Maine Gambling: Recommended Online Casinos and Sportsbooks, Regulation and News
Written by: Jonathan Rodriguez
Last Update: Wed Apr 08, 2026, 5:10 am ET
Read Time: 27 minutes
Gambling in Maine reflects a carefully regulated balance between economic development, tribal sovereignty, and consumer protection. While Maine is not traditionally viewed as a major gambling hub, the state has fundamentally transformed its betting landscape over the last few years.
The defining characteristic of this market is the State-Tribal partnership model, which grants the Wabanaki Nations a central role in the state's digital expansion.
Maine currently permits a diverse range of gambling activities managed through a mix of commercial and tribal interests. As of January 2026, the state has joined a select group of jurisdictions by legalizing online casinos via LD 1164. This law grants the four federally recognized tribes exclusive rights to operate digital casino platforms, complementing their existing control over the mobile sports wagering market.
This progress is achieved while honoring the sovereignty of the Wabanaki Nations and ensuring that gaming revenue provides a sustainable benefit to both tribal communities and the general public.
In the retail sector, Maine continues to host two major commercial facilities, Oxford Casino and Hollywood Casino Bangor. Both offer traditional slots and table games. The broader industry also includes the Maine State Lottery, harness racing at commercial tracks, charitable gaming, and advance deposit wagering for horse racing.
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Overview: Maine Tribes and Their Role in State Betting
Maine's tribal nations, the Wabanaki Nations, occupy a central and legally distinct role in the state's gambling industry. For decades, the unique provisions of the 1980 Maine Indian Claims Settlement Act prevented these Tribes from opening large-scale, brick-and-mortar casinos on their sovereign lands.
However, the state has recently moved to rectify this economic disparity by granting the Tribes exclusive control over the most lucrative sector of the modern market: digital wagering.
Under current Maine law, the state's federally recognized Tribes hold the exclusive rights to operate both online sports betting and online casinos (iGaming). This framework, solidified by the passage of LD 1164 in early 2026, allows the Tribes to partner with global commercial operators such as DraftKings and Caesars while maintaining ownership of the "skins" or licenses.
This model ensures that the Tribes retain a significant portion of the revenue, which is used to fund essential community services, infrastructure, and housing.
Additionally, the "Digital-First" model differs from the traditional tribal gaming found in states like Connecticut or Florida, where tribes rely heavily on massive physical resort casinos. In Maine, the Tribes' participation is primarily through mobile platforms, creating a "casino in the pocket" for residents statewide.
While the state's Gambling Control Unit provides regulatory oversight and technical auditing, the Tribes manage the commercial partnerships and strategic direction of the market.
Today, the Wabanaki Nations are the foundational pillar of Maine's betting ecosystem. By pivoting from physical gaming floors to exclusive digital rights, Maine has created a unique regulatory framework. Their regulations prioritize tribal economic sovereignty while adapting to the modern, mobile-centric habits of the gambling public.
Key Maine Tribes and Their Operations
Maine is home to four federally recognized tribes collectively known as the Wabanaki Nations. Following the landmark passage of LD 1164 in early 2026, these tribes now serve as the exclusive gatekeepers for both mobile sports wagering and online casino gaming in the state.
Passamaquoddy Tribe
The Passamaquoddy Tribe was a pioneer in Maine's digital transition, securing a high-profile partnership with DraftKings for sports betting. Under the new 2026 laws, the tribe is expanding this partnership to include a full suite of online casino games.
They utilize their digital "skin" to generate vital revenue for tribal health care and infrastructure, moving beyond their historical reliance on high-stakes bingo.
Penobscot Nation
The Penobscot Nation has utilized its exclusive digital wagering rights to partner with Caesars Sportsbook. With the legalization of iGaming, the Penobscot are now positioned to offer digital slots and table games through the same platform.
This "digital-first" approach allows the tribe to bypass the need for a physical casino while capturing a significant share of the state's growing gambling revenue.
Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians
The Maliseet Tribe has historically focused on sustainable economic development. By participating in the state's mobile wagering ecosystem, and now the online casino market, the tribe has secured a consistent stream of non-tax revenue.
