The Gambler on the Road series is live! This time around, Lucia’s on a trip in Florida, looking to find out where people bet on sports and learn more about the industry in general.
When people talk about having fun in Florida, it’s not just the theme parks and beaches that stand out. It’s also home to spots like Gulfstream Park Racing and Casino, where you’ll find horse racing, casino games, plus shopping and dining all in one place. I figured it was worth checking out to see what the hype was about.
Located in Hallandale Beach, Gulfstream Park caught my attention right away – helped by the massive 110-foot Pegasus statue at the entrance. I timed my visit for a race day to combine some gambling, people-watching and enjoying the Florida sunshine.
My plan was simple: soak up the atmosphere, chat with locals, and get a sense of how Floridians are navigating the betting scene while sports betting remains in legal limbo. Between betting on a few horses and trying my luck at the casino, I also checked out the online sportsbooks everyone’s talking about. Turns out, Florida’s betting culture has a lot more going on than you’d expect.
Sports betting sites popular among Floridians
- BetWhale – Everyone I met had something good to say about this sportsbook
- BetOnline – Floridians seem to swear by this one for its fast payouts
- Bovada – Cool bonus offers
- BetUS – A household name among seasoned bettors here
- Everygame – The go-to for mobile betting fans
I’ll tell you what makes these sites stand out later, but let me first give you a glimpse of my Floridian journey – it’s worth the detour, I promise!
What I do
My travel series “Gambler on the Road” pretty much sums up what I do – I travel across the US to get a taste of the gambling culture in each state. My goal is to visit at least one land-based casino or sportsbook in each state and test the online gambling market before my trip is done.
My budget for this adventure isn’t crazy, so I always try not to get carried away and get paid out when I get lucky (even if it’s just winning 50 bucks). I don’t visit the most luxurious casino hotels but instead stick to the ones in the middle, which is where I approach locals and ask how they feel about online gambling and where they play. Once I’ve tried a few slot machines or placed some sports bets in person, I start signing up with the online casinos or sportsbooks that the locals recommended to me. In my blog posts, I share my experiences and note what most of the people I talked to liked about these sites (including myself).
“My ultimate goal is to find out just how big gambling has become in the US and to learn more about the rising interest in online gambling and which sites are the biggest players, hoping to help some of my readers learn from hands-on testing and research.”
More about my Gulfstream Park Racing and Casino visit
Gulfstream Park Racing and Casino in Hallandale Beach, Florida, is a unique spot for horse racing, casino gaming, dining, and shopping. On my recent visit, I experienced a mix of highs and lows, making it a memorable, if not perfect, day out.
The first thing that caught my eye was the massive Pegasus statue at the entrance. It’s impossible to miss and pretty breathtaking up close. Knowing it’s the second-largest statue in the U.S. (after the Statue of Liberty) gives you an idea of the scale – it’s huge and makes for a great photo op.
Inside, I spent some time at the casino and sportsbook. While the setup is decent, the casino itself didn’t blow me away. The slot machines felt a bit dated, and the variety of table games was underwhelming. However, the sportsbook had a lively atmosphere, with plenty of screens to follow multiple games. I placed a small bet on an NBA game, and while I didn’t win, it was exciting to follow the action with other bettors.
For lunch, I decided to try Ten Palms, which overlooks the racetrack. The view was fantastic, but the food was a mixed bag. I went with the buffet, which offered a range of options like prime rib, turkey, and rigatoni in vodka sauce. The prime rib was tender and flavorful, but the pasta was just okay – it tasted like it had been sitting out for a while. The salad bar was fresh and well-stocked, and the dessert station was the highlight for me. I tried the cheesecake, which was rich and creamy, and an apple pie ala mode that felt like pure comfort food. The buffet wasn’t cheap, but it felt worth it for the view and some of the standout dishes.
After lunch, I wandered through The Village at Gulfstream Park, which is a mix of shops, cafes, and small attractions. I popped into Williams-Sonoma and admired the high-end kitchenware I couldn’t justify buying and grabbed a coffee at Häagen-Dazs. The stores are a bit upscale, so this isn’t the place for bargain shopping, but it’s nice for window shopping or picking up something special.
