Best Virginia Sports Betting Sites

Virginia Sports Betting Overview

Virginia’s once-conservative stance on sports betting has taken a turn in recent years. The state’s lawmakers – primarily the Virginia General Assembly – passed legislation in early 2020 that paved the way for sports betting to hit the commonwealth. 

By the following January, the first online sportsbooks began operating, and bettors began fervently logging on to place their wagers. While Virginia offers both in-person and online betting options, this is still very fresh for the state, and residents are drawn to the allure of offshore sportsbooks.

What is the Gambling Age in Virginia? 

• Virginia has specific age requirements for various gambling activities. You have to be 21 years or older to participate in sports betting, both online and at land-based casinos.

• However, the legal gambling age for the lottery and pari-mutuel betting (such as horse racing) is typically 18. Offshore casinos also require users to be 18+.

Best Sportsbooks Available in Virginia

Virginia residents now have a growing number of offshore sportsbook options to choose from, each offering its own unique set of features and benefits. We’ve handpicked a few that have grabbed our attention.  Let’s take a look!

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Best Sports Betting Site for Virginians

BetUS

125% up to $2,625 Welcome Bonus

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Casino Games: Blackjack, Slots, Video poker +2 more Roulette, Baccarat.

Live Dealer: Yes

Payment Options: Visa, MasterCard, American Express +7 more American Express, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum, Bank Transfer, Bankwire, Check.

BetUS is a notable sports betting platform for Virginia residents, offering a wide range of sports markets that cater to various preferences. The platform features multiple bet types, including moneyline, prop, parlay, and live betting.

Unique features like BetUS TV provide expert analysis, while competitive odds and attractive promotions reward loyal players. BetUS’s user-friendly interface suits both experienced and novice bettors, with options ranging from major leagues like the NFL and NBA to niche sports such as darts and rugby.

• Great welcome bonuses for new users
• Extensive market coverage across U.S. and international sports
• Live betting options available

• Less prop betting options than Bovada
• Limited Payout options

Best Props Builder for Virginia Players

Bovada

100% up to $1,000 Welcome Bonus

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Casino Games: Slots, Video poker, Blackjack +5 more Craps, Baccarat, Roulette, Keno, Live dealer.

Live Dealer: No

Payment Options: Visa, MasterCard, Bitcoins +6 more Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum, Secure Voucher, Bank Transfer, Check.

Bovada is well-known for its extensive prop betting options, from player performance to entertainment events. Virginia sports bettors who enjoy college sports will be able to find options on many NCAAF and NCAAB games. Local Virginia sportsbooks don’t offer college sports, which is why Bovada and other offshore sites are so valuable to profit-minded bettors.

Bovada’s custom prop-building tool makes it easy to see all your props together in one spot. They allow you to chain together multiple props for higher payouts, as well as quick pricing on props during live/in-play games.

• Wide range of prop bets
• Fast and reliable payouts
• Easy-to-navigate website

• Smaller bonuses compared to competitors
• Higher minimum deposit

Best selection of Deposit/Withdrawal Option

BetOnline

100% up to $1,000 Welcome Bonus

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Casino Games: Slots, Video poker, Blackjack +5 more Craps, Baccarat, Roulette, Live dealer, Progressive jackpot.

Live Dealer: No

Payment Options: Visa, MasterCard, American Express +14 more Bitcoins, Ethereum, Litecoin, Bitcoin Cash, Interac e-Transfer, Person2Person Transfers, Money Order, Bank Transfer, Check, Cardano, Dogecoin, Ripple, Tether, Usdt.

BetOnline is a leading option for Virginia bettors, offering a broad selection of banking methods and impressive bonuses. It supports credit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies, allowing for quick and secure transactions tailored to different needs You can deposit as little as $10, when using BTC, and as much as $1 million. When withdrawing, the minimum is $20 and the max is $100k per every transaction.

With same-day payouts, high betting limits, and 24/7 customer support, BetOnline ensures a smooth and reliable experience.

