Washington is one of the jurisdictions in the US that is yet to consider making online gambling legal in the state. Still, the state is experiencing an increase in the number of residents interested in gambling. You can play your favorite slots, table games, poker, lotteries, sports betting, and live dealer games, even as a state resident.
The state has a great number of casinos you can visit for a quality gambling experience. Here, you can participate in charity games and sports betting, which are the legal gambling activities in the state. Players interested in playing at online casinos can visit offshore gaming sites for a chance to experience real-money slot gambling.
Online casinos allow residents to enjoy a great selection of the best slots and table games in a safe and reliable gaming environment. However, you must look out for features that guarantee your safety before creating an account on a site that accepts Washington players.
This is a guide to help you get started with your favorite online slots in Washington state online casinos. We’ll also address key issues around the state’s gambling laws and other important details you need to know.
Important Washington Gambling History and Dates
Gambling has been popular in Washington since the 18th and 19th centuries. Residents enjoyed gambling, such as table games and local sports betting, until the state constitution prohibited lotteries and other forms of gambling in 1889. The legislation was in effect until 1933.
Below are some important dates in the history of gambling in WA.
1889: The Washington state constitution prohibits lotteries in the state.
1933: The state constitution starts allowing residents to wager on horse racing.
1971: Other forms of gambling, including bingo and raffles, become legal.
1972: Washington voters repeal the gambling prohibition laws.
1973: The Washington State Gambling Commission is created to oversee gambling activities in the state.
1982: The Washington state constitution reintroduces the state lottery, becoming the 16th US state to do so.
1987: Off-track betting on horse racing becomes legal in the state.
1992: Washington experiences the opening of its first casinos.
1997: The state legislature approves mini-casinos, also known as house-banked card rooms. This enables residents to enjoy poker games and blackjack.
2006: The Washington legislature officially makes online gambling illegal.
Are Online Casinos Legal in Washington?
Online casinos are illegal in Washington and operating such platforms is against state gambling laws. So, residents will only find real-money offshore online casinos in the state. You also won’t find online slot casinos that allow players to use virtual currency to play games. In addition, the state doesn’t allow the operation of sweepstake casino sites.
While social casinos are legal in many US states, Washington has a strict law forbidding such casino platforms.The Washington legislature maintains that any site offering games using virtual casino chips violates the state’s gambling laws.
The only alternative for players to enjoy online gambling is visiting offshore casinos that accept Washington residents. Finding a licensed and reliable online gambling platform is vital to avoid trouble. We advise you to choose from our list of trusted offshore online casinos open to Washington players.
Which Body Regulates Gambling in Washington?
The Washington State Gambling Commission is the regulatory body that oversees all gambling activities in the state. The body provides licenses to deserving