Question 1

What are the most popular forms of gambling in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

The most popular gambling activities are casino gaming and sports betting. The state's mountain casinos in Black Hawk, Central City, and Cripple Creek attract millions of visitors annually, while online sports betting has experienced explosive growth since launching in 2020.

Question 2

Is gambling legal in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Colorado has a well-developed gambling industry with multiple legal options. Legal forms of gambling include land-based casinos, sports betting (retail and online), the state lottery, pari-mutuel horse racing (including online), charitable gaming, and tribal casinos. However, online casinos, online poker, and sweepstakes operations remain not licensed or regulated under current law.

Question 3

Where can I gamble in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

Land-based casinos are located in Black Hawk, Central City, and Cripple Creek in the mountains west of Denver. Two tribal casinos operate in southwest Colorado: Sky Ute Casino Resort near Ignacio and Ute Mountain Casino near Towaoc. Online sports betting is available statewide through licensed mobile apps. Arapahoe Park in Aurora offers live horse racing from May through August.

Question 4

What is the legal gambling age in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

The legal gambling age is 21 for casino gaming, online and retail sports betting, and fixed-odds horse racing. Pari-mutuel horse racing and lottery ticket purchases require players to be 18 or older.

Question 5

Are online casinos legal in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

No. Online casino gaming is not licensed or regulated in Colorado. While legislation has been proposed (Senate Bill 197), it remains under committee review. Until new laws pass, online casino gaming is not available within Colorado's legal framework.

Colorado Gambling: Recommended Online Casinos and Sportsbooks, Regulation and News