We’d all like to hit it rich, and what better way to do that than to try our luck against the house. When it comes to gambling, there are several ways to potentially hit it big. Different types of gambling depend on the state laws, with Pennsylvania legalizing the majority of games of chance.
That’s not to say that everything is legal (there are still countless types of illegal gambling in the country), but there’s something for everyone.
Currently, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has four separate categories for different casino licenses. These include stand-alone casinos, horse race track casinos, resort casinos, and satellite casinos.
Try out a casino for in-person play
For anyone wanting to spend a few hours in the casino, Pennsylvania is home to 13 different casinos. Players will find slots, tables, and horse tracks on-site; buy-ins depend on the game and the machine, with everything from penny machines to high-stakes betting available.
Table games offer all fan favorites, from roulette, craps, and blackjack. For those capable of bluffing, bettors can take a seat at the poker tables.
Enjoy playing a game of chance
If you’re looking for something a little calmer for the eyes, games of chance may be the perfect opportunity to win big. Pennsylvania allows many different types of gambling within this genre, including bingo, punchboards, fifty-fifty draws, and raffles.
Most activities are available in non-profit organizations and for-profit taverns. Unlike most types of gambling, the legal age for playing bingo is 18 in Pennsylvania. Participants still bet to win profit, despite being connected to charity events. Currently, there are three different versions available, video bingo, 80-ball bingo, and 30-ball bingo.
Play online from the comfort of home
Currently, Pennsylvania is the only state to allow both lottery tickets and gaming online. Interested users can find multiple online casinos and online poker sites in PA.
Platforms will enable user registration, complete with age verification and payment details. From there, participants can access a host of activities. Whether you’re looking for sports betting, casino games, or fantasy sports, the options are endless. Users wanting to play poker can enjoy Hold’Em, 5 Card Stud, and High-Lo online too.
Users must vet all websites carefully as only approved and vetted domains are currently legal. Most real-money gambling sites are connected to a traditional casino within the state. Platforms are available on all devices, with many options offering android or iOS apps.
Win big with the lottery
As one of the oldest types of gambling, there’s still massive appeal for those players wanting to hit big.
Pennsylvania currently allows instant games, daily picks, and state-wide lotteries. Tickets can be purchased at many retailers or online, with PA iLottery providing online tickets. Users can also use this website for Xpress Sports, a sports betting service (for most major sports and virtual horse races).
Understanding the difference between legal and illegal operators
One of the essential features of legal vendors is online safety. All online platforms are regulated to ensure customer data and security is a top priority. The PGCB mandates all online websites, keeping online environments safe, up-to-date, and healthy customer base.
Illegal websites have no one regulating the platform. They don’t have to follow the PGCB mandates, which can compromise user accounts or online security. Illegal websites also have no reason to serve fair games either.
Websites not monitored under the bill can rig games however it would like in terms of odds or success (for example, having the house always win). As such, users should exercise extreme caution when using online websites. Always ensure the platform you’re using is recognized by the PGCB.