Washington DC Sports Betting: Best DC Sportsbooks in July 2026
Updated July 22, 2026
Welcome to your ultimate guide for Washington, D.C. sports betting! BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, Fanatics, and FanDuel Sportsbook are now available district-wide, and you can sign up today to unlock thousands of dollars in welcome bonuses.
In this article, we'll explore all things sports betting in the District of Columbia, including the legal landscape, top DC sportsbooks (both online and in-person), latest developments, and much more.
By the time we're finished, you'll be ready to join the exciting world of D.C. sports betting and start placing your wagers with confidence. Now, let's dive right in and get started!
The United States Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in May 2018, removing a 25-year federal ban on sports betting across the country.
Eight months later, in January 2019, Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser signed Bill 22-944 (the Sports Wagering Lottery Amendment Act of 2018), legalizing both online and retail sports betting in the nation's capital and giving the DC Lottery the authority to oversee and regulate the market.
Below, you will find a timeline of events that have formed the history of sports betting in Washington D.C.
Fanatics Sportsbook launches in Washington D.C.
DraftKings Sportsbook launches in D.C.
BetMGM and Caesars Sportsbook launch in Washington D.C.
FanDuel Sportsbook launches in D.C.
Gambet DC launches as the first online sportsbook in D.C.
Bill 22-944 was signed into law, legalizing sports betting in Washington D.C.
Sports betting options in Washington, D.C. can be broken down into four distinct categories:
As of our latest update, there are five sports betting sites and apps available in Washington D.C.: BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, Fanatics, and FanDuel.
GambetDC, which had been the only sportsbook permitted to offer district-wide online wagering since 2020, was officially shut down in April 2024.
This closure has led to a more competitive market, allowing these established sportsbooks to provide a wider range of options and promotions for bettors in the district.
Now, let's take a closer look at each of Washington DC's legal sportsbooks:
BetMGM Sportsbook launched its mobile sports betting app in the nation's capital on June 10, 2021 through a partnership with the MLB's Washington Nationals. Previously, wagers could only be placed through BetMGM when an individual was within a two-block radius of Nationals Park.
However, the app expanded across the district in July 2024. Today, you can sign up at BetMGM Sportsbook and wager from anywhere in Washington, D.C., enjoying a wide range of betting options on all your favorite sports and leagues.
Caesars Sportsbook went live in Washington, D.C. in August 2022, migrating from its former Caesars Sportsbook by William Hill platform to offer more betting markets, faster payouts, and a cleaner interface.
They are partnered with the NHL's Washington Capitals and (like BetMGM) previously only offered mobile betting to anyone within a two-block radius of Capital One Arena.
But everything changed on July 17, 2024, when the sportsbook expanded its reach, allowing users to place bets from anywhere in the district. This shift made it much easier for bettors to access a wider variety of sports and events.
With new features like live betting and exciting promotions, Caesars Sportsbook has already made a strong impact in the D.C. sports betting market, attracting both new and experienced bettors.
FanDuel Sportsbook stepped in to replace GambetDC on April 15, 2024, and for a few months, it was the only app available for betting across the district. Prior to this, FanDuel had been providing retail sports betting at Audi Field, home of Major League Soccer's DC United, for several years.
Today, you can place your bets online or in person with FanDuel, and you're sure to enjoy a seamless betting experience.
The app boasts user-friendly navigation, allowing you to quickly find your favorite sports and markets. Plus, with the option to watch select games live through the app, you can keep track of your wagers and even make in-play bets!
On July 25, 2024, DraftKings Sportsbook went live in Washington, D.C. after securing a Class C license through a partnership with DC United. It became the fourth betting app to launch in the district, and you can place bets with DraftKings from anywhere within the city.
With one of the industry's best mobile app, a wide range of player prop markets, and exciting promotions for both new and existing users, DraftKings delivers a dynamic and user-friendly betting experience to sports fans all over DC.
Fanatics is the most recent sportsbook to launch in Washington, D.C. It went live on September 12, 2024 through a partnership with the Washington Spirit, the city's professional women's soccer team competing in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL).
Like DraftKings, Fanatics Sportsbook has secured a Class C license, allowing you to place bets from anywhere in the district.
What sets Fanatics apart is its exciting FanCash Rewards Program, which lets you earn points on your bets that can be redeemed for merchandise, bonus bets, and plenty of other great prizes!
GamebetDC was a government-run entity powered by the DC Lottery, and for 3+ years, it served as the only D.C. sportsbook allowed to offer district-wide mobile betting. The platform received mixed reviews over the years, as many users complained about the app being unreliable and not very user-friendly.
In addition, GamebetDC offered below-average odds, taking a much bigger house edge than other operators in the city, and rarely provided bonuses or promotions to existing users.
Ultimately, GamebetDC was similar to other state-run sportsbooks, such as Sports Bet Montana or Sportsbook Rhode Island. They left much to be desired but were not highly motivated to make improvements since they had a monopoly on the market at the time.
However, in March 2024, the D.C. Lottery announced that FanDuel would replace GambetDC as the new district-wide online sportsbook. GambetDC was shut down about a month later, and it remains unavailable to this day.
Washington, D.C. has its own set of rules and regulations when it comes to sports betting, setting the framework for both retail and online options within the district. Here's a quick breakdown of everything you need to know:
Wondering what your options are for gambling in Washington, D.C., beyond sports betting? Well, let's take a look:
Like many other states and jurisdictions across the United States, Washington D.C. permits daily fantasy sports (DFS) to exist in a legal gray area, as there are no laws explicitly allowing or prohibiting DFS platforms.
As a result, D.C. residents can sign up and enter paid contests with DraftKings, FanDuel, Underdog Fantasy, and many popular DFS sites and apps to compete for their share of enormous prize pools.
Unfortunately, betting on horse racing is off-limits in Washington, D.C. There are no active horse racing tracks or simulcast facilities that offer in-person wagering options.
In addition, popular horse racing betting sites (such as FanDuel Racing, TwinSpires, or AmWager) are not authorized to operate in the nation's capital.
There are more options for sports betting than the sportsbooks listed above. Social sportsbooks offer players the chance to claim bonuses just for logging in, which they can use to earn sweepstakes entries that can turn into real cash prizes. Don't overlook this option as you start your sports betting journey in the District of Columbia.
There are currently half a dozen retail sportsbooks operating in Washington, D.C., with more likely to open in the upcoming years. Here are the options available today:
BetMGM Sportsbook at Nationals Park opened on January 31, 2022, becoming the first retail sportsbook connected to an MLB ballpark. The site offers a 4,000-square-foot bar, six betting windows, 17 self-service betting kiosks, and much more.
Visitors will get to watch their bets play out on wall-to-wall screens while enjoying daily Happy Hours at BetMGM Sportsbook. In addition, complimentary parking is offered on non-event days at Nationals Park to all bettors.
Caesars Sportsbook at Capital One Arena launched in May 2021, making history as the first retail sportsbook inside a U.S. professional sports facility.
The 18,000-square-foot establishment offers 20 sports betting kiosks and now includes Guy Fieri’s D.C. Kitchen + Bar, where visitors will be able to order food and drinks from an extensive dining menu while cheering on their favorite players and teams.
FanDuel Sportsbook at Audi Field became the first retail sportsbook at an MLS stadium when it opened its doors in July 2022.
The sportsbook is located just inside Gate A on the north side of the stadium, and visitors will be able to place wagers on a wide range of sports and leagues at any of the three betting windows or nearly two dozen self-service kiosks.
Once they place their wagers, bettors can sit back, relax, and watch the game of their choice on any of the site's 48+ TV screens.
Grand Central Sportsbook accepted its first wager on October 4, 2021 and became the first Class B license holder to offer sports betting in the nation's capital after partnering with Elys Game Technology.
The full-service sportsbook offers a multitude of wagering options from both kiosks and window service, and it is conveniently located in the heart of DC's Adams Morgan District.
In early 2024, Elys Game Technology opened a second Grand Central Sportsbook location on H Street, expanding its presence in D.C.
This spot offers a cozy setting where visitors can easily place bets using kiosks or the staffed betting window. It's a fantastic addition for those in the neighborhood looking to enjoy a casual betting experience without the hustle and bustle of larger sportsbooks.
The Over Under Sportsbook Rooftop Lounge is considered the first establishment of its kind, as the establishment is located directly above The Cloakroom, the most acclaimed gentleman's club in the district.
The rooftop sportsbook features wall-to-wall screens, self-service betting kiosks, and a huge cocktail bar.
With its vibrant atmosphere and state-of-the-art amenities, the Over Under Sportsbook Rooftop Lounge guarantees an unforgettable sports viewing and betting experience for patrons seeking both excitement and luxury.
Time needed: 5 minutes
Are you ready to start betting on all your favorite sports and leagues? Just follow the steps listed below!
Sports culture in Washington DC is deeply ingrained in the city's identity, fostering a sense of pride and passion among its residents. The city embraces a diverse range of sports, from football and basketball to baseball and hockey, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts.
A few of the most popular teams in Washington, D.C. are discussed below!
The Washington Commanders have captured the hearts of Washington, D.C. sports enthusiasts, who passionately support their hometown football team.
With a rich history and a legacy deeply intertwined with the city, the Commanders' games at FedExField draw enthusiastic crowds, fostering an electric atmosphere that showcases the unwavering dedication and love of the local fanbase.
The NBA's Washington Wizards hold a special place in the hearts of basketball enthusiasts in the nation's capital.
With their exciting style of play and a roster of talented players, the Wizards consistently captivate fans with thrilling games at the Capital One Arena, drawing a fervent crowd that embraces the team through both victories and challenges.
The Washington Nationals have become an integral part of Washington, D.C.'s sports fabric, uniting fans from all walks of life.
The Nationals' success, including their memorable World Series win in 2019, has sparked a sense of pride and excitement throughout the city, with fans eagerly filling Nationals Park to witness the team's remarkable performances on the diamond.
The Washington Capitals enjoy a dedicated and passionate fan base that has stood by the team through ups and downs.
With their exhilarating brand of hockey and a roster of talented players, the Capitals have fostered a strong bond with Washington, D.C. fans who proudly display their support, creating an electric atmosphere at the Capital One Arena during home games.
The Georgetown Hoyas are the athletic teams representing Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. They compete in the NCAA's Division I as part of the Big East Conference.
The Hoyas have a storied basketball program, with a rich history that includes five Final Four appearances and a national championship in 1984. Their games are held at the Capital One Arena, where fans gather to support the team and experience the excitement of college basketball.
While there is no foolproof method to guarantee big winnings in the world of sports betting, there are plenty of guidelines to follow and strategies to implement to increase your chances of long-term success.
Here are a few of the best tips and tricks for Washington, D.C. sports bettors:
Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Washington DC?
Yes! Online sports betting has been legal in Washington, D.C., since May 2020, following the passage of the Sports Wagering Lottery Amendment Act. Initially dominated by the government-run GambetDC, the market has since expanded to include popular sportsbooks like BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, Fanatics, and FanDuel.
Can I Bet on College Sports in Washington DC?
Yes! Washington, D.C. bettors can place wagers on college sporting events, as long as they do not take place in the District of Columbia or involve a DC school (e.g., Georgetown University).
Is Daily Fantasy Sports Legal in Washington DC?
Yes! DraftKings, FanDuel, Underdog Fantasy, and plenty of other popular DFS sites and apps allow participants from Washington, D.C. However, there is no specific law that allows or prohibits these types of platforms in the nation's capital.
What Is the Legal Age for Sports Betting in Washington DC?
Sports betting in Washington, D.C. is only available to individuals who are 18 years or older.