Their operations are defined by a close partnership with state regulators to ensure that their digital platforms meet the highest standards of consumer protection.
Mi'kmaq Nation
The Mi'kmaq Nation (formerly the Aroostook Band of Micmacs) holds equal rights to the state's gambling licenses. While they were the last of the four tribes to launch their mobile sportsbook, the 2026 expansion into online casinos provides them with a lucrative opportunity to close the economic gap.
Their participation focuses on leveraging global operator expertise to bring a modern gaming experience to all Maine residents.
Current Maine Gambling Laws
LD 2007: Prohibition of Online Sweepstakes
Introduced by the Department of Public Safety in late 2025 and prioritized for the 2026 session, LD 2007 targets "social casinos" and sweepstakes-based gaming platforms. This bill clarifies that any online game using a "dual-currency system", where players use one currency to play and another that can be exchanged for cash prizes, constitutes unlawful gambling.
The law establishes significant civil penalties, ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 per violation. This is a direct effort to protect the newly legalized tribal iGaming market from unregulated competition.
LD 2080: An Act to Protect Consumers by Prohibiting the Use of Credit Cards in Sports Wagering and Internet Gaming
Maine's LD 2080 is a consumer protection bill that prohibits the use of credit cards for online sports betting and iGaming, aiming to prevent players from wagering with borrowed money.
The legislation requires operators to verify that deposits, including those made via digital wallets, do not originate from credit sources.
LD 2080 seeks to curb debt accumulation and promote responsible gambling as the state prepares to expand its tribal-led digital casino market.
LD 1164: Online Casino Gaming (iGaming)
Signed into law in January 2026, LD 1164 officially authorized online casino gaming in Maine. This law grants the state's four federally recognized tribes exclusive rights to operate digital platforms for slots and table games.
The legislation establishes an 18 percent tax rate on gross gaming revenue and mandates that a portion of these funds support the Gambling Addiction Prevention and Treatment Fund and the Opioid Use Disorder Prevention and Treatment Fund.
Regulation is handled by the Gambling Control Unit, mirroring the established tribal-exclusive sports betting model.
LD 585: Mobile and Retail Sports Wagering
Enacted in 2022 and launched in late 2023, LD 585 legalized sports betting in Maine. The law provides the Wabanaki Nations with exclusive control over the mobile sports wagering market, allowing each tribe to partner with one commercial operator (such as DraftKings or Caesars).
Retail sports betting is also permitted at the state's two commercial casinos and certain off-track betting facilities. This law was the first major step in establishing the current "tribal-first" digital gaming framework in the state.
Title 8, Chapter 31: Commercial Casino Operations
This chapter governs the operation of Maine's two physical casinos: Oxford Casino and Hollywood Casino Bangor. It establishes the Maine Gambling Control Board, which oversees the licensing and auditing of slot machines and table games at these facilities.
The law dictates strict requirements for casino operators, including a 21+ age limit and specific revenue-sharing formulas that benefit the state's General Fund, K-12 education, and the harness racing industry.
Title 17, Chapter 62: Charitable Gaming and Beano
Charitable gaming in Maine is regulated under Title 17, which allows nonprofit, primary, and secondary organizations to conduct "Beano" (Bingo) and other "Games of Chance" for fundraising. The Maine State Police Licensing Division oversees these activities.
The law permits federally recognized tribes to operate "high-stakes" Beano, which offers significantly larger prize pools than standard charitable games. Additionally, commercial enterprises are generally prohibited from conducting these types of lotteries.
Title 8, Chapter 14-A: The Maine State Lottery
The Maine State Lottery was established by a voter referendum in 1973 and is governed by the Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages and Lottery Operations (BABLO).
This law authorizes the state to participate in multi-state draw games like Powerball and Mega Millions, as well as the sale of instant "scratch" tickets. Revenue from the lottery is a major contributor to the state's General Fund, which supports over 200 various state programs.
Title 17-A, Chapter 39: Unlawful Gambling
Maine's Criminal Code explicitly defines "unlawful gambling" as any activity where a person intentionally advances or profits from gambling activity not specifically authorized by the state.