The highlight of my visit was watching the horse races. There’s something electric about the sound of pounding hooves and the cheers of the crowd as the horses approach the finish line. Even if you’re not a racing fan, the experience is worth it – especially if you place a small bet to make it more exciting.
Overall, Gulfstream Park has its pros and cons. The racing and atmosphere are fantastic, and there are some good dining options if you know where to look. On the downside, the casino could use an update, and some of the food options felt overpriced for what they offered.
“Gulfstream Park is a fun day out with live racing, decent dining, and plenty to do – but it’s not perfect. Go for the experience, not necessarily the casino.”
Most popular sports betting site in Florida: BetWhale
I heard about Betwhale from a few locals when visiting Gulfstream Park, so I decided to give it a go. The sign-up process was straightforward, and I got a decent 150% deposit match bonus – enough to pique my interest and fuel a few wagers.
Navigating the site, I found its interface simple and uncluttered. It’s easy to get straight to betting without distractions here. For me, it lacked a little flair – functional but not exciting. Football stood out as its strongest offering, with lots of betting options for NFL games. I placed a couple of football bets but didn’t have much success that day. However, I did notice a few drawbacks. The desktop site felt barebones in places, almost like functionality came at the cost of visual appeal. Additionally, the betting limits didn’t quite match the “whale” part of the site’s name, which might not be great for high rollers.
“Betwhale gets the job done for beginners with its straightforward design and solid market coverage. For experienced bettors, though, it might feel a bit too basic.”
Great betting site with fast payouts: BetOnline
It turns out BetOnline is well-known among local bettors in Florida for its good sports coverage, so I decided to check it out for myself. The range of markets was good, including football, hockey and even darts and Gaelic games. I placed a few bets on NHL games and tried some soccer bets, finding the live betting experience straightforward and efficient. The odds updated quickly, and the interface made it easy to follow the action. If you stick with crypto, you’ll get your winnings fast and securely. If you’re new to the site like me, you can grab a $250 no strings welcome offer.
While exploring BetOnline, I noticed a few areas that could be improved. For one, the absence of a cash-out feature felt like a missed opportunity – especially for live bettors who like the option to lock in profits or cut their losses mid-game. Another snag was the fees tied to some payment methods. Credit card deposits, for instance, can rack up significant fees. Personally, I avoided this by sticking to crypto – it’s quicker, cheaper, and spares me the frustration.
“BetOnline is a good platform for sports bettors in Florida, though credit card fees are steep enough to make anyone think twice.”
Neat online sportsbook with nice bonuses: Bovada
While exploring the state’s online sports betting options, Bovada kept popping up in conversations with locals, so I had to check it out. The site clearly pays more attention to sports bettors than casino players, which lined up nicely with my trip’s focus. With thousands of markets across football, hockey, soccer, and even more niche options, there’s plenty to bet on here – almost too much at times. I placed a couple of soccer bets, but the sheer volume of choices had me second-guessing more than once.
The welcome bonus caught my eye, offering up to $250 for credit card deposits and up to $750 if you go the crypto route. It’s a decent boost, though I noticed that using crypto for deposits and withdrawals is way smoother – fewer fees, faster payouts, and less of a headache overall.
Speaking of payouts, Bovada delivered on its reputation for speed. I used Bitcoin to cash out my winnings, and the process was about as quick and hassle-free as I could hope for. That said, I came across a few gripes online about their customer service, with some bettors struggling to get timely responses on account-related issues. I have to say though that when testing out the site i chatted with a customer service representative and even though they took a bit longer to reply, they were helpful and answered my questions.
“All in all, Bovada does a solid job for Florida sports bettors. The range of markets and fast payouts are highlights, but don’t expect perfection – especially if you run into trouble with support.”
Good sports betting site for VIP players: BetUS
BetUS is the kind of site that feels like a throwback to the days when bookies were personalities and not just digital platforms. The locals I talked to described BetUS as a “jack of all trades,” with a good selection of sports markets, neat mobile access, and – get this – a personal account manager for VIPs. It’s not often you see that online anymore.
