Although often viewed as a conservative state, there are actually casinos in Alabama. And, that’s not even only in Montgomery. As in many US states, all casinos are located on Native American reservations, but most are easily accessible from the state’s more densely populated cities.
That said, the laws surrounding gambling in Alabama are no joke. So, we are here to guide you through all the dos and don’ts associated with gambling in the Cotton State. So, read on and find out what you need to know to get started with your favorite casino games.
There are only four types of gambling in Alabama. Although the state has casinos, you will find no slots or table games there due to the state’s strict laws. Here is what is available to you if you live in the Heart of Dixie:
Greyhound racing – legalized in 1973, greyhound racing is the oldest form of gambling available in Alabama. The state has four racetracks for events, but currently, only two are in operation.
Horse racing – technically, horse racing is also available in Alabama. However, no racetrack actually hosts horse racing events, so you will have a hard time practicing this form of gambling in the Cotton State.
Bingo – these are charitable games run in local bingo halls with the intention of fundraising.
Video bingo – these are electronic bingo games that work similarly to slots. It is currently unclear whether they are legal, but Alabama’s three casinos continue to offer them.
Notably absent from this list is a state lottery, slots, and table games. This is because they are banned in the state.
Online Gambling is Banned Too
There is only one form of legal online gambling in Alabama, and that is off-track betting. Technically, daily fantasy sports games are also available, but this is mostly because the government has not decided whether it is a skill game yet.
List of Indian Casinos in Alabama
Here is a list of all the Native American casinos in Alabama:
Casino
Address
Victoryland
8680 County Road 40
Wind Creek Casino Montgomery
1801 Eddie Tullis Drive
Wind Creek Casino Atmore
303 Poarch Road
Wind Creek Casino Wetumpka
100 River Oaks Drive
History of Gambling in Alabama
Alabama legalized their first type of gambling in 1973 in greyhound racing after residents of the state voted for it. The state soon developed four tracks for races. Currently, only two remain in operation.
Following this breakthrough, it would take 20 years until the state legalized another form of gambling. In 1993, using a referendum, charitable bingo was legalized. Nowadays, more than half the state runs regular bingo games.
In 2003, Alabama gave the green light to video bingo machines, which are similar to slots – but not exactly. These are the only games you can expect to play in Indian casinos in the state. There are no casinos in Alabama with table games.