This law is frequently used to target illegal offshore iGaming sites and unregulated "sweepstakes" cafes. In 2025 and 2026, additional clarifications were added to include penalties for online platforms using "dual-currency" systems to circumvent state casino laws.
Latest Maine Legislative Updates
LD 793: Modernizing Gaming Revenue Allocations
Carried over into the 2026 session, LD 793 is a "concept draft" aimed at updating how the state distributes its share of gambling revenue. The bill proposes a modernization of the "cascade" system, which dictates which state funds receive money from casino and sports betting taxes.
A primary focus of the update is to increase the mandatory percentage of revenue directed to the Gambling Addiction Prevention and Treatment Fund, ensuring that as the market grows, so does the state's support for responsible gaming.
HP 1395: Prohibiting Credit Card Use for Wagering
This 2026 legislative update specifically amends the existing sports wagering and iGaming statutes to ban the use of credit cards for any form of online betting. While debit cards and electronic transfers remain legal, HP 1395 seeks to prevent "debt-funded" gambling.
The bill requires mobile operators to implement technical blocks on credit card transactions. It also mandates that any wagers mistakenly accepted via credit card must be refunded to the player.
LD 1490: Nonprofit Progressive Sealed Tickets
Passed as an emergency measure and fully effective for 2026, LD 1490 expands the capabilities of charitable gaming for nonprofit organizations. This update allows charities to sell "progressive sealed tickets," which function similarly to a digital or physical "pull-tab" with a jackpot that grows over time.
It also authorizes "partner-assisted Beano," allowing volunteers to help players manage multiple cards. This law was designed to help veterans' organizations and fraternal clubs modernize their fundraising efforts.
Maine Land-Based Sports Betting
Status: Legal
Land-based sports betting in Maine is strictly licensed and permitted only at approved physical locations. The state allows in-person sports wagering at the two commercial casinos: Oxford Casino and Hollywood Casino Bangor. There are also select off-track betting (OTB) facilities and designated sports bars.
These venues must adhere to rigorous standards set by the Maine Gambling Control Unit, including internal controls, age verification, and responsible gaming protocols. Retail sports betting offers a social environment where bettors can place wagers at staffed windows or self-service kiosks.
The state's regulatory approach ensures that retail operators maintain high transparency and security. While the launch of permanent sportsbooks in cities like Portland has increased access, the total number of retail licenses is capped at ten.
This limited footprint ensures that while retail betting remains a vital part of the ecosystem for local hubs, the majority of Maine's sports gambling growth remains focused on digital platforms.
List of Land-Based Sports Betting Operations in Maine
Oddfellahs Sports Bar & Caesars Sportsbook
Operator: First Tracks Investments LLC (Partnered with Caesars Sportsbook)
Oddfellahs, located in downtown Portland, serves as Maine's first permanent retail sportsbook location. The venue is the result of a partnership between First Tracks Investments LLC and Caesars Sportsbook, operating under the tribal license of the Wabanaki Nations.
It offers a "Vegas-style" experience with over 30 television screens, self-service betting kiosks, and a full-service betting window. Patrons can also deposit or withdraw funds from their mobile Caesars accounts.
Oxford Casino Hotel & Sportsbook
Operator: Churchill Downs Incorporated
Oxford Casino features a dedicated sports wagering area that provides 24/7 access to betting via self-service kiosks. The operation is integrated into the casino's broader gaming floor, allowing guests to place wagers on a wide variety of professional and collegiate sports.
As a commercial facility, Oxford Casino manages its retail sports betting under the oversight of the Maine Gambling Control Board. This ensures all kiosks meet strict state technical and security standards.
Hollywood Casino Bangor
Operator: PENN Entertainment
Hollywood Casino Bangor offers in-person sports wagering through its partnership with PENN Entertainment. The facility features several betting kiosks located near the racing and simulcast area, bridging the gap between traditional harness racing and modern sports wagering.
Bettors can utilize the kiosks to place straight bets, parlays, and futures while watching live events on large-format displays throughout the casino and sportsbook lounge.