For my testing, I kicked things off with a few in-play wagers while watching a basketball game. Navigating the site was as smooth as I could hope for, and placing live bets felt intuitive. I’ve used mobile sportsbooks that lag, especially during fast-paced games, but BetUS kept up with the action just fine. Their odds were competitive, and I even found myself scrolling through the “political props” section, because, well, why not? Betting on the next Pope’s name isn’t something you stumble upon every day.
Here’s where BetUS stumbled for me – bonuses. They’re flashy, sure, but they cater heavily to crypto users, and the wagering requirements are steep. Also, while the deposit options are plentiful (credit cards, crypto, you name it), I found that bonuses often required higher minimum deposits to trigger. A bit of a bummer when you’re testing sportsbooks on a tighter budget like I was.
Still, BetUS impressed me with its sheer variety, ease of use, and thoughtful features like the Odds Boost tab, where I snagged some better-than-average lines. For Floridian looking to get a taste of old-school bookmaking with modern convenience and are willing to put in the work to become a VIP, I’d say BetUS is a solid place to start.
“BetUS delivers an impressive all-around sportsbook experience with a charming interface, but their bonuses aren’t among the most accessible.”
Locals’ favorite mobile sportsbook: Everygame
I’d heard mixed things about Everygame, but curiosity got the best of me – especially since it’s been around since 1996. With a reputation for being one of the older sportsbooks and a solid mobile betting setup, I figured it was worth a shot.
First impressions? The mobile experience is smooth. I tried out their live betting features, and I’ve got to say, they work well. You can check live odds and cash out mid-game, which actually saved me from losing more when things went south in a match I was following. It’s not the flashiest platform, but it’s reliable and works just fine on both my phone and tablet.
On the bonus side, crypto bettors definitely get the better deal. There’s a $1,000 welcome bonus, while regular banking users can get a match up to $500. That said, read the fine print – those rollover requirements are pretty hefty, so don’t expect an easy cash-out anytime soon.
Now, about withdrawals. I didn’t test them myself, but a few people I spoke to mentioned frustrations – slow payouts, verification delays, that kind of thing. It’s something to keep in mind, especially if you’re betting larger amounts or need fast access to your winnings.
“Everygame’s mobile betting features live up to the hype, but the platform isn’t perfect – be ready for some patience when it comes to withdrawals and bonuses.”
The sports betting status in Florida
When I touched down in Florida to explore the state’s sports betting scene, I quickly realized I’d stumbled into a story with more twists than a Miami soap opera. The big headline? Sports betting in Florida is back – officially – but not without its fair share of drama.
Here’s the quick rewind: back in November 2021, the Seminole Tribe launched the Hard Rock Bet app, Florida’s first online sportsbook. The celebration was short-lived, though. Legal challenges popped up faster than alligators in a swamp, arguing that statewide online betting violated federal law because bets weren’t placed physically on tribal land. By December 2021, the app was shut down.
Fast forward to June 2023 – a major plot twist. A federal appeals court ruled in favor of the Seminole Tribe, and just like that, sports betting was back on the table. By December 5, 2023, the Hard Rock Bet app was up and running statewide, and a few days later, on December 7, in-person sports betting kicked off at Seminole casinos.
But here’s where it gets messy. The Seminole Tribe holds exclusive rights to sports betting in Florida, and not everyone’s thrilled about it. Rival operators pushed back hard, but the legal challenges fizzled out in June 2024 when the U.S. Supreme Court decided not to hear the case.
Florida bettors look beyond Hard Rock Bet
What surprised me most, though, was the buzz around out-of-state betting options. Platforms like BetWhale, BetOnline, and Bovada have a strong following here. Locals were quick to point out the benefits—having more choices, shopping for better odds, and finding flexibility that Florida’s single-app setup doesn’t always offer. For many, it’s about getting the best value and enjoying a little variety in their betting experience.
To add a cherry on top, Jai Alai (a sport I admittedly had to Google) is also making a comeback thanks to a recent settlement between the Seminole Tribe and their former challengers. It’s a small olive branch after years of courtroom battles, and die-hard fans of the historic sport seem happy about it.
