Gambling in Alaska is highly restricted. The state has no commercial casinos and no traditional tribal casinos — unusual given its 229 federally recognized tribes. Under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, Alaska tribes were classified as corporations rather than sovereign nations, which limits their gaming rights under federal law. As a result, tribal gaming is confined to Class II games only — bingo and pull-tab machines — with no slots or table games permitted. Charitable gaming is the primary legal option statewide, with nonprofits and charities operating bingo halls, pull tab games, and raffles that generate over $100 million annually. Sweepstakes casinos are legal and available online under promotional law. Private social gambling — card and dice games among friends with no house take — is permitted. Cruise ships on Alaska itineraries can operate full casinos once in international waters, a unique option not available in most other states. There is no state lottery, no licensed sports betting, and no online casino gambling (iGaming).

Charitable Gaming Dominates

Charitable gaming is the backbone of legal gambling in Alaska. Bingo halls operate in major cities like Anchorage, Juneau, and Fairbanks, with tribal facilities such as Sitka Tribal Bingo, Klawock Bingo, and MIC Gaming Hall among the most active. Pull tab machines are widespread in bars and licensed venues. Raffles and unique sporting contests — including wagers on dog mushing races, salmon runs, and weather events — are also permitted under charitable gaming provisions. Together, these generate over $100 million in annual revenue, substantial for a state of Alaska's size.

A standout option for Alaska residents is cruise ship gambling. Many cruise lines offering Alaska itineraries operate full casinos onboard once in international waters, where gambling is legal. This is a legal gambling avenue available nowhere else in the country — a perk of Alaska's geography and its thriving summer cruise season.

Gambling Options in Other States