Winners Circle OTB & Sports Grill
Operator: L & M Properties (Partnership via Tribal/State Facility License)
Located in Lewiston, Winners Circle is an Off-Track Betting (OTB) facility that has successfully expanded into the sports wagering market. By leveraging its existing pari-mutuel infrastructure, the venue provides a dedicated space for sports fans to place bets.
Moreover, the facility uses self-service kiosks to offer a comprehensive range of betting markets, similar to those found at the state's larger casinos.
Favorites OTB (Waterville)
Operator: Day's Property Management (Partnership via Tribal/State Facility License)
Favorites OTB in Waterville is another key pillar of Maine's retail betting network. This location offers a dual-wagering environment where patrons can bet on both horse racing and major sporting events.
The integration of sports betting kiosks has modernized this traditional OTB, making it a local hub for sports enthusiasts in the central Maine region who prefer the social atmosphere of a physical sportsbook over a mobile app.
Maine Online Sports Betting
Status: Legal
Online sports betting in Maine is licensed and regulated under a tribal-exclusive model. Each of the state's four federally recognized tribes, the Wabanaki Nations, holds the exclusive right to a single mobile "skin" or platform. This framework allows residents and visitors to place bets statewide via approved mobile apps and websites, currently dominated by partnerships with DraftKings and Caesars Sportsbook.
The market covers a vast array of professional and collegiate sports. However, state law prohibits wagering on Maine-based collegiate teams and restricts certain "prop bets" on any college athletes. To ensure compliance, all platforms must utilize advanced geolocation technology to prove the user is within state lines, alongside rigorous age verification (21+) and responsible gaming tools.
The overwhelming dominance of online sports betting reflects a clear consumer preference for convenience. In 2025, mobile wagering generated over $60 million in gross revenue, dwarfing the contributions of retail locations. This success has directly influenced the state's decision to follow a similar tribal-exclusive model for the newly legalized online casino market in 2026.
List of Online Sports Betting Operations in Maine
DraftKings Sportsbook (Passamaquoddy Tribe)
Operator: DraftKings Inc.
DraftKings serves as the exclusive mobile sports betting partner for the Passamaquoddy Tribe. This partnership was finalized in late 2023 and has since become the dominant force in the Maine market. They often account for over 80% of the state's total monthly sports betting handle.
The platform provides a comprehensive mobile app experience for iOS and Android. It features a wide array of markets including live in-game betting, same-game parlays, and deep integration with the DraftKings Dynasty Rewards program.
Caesars Sportsbook (Wabanaki Nations Partnership)
Operator: Caesars Entertainment
Caesars Sportsbook operates in Maine through a historic joint partnership with three of the four Wabanaki Nations: the Penobscot Nation, the Mi'kmaq Nation, and the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians.
By aligning with three tribes, Caesars has established a significant footprint in the state, offering a platform known for its extensive "odds boosts". Its loyalty program allows Maine bettors to earn rewards points redeemable at Caesars destinations nationwide.
The app is fully regulated by the Maine Gambling Control Unit and includes robust geolocation and responsible gaming safeguards.
Other Online Sports Betting Options for Maine Residents
Betting sites based offshore and accessible to U.S. players can serve as alternative venues for Maine players seeking to place online wagers. Even though these sites are not locally licensed, they all have long track records of fairness and reliability. They also offer college sports betting, on top of larger bonuses and better odds. Players looking for value might find these international sportsbooks to be good options for them.
Maine Land-Based Casino Gambling
Status: Legal
Land-based casino gambling in Maine is strictly limited to two commercial properties: Oxford Casino Hotel in Oxford and Hollywood Casino Hotel & Raceway in Bangor. Both facilities are licensed and regulated by the Maine Gambling Control Board.
They offer a comprehensive suite of gaming options, including nearly 2,000 combined slot machines, video poker, and a variety of table games such as blackjack, roulette, and craps. Hollywood Casino specifically distinguishes itself as a "racino," featuring live harness racing and the state's only live poker room.
These casinos operate under a heavy tax burden, with Oxford Casino paying 46% and Hollywood Casino paying 39% on slot machine revenue. This funding is critical for the state, supporting K-12 education, the University of Maine System, and the harness racing industry.