So where does that leave Florida’s bettors? If you’re looking for a locally regulated option, Hard Rock Bet is your only option in the state. But for those looking for more variety and flexibility, popular out-of-state sportsbooks like BetWhale, BetOnline, and Bovada are very popular. One thing’s for sure – Florida’s sports betting journey has been a wild ride, and it’s only just getting started. Can’t wait to see where it’ll be in a few years.
Florida gambling in numbers
The Seminole Tribe of Florida plays its cards close to the chest when it comes to revenue figures from its sports betting operations, so getting a crystal-clear picture isn’t easy. What we do know is that their gaming empire got a serious boost thanks to a 30-year compact signed in 2021. This deal handed the tribe exclusive rights to statewide online sports betting and gave the green light for craps and roulette at their casinos. In exchange, the Seminoles agreed to share a sizable cut of their earnings with the state, a deal projected to pump $4.43 billion into Florida’s coffers by the 2028-2029 fiscal year. Not bad, right?
Now, while the tribe’s exact sports betting revenue is locked up, we can zoom out for some context. According to the National Indian Gaming Commission, tribal gaming across the U.S. brought in an impressive $41.9 billion in 2023 – a solid 2.4% jump from the previous year. And even though Florida’s Seminole-run sports betting operation was only live for two months of that year, you can bet (pun intended) that they played a role in those record-breaking numbers.
But since we can’t peek directly into the Seminole Tribe’s books, let’s turn our attention to Florida’s commercial casino market to help paint a broader picture. The American Gaming Association’s State of the States 2024 report breaks it down nicely, and here’s what caught my eye.
| Year | Revenue (US$M) | Year-over-Year Change (%) |
| 2015 | 531 | 0.046 |
| 2016 | 546 | 0.029 |
| 2017 | 547 | 0.001 |
| 2018 | 569 | 0.041 |
| 2019 | 575 | 0.01 |
| 2020 | 341 | -40.60% |
| 2021 | 649 | 0.903 |
| 2022 | 694 | 0.069 |
| 2023 | 691 | -0.40% |
This chart tracks Florida’s commercial casino revenue from 2015 to 2023, and it’s been a steady climb – well, almost. The pandemic dealt a heavy blow in 2020, with revenue plummeting by 40.6%, but the rebound in 2021 was nothing short of dramatic – a 90.3% surge. By 2022, the market peaked at $694 million before dipping slightly to $691 million in 2023, a tiny 0.4% slide. Not exactly a cause for panic, but it’s worth noting, especially given the rising competition from the Seminole Tribe’s offerings.
| Year | Florida (YOY %) | Louisiana (YOY %) | Mississippi (YOY %) |
| 2012 | 11% | 3% | 0% |
| 2013 | 9% | 2% | -5% |
| 2014 | 8% | 2% | -3% |
| 2015 | 7% | 3% | 1% |
| 2016 | 6% | 2% | -1% |
| 2017 | 4% | -2% | -3% |
| 2018 | 2% | 0% | -1% |
| 2019 | 0% | -4% | -5% |
| 2020 | -45% | -35% | -30% |
| 2021 | 90% | 45% | 50% |
| 2022 | 9% | -5% | -2% |
| 2023 | 0% | 5% | -3% |
To put this into perspective, I compared Florida’s commercial casino numbers to those of Louisiana and Mississippi – two other southern heavyweights. All three states took a hit during the pandemic, but Florida’s recovery was by far the most impressive. That said, the 2023 slowdown might hint at a market feeling the heat from the Seminole Tribe’s growing dominance. With craps, roulette, and sports betting pulling in more players, it’s clear they’re not just holding strong – they’re changing the game entirely.
If you’re interested in more statistics, check my article about sports betting in Texas, where the legal status is similar to the one in Florida.
The Hard Rock guitar tower I can’t wait to see
Let me just say this upfront: I have unfinished business with the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood. You’ve probably seen photos of its iconic 450-foot guitar-shaped tower – it’s impossible to miss, and locals I chatted with couldn’t stop raving about it.
