Who is this article suitable for?
Our look at the finest sportsbooks in Louisiana may be comprehensive but our aim is simple. We want to provide a blueprint, a jumping off point, for those who are new to betting in Louisiana. Now, this is ever so slightly different to our other guides, such as our best sportsbook New Jersey article, for example. That’s because many people there may already be signed up to an operator and be perfectly happy where they are.
When it comes to betting in Louisiana, we’re all newcomers to an extent because everyone looking to bet legally in the state will be doing so for the first time. That means that we think pretty much everyone would benefit from checking out this guide, alongside more specific pieces like our Bet365 bonus analysis.
Of course, this article is most suitable for residents from the state of Louisiana. We have other guides for other states, like our best sportsbook Pennsylvania guide, among many others. You would also need to be interested in betting online, and in finding a new operator to bet with. Other than that, we hope everyone can enjoy and learn from our looking at the finest Louisiana sportsbook selection.
The legal history of betting in Louisiana
You might be surprised to learn that the history of betting in Louisiana is both much simpler and more modern than many people might expect. This is overwhelmingly because most of that history actually relates to casino gambling.
As a quick overview, lotteries were permitted in the state in the mid-18th century. Louisiana then went back-and-forth in terms of legalisation until there was a giant leap forward for the state’s casino options with the famous floating casinos of the 1990s. Louisiana now has the highest per capita for casinos in the whole of the United States.
Although not the focus of this article, it’s interesting that we’ve only been able to really talk about the Louisiana sportsbook for the last couple of years. The Sports Betting Bill was passed in February 2020. And if you’ve ever needed proof that the law moves slowly, consider that we’re still waiting for the launch of Louisiana betting sites nearly two years later. Indeed, it wasn’t until October 2021 that we actually got some names announced for the first set of licensed sports operators and they began accepting registration. We’ll discuss some of those names specifically in the next section.
Before all this, the only really important landmark in terms of sports betting legislation came back in 1923 — close to two centuries after the first government-run lottery. This solely allowed for horse racing, making Louisiana a tourist spot for fans of the sport of kings. That’s right, we’ve waited nearly 100 years for the online Louisiana sportsbook, which our research suggests is still set to launch in January 2022, according to most sources. Although, no official date has been set. It will not be the last piece of Louisiana sports betting history, but it might be the most important.
Editor’s recommendation – the best Louisiana sportsbook right now
While we certainly expect many more to become available in the near future, you may be interested to learn that there are already 13 operational licenses set to go in the state of Louisiana. These include huge names like Betway, BetMGM, FanDuel and many more highly reputable options. It’s certainly enough to keep our experts busy with the likes of our FanDuel Louisiana sportsbook review, to give just one example.
That said, there’s something of a dilemma here. We pride ourselves on personally testing everything we recommend. But as betting in Louisiana has not yet launched properly, it leaves something that we would typically take for granted, lacking. Luckily, these big names not only have huge reputations but also many comparable sites from other states. We can consider these very likely to reflect what’s available in Louisiana. Many, as well as offering early registration, are also showcasing the soon to be available welcome offers, meaning there’s many new exciting sportsbook promo codes to consider.
With that in mind, we’ve decided to go for a Louisiana sportsbook which we think not only has mass appeal, but is also exceptional in its own way. We’re not just talking about the sign up offer, either. FanDuel offers some of the best sports and fantasy betting in the whole world and we cannot wait to see what their Louisiana iteration looks like. Our expectations are sky high, and we also expect them to be the best option for many, hence our editor’s recommendation.
No Sweat First Bet up to $1,000
Five tips for a secure and fair gambling experience while betting in Louisiana
We pride ourselves on our reviews being utilized as a kind of shortcut to ensure your betting remains safe — certainly on a technical level. We conduct all the security checks we possibly can which we consider as being relevant to our reviews. And no operator will get a positive response from us unless they’re squeaky clean in that regard. No amount of betting variety can make up for an unsafe operator.
That said, some people do like to go further and check out the security credentials for themselves. So, if you want to go beyond simply reading the review, and also to gain some insight into the kind of things we test to make sure a site is safe, here’s our five-point guide to determining the safety of a Louisiana sportsbook.
Look for basic security information
There’s a selection of simple, key testing points which need to be present. These include licensing, encryption and privacy policy. These should all be easy to find — often, information or links to the relevant details are simply found at the bottom of a homepage. If not, you could ask customer service to direct you to what you’re looking for. Never accept an unlicensed or unencrypted site, or one which cannot direct you to verification of those features.
