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Michigan Betting Sites: The Best MI Online Sportsbooks in September 2024

Map of USA, where state of Michigan is pinned.

Are you into sports betting? Since the legalization of sports wagering in January 2021, if you are a resident of the Wolverine State, you can have fun with the best Michigan betting sites and try your luck. In this guide, we present some of the most secure, licensed, and reliable platforms so that you can make a better decision about where to place bets using your intuition and skills. We`ve evaluated the top Michigan betting sites for you, covering what is legal and the most popular sports, teams, and points in the development of betting in the state.

Best sportsbooks MILegal bettingImportant lawsLegal ageOur criteriaPopular betting sportsPopular MI sport teamsFAQ

The best MI online sports betting sites

Last updated: 12.09.2024
Online casinoExpert ratingWelcome BonusDistinctive featuresPayment MethodsRead full casino reviewSignificant Terms
4.9/5 Up to $200 if your first bet loses
  • Live casino
  • Daily tournaments
  • Mobile friendly
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4.9/5 100% up to C$350
  • Mobile friendly
  • Lots of bonuses
  • Casino & Betting
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4.9/5 Up to $1,500 Paid Back in Bonus Bets
  • Live Sports betting
  • Mobile app available
  • MGM Rewards Loyalty program
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4.8/5CAD200 and 40 free rounds
  • Trusted payment methods
  • Mobile friendly
  • Live customer support
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4.7/5 100% up to $150
  • Live Casino & Betting
  • Live Chat support
  • VIP Levels
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Above you can see legal betting sites in Michigan you can count on for safe and entertaining wagering. Laws in the Wolverine State allowed 13 of the top platforms to operate. We have systematized all the information bettors need so you can be sure that you are safe when using the services of any of the best Michigan betting sites here. Have a look at the results of our research and testing in the list of Michigan betting sites on this page that stand out as top performers.

MI online gambling laws stipulate what types of betting and gaming are allowed. Sports betting has been lawful in Michigan since December 20, 2019, when Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed HB 4916 into law, which legalized all retail and online sports betting activities. Land-based sports betting kicked off in March 2020, while Internet sports betting in Michigan began on January 22, 2021.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board is the state’s sports betting regulatory body. Currently, 12 online sportsbooks operate in MI. Each of these partners with a retail Michigan sportsbook that provides in-person betting services at state-licensed and tribal casinos.

  • Mobile betting

    Thankfully, mobile betting on sports through a PC, mobile phone, and tablet is legal in Michigan. All 12 of the online sportsbooks that operate within the state offer mobile betting on their websites and via sports betting apps.

  • Sports betting with remote registration

    If you are keen on online sports betting, you can freely sign up for an account in Michigan, deposit and withdraw, and bet on sports remotely, but only when you are within the state`s borders. There is no requirement to visit an in-person retail betting venue to participate in sports betting in Michigan on the Internet.

  • Sports betting within the state borders

    As mentioned, placing bets via Michigan’s online sportsbooks requires a physical presence within the state. Every online sportsbook in MI usually uses geolocating software to confirm that you are in the state before granting you access to their platforms (both website and betting app).

    Michigan residents visiting another state will not have access to their MI online sports betting accounts. However, residents of other states who are currently visiting Michigan can use online sportsbooks within the state.

  • Retail sportsbooks

    Twenty-six land-based casinos operate in Michigan, twenty-two retail locations of which currently offer sports betting. Some of them have dedicated sportsbook lounges, while others provide betting kiosks for placing sports bets only.

    The first physical sportsbook to start operating in Michigan was the BetMGM Sportsbook. Today, the MGM Grand Detroit is one of the three casino resorts located in Detroit. It offers a range of amenities, such as an on-site casino, top-notch dining places, an indoor infinity-edge pool, a luxury spa, and cool live events. Michigan bettors can choose among the over 90 table games and about 4,500 of the latest slots and video poker machines.

    Every online sportsbook must partner with a land-based casino to have the right to be launched in Michigan. Moreover, retail sportsbooks can only open at these locations. You must be 21 to visit and bet in sports betting venues in MI and may be asked to prove your age by providing a valid ID or driving license. Most retail sportsbooks offer the same range of markets and odds as online sportsbooks. Below are some of the betting locations you can visit in Michigan.