However, as of 2026, these operators are facing a shifting landscape. With the legalization of tribal-exclusive online casinos, land-based operators have expressed concerns over a "monopoly" that excludes them from the digital market, leading to ongoing debates about the future of commercial gaming employment in the state.
List of Land-Based Casino Operations in Maine
Oxford Casino Hotel
Operator: Churchill Downs Incorporated
Oxford Casino Hotel is the premier gaming destination in Southern Maine. Owned by Churchill Downs Incorporated, the facility features a 27,000-square-foot gaming floor with nearly 1,000 slot machines and over 20 table games. This includes blackjack, craps, and baccarat.
The property also includes a 107-room hotel and multiple dining venues such as the OX Pub. Following the 2026 iGaming expansion, Oxford has remained a key focal point in discussions regarding the balance between retail and digital gaming.
Hollywood Casino Hotel & Raceway Bangor
Operator: PENN Entertainment
Hollywood Casino Bangor is a "racino" located in Northern Maine, offering a unique combination of casino gaming and live harness racing. Operated by PENN Entertainment, the facility houses approximately 715 slot machines and 14 table games.
Notably, it is home to Maine's only live poker room. The property overlooks the Penobscot River and features a 152-room hotel and the Celebrity Bar & Grill. As a PENN property, it is integrated into the PENN Play rewards ecosystem. This allows patrons to earn and redeem points across a national network of properties.
Maine Online Casino Gambling
Status: Legal
Online casino gambling is now licensed and regulated in Maine under a tribal-exclusive framework. Following the landmark passage of LD 1164, the state's four federally recognized tribes, the Wabanaki Nations, have the sole authority to operate digital casino platforms.
This law was passed after significant advocacy from tribal leaders, who emphasized that the revenue would provide "life-changing" economic sovereignty for their communities.
Under this new legal framework, the market is structured as follows:
- Exclusive Access: Up to four platforms are permitted (one per tribe).
- Revenue & Taxation: Online casino revenue is taxed at a rate of 18 percent, with projections suggesting the state will collect over $3 million annually once the market matures.
- Regulation: Oversight is managed by the Maine Gambling Control Unit, ensuring that platforms meet strict standards for game fairness, age verification (21+), and geolocation.
While the law is now in effect, the market is currently in the regulatory implementation phase. This means that while online casinos are legal, the state and tribes are currently working to certify software. Moreover, it is aimed to implement consumer safeguards before the first apps officially launch to the public later this year.
List of Online Casino Operations in Maine
Under the newly signed LD 1164, Maine's online casino market is strictly reserved for the state's four federally recognized tribes. While the law officially went into effect in January 2026, the market is currently in a launch preparation phase.
Following the successful model of the state's sports betting industry, the tribes are expected to leverage their existing partnerships with major global gaming technology providers.
Other Online Casino Options for Maine Residents
Online casinos based offshore that accept U.S. players serve as an alternative for Maine players seeking online gambling. Even though these sites are not locally licensed, they all have long track records of fairness and reliability. They often offer larger bonuses and casino promotions so players looking for value might find these international gambling sites to be good options for them.
Maine Poker
Status: Legal
Land-based poker in Maine is licensed and regulated, but its availability is highly restricted compared to other states. Currently, Hollywood Casino Bangor operates the state's only licensed live poker room.
After a four-year hiatus, the room reopened in late 2024 and currently features a modest four-table setup. It spreads popular variants such as Limit and No-Limit Texas Hold'em and Omaha, with action typically available from Thursday through Sunday.
Beyond the commercial casino setting, Maine also permits charitable poker tournaments, often referred to as "tournament games." These are regulated under Title 17 and allow nonprofit organizations to host poker events with strict limits on entry fees and total prize pools.
List of Land-Based Poker Operations in Maine
Hollywood Casino Hotel & Raceway Bangor
Operator: PENN Entertainment
Hollywood Casino Bangor currently operates the state's only licensed live poker room. After reopening in late 2024 to meet renewed demand, the room now functions seven days a week, offering a mix of cash games and daily tournaments.
The room typically spreads No-Limit Texas Hold'em and Pot-Limit Omaha, with limits designed to accommodate both recreational players and local regulars. Patrons can use the Bravo Poker Live app to check real-time table availability and join waiting lists remotely. This ensures a modern experience despite the room's modest size.