Check out responsible gaming tools and policies
When it comes to red flags on a betting site, few are as concerning as a lack of care for responsible gaming. If a site isn’t willing to take the steps to keep you safe, then they cannot be trusted in general, in our opinion. That’s why it’s important to find information on responsible gaming. Preferably, check out the various tools and links to help those who need to maintain control and to get outside help if they lose control of their gambling.
Keep on top of your gambling
Keeping safe isn’t just down to the operator. They can provide all those tools and advice but ultimately, it’s up to you to use them. It’s just like how it’s up to you to ensure you’re always keeping on top of your spending and never betting more than you’re comfortable losing. Remember that betting in Louisiana should always be fun, and if it stops being that way, then it’s time for you to walk away and consider using the help offered.
Read through terms and conditions
Think of terms and conditions as the Louisiana sportsbook rules. They dictate how the site can be used, how they expect you to use it, and what their response will be if you break those rules. During registration, you’ll be asked to agree to the terms and conditions. This is essentially you accepting that set of rules as a code of conduct you will follow on the site. The only way to know if they’re acceptable to you is to read them. We would give you the exact same advice when it comes to promotional terms and conditions as well.
Ensure the banking options suit you
Something people often overlook in the excitement of signing up to a new betting site is the importance of making sure you have a fair set of banking options that suit you and how you like to play. Indeed, if there are no relevant banking options which work for you, it could make the rest of the quality of a Louisiana sportsbook irrelevant, as you can’t deposit in the way you want. Beyond simple banking options, you should also check for any fees outlined and transaction times, to ensure those are fair and reasonable.
What do we look for when evaluating operators for Louisiana residents?
It’s one thing saying that our reviews have incredibly high standards, but what actually goes into them? Well, our first priority is, of course, your security. That’s why we always conduct all the above checks, as well as review a site’s reputation where possible, alongside things like customer service options. That’s an important part of a fair and safe experience in our opinion.
Once we’re sure the site is safe, we can move onto the quality of the experience. There’s actually many more points to consider in this regard than you might think. And it actually begins with the look and feel of a site. Now, this is subjective to an extent because your preferred style may be different to someone else’s. That said, the site should be clear, presentable and easy to use. Also vital on that latter part is the site’s technical design. This simply means how well the site works and if everything is easy to find.
How much there is to find also matters because we’re very much a ‘the more, the merrier’ crowd when it comes to betting variety. The way we see it is the more sports and sub-markets that are covered, the more chances there are of everyone getting the betting experience they want. This also goes for live markets too. We want to bet live as much as possible and we also take into account additional features like live coverage, live streaming and cash out options. Of course, all of this needs to be backed up by great odds.
Those odds, and the objective value provided by that Louisiana sportsbook, can also be improved by the use of promotions. Think free bets, bet boosts and acca insurance as just a few potential examples. That’s assuming the terms and conditions are fair, of course. We then back all this up by checking out the mobile offering of the site and put that under the same level of scrutiny.
Finally, we analyze any other betting product that we think might be of interest. Remember too, this is just an overview of what we look for when it comes to betting in Louisiana. Really, we’ll test anything on that particular sportsbook so long as we think it’s relevant to your online betting experience.
Quality online service providers
1.
SI Sportsbook Bonus
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Players from Virginia accepted
Highlights
- Impressive $50 free bet bonus
- Easy-to-navigate website and mobile platform
- Plenty of betting options
First deposit only | 21+ & located in VA | Promo code as seen| A qualifying bet is $20 or more | Min odds of +120 or more | Free Bet Tokens credited after bet is settled and expire after 7 days | Free Bet stakes not included in winnings | Please Gamble Responsibly – Gambling Problem? VA: CALL 1-888-532-3500 | Full T&C apply
2.
Bet365 Bonus
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Players from Virginia accepted
Highlights
- Excellent range of sports betting markets available
- World-renowned brand
- Easy to navigate
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3.
PointsBet Bonus
5 x $50Bet Credits
Players from Virginia accepted
Highlights
- Well-regarded brand
- User friendly website and app
- Includes all major sports markets
4.
BetRivers.com Bonus
100% up to $500
Players from Virginia accepted
Highlights
- Reputable brand
- Payments via PayPal accepted
- Reasonable wagering requirements
5.