• Offers a wide variety of deposit options, including Bitcoin
• Competitive odds on major U.S. sports
• Generous bonuses and promotions

• Customer service response times can be slow
• User interface feels slightly outdated

Best Racebook for Virginia Horse Enthusiasts

MyBookie

100% up to $1,000 Welcome Bonus

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Casino Games: Slots, Video poker, Blackjack +4 more Baccarat, Roulette, Keno, Scratch tickets.

Live Dealer: No

Payment Options: Visa, MasterCard, Bitcoins +10 more Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum, Tether, Cardano, Dogecoin, MoneyGram, Person2Person Transfers, eCheck, Bank Transfer.

MyBookie is a solid choice for horseracing fans – it’s a platform that doesn’t just offer the basics. Their dedicated racebook covers all the major events, from the Triple Crown to the Kentucky Derby, and includes parimutuel betting options on races across the US.
You can also bet on international meetings in the UK, Ireland, France, Sweden, Japan, South Africa and Australia. Horseracing bettors are spoilt for choice with Mybookie.

Plus, players can enjoy an 8% horse rebate on lost wagers. This bonus is for qualified tracks, but doesn’t have a rollover, so it’s a nice added perk for horse bettors at MyBookie.

• Excellent coverage of horse racing events
• Competitive odds
• User-friendly betting interface

• Not as many sports markets as other competitors
• Limited withdrawal options

Fastest Payout Online Sports Betting Site

Betwhale

125% up to $1,250 Welcome Bonus

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Casino Games: Blackjack, Baccarat, Video poker +3 more Slots, Progressive jackpot, Roulette.

Live Dealer: Yes

Payment Options:

Where Betwhale shines is in its rapid withdrawal processes, often completing payouts in less than 24 hours via BTC, which is a significant advantage for users who prioritize timely access to their winnings.

This sportsbook offers a large selection of sports markets, including major leagues like the NFL, NBA, and MLB, as well as niche options for more specialized interests such as Esports, golf or tennis.

• Fastest payouts among offshore sites
• Easy-to-use mobile platform
• Comprehensive sports market coverage

• Fewer promotions compared to other platforms
• No loyalty program

How We Evaluate Sports Betting Sites in Virginia

When it comes to finding the best sportsbooks for Virginia bettors, we leave no stone unturned. We prioritize factors that ensure a safe, secure, and enjoyable betting experience. 

Our ranking system is designed to highlight the key areas we focus on when reviewing online gambling sites. These include customer service, user experience, mobile compatibility, banking options, and more.

Availability in Virginia

We understand that convenience is key when it comes to sports betting. That’s why we prioritize sportsbooks that are readily accessible to Virginia residents. This means the site must openly welcome players from the state and allow for hassle-free betting without the need for VPNs or other workarounds.

Player Protections and Safety

We take your privacy seriously. That’s why we only recommend sportsbooks that use robust encryption technology to protect your personal information. This ensures your data remains safe and confidential, preventing unauthorized access. Your security is our top priority

Odd Boosters and Competitive Lines On Virginia Teams

We prioritize sportsbooks that offer competitive odds and promotions specifically designed for Virginia bettors. Get ready to cheer on your favorite teams like the Washington Wizards or the Norfolk Admirals with lines that give you the best chance to win big

Deposits and Withdrawals

We believe your funds should be as accessible as your favorite betting markets. That’s why we prioritize sportsbooks that offer a variety of deposit and withdrawal methods, including popular options like credit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies.

Comparing Virginia Sports Betting Sites

Here’s a better look at how our favorite VA betting sites stack up against one another:

Is Sports Betting Legal in Virginia?

Yes, sports betting is legal in Virginia. Legislation to legalize sports betting was passed in 2020, allowing both online and land-based betting. Online sports betting officially launched in 2021, when the first wager was placed online. Virginia residents can place bets via online sportsbooks and at some land-based casinos.

Online Sports betting in Virginia

Online sports betting has been very popular in Virginia since it was legalized in early 2021. There are a number of state-run betting sites available to Virginia residents, both online, and via mobile apps. Residents can bet on their favourite sports, including professional sports, international sports, and college sports outside of Viriginia (betting on in state teams is not legal). 