Maine Online Poker
Status: Legal
Online poker is now licensed and regulated in Maine under a tribal-exclusive model. Following the successful framework of the state's sports betting industry, the four federally recognized Wabanaki Nations hold the sole authority to partner with commercial operators to offer online poker.
This landmark change was driven by the goal of providing "life-changing revenue" and economic sovereignty to tribal communities.
The new law brings several critical updates to the poker landscape:
- Regulated Safety: Rather than relying on offshore sites, residents can now access platforms monitored by the Maine Gambling Control Unit.
- Wabanaki Exclusivity: Up to four platforms (one per tribe) are permitted. These operators must implement strict geolocation, age verification (21+), and responsible gaming tools.
- Revenue and Taxation: Online poker revenue is taxed at 16% to 18% (depending on the final regulatory tiers), with proceeds funding state initiatives like emergency housing and gambling addiction services.
While the law is active, the state is currently in the regulatory implementation phase. Because Maine has a smaller population, regulators are also exploring the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA).
Joining this compact would allow Maine players to compete in a shared pool with players from states like New Jersey and Michigan, ensuring the "liquidity" necessary for large tournaments and healthy cash games.
List of Online Poker Operations in Maine
In Maine, the online poker industry is governed by the same tribal-exclusive framework as online casinos. Following the signing of LD 1164 in January 2026, the four federally recognized Wabanaki Nations hold the sole authority to offer digital poker.
While the legal path is clear, the market is currently in a regulatory and partnership development phase. Because poker requires a high volume of players (liquidity) to sustain healthy games, the launch of these platforms is expected to follow the rollout of digital slots and table games later in 2026.
Other Online Poker Options for Maine Residents
Online poker sites based offshore that accept U.S. players serve as an alternative for Maine players seeking online poker games. Because these operators maintain headquarters outside the United States, they inhabit a legal 'grey zone.' The main advantage of playing offshore is that these online poker sites have a larger pool of players and therefore more action at the tables and bigger tournaments. So even though offshore poker sites might not be regulated locally, they have long track records of honesty, bigger tournaments and table offerings and therefore offer a better experience than local sites for most players.
Maine Land-Based Horse Betting
Status: Legal
Land-based horse betting in Maine is a highly regulated industry governed by the Maine State Harness Racing Commission. Unlike many states that focus on Thoroughbred racing, Maine is a stronghold for harness racing (Standardbreds).
Fans can place pari-mutuel wagers at the state's two commercial tracks: First Tracks Cumberland in Southern Maine and Bangor Raceway (located at Hollywood Casino) in the north.
A unique feature of Maine's industry is the agricultural fair circuit. During the summer and fall, live racing and betting move to historic fairgrounds in towns like Windsor, Skowhegan, and Fryeburg, drawing large local crowds.
For year-round action, the state also licenses several Off-Track Betting (OTB) facilities, such as Winners Circle in Lewiston and Favorites in Waterville. These venues offer simulcast wagering, allowing bettors to watch and wager on races from across North America.
While mobile Advance Deposit Wagering (ADW) is legal for those 18+, the physical OTBs and tracks remain vital social hubs for the state's equestrian community.
List of Land-Based Horse Betting Operations in Maine
First Tracks Cumberland
Operator: First Tracks Investments LLC
First Tracks Cumberland serves as the primary harness racing hub in Southern Maine. The track operates an extensive racing calendar, with its 2026 season authorized for 54 race dates beginning in mid-March.
The facility is managed by First Tracks Investments LLC and has become a vital center for the state's Standardbred industry. In addition to live racing meets, the venue provides a social atmosphere for pari-mutuel wagering. It has recently undergone improvements to its viewing areas and betting infrastructure to enhance the fan experience.
Bangor Raceway (at Hollywood Casino)
Operator: PENN Entertainment
Bangor Raceway is a historic "racino" integrated with Hollywood Casino, offering a blend of live harness racing and casino gaming. Operated by PENN Entertainment, the track is scheduled to host 40 race dates in 2026, featuring popular matinee and twilight cards.
