HomeMaryland Sportsbooks

Top Maryland sportsbooks in December 2023

Editor's Choice
Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets
21+ and present in MD. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
New Maryland sportsbook
Second Chance Bet Up To $500
21+ and present in MD. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Fan Favorite
Second Chance Bet Up To $1000
21+ and present in MD. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Second Chance Bet Up To $500
21+ and present in MD. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Up To $1111 in Bonus Bets
21+ and present in MD. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

Best Maryland sportsbooks

  1. DraftKings Sportsbook Maryland: Best Maryland sportsbook overall
  2. Crab Sports Sportsbook Maryland: Best for beginners
  3. Caesars Sportsbook Maryland: Best for desktop users
  4. BetRivers Sportsbook Maryland: Best for same game parlays
  5. Betfred Sportsbook Maryland: Best for live betting

DraftKings logo

1. DraftKings Sportsbook Maryland

DraftKings was firmly established in the daily fantasy sports realm before the legalization of sports gaming in the U.S., so they were poised to expand into the sports betting arena. They launched their online sportsbook in MD on November 23, 2022.

DraftKings will also operate a retail sportsbook at Timonium Racetrack at the Maryland State Fairgrounds.

What we think: DraftKings is an industry powerhouse that offers a top-quality online sportsbook along with a state-of-the-art mobile app.

Crab sports Logo

2. Crab Sports Sportsbook Maryland

Crab Sports launched its online sportsbook in Maryland on July 13, 2023. With a focus on providing a user-friendly and entertaining betting experience, the platform offers a wide selection of sports markets and features such as live in-game betting and customized promotions.

They have demonstrated a commitment to responsible gambling, and they will deliver a solid online product to make a positive statement from the outset.

What we think: We like the intuitive interface that has everything you are looking for but none of the annoying, over-the-top bells and whistles.

Caesars Maryland Icon

3. Caesars Sportsbook Maryland

Caesars Sportsbook in Maryland needs no introduction. It is one of the longest-standing, most popular, and most respected casino and sportsbook brands in the world. It went live in Maryland on November 23, 2022.

As the owner of Horseshoe Casino in Baltimore, they had an easy path to entry into the sports betting mix. The land-based Caesars Sportsbook at the venue is open for business, taking bets seven days a week.

What we think: Caesars is the best sportsbook for desktop users, with a fast-loading website that is clear, colorful, and easy to navigate.

BetRivers

4. BetRivers Sportsbook Maryland

BetRivers Sportsbook is another operator that went live on November 23, 2022. They have an intuitive, easy-to-use platform, and they have built a strong reputation for their player-friendly practices.

BetRivers has a retail sportsbook in Maryland at the popular Bingo World facility in Baltimore.

What we think: The parlay building tool at BetRivers makes it easy to put together parlays of all kinds, and the payouts are competitive.

Betfred

5. Betfred Sportsbook Maryland

Betfred Sportsbook Maryland is a new online sports betting platform that launched on February 10, 2023. This platform is designed to provide a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for sports enthusiasts to place bets. Betfred offers a wide range of sports markets, including football, basketball, baseball, hockey, and many more.

Betfred has a retail location in Maryland at Long Shot’s in Frederick. It has proven to be extremely popular with locals, and ongoing growth is anticipated.

What we think: Betfred has a special stats window that opens automatically when you are betting on a game, making it the best for in-game betting.

Maryland has taken a "more the merrier" approach to issuing sportsbook licenses, so there is a robust market that includes these high-quality operators:

ESPN Bet Sportsbook Maryland

ESPN Bet replaced the Barstool Sportsbook in Maryland in November 2023 following PENN Entertainment’s multi-billion dollar rebranding.

The bookmaker features exclusive content from ESPN’s on-air personalities to enhance the player experience and provide high-level insights from industry experts.

What we think: ESPN Bet is the best sportsbook for beginners because the site is extremely easy to use and the layout is simple and straightforward.