DraftKings Bonus
20% up to $1000
Players from Virginia accepted
Highlights
- Superb range of different sporting leagues
- Effective in-play betting feature
- Exciting fantasy team building
Finding the right Louisiana sportsbook for you
Just like betting in Louisiana in general, figuring out what kind of sportsbook might be right for you may initially seem overwhelming. But it’s actually pretty simple once you break it down. In fact, when it comes to finding that perfect operator for you and your betting needs, it comes down to a few simple questions. Utilize our reviews to ensure that you’re only considering quality options, and then further separate the good from the great to discover one that’s perfect for you using the following questions:
What kind of betting in Louisiana interests me?
Break this down further into what kind of sports and markets interest you.
Some may be aimed at casual players or high rollers, for instance. So, make sure a bonus isn’t just good, but is good for you.
Do they have everything I need from a technical point of view?
Make sure, for instance, that you have banking options which work for you. And if you’re a mobile gamer, ensure their app works with your device.
Is there a certain type of style/aesthetic I enjoy?
Betting should always be about having a good time, and getting an operator with the right sense of style is part of that. Also, ensure the level of detail is right for you in terms of sports statistics and live coverage.
Is there anything niche I’m looking for?
If you want something specific that’s out of the norm, don’t just settle and go without. There’s a good chance it’s already out there.
Conclusion: Limitless potential for betting in Louisiana
There are two key points we want you to walk away with. One is that yes, the future of betting in Louisiana is a very exciting one. Based on the trajectory of other states and how many great options there are set to launch, we think there’s every reason to think that Louisiana will soon be one of the best places to bet in the US — and one which can only get better. But, that doesn’t mean you need to wait.
There’s loads of amazing Louisiana sportsbook options accepting registration right now ready for launch. These aren’t newcomers: they’re established, safe and reputable options that we’re confident will hit the ground running in Louisiana. Not only that, but you can use the many great reviews and articles on this site as your guide to help you walk through those virtual doors informed and ready to enjoy everything they have to offer from the moment of launch.
The best bonuses currently available
1.
SI Sportsbook Bonus
BET $20 GET $200 IN FREE BETS
Players from Virginia accepted
Bonus Details
Requirements (WR):
1x Deposit
First deposit only | 21+ & located in VA | Promo code as seen| A qualifying bet is $20 or more | Min odds of +120 or more | Free Bet Tokens credited after bet is settled and expire after 7 days | Free Bet stakes not included in winnings | Please Gamble Responsibly – Gambling Problem? VA: CALL 1-888-532-3500 | Full T&C apply
2.
Bet365 Bonus
Bet $1 & Get $365 in Bonus Bets
Players from Virginia accepted
Bet $1 and Get $365 in Bonus Bets at bet365. Deposit required. Bonus Bets winnings are added to Bonus Bets balance. Bonus Bet wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-Gambler 21+
3.
PointsBet Bonus
5 x $50Bet Credits
Players from Virginia accepted
Bonus Details
Requirements (WR):
1x Deposit
4.
BetRivers.com Bonus
100% up to $500
Players from Virginia accepted
Bonus Details
Requirements (WR):
1x Bonus
5.
DraftKings Bonus
20% up to $1000
Players from Virginia accepted
Bonus Details
Requirements (WR):
25x Bonus
Betting in Louisiana FAQ
⌛When are Louisiana sportsbooks set to launch?
There’s so much anticipation with regards to the launch of legal Louisiana sportsbook betting sites that many are wondering whether or not an official date has yet been set or when the launch is expected. While we look at the finest sportsbook options set to open the floodgates to Louisiana customers, we’ll also discuss any and all information we have related to the launch date in this guide.
✅How do I find the right Louisiana betting site for me?
For many people, the launch of sportsbooks in the state of Louisiana will represent the first time they have signed up to an online betting site. As such, they’ll want all the advice they can get to find their ideal sportsbook option. Our guide to the best sportsbooks will tell you everything you need to know to get started.
💰Can I expect promotions from Louisiana sportsbooks?
When a state is new to the betting world, there’s an extra level of uncertainty involved in what people can expect. And few things are as highly anticipated as the possibility of so many bonuses all coming at once, with a brigade of new betting options. But will they be available? Check out our comprehensive analysis of the best the state has to offer to find out.