The venue is famous for hosting the Maine Sire Stakes Finals and provides a full-service wagering experience. Patrons can bet on live races or simulcasts from other national tracks while enjoying the amenities of the adjacent casino and hotel.
Winners Circle OTB
Operator: LRI, Inc.
Winners Circle OTB in Lewiston is one of the state's leading off-track betting facilities. Located within Marco's Restaurant, it provides a dedicated environment for bettors to watch and wager on horse racing from tracks across North America.
The venue recently had its license renewed for the 2026-2027 period and remains a key location for year-round pari-mutuel action in the Androscoggin County area. It features numerous self-service terminals and a full-service bar and grill.
Favorites OTB (Waterville)
Operator: Pioneer Gaming, LLC
Favorites OTB provides central Maine residents with a premier simulcast wagering experience. Operated by Pioneer Gaming, LLC, this facility is located behind The End Zone in Waterville.
Like other OTBs in the state, Favorites offers a comprehensive betting menu on both harness and thoroughbred racing. The facility is a mainstay in the local community, recently securing its operational license through 2027 to continue serving as a hub for both recreational and serious horse players.
Sanford OTB
Operator: Pioneer Gaming, LLC
Sanford OTB serves the York County region, offering a dedicated space for simulcast horse betting. Also operated by Pioneer Gaming, LLC, this facility provides patrons with access to live feeds from major racetracks around the globe.
The venue emphasizes a comfortable viewing environment and easy-to-use wagering kiosks. This ensures that horse racing remains accessible to fans in the southernmost part of the state, even when live racing is not taking place at the nearby fairgrounds.
Maine Online Horse Betting
Status: Legal
Online horse betting in Maine is licensed and regulated through approved Advance Deposit Wagering (ADW) platforms. These services allow bettors to wager remotely on horse races across North America and beyond.
This framework ensures that wagering activity supports the state's harness racing industry, including the "cascade" of revenue that helps fund the agricultural fair circuit.
Regarding the state's broader legal framework, Maine recently took a historic step by legalizing online casinos (iGaming) in early 2026. While offshore platforms are still a viable option, the state's new law grants the Wabanaki Nations exclusive authority to operate regulated online slots, table games, and poker.
This shift is designed to provide residents with safe, locally regulated alternatives to offshore sites while ensuring the revenue stays within the state and tribal communities.
List of Online Horse Betting Operations in Maine
TwinSpires
Operator: Churchill Downs Incorporated
TwinSpires is the premier online wagering platform for Churchill Downs Incorporated, the parent company of Maine's own Oxford Casino. It is one of the most established ADW providers in the state, offering bettors 18 and older the ability to wager on nearly every major harness and thoroughbred race globally.
The platform is highly regarded for its deep integration of handicapping data from Brisnet. Additionally, it also offers live HD streaming of races, and a "TwinSpires Elite" loyalty program that rewards high-volume bettors.
Xpressbet
Operator: 1/ST Technology (Stronach Group)
Xpressbet is a major player in the Maine ADW market, providing a sophisticated interface for both desktop and mobile users. The platform is known for its user-friendly "Wagerpad" and extensive video library.
Xpressbet frequently offers promotions tied to the Triple Crown and the Breeders' Cup, and it serves as a vital tool for Maine fans of harness racing. They offer a comprehensive coverage of the Maine agricultural fair circuit and commercial meets at Cumberland and Bangor.
Hollywood Races
Operator: PENN Entertainment
Hollywood Races is the digital wagering arm of PENN Entertainment, the operator of Hollywood Casino Bangor. This platform is specifically tailored to patrons of PENN properties, allowing them to earn "PENN Play" rewards points for their online horse wagers.
Because PENN also operates the Bangor Raceway, this app offers a seamless connection between live harness racing in Maine and the broader world of international simulcasting.
FanDuel Racing / TVG
Operator: FanDuel Group (Flutter Entertainment)
FanDuel Racing (which absorbed the legacy TVG brand) provides Maine residents with a high-definition racing experience. While the FanDuel Sportsbook app in Maine is restricted to sports, the dedicated FanDuel Racing app allows for legal pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing.