PointsBet Sportsbook Maryland

This bookie is an Australian brand that has been making a major splash in the American market. It launched online in Maryland on November 23, 2022. PointsBet is now a fixture in the state, and they have a physical sportsbook at the Riverboat on the Potomac restaurant and gaming facility.

PointsBet is the home of the innovative Points Betting system, which works in combination with regular odds. Your payout or debit is based on the outcome compared to the spread. You win more if your team covers by a wide margin, and vice-versa.

In addition to this unique concept, you can make traditional bets as well, so they provide total freedom of choice.

What we think: PointsBet's partnership with the NHL means that they are the best for betting on hockey with special promotions and boosted odds.

FanDuel Sportsbook Maryland

FanDuel is one of the biggest sportsbooks in Maryland, and it holds that distinction on the national level as well. They were in the group of seven operators that started taking bets on launch day, which was November 23, 2022.

FanDuel offers betting on a wide variety of sports, and they are big on bonuses for new and existing players. They are always coming up with a new promo to make things more interesting.

The popular bookie has partnered up with Live! Casino Maryland, and they have a retail outlet within the facility where you can bet in person.

What we think: FanDuel's mobile app is one of the best around, with over 300,000 total reviews on the App Store and Play Store, averaging an impressive 4.8 out of 5.

BetMGM Sportsbook Maryland

BetMGM is one of the bookies that launched in Maryland on November 23, 2022. Their parent company, MGM Resorts International, has built a robust portfolio of sports gaming resorts in the United States and Asia. BetMGM is an official partner of the Baltimore Ravens, and they operate one of the best sportsbooks in Maryland.

They already had a presence in the state before going live. MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill is a popular spot for gambling enthusiasts, and it now has a retail sportsbook.

What we think: BetMGM offers competitive odds compared to other sportsbooks in Maryland, so they provide value for your sports betting dollar.

Fanatics sportsbook Maryland

Fanatics Sportsbook has officially launched in Maryland, with the first bets accepted in August 2023. The bookie has only released a mobile version so far, and the sportsbook site redirects to a mobile download link.

That said, Fanatics is in a position to become one of the top bookmakers in Maryland with its generous “FanCash” loyalty program, granting players a percentage of each wager to be saved towards bonus bets and other rewards as they continue to use the sportsbook.

What we think: Fanatics has been aggressive in a push to cover all avenues of the sports universe, from apparel to trading cards and now a sportsbook. With a location inside FedEx Field, the partnership with the Washington Commanders is sure to set the bookie up for success.

SuperBook Sportsbook Maryland

SuperBook, an up-and-coming sportsbook platform, launched in Maryland in May of 2023. With a broad range of betting options and player-friendly features, SuperBook aims to offer a top-notch betting experience to Maryland residents.

Although they do not currently have a retail partner in the state, the platform provides a safe and secure online betting environment for sports enthusiasts in Maryland.

What we think: SuperBook was originally established at the Vegas Hilton in the late 1980s, so the pedigree runs deep. They are operating online in six other states, so their platform is fully developed at this point.

betPARX Sportsbook Maryland

BetPARX is a new kid on the block in Maryland, but the online bookie is already making waves following its August 2023 launch.

Still, the layout of the sportsbook site is aesthetically pleasing, even if it can be a little tricky to navigate at times. The comfortable, familiar design of betPARX’s bookie will make even the most novice bettor feel like a seasoned veteran.

What we think: With player-friendly odds, many markets to choose from, and daily odds boosts, betPARX is an excellent alternative to other online bookies.

Yes, online sportsbooks are fully legal in Maryland. Sports betting in Maryland became legal in 2021, and online betting was launched on November 23, 2022.

The guidelines allow for as many as 60 licenses for online sportsbooks in Maryland. Moreover, up to 50 retail sportsbook licenses are available for land-based casinos and sports teams that want to offer land-based sports betting.

How we rate online sportsbooks

How we rate online sportsbooks

With so many options available, it can be challenging to find the sportsbook that is right for you. It's time-consuming to explore them all, but you don't have to, because we have done the legwork for you. Below, we will explain the five criteria we use to rate Maryland sportsbooks. 