Offshore sportsbooks are also widely used by residents, as they often provide better odds and a more diverse range of betting options.

Land Based Sportsbooks in Virginia

The number of land-based sportsbooks in Virginia is rising ever since its legalization. In- person sports betting is seen in casinos such as Rivers Casino Portsmouth, and Hard Rock Bristol Casino, with more being built on the horizon. These casinos offer full-service sportsbooks where bettors can place wagers on a variety of sports, very similar to online betting options. As land-based venues continue to grow, the sports betting field in Virginia is preparing for significant expansion in the coming years.

Horse Racing in Virginia

Horse Racing in Virginia is flourishing, particularly in the realm of thoroughbred racing. Colonial Downs, the state’s premier racetrack, is celebrated for its high-quality turf races and hosts a meet from May to September, featuring numerous races each day. Virginia’s dedication to the sport is exemplified by its successful hosting of the famous Breeders’ Cup.

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)

Since operational & licensing framework was put in place back in 2020, Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) has gained substantial popularity in Virginia, captivating fans who seek the excitement of competition and the opportunity to earn prizes through their sports expertise. 

DFS can be found via state-run online sportsbooks or dedicated offshore sportsbooks.

Who regulates Sports Betting in Virginia?

The Virginia Lottery oversees the sports betting scene in The Old Dominion, ensuring compliance with the law.  Whilst the Virginia Racing Commision regulates all aspects of horseracing in the state, including thoroughbred and harness racing. 

Virginia’s Sports Betting Laws Compared to Neighboring States

Virginia’s sports betting laws are progressive compared to some of its neighboring states. For example, it’s only very recently (March 2024) that North Carolina’s put aside its tribal-casino-only approach, whilst Tennessee still holds an online-exclusive model. This compares to the in-person and online betting options widely available to Virginia residents. The legal flexibility found in Virginia has attracted multiple online operators and spurred growth in land-based sportsbooks, akin to a current West Virginia trend.

Virginia’s strong horse racing tradition aligns with  Kentucky’s focus on the sport. Additionally, the state’s clear legal framework for sports betting, compared to Maryland’s  slight ambiguity, provides a stable and attractive environment for operators. The Virginia Lottery’s oversight and efficient licensing process further contribute to this favorable climate.

The Future of Online Sports betting in Virginia

We cannot foresee any major changes to Tennessee’s online sports betting regulations in the future. While online sports betting is legal, the state imposes tough tax rates and multiple restrictions on Tennessee sports betting apps, which makes it difficult for them to compete with offshore rivals.

Gov. Bill Lee opposes sports betting, as do several prominent Tennessee lawmakers, so it is hard to see them relaxing the state’s strict rules any time soon. For that reason, we expect overseas gambling sites that accept Tennesseans to remain popular.

Responsible Gambling in Virigina

Sports betting in Virginia should be viewed as a form of entertainment rather than a financial solution. Responsible bettors enjoy the thrill of wagering while ensuring that their gambling activities do not interfere with work, family, or other hobbies. If you find yourself spending excessive time or money on sports betting, it may indicate a gambling problem. Resources are available to help you gamble responsibly and maintain a healthy balance.

• Problem Gambling Virginia
• Gamblers Anonymous
• GamTalk
• National Council on Problem Gambling
• SAMHSA National Helpline

Virginia Gambling Legal Sources

• Code of Virginia – Virginia Law. Casino Gaming
• Virginia Gambling Laws
•  Bill Tracking 2024 Session – Virginia Gambling

Virginia Sports Betting Summary

Since Virginia legalized sports betting in 2020, the state has witnessed a surge of enthusiastic fans eager to wager on their favorite teams. The launch of online sportsbooks has expanded options for residents, allowing them to place bets both online and at the growing number of land-based casinos.

Our experts explored sportsbooks available to Virginia bettors, highlighting their key features and unique offerings, platforms such as Bovada, Betwhale, and MyBookie were just a few highlighted. Each offshore platform is recognized for its reliability and user-friendly interface, making them appealing alternatives for those seeking more flexibility in their betting choices.