Betting in Las Vegas

Learn everything about betting in Las Vegas, from sports betting steps to different types of bets available. Discover popular sports events, gambling rules, tips, and various casino games to enhance your Vegas betting experience.

Claudia Hartley
Claudia Hartley

Last Updated: 2025-04-11

A. Tzamantanis

5 minutes read

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    Since the Golden Gate casino opened in 1906, Vegas has been known as the place to gamble. It would take until 1931 for gambling to become fully legal, but by then some of the best casinos in the world could already be found in Las Vegas.

    We’re going to take a look at some of the different games you’ll find in Vegas, the assortment of betting sites you can use within the city, and everything else you need to know about how to gamble in Vegas.

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      How do you bet on sports in Vegas?

      While many people go to Vegas exclusively to play casino games, you can place sports bets in Vegas too. Below is a step-by-step on betting in Vegas.

      1. 1

        Choose your sport: There are all different kinds of sports you can bet on in Vegas, choose one you know a lot about.

      2. 2

        Choose the type of wager: You can place dozens of different types of bets in Vegas. If you’re new to betting then a moneyline is a good place to start, but you can sometimes find value in other bet types.

      3. 3

        Study the lines: All Vegas sportsbooks will offer slightly different betting lines, take a look around to find the best value.

      4. 4

        (Optional) Watch the money: Most Vegas sportsbooks will have huge boards showing how the public is betting. Watching these screens is a good way to see if interest in an underdog is growing.

      5. 5

        Make your selection and place your bet: Fill in your betting slip, or go straight to the window to place your bets. Then, just wait for the results to come in.

      How to Bet on Football in Vegas

      Take a look at the games and see if there are any you’ve got specialist knowledge on. If there aren’t, look at where the public’s money is going.

      Pick the selections that you’d make. Search the different sportsbooks for the best odds, and place your wager knowing you’ve found good value.

      Kick back and wait for the results to come in!

      Types of Bets

      Below are some of the different types of bet that you can make in Vegas, along with a pro and con for each.
       

      Types of Bets

      Type of BetProCon
      MoneylineEasy to understandLower payout than some bet types
      ParlayChance for high payoutIncreased risk
      Point SpreadHigher payout than moneyline betsMore specialist type of bet
      Prop BetsGreater odds availableNot available on college sports
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      Sports That You Can Bet Online or in Vegas

      You can bet on all kinds of sports in Vegas, below are some of the most popular sports, as well as their biggest events in the USA.
       

      Sports and Major Events

      SportMajor Event
      BaseballWorld Series
      Horse RacingKentucky Derby
      American FootballSuper Bowl
      SoccerWorld Cup
      BasketballNBA Finals
      HockeyWinter Classic
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      Las Vegas Gambling Tips & Strategies

      1.    Bet only with what you can afford to lose
      2.    Only bet on sports that you’re knowledgeable about
      3.    Learn how to play table games before placing bets
      4.    Study the house edge of casino games ahead of time

      How many different games can I play in Vegas?

      In the biggest casinos, you’ll find thousands of different games to try. Most will be slot machines, but there are also table games when you gamble in Vegas. 
       

      What are the rules?

      1.    You must be 21 or over to gamble in any Las Vegas casino.
      2.    You shouldn’t use your phone while playing table games.
      3.    Tip the waiting staff, even if the drinks are free (which they often are).
      4.    If you’re unsure of a game’s rules, find a quiet table and ask before placing your bets.
       

      Game Descriptions

      GameDescription
      SlotsPlayed on a machine. Comes in various different themes.
      RoulettePlayed on a wheel. Three versions, American, European, and French.
      PokerA card game that comes in many different variants. Texas Hold’em is the most popular.
      BlackjackA card game where you need to beat the dealer by scoring as close to 21 as possible. 
      CrapsA game played with two dice. Offers a low house edge.
      BaccaratA card game played between the dealer and the player.
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      FAQs

      Is betting legal in Vegas?

      Yes, betting in Vegas is legal as long as you are at least 21 years old.

      Can you bet on the presidential election in Vegas?

      No, betting on the presidential election isn’t legal anywhere in the United States. Offshore sportsbooks will sometimes accept these wagers though.

      Can you bet on politics in Vegas?

      It isn’t legal for any US sportsbook to accept wagers on politics.

      What betting apps work in Vegas?

      Most of the major betting apps are available in the US. Some safe and legal choices include: DraftKings, BetMGM, and Wynn Sports.

      Can I place a bet in Vegas over the phone?

      You can’t call up and place bets in a physical sportsbook, but you can use a mobile app instead.

      Can you bet on the Olympics in Vegas?

      Yes, betting on the Olympics has been legal in Vegas since 2015.

      How old do you need to be to gamble in Las Vegas?

      You must be at least 21 to gamble in Vegas.

      Are there dress codes at Las Vegas casinos?

      Dress codes vary at each casino, check the rules before you show up to avoid disappointment.

      How much money should I bring to place bets?

      Consider your own financial circumstances and only bring money that you can afford to lose.