Most popular land-based sportsbooks in Michigan
Verified by:Declan WillisAuthor at Online-Gambling.io
Last updated: 28.05.2023
SportsbookLocationOwnerLaunch dateOnline betting / Gambling website
MGM Grand DetroitA joint venture between MGM Resorts International and Entain plc.July 29, 1999Yes
Bay Mills Resort & CasinoPublicly traded company (shareholders include institutional investors, individual investors, and company executive).November 7, 2021Yes
MotorCity Casino HotelFlutter EntertainmentMarch 11, 2020Yes
Odawa Casino Mackinaw City, Odawa Casino PetoskeyA partnership between The Stars Group (now part of Flutter Entertainment) and Fox Corporation.September 24, 2020No
Northern Waters Casino ResortA publicly traded company, so it is owned by its shareholders, listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX).December 13, 2021No
Leelanau Sands Casino, Turtle Creek Casino & HotelCaesars EntertainmentSeptember 18, 2020Yes
Little River Casino and ResortThe Rush Street Interactive companyJuly 17, 2020Yes
Kewadin Casino Christmas, Kewadin Casino Hessel, Kewadin Casino Manistique, Kewadin Casino Sault Ste. Marie, Kewadin Shores Casino St. IgnaceWynn ResortsDecember 15, 2020Yes
Gun Lake CasinoN/AOctober 3, 2021No
Saganing Eagles Landing Casino, Soaring Eagle Casino & ResortN/AApril 4, 2022No
Load More

  • Politics – not legal

    Placing bets on political events such as the United States presidential election has been immensely popular in Europe and has gained popularity in the USA in recent years. Unfortunately, Michigan law currently does not allow wagers on political events.

  • Entertainment award ceremonies

    Michigan is the fourth state to legalize betting on entertainment award ceremonies on the Internet. MI bettors can place wagers on popular awards, such as the Emmy Awards, the Academy Awards, and the Grammy Awards.

  • eSports

    Some American states have embraced eSports betting, which spreads to popular games like League of Legends, Fortnite, Counterstrike: Global Offensive, etc. Sadly, betting on eSports in Michigan is not legal.

History of Michigan sports betting

In December 2019, the Governor of Michigan, Gretchen Whitmer, signed off on the Lawful Gaming Act, allowing nearly every gambling provider that operates online in the state to apply for a license. As a result, in-person betting has been permitted since March 2020.

This timeline below highlights the main milestones in MI sports betting history:

1992 – Horse race betting- the first sports betting form in MI

In 1992, President George H.W. Bush signed the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA). This legalized horse racing, making it the first and only legal form of sports gambling in Michigan.

1996 – Start of online betting

Online betting launched in 1996 when a Finnish player placed a $50 bet on Intertops (now known as Everygame) during the FA Cup rematch between Tottenham Hotspur and Hereford United. It`s worth noting that around this time, Centrebet in Australia and Eurobet in the UK also launched online sports and race betting. The following year, three more sportsbooks appeared on the online betting scene.

2015-2016 – Setting the scene for sports betting legalization

In 2015-2016, Rep. Robert Kosowski laid the sports betting foundations by introducing legislation with Bills H 4669, H 4670, and H 5828. Its purpose is to allow casinos and third parties to provide sports betting services in the state.

2019 – The signing of the Lawful Sports Betting Act

On December 20, 2019, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed HB 4916 into law. The Lawful Sports Betting Act was a significant legislative move to promote the expansion of sports betting within Michigan’s borders. It also aims to encourage commercial and tribal casinos to pursue licenses for providing sports betting services.

The enactment of this important act marked a pivotal moment in Michigan’s gambling industry. It opened new opportunities for casinos to engage in sports betting activities and potentially reshape the landscape of Michigan`s gaming and entertainment sector. In March 2020, MGM Grand Detroit and Greektown Casino-Hotel both launched their first retail sportsbooks in the Wolverine State.