  • Reputation and trustworthiness - The reputation and trustworthiness of a sportsbook are crucial when evaluating its quality. In this regard, we look at the company's history, its regulatory compliance, its track record, and its reputation among its users. A reputable and trustworthy sportsbook will have positive feedback from its users and have a proven track record of prompt payouts and fair betting practices.
  • Betting options and odds - The betting options and odds offered by a sportsbook are other essential factors to consider. They don't vary widely, but there can be subtle differences. We conduct comparisons and factor them into the equation when we rank sportsbooks.
  • User experience and interface - A sportsbook's user interface and overall user experience play a critical role in its rating. A user-friendly platform is essential because there is money at stake.  The design and layout of the site should be visually appealing, and the site's loading speed should be fast.
  • Bonuses and promotions - Bonuses and promotions are a key consideration for many sports bettors. The best sportsbooks offer various promotions, including welcome bonuses, bonus bets, and other incentives. We evaluate the quality and value of these promotions, including the terms and conditions attached.
  • Customer support and service - Finally, a sportsbook's customer service is a vital consideration. It is essential to have access to empowered customer support when it's needed. We evaluate the quality and availability of support resources when we examine an online sportsbook.

How to sign up and pass the verification process for sportsbooks in Maryland

Signing up at an online sportsbook in Maryland is a quick and easy process. After you click one of the links that we are sharing at the top of this page, you will arrive on the promotion registration page. You will be eligible for the welcome bonus when you land.

Then, you provide your basic identifying information as you would when you create any online account. In this instance, you will be asked to enter the last four digits of your Social Security number so your identity can be verified. There is also a geolocation verification that is required by law.

No further action is required in most cases. However, if your identity could not be verified automatically for some reason, you will be asked to submit a copy of your driver’s license or another form of identification.

Sportsbook promos and bonuses in Maryland

Sportsbook promos and bonuses

Each local sportsbook has its own Maryland sports betting promos and bonuses. They come in different forms, and all of them help you build your bankroll. Let's look at some of the bonus structures you can expect to see at the online sportsbooks in MD.

Bonus bets

Many sportsbook promotions provide bonus bets. For example, you may get $200 in bonus bets in return for a $5 real money wager. You receive the bonus bets regardless of the outcome of the cash bet. In other cases, you will receive a refund in bonus bets if you lose your first bet.

Deposit match bonus

The deposit match bonus is another promotion that you will see from time to time, and this type of offer is self-explanatory. A certain percentage of your cash deposit is matched in bonus betting credit. The percentage will vary, but it can be as high as 100% or more.

Boosted payouts

You will see boosted payout promotions at the online sportsbooks in Maryland. They can be offered for any type of bet, but pumped-up parlay payouts are quite common. If you connect with a parlay with a certain number of legs, your payout is boosted above the standard parlay profit.

Special promotions

The MD sportsbooks offer one-off promotions for established players that are linked to events of interest. For instance, you may get a bonus bet refund if you bet a driver to win a big NASCAR race and he finishes in the top five. Special promotions come along all the time, and the Super Bowl run-up is the prime time for these specials.

Maryland legalized sports betting in 2021, allowing residents and visitors to place wagers on a variety of sporting events. Online sports betting launched in 2022, and you can now bet on these sports online and in person:

  • Football: Football is the most popular sport in the United States, and it is the most popular sport for betting by a large margin. Ravens fans can enjoy NFL betting action during the season, and college football also draws a lot of interest at the Maryland books.
  • Basketball: NBA betting is on the menu as well. Regular season wagering is always fun, but the action rises to another level during the playoffs. Plus, on the college side, March Madness is one of the biggest events of the year for sports bettors.
  • Baseball: Watching the Orioles in action is a summer tradition in Maryland. With a rich history and dedicated fan base, the team draws in a lot of MLB betting action during the season.
  • Hockey: Fans of the Washington Capitals can now bet on their team legally at MD sportsbooks. The postseason is when the real competition begins, and the Caps have made some deep runs over recent years.
  • Soccer: Soccer is growing in popularity in all parts of the United States, and Maryland is no exception. Major League Soccer is a popular league to bet on along with international competitions like the World Cup and the UEFA Champions League.
  • Boxing/MMA: Combat sports such as boxing and mixed martial arts are also popular in Maryland. With a number of high-profile fighters hailing from the state, there is always betting action to be found in the boxing and MMA markets.

How to bet at an online sportsbook in MD

Betting on an online sportsbook site in Maryland is easy, safe, and intuitive. These are the steps you take to get in on the action:

  1. Use our reviews to pick a Maryland sportsbook. The first step is sportsbook selection. You can take a look at our Maryland sportsbook reviews to get a basic understanding of what to expect. We cover all the key details, so you can make a choice based on the factors that are most important to you.
  2. Grab your welcome bonus and create an account. When you know where you will be betting, it is time to set up your account. Most importantly, click one of the links that you see on the top of this page to claim your welcome bonus. Then, when you arrive on the registration page, provide your basic personal info to set up your account. The last step is a geolocation verification to confirm that you are in Maryland or another state with legal sports betting. When that checks out, your account will go live.
  3. Make a deposit. Funding is the next step in the process. In most cases, you have to make a deposit to activate the release of your sign-up bonus, but the minimum requirement is quite modest. It is easy to fund your account because all of the standard methods are accepted. We will get into the available methods in more detail in the next section.
  4. Place your first bet. The final step is to actually make your first bet. When you are on the homepage, you will see all the day’s games listed, and you can just scroll through them. There are also prominently placed links to all of the different sports. The interface is intuitive, and all you have to do is click or tap on the bet that you would like to make. It will be transferred to a bet slip that will pop up, and you fill in the amount that you want to wager.

Deposit and withdrawal methods for sportsbooks in Maryland

The ongoing growth of sports betting in Maryland will lead to a continual influx of new sportsbooks, offering users a wide range of betting options. However, before placing any bets, you have to understand the payment options available to you. Here, we will explore the various payment methods accepted by Maryland sportsbooks, providing you with the necessary information to make informed decisions about your deposits and withdrawals.

  • Online banking. Online banking is the preferred deposit and withdrawal method for most sportsbooks. You don’t have to worry about security because you go through your bank directly. Deposits are instantly available for wagering, and withdrawals are completed quickly and efficiently.
  • Visa and Mastercard: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted by sportsbooks in Maryland. This is a convenient and reliable way to fund your account. With instant deposits and fast withdrawals, it's a solid option for sportsbook users.
  • PayPal: PayPal is a digital wallet that has become a popular payment method for sportsbook users in Maryland. This is a simple way to make a deposit, and you can also accept winnings through PayPal. Additionally, PayPal offers various protections against fraud, so it is on par with credit cards when it comes to security.
  • Skrill: Skrill is an e-wallet that allows users to make instant deposits, and it is available at some books. Skrill offers low fees and fast processing times, so there are some major positives.
  • Neteller: Neteller is yet another e-wallet that has become an available payment method at some Maryland sportsbooks. It adds to the wide variety of options that are available to players in the Old Line State.
  • Discover: The Discover credit card is a payment method that's accepted by some sportsbooks in Maryland. It offers cashback rewards and other benefits, making it an excellent option for users who want to earn rewards while betting. Like all credit cards, they have state-of-the-art privacy protection methods in place.
  • Venmo: Venmo is a mobile payment app that allows users to send and receive money. Many Maryland sportsbook users appreciate the ease of use and convenience that it provides. Additionally, Venmo has developed a social feature that gives users a forum for sharing their experiences.
  • American Express: American Express is a payment method that is not accepted by sportsbooks because of transaction fees. However, some sportsbooks accept Amex gift card deposits.

Land-based sportsbooks in Maryland

With a plethora of land-based sportsbooks, sports enthusiasts in the Old Line State now have the opportunity to wager on their favorite sports teams and players. Here is a list of the most popular retail sportsbooks in Maryland:

  • MGM National Harbor: MGM National Harbor is a world-class resort and casino located in Oxon Hill, Maryland. The property offers a state-of-the-art sports betting experience with multiple betting windows, self-service kiosks, and a VIP lounge. The sportsbook, run by BetMGM, features a wide variety of betting options, including straight bets, parlays, and futures wagers.
  • Live! Casino & Hotel: Located in Hanover, Live! Casino & Hotel in Maryland is one of the largest casinos in the state. The property boasts a spacious FanDuel sportsbook with a 47-foot-wide video screen, lounge-style seating, and a variety of betting options. Sports fans can place bets on a wide range of events, including professional and college sports, as well as international competitions. With its modern facilities and convenient location, Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland is a popular choice for sports bettors in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area.
  • Horseshoe Casino Baltimore: Horseshoe Casino Baltimore is a bustling gaming destination located in the heart of downtown Baltimore. The property offers a state-of-the-art sportsbook that’s run by Caesars with multiple betting windows and self-service kiosks. Sports fans can place bets on a variety of events, including football, basketball, baseball, hockey, and more.
  • Ocean Downs Casino: Ocean Downs Casino is a vibrant gaming facility located in Berlin, Maryland. The venue has a retail sportsbook due to its partnership with TwinSpires, and has multiple betting windows, self-service kiosks, and a VIP lounge. You can get down on all sporting events of interest, and several markets are available.
  • Hollywood Casino Perryville: Hollywood Casino Perryville is a gaming and entertainment complex located in Perryville, Maryland. The casino harbors a sizable ESPN Bet Sportsbook, with live betting windows and self-service stations. Sports fans have all of the typical betting options seven days a week. With its convenient location and friendly staff, Hollywood Casino Perryville is a top choice for sports bettors in the Chesapeake Bay area.
  • Bingo World Baltimore: Bingo World Baltimore is a unique gaming and entertainment venue. In addition to its extensive bingo offerings, the venue also features a BetRivers book. This is a full-service sportsbook with all of the standard bets and markets up for grabs. With its lively atmosphere and friendly staff, Bingo World Baltimore is a fun and exciting destination for sports enthusiasts in the area.
  • Riverboat on the Potomac: Riverboat on the Potomac is a charming gaming and entertainment haven located in Colonial Beach, Virginia, but it sits in Maryland waters. The PointsBet sportsbook section has an upbeat sports bar atmosphere, and the food at the venue is top-notch.
  • Greenmount Station: Greenmount Station is a popular bar, restaurant, and OTB parlor located in Hampstead, Maryland. The facility also has a small sportsbook that’s run by betPARX. Fans can place bets on a variety of events all year around. With a lot of action available in a cool setting, Greenmount Station is a great resource for sports enthusiasts in the Carroll County area.
  • Long Shot's: Long Shot's is a sports bar and restaurant located in Frederick, Maryland. The sportsbook at Long Shot's is operated by Betfred, and they endeavor to exceed expectations. The sportsbook is equipped with high-definition screens and comfortable seating, creating an immersive betting experience for patrons.
  • Timonium Racetrack: The Timonium Racetrack in Maryland is set to welcome a new addition in 2023 with the launch of the DraftKings retail sportsbook. The book will provide sports enthusiasts with an opportunity to enjoy horse racing and other sports betting in a vibrant and engaging atmosphere. The racetrack is part of the Maryland State Fairgrounds complex in Baltimore County, Maryland.

Tips for picking a team to bet on

People that are new to sports betting often make rookie mistakes that can be costly. If you heed the insight that we share below before you place wagers at a MD sportsbook, you can steer clear of some of these traps.

  1. Do your homework. There is a lot of information available about each matchup, and the comparisons are conducted with betting in mind. You can use online handicapping tools that will help you make informed decisions to maximize your chances of success. Plus, most people surf the internet aimlessly at times, and handicapping can become an interesting hobby to occupy some of your spare moments.
  2. Bankroll management. Some people are good at research, and they make logical bets. However, they do not manage their money carefully, and they wind up losing in the long run. You should designate a dedicated bankroll that is used strictly for sports betting. Decide on a standard betting increment that fits into your budget, and stick with it consistently.
  3. Have fun! A tiny handful of very serious bettors will actually turn a significant profit on a consistent basis. Professional sports gamblers are few and far between, and there is no reason to think that you will become one of them. To avoid problem gambling, keep the activity in perspective. Betting is fun if you stay within your means, and you should try not to take yourself too seriously.

How are sportsbooks taxed in Maryland?

Large sportsbooks in Maryland, both retail and online, pay a fixed 15% gambling tax, while smaller ones pay 13% on their gross profits. In addition, the licensing fee for large Class A-1 retail operators is $2 million with a $500,000 renewal fee every five years.

The fees are tiered at lower levels for the three other classes of retail licenses. For mobile operators of all sizes, the initial fee is $500,000, and there is a $100,000 renewal fee.

Should I sign up for multiple MD sportsbooks?

When considering whether to sign up for multiple sportsbooks in Maryland, there are several factors to think about. First and foremost, it is important to remember that gambling can be a risky activity and should only be done responsibly.

With that being said, signing up for multiple betting sites can offer several advantages. One of the biggest advantages is the ability to shop for the best odds. Different betting sites will often offer different odds on the same events, so by signing up for multiple sites, you can compare the odds and choose the most favorable option. This can ultimately increase your chances of winning and maximize your potential profits.

Another advantage of signing up for multiple betting sites is the ability to take advantage of promotions and bonuses. Betting sites will often offer sign-up bonuses, free bets, and other promotions to attract new customers. By signing up for multiple sites, you can take advantage of these offers and potentially increase your winnings.

Ultimately, whether or not you should sign up for multiple betting sites in Maryland depends on your personal preferences and gambling goals. If you are looking to maximize your winnings and are willing to put in the extra effort to manage multiple accounts, signing up for multiple betting operators could be a smart move. However, if you prefer to stick with one site or are concerned about the potential risks of gambling, it may be better to limit your activity to a single site.

Best sportsbook bonuses in MD


DraftKings Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets
21+ and present in MD. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Crab Sports Second Chance Bet Up To $500
21+ and present in MD. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Caesars Second Chance Bet Up To $1000
21+ and present in MD. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
BetRivers Second Chance Bet Up To $500
21+ and present in MD. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Betfred Up To $1111 in Bonus Bets
21+ and present in MD. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

FAQ

Can I legally bet at sportsbooks in Maryland?

Yes, you can legally bet at sportsbooks in Maryland. Online sportsbooks have been available since November 2022, and you can also visit a retail sportsbook to bet on your favorite sports.

What age do I need to be to place a sports bet in Maryland?

You need to be at least 21 years old to join sportsbooks in Maryland.

Do all Maryland sportsbooks offer mobile apps?

Yes, in Maryland, all sportsbooks provide mobile apps. These Maryland betting apps are designed for convenience, allowing users to place bets, track scores, and manage their accounts directly from their smartphones.

Is it safe to bet on Maryland sportsbooks?

Yes, it is safe to bet on Maryland sportsbooks. The legal sportsbooks that are licensed by the state are well-regulated by relevant authorities, so you can be sure that your money is safe.

Which Maryland sportsbook provides the quickest payout?

DraftKings, Caesars, ESPN Bet, FanDuel, and BetMGM are known for fast payouts. However, there is no one sportsbook in Maryland that definitively pays out the quickest. The payout speed will depend on the withdrawal method you use.

Do sportsbooks in Maryland track your IP?

Yes, sportsbooks in Maryland track your IP, but it's not an unnecessary privacy intrusion. They are required to keep track of your location to comply with state gambling guidelines.

Fact checked by: Gary Garry