It is particularly popular for its expert analysis and live broadcasts from the TVG network. FanDuel Racing is a favorite for bettors who prefer a media-rich environment with expert picks and commentary.
Other Online Horse Betting Options for Maine Residents
Online horse betting based offshore that accept U.S. players serve as an alternative for Maine players seeking online gambling. Even though these sites are not locally licensed, they all have long track records of fairness and reliability. They often offer larger bonuses and better odds so players looking for value might find these international racebooks to be good options for them.
Maine Lotteries
Status: Legal
The Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages and Lottery Operations (BABLO) manages the Maine State Lottery. Additionally, the State Liquor and Lottery Commission oversees the Bureau's operations to ensure public transparency. It offers a robust selection of gaming options, including massive multi-state draw games like Powerball, Mega Millions, and Lucky for Life. Local favorites like Megabucks, Pick 3/Pick 4, and Gimme 5 are also available.
In early 2026, the lottery also introduced a new regional draw game touted as being "bigger than Lucky for Life," keeping the portfolio fresh for its 1,200+ retail agents.
The true hallmark of the Maine Lottery is its financial impact. Since its inception, it has transferred over $1.5 billion to the state's General Fund, supporting local schools, higher education, and health services.
Furthermore, proceeds from specific $1 instant tickets are dedicated to the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund. This finances critical wildlife conservation and environmental projects.
Moreover, for modern players, the lottery has expanded its reach via official digital couriers like Lotto.com and Jackpocket. This allows residents to legally order draw tickets and digital scratchers from their smartphones.
List of Maine Lottery Platforms
Lotto.com
Operator: Lotto.com Inc.
Lotto.com officially launched in Maine in July 2025, becoming one of the primary digital gateways for the state lottery. The platform allows users to order tickets for all major draw games. This includes Powerball, Mega Millions, and the regional Tri-State Megabucks.
Lotto.com agents buy physical tickets from Maine retailers for you. They then upload a digital scan to your secure account. This provides digital proof while a physical ticket is stored safely in a vault. Lotto.com's model ensures that all lottery revenue continues to support Maine's General Fund while providing the convenience of mobile play.
Jackpocket
Operator: Jackpocket Inc. (A DraftKings Company)
Jackpocket operates as a popular digital lottery courier in Maine. Following its 2024 acquisition, DraftKings now provides the platform with its advanced technology and resources.
The app provides a seamless interface where players can join lottery pools. "Autoplay" lets players set up their favorite numbers, and receive instant notifications for wins under $600.
For larger prizes, Jackpocket securely delivers the physical ticket to the winner to claim directly from the Maine State Lottery. The platform is a major partner for national draw games. They offer local favorites like Pick 3, Pick 4, and Gimme 5.
Maine Sweepstakes
Status: Legal, but with Caveats
Legitimate promotional sweepstakes are generally permitted in Maine as long as they do not constitute an illegal lottery. Under Title 17-A, Chapter 39, a lottery exists if there is prize, chance, and consideration. To remain legal, promotional sweepstakes must eliminate "consideration."
Furthermore, buying a product must not increase an entrant's odds of winning. Following these rules ensures the promotion is not classified as an illegal lottery.
These promotions are frequently used by retailers, media outlets (like Maine Public), and beverage suppliers. Title 28-A, §708-A allows retailers to offer "in-pack" sweepstakes and contests. However, entry cannot be contingent on a purchase. Additionally, organizers must clearly post all official rules for participants.
Maine Sweepstakes Casinos
Status: Not Legal
In Maine, sweepstakes casinos are now explicitly classified as unlawful gambling. LD 2007 prohibits any online platform from using a "dual-currency system" to simulate casino gaming. The Maine Gambling Control Unit (GCU) has warned that these sites operate without a state license. They also added that such operators lack the consumer protections required by Maine law.
Maine's stance has shifted from passive observation to active enforcement. Operators that continue to offer these games to Maine residents now face civil penalties. Fines range from $10,000 to $100,000 per violation.
This crackdown coincides with the legalization of tribal-led online casinos via LD 1164. Maine regulates digital gaming revenue, applies an 18% tax, and channels the funds into state-approved programs.
Maine Gambling FAQs
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