing bets, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the pay table and game rules to ensure you understand the game strategy and increase your chances of winning!

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Start Playing and Have Fun!

With funds in your online account, you can now place your bets and start playing. Remember to manage your bankroll responsibly and responsibly gamble within your limits. Enjoy your online casino experience in Iowa!

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Gambling Safely & Responsibility in Iowa 


Iowa implements responsible gambling policies to address potential addiction risks in online gaming. Regulatory bodies and laws promote responsible gaming, treating gambling as entertainment.  Recognizing signs of problem gambling, such as preoccupation, budget exceeding, or withdrawal symptoms when not gambling, is crucial. To be a responsible gambler, keep these tips in mind:

  • Set Limits: Establish financial and time constraints before engaging in online gambling. This approach fosters control and mindfulness.

  • Self-Exclusion: If concerns about addiction arise, utilize available tools for self-exclusion from gambling platforms.

  • Seek Support: If gambling habits become problematic, access resources provided by organizations like the Iowa Department of Public Health for assistance and guidance.

Iowa Responsible Gambling Resources

If you or a loved one is struggling with a gambling problem in Iowa, there are resources available to help:

National Responsible Gambling Resources: 

Wrap Up: Ready Play at an Online Casino in Iowa?

Online casinos in Iowa are available through licensed offshore operators. In this guide, we have recommended our top offshore online casinos that offer the best online gambling experience to Iowans. We have also provided an overview of Iowa's online gambling laws, examined the options for land-based gambling, and directed you to the best online casinos in Iowa for the ultimate gaming experience. Best US Casinos considers recommendations for online gambling suitable for players of all levels, from seasoned veterans to curious newbies, to ensure the most enjoyable gambling experience.

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