The whole place feels larger than life. After a jaw-dropping $1.5 billion renovation back in 2019, it’s become more than just a casino – it’s a full-blown destination. I heard about its massive gaming floors, top-tier concerts, luxury restaurants like Abiaka Wood Fire Grill, and even a Bora Bora-inspired pool area that comes with private cabanas and butler service. Oh, and let’s not forget the nightly light show. Every evening at 7 p.m., the guitar tower puts on an orchestrated display of music and synchronized LED lights that you can apparently see for miles. I’m kicking myself for not making the trip to watch it firsthand.
So why didn’t I? Well, let’s just say my wallet was still licking its wounds after a few questionable bets on horse races at Gulfstream Park. It’s hard to justify rolling up to luxury when you’re down a few bucks, even if the locals insist it’s worth the splurge.
That said, it’s officially at the top of my Florida bucket list. I’m already dreaming of standing beneath that giant guitar, catching the light show, and maybe even wandering into the Rock Spa for some “recovery” time after a day of gambling. Next time I’m here, I’m coming prepared – with a bigger budget and a little more luck on my side.
“Next time, Hard Rock Hollywood, I’m coming for you!”
Land-based gambling establishments in Florida
While I keep dreaming about standing in front of the Seminole Hard Rock’s Guitar Hotel and reminiscing about my time at Gulfstream Park – betting on the ponies, grabbing a surprisingly good plate of prime rib, and chatting with new friends, I couldn’t help but think about the other spots in Florida where gamblers go for a bit of action.
Florida’s land-based casinos are concentrated in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, and while commercial venues stick to slots and electronic gaming, the tribal casinos bring a little extra – table games, poker rooms, and now even retail sportsbooks, as I’ve covered here. It’s a bit of a mixed bag, but that’s part of what makes it interesting: you’ll find places with rich history, laid-back local vibes, and a couple of spots that feel like they belong in Vegas.
| Casino/Sportsbook | Location | Key Features |
| Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood | Hollywood, FL | Iconic guitar tower, table games, retail sportsbook, live entertainment |
| Seminole Hard Rock Tampa | Tampa, FL | Full table games, high-stakes poker room, craps, roulette |
| Gulfstream Park Casino | Hallandale Beach, FL | Horse racing, electronic gaming, dining, shopping |
| Miccosukee Resort & Gaming | Miami, FL | Electronic games, bingo, poker rooms |
| The Casino at Dania Beach | Dania Beach, FL | Slots, jai alai, live poker tournaments |
| Seminole Classic Casino | Hollywood, FL | Slots, poker, and electronic games |
The end of my trip to Florida and looking ahead
As my time in Florida wraps up, I’ve got a lot to look back on. From the buzz of Gulfstream Park, where I cheered on a few long shots (and let’s not talk about how that ended), to hearing locals debate the merits of out-of-state sportsbooks like BetWhale and BetOnline, it’s clear that Florida’s betting scene has its own quirks.
That said, I’ve still got unfinished business here. I didn’t make it to the Seminole Hard Rock Guitar Hotel, but it’s sitting high on my list for next time. Between the light shows, the gaming floors, and everything I’ve heard, it feels like one of those places you just have to see for yourself – ideally with a bit more time, a bit more luck, and, let’s be honest, a bit more cash.
Looking ahead, I’m ready to hit the road again. Every state has its own take on sports betting – some still figuring it out, others running full speed ahead. Florida’s mix of tribal exclusivity, commercial casinos, and offshore options makes it a complicated but interesting place to bet. I’ll be back to take another shot at it, but for now, I’m looking forward to seeing what the next stop has in store.
Which state should I visit next? Send me an email at [email protected]!
DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for entertainment purposes only. Gambling comes with its fair share of risks and it’s important to recognize that when using online gambling sites.
While we review different gambling sites, you should check with local laws in your area before gambling online. Also, all gambling sites and guides are rated 21+ only.
If you have a gambling addiction problem or anyone you know does, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700. In addition, the following free gambling addiction resources can be of help:
