Best Maryland Online Casinos in 2026

Although Maryland is still working on legalizing online casino sites, the state's gambling scene is changing quickly. Online sports betting went live in 2022, and online casinos could soon follow suit. 

Multiple online casino bills have already traversed significant stages of the legislative process. Lawmakers have already made a clear testament to Maryland’s progressive outlook on gambling.

A bill for online gambling was proposed in 2025, but it didn't pass. That said, with lawmakers proposing to legalize indicates a willingness to expand online gambling in the future.

Instead of wagering with real money, players can play online slot machines and table games for free. This is possible because of Maryland social casinos. They offer an immersive, casino-like experience, although without all the thrills of real money gambling. 

Registering at these social casinos is a simple process that typically requires players providing basic personal information. Once registered, you can explore the gaming section and play to your heart's content. Remember that you won't win any real prizes. 

Alongside social casinos, sweeps casinos are also alternative online platforms that offer casino-style games. However, these platforms operate slightly differently from social casinos. 

At sweepstakes casinos, players can purchase a virtual currency, often referred to as “sweeps coins”, alongside regular “coins”. Users can use both to play games. Unlike standard virtual coins, these sweeps coins can be exchanged for cash prizes, providing an added thrill for players.

At Maryland’s top casinos, you can play a wide array of games for free, offering players an entertaining and risk-free experience. These free games include classic favorites such as blackjack, roulette, and an assortment of slot machines.

It’s worth noting that the available range of free games may vary slightly between operators. Despite these variations, you’re sure to find casino classics like online slots and traditional table games at most locations.

With online casino apps, they provide a semblance of the thrill that real-money betting offers. As well as improved usability and superior connectivity, you can turn on alerts and notifications, helping you stay in the know of the hottest Maryland social casino bonuses. 

Presently, the only legally available promo codes for casinos online in the state are offered by sweepstakes casinos. These promotions often take the form of free coins or credits, providing players with more opportunities to enjoy the available games.

Although not involving real money, these promotions provide players with an enhanced gaming experience and a taste of the thrill of casino gaming. It’s an excellent way for players to explore various games and hone their skills before the anticipated legalization of real-money online gambling.

The history of casino legislation in the state is a unique one. There have been significant developments, like Bill SB 267 signaling a shift towards broader legalization. 

The bill was proposed by Senator Ron Watson, who estimated that legal Maryland online casinos could generate over $100 million in annual tax for the Old Line State. SB 267 planned to tax online operators at 15%, with licenses estimated to cost $500,000. 

Even though the bill failed to pass into the House in 2023, hope is not lost. The legislature can still revisit the topic of legal Maryland online casinos. However, it may be several years before Maryland online casinos officially launch.

Since 2021, players in Maryland have been able to legally place wagers on various sports events. Multiple operators, including industry giants like FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM, offer their services to Maryland players, providing a variety of betting options.

Maryland was also one of the first states in the US to legalize paid-entry DFS betting. The success of this industry may pave the way for online casinos, providing valuable insights and frameworks that could be applied to this new sector once it becomes legal.

While Maryland online casinos are yet to become legal, the land-based casinos within Maryland offer a compelling alternative for those who enjoy casino games. These establishments provide a myriad of gaming options, including slots, table games, poker, and more in an atmosphere teeming with energy and excitement. 

It’s interesting to note that unlike in many US states, Maryland does not have tribal casinos. Instead, all of Maryland’s casinos are run commercially, offering a range of gambling opportunities that cater to different tastes and preferences. 

Here is an overview of the six commercial casinos you can visit in the state of Maryland:

• Hollywood Casino Perryville: Located in Baltimore, Hollywood Casino Perryville offers a blend of classic and modern casino games. With numerous slot machines and various table games, including poker, this casino promises an exhilarating experience for all. 
• Horseshoe Baltimore: Owned by Caesars Entertainment, this Baltimore-based casino is a hub of gaming activity that offers an enhanced selection of food and drink options with a variety of live music performances. The casino features an extensive selection of slot machines and a range of table games, including an impressive poker room.
• Live! Casino and Hotel: Also located in Baltimore, Live! Casino and Hotel is more than a casino – it’s an entire entertainment complex. It boasts a state-of-the-art casino floor, a luxurious hotel, an array of dining venues, and a live music venue. 

Despite the lack of legalization for online poker in Maryland, poker enthusiasts can still partake in live games at the state’s land-based casinos. That said, Maryland doesn't have any standalone venues exclusively operating as poker or card rooms. However, you’ll still find poker rooms within the state’s commercial casinos. 

Racinos are unique establishments that combine the thrill of casino gaming with pari-mutuel betting on horse racing. In Maryland, Ocean Downs is a notable example of a racino, providing a diverse gambling experience to its patrons that it has been for years. 

These venues offer a dynamic gambling environment where patrons can enjoy casino games like video slots and table games. Alongside this, of course, you can bet on live horse races or simulcast racing events. 

Other notable racinos in Maryland include:

• Far Hill Races
• Greenmount Station
• Laurel Park
• Long Shot’s
• Pimlico Race Course
• Riverboat on the Potomac
• Rosecraft Raceway
• Timonium Fairgrounds

All the casinos in Maryland put extra care into ensuring their clients are safe when participating. The state offers various resources to aid individuals dealing with gambling-related issues, including self-exclusion programs, counseling services, and educational materials. 

Furthermore, the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-522-4700) is available to provide support and assistance to anyone struggling with problem gambling. Don’t hesitate to call if you or anyone you know is struggling with gambling addiction.