2023 – Michigan sports betting handle and revenue unfolding

In January, Michigan’s sports betting handle decreased, and bettors got the better of the sportsbooks. This tendency was felt until February 24, 2023.

In March, revenue from legal sports betting in the state grew greatly until April 21, 2023. This upsurge continued in May as the retail sports betting markets rose despite the overall 10% yearly decrease in the statewide handle.

On October 25, 2023, Michigan’s September sports betting handle doubled the amount of its previous month’s total revenue. Sportsbooks` profit was $457.7 million, compared to August`s $228.4 million.

Michigan Governor Allocates Funds for Online Gaming Regulation for 2025

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer decided to take a proactive approach in the fight against illegal sports betting. She has earmarked a stunning $1.9 million for “Internet Gaming and Sports Betting Regulation” in her budget recommendation for the 2025 fiscal year. This amount of money planned to guarantee fair and regulated gambling over the Internet and sports betting shows the state`s commitment to players` protection and interests.

The most important sports betting laws in Michigan

The first form of legal sports betting was horse racing, which became lawful in 1992 with the signing of the PASPA by President Bush. Three commercial land-based casinos (namely the MGM Grand Detroit, Motorcity, Motorcity, and the Greektown Casino Hotel) were launched with the passing of the Gaming Control and Revenue Act in 1997.

The online sports betting industry`s legalization of Michigan in January 2021 marked a significant shift in the state’s gambling landscape. Thanks to this the options for sports wagering have become many more and the activity more available. MI bettors can use 15 legal online sportsbooks along with 22 out of 26 casinos that offer retail sports betting. The authority that oversees sports betting, internet gambling, and fantasy sports in the state is the Michigan Gaming Control Board. The MGCB ensures that the industry operates within a well-regulated framework.

Winnings from sports bets are subject to a 25% tax. The MGCB plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with taxation laws. Notable Michigan online betting sites include BetMGM, FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, and BetRivers, each offering unique features and promotions. Payment methods for deposits and withdrawals across these platforms vary, as do processing times and transaction limits.

Michigan’s sports betting laws impose a daily purchase limit of $2,000 at Stake.us for buying coin packages. Users can monitor their spending through the ‘Buy Gold Coins’ tab. This limit is there to promote responsible gambling practices within the state’s borders.

According to Michigan legislation, sports bettors must be at least 21 years old. Some tribal casinos allow 18+ years old players to play their brick-and-mortar sportsbooks` slot machines and table games. However, their online sports betting partners’ minimum age requirement is 21 for those who want to participate in casino gaming and sports betting activities over the Internet.

Legal sports betting age

Betting typeLegal age at land-based establishmentLegal age onlineLegal since
Online Sports Betting2121January 2021
Horse Racing21211992
Retail Sports Betting21/18211997
Mobile Sports Betting21212021
Offshore Sportsbooks1818N/A

How to choose among the Michigan online sports betting sites

Since over a dozen Michigan sportsbook platforms operate legally in the state, choosing where to register and bet can be challenging. The best betting sites in Pennsylvania, Michigan, and the other US states, including all Michigan online sportsbooks, need to meet certain criteria before our team approves them. Here are the main points we check before selecting the cream of the crop among them.

Best overall sports betting platformBetMGM
The most generous bonusesBorgata
Excellent betting optionsBetRivers
Top betting oddsDraftKings
Great mobile betting experienceCaesars
Online sportsbook with high-securityBetMGM
Great payment methodsBetRivers
Excellent choice for withdrawal speedBetway
High-class customer serviceDraftKings
Best browser and app user interfaceCaesars

Michigan sports betting bonus offers

Most Michigan betting sites will have welcome bonuses to new players, like 1,000 first bet for example. They let you try out their platforms and earn a profit. The best Michigan sportsbooks have ongoing offers for registered users including bonus bets, bet 5 get 150, bonus funds, and loyalty programs. BetRivers, BetMGM, Caesars, and other of the best Michigan betting sites offer more than average.

Available sports and markets

Gambling enthusiasts have different favorite sports and athletes, so providing a wide variety of betting options ensures more freedom of choice for wagering. Each and every Michigan online sports betting platform on our list provides betting lines for plenty of professional and college sports and leagues, such as the upcoming NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, and many more. BetRivers and BetMGM offer the most (18 and 17 respectively), with the MI average just 11-14 sports/leagues to choose from.

Betting options

The world of sports extends far greater than just covering major sports. The variety of sports bets provided by the leading and less popular MI online sportsbooks makes a significant difference to both seasoned bettors and rare sports fans. They pay close attention to the various sports bets each platform provides. Along with sports markets, the best MI online sports betting sites often have great extra features to keep things more exciting. These can include expert odds and picks, unique types of betting, and live streaming.

Mobile betting

Like users around the world, Michigan bettors enjoy playing on the move, which is why the best Michigan betting sites need to have top quality mobile platforms. Borgata and BetMGM offer mobile sports betting apps. The Borgata Sports app is available on the two major mobile platforms: the App Store and Google Play. Both provide excellent betting odds, enhanced offers, and multiple betting formats, such as live and in-game betting markets.

Similarly, you can download the BetMGM sports betting app on Google Play for Android devices and the Apple App Store for iOS smartphones. The two apps have a variety of betting types, including moneyline bets, point spreads, prop bets, futures, parlay bets, and in-play betting. These and the other leading Michigan sports betting apps ensure mobility and freedom to MI residents.

Security

The security of personal information and banking data is essential for every player. Sportsbooks collect data, and yours will be kept far more safely when it is in the hands of those licensed by the Michigan Gaming Control Board platforms. That`s why you should avoid using the services of sports betting sites and apps that operate illegally. You can be sure that we recommend the best MI sports betting sites available online that are all regulated.

Payment options

The legalization of the MI sports betting industry has made deposits and withdrawals safe and easy for users across the legal betting sites in Michigan. That said, not all MI online sportsbooks offer the same banking options for transactions.

We recommend that you research the banking options in advance to ensure that your preferred payment methods or the easily accessible ones for you are available. The best MI online sports betting sites offer a wide range of deposit and withdrawal methods so that most bettors are comfortable using their services. BetMGM, for example, offers up to 12 different payment options.

Withdrawal speed

Michigan sports betting sites normally process withdrawals in about 24 to 72 hours. Different MI online sportsbooks have different payout speeds, which depends largely on the platform and the payment option you have chosen. We completely understand the importance of quick and efficient payouts for bettors, that`s why we vouch for Michigan sportsbooks that offer such.

Customer support

Bettors need access to customer support whenever they need help. The best Michigan betting sites offer multiple contact options, including live chat, which is usually available 24/7, phone, and email. Their phone hours and email response times vary with MI online sportsbooks.

Convenient browser and app usability

Sports betting sites not only need to offer the best markets, sports leagues, and features to be competitive but also easy to navigate and a clear user interface. We suggest you test the sportsbooks on our list to find the ones with the UI most comfortable for you. The platforms you have chosen must let you access your favorite features quickly and easily.

Top 3 most popular sports for betting in MI

Michiganians that are interested in sports have plenty of betting options for the upcoming NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and other popular leagues. The 10 million MI residents have a spectacular choice of sporting action in the state. They have a representative in each of the Big Four leagues, an abundant number of outstanding college teams, and plenty of home-based teams for Michigan sports enthusiasts to follow. Here are the 3 most sought-after sports Michigan residents can place bets on.

Football

With the Detroit Lions as the home team in intense competitions with neighboring teams like the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers, football supreme sport in Michigan. Countless Michigan fans are loyal followers of the Lions. The team`s four league championship victories from 1935 to 1957 preceded the era of the Super Bowl (the No.1 world sporting wagering event, held with great anticipation every year). The NFL’s national popularity and the abundance of betting options, from point spreads to player props, make it a clear frontrunner.

College football

College football enjoys a strong following in Michigan, also thanks to the University of Michigan Wolverines` storied program and their arch-rivals, the Michigan State Spartans. The numerous college football fanbases and intense in-state rivalries have created a significant betting market. Fans place wagers on everything from game winners to total points scored.

Basketball and college basketball

Basketball holds a strong presence in Michigan all year round with its high-scoring and fast-paced nature. The Detroit Pistons, the local professional NBA team in the state, have rewarded their loyal fans with three NBA Finals victories. They continue to attract serious support to this day not only from their home city.

The Michigan State Spartans is the primary basketball team that represents Michigan State University. It competes in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I, particularly in the Big Ten Conference. The college team had significant success, having won two NCAA championships in 1979 and 2000, and with appearances in 10 Final Fours.

Baseball

Baseball has a special place in American sports fans` hearts. The regular season length, match frequency, and high profile that MLB enjoys all ensure a high level of enthusiasm for the game. Michigan`s local baseball team, the Detroit Tigers, has won four World Series titles since its establishment in 1894. The Tigers continue to get loyal support in their home city.

Popular MI sports events you can bet on

Regular league games accumulate lots of betting action and excitement. The flagship events in the most popular sports are the ones that generate the most money for Michigan sportsbooks. Betting in MI also inclines toward matches with more local interest. Among these are:

  • Super Bowl
  • Major League Baseball (MLB)
  • Stanley Cup
  • March Madness
  • National Basketball Association, especially the NBA playoffs
  • All Detroit Pistons, Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Lions, and Detroit Tigers games

The most important Michigan sports teams

Cheering on your favorite local teams brings exciting emotions and exaltation if you are a local fan. Real money betting, on the other hand, is a completely different story. For it to be successful and lucrative, you need to be diligent and perform thorough research in advance.

The most successful sports bettors don`t just place wagers on their favorite teams. They look for edges up and down the betting board, which is a very successful approach, especially when emotions are involved. Whether you`re watching your hometown teams from home, at the stadium, on TV, or online, you need to be wise and reasonable every time you place money on the table.

Detroit Red Wings logo

Detroit Red Wings

The Detroit Red Wings, one of the most successful teams in Detroit sports history, have won 11 Stanley Cup titles so far. This is the team with the third-most titles in the NHL in the USA.

Hockey fans in Michigan place bets on whether the Red Wings will make the playoffs next season or if their star scorer will surpass the 40-goal mark. Keen on hockey, Michiganders can also bet on individual game results with puck line or money line odds. In 2021, the Detroit Red Wings team commenced a collaboration with FanDuel and became its gaming and sports betting partner.

Detroit Pistons logo

Detroit Pistons

Detroit Pistons was probably the toughest basketball team in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Its distinctive take-no-prisoner playstyle removed many of its opponents, leaving them tumbling down the league`s standings. Detroit Pistons` dominance culminated in 1989 and 1990, but the rise of basketball star Michael Jordan overshadowed their uprising.

Detroit Lions logo

Detroit Lions

Established as a team in 1934, the Detroit Lions relished great success by winning the NFL championships back in 1935, 1952, 1953, and 1957. However, after the pre-Super Bowl era came to an end, Detroit football fans have been experiencing tough years.

Today, the Lions see a ray of light as they enjoy high TV ratings, stadium attendance, and growing betting interest. The team announced its partnership with the giant BetMGM, becoming its first official sports betting partner in 2020. The Lions can be proud to be among the top ten championship favorites on most Super Bowl betting sites in 2023.

Detroit Tigers logo

Detroit Tigers

The Detroit Tigers were one of the eight charter members of the 1894 American League. With over a century of baseball behind them, the Tigers can be proud of their 11 won American League pennants and four World Series. Their history is full of famous moments, and they have over 20 Hall of Fame alumni.

Baseball is ideal for online sports betting, with its live-betting and prop betting options available to keep fans thrilled from the opening pitch to the final out. Unfortunately, the local team is currently on a 40-year period without a title.

The Detroit Tigers have established great business relationships with two big, proven names in gambling – FanDuel and BetMGM. The last two brands have been in a business gaming relationship with the AL Central team for many years. Their common goal is to improve the fan experience in Comerica Park and beyond.

Michigan State University logo

Michigan State University

Caesars Sportsbook became Michigan State University Athletics` exclusive and official sports betting partner. This is a historic collaboration with an iconic name in sports gambling for the team. The partnership involves naming rights to a new premium seating section in Spartan Stadium. It also provides MSU supporters with unique mobile sports betting bonuses and gives them access to responsible student-athlete gambling education.

What other types of gambling are legal in Michigan

There are various legal forms of gambling permitted under Michigan laws besides sports betting. These include commercial and tribal casinos, poker rooms, online gambling, horse racing, charity gambling, and the state lottery.

Gambling online has been lawful in Michigan since January 2021 and residents can use the services of licensed online casinos. They can play table games, slots, poker, live casino variants, scratch cards, keno, and many other options. The regulations imposed by the Michigan Gaming Control Board are strict, so Michigan online casinos need to adhere to them to operate by the law.

Land-based casinos are allowed in Michigan. They offer a wide range of gambling activities such as slot machines, table games, and poker rooms. Commercial casinos are subject to strict regulations set forth by the state gaming commission. Tribal casinos that offer similar gaming options to commercial casinos and are operated by Native American tribes under federal law are also permitted. Poker rooms with all kinds of poker games, are popular in Michigan and are available in many casinos and other gaming establishments.

Horse racing, a traditional form of gambling, is still legal in Michigan. Several racetracks operate in the state, so individuals can place bets on live or simulcast races. MI players can engage in charity gambling, such as bingo or raffles, which are all allowed in Michigan under the condition that they raise funds for nonprofit organizations.

The state lottery offers games of chance, selling scratch-off tickets and draw games that give residents the opportunity to win money prizes while contributing to the state education funding as well.

Michigan offers a diverse range of legal gambling options for residents and visitors to enjoy, with regulations in place to ensure fairness and integrity in the industry. Below is a table with a round-up of MI legal forms of gambling.

Allowed types of gamblingMinimum legal ageSubtypes of gambling allowed
Commercial land-based casinos21Casinos, retail sports betting, and pari-mutuel
Internet gambling21Online/mobile casinos, sports betting, DFS, and poker
Tribal land-based casinos18–
Poker rooms21–
Horse racing21–
Charity gambling18Bingo, poker, raffles, “Millionaire parties”
Lottery18–
Sports betting21–

The best Michigan betting sites – Conclusion

In summary, several factors play a crucial role when you choose the best MI online sports betting sites for your needs. The legal landscape and the diversity of options available to bettors make it an exciting time for sports enthusiasts in Michigan. With the launch of several land-based sportsbooks and partnerships with well-known brands such as BetMGM and Borgata, bettors have great options to choose from.

We cannot overlook the convenience of Michigan sports betting sites, which allow users to place wagers wherever and whenever they wish, be it from their own homes or on the move. The sports betting sites in Michigan on this page offer highly competitive odds, a wide number of markets and events to choose from, and tempting promotions for new and existing users.

Overall, the best MI sports betting sites provide bettors with a seamless and secure betting experience, a wide range of sports and betting options, and excellent customer support. Whether it’s the thrill of visiting a land-based sportsbook or the convenience of betting online, Michigan offers a vibrant and evolving landscape for sports betting enthusiasts, including the best MI sportsbooks and top-rated on-site betting venues.

Declan WillisAuthor at Online-Gambling.io

Best Michigan sports betting FAQ

Which are the best Michigan sports betting sites?

Since betting on sports and events is legal in the Wolverine State, the competition for user attention is fierce. You can check our section called the best MI online sports betting sites and choose from our selection of top-rated platforms. Sports bettors have their personal preferences. You might want to try a few sportsbooks before you register so that you find the best Michigan sportsbooks for you.

Can you place real money bets on sports in Michigan?

Yes, sports betting is legal in the state since December 2019 and online wagering on sports became lawful in January 2021 if you use licensed Michigan sportsbooks.

What is the legal sports betting age in MI?

You must be over 21 to place a sports bet in Michigan, which applies to live casinos and online Michigan sportsbooks. For more information check our section on the Sports betting legal age in MI.

Do I have to be a Michigan resident if I want to engage in sports betting on the Internet?

No, you don’t have to be a resident of Wolverine State to open a sports betting account at any online Michigan sportsbook. But you do have to be physically located within the state borders to be allowed to place real money bets with any Michigan sportsbook.