Nebraska Casino Guide
Facts About Gambling & Online Casinos in Nebraska
With solid competition just across the river from Omaha, you’d think that Nebraska would have a few casinos, but the fact is that the state is not a haven for those who want to gamble. Per Statute 28-1101, gambling offenses can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the amount you bet and if this is your first offense. If you’re heading to Nebraska to gamble, you’re pretty much limited to horse racing, Keno, and a state lottery.
The only casinos in Nebraska are found on tribal lands. These are not large casino resorts, in fact, the games found within the premises are limited to slots, video poker, Keno, and Bingo. For many, it’s easier and often more fun to stay home and play in an online casino that accepts Nebraska residents.
History of Gambling in Nebraska
Gambling was completely illegal until 1934 when horse racing was legalized by the state government. Another 20 years passed before any changes were made, and at that point it was to legalize bingo. The next change came in 1967 when raffles and lotteries were legalized. The only other change since then was in 1988 when simulcast races were legalized.
The other change in 1988 came from the Federal Government. Native Americans were given legal permission to open casinos on tribal lands. Some small casinos did open up following that, though they really cannot compete with larger casinos found over the state lines.
Age Restrictions for Gambling in Nebraska
There are three ages to pay attention to in Nebraska. To bet on horses or play in charity bingo games, you must be 18. If you want to purchase tickets for the state lottery, plan on proving you are at least 19. Finally, you need to be 21 to gamble in a tribal casino.
Nebraska’s Casino Gambling Outlook
There is hope on the horizon that Nebraska is starting to warm to the ideal of legalizing some forms of gambling. A bill originated by Senator Tyson Larson is currently being discussed. If it passes, poker games could become legal. Right now, the debate rests heavily on whether poker is a game of skill or a game of luck. Should this pass, poker rooms could start popping up throughout Nebraska and hopefully be followed by discussions involving the legalization of full-blown casinos in Nebraska, something Senator Karpisek has been rallying for since 2014.
Local Casinos
If you don’t want to play in online casinos that welcome Nebraska players, you have a few options. First, you could go to a small keno parlor, there are a few around. If you want something bigger, try these three Nebraska casinos.
Ironhorse Bar & Casino – North of Omaha, Ironhorse is run by the Winnebago tribe. This casino is open from Tuesday to Sunday and has just over 80 slot machines.
Lucky 77 Casino – You’ll find bingo, table games, and slots at Lucky 77. The Omaha tribe runs the casino that’s just south of Sioux City, Iowa.
Ohiya Casino & Resort – Located in the northern part of Nebraska, Ohiya is a tribal casino resort offering bingo and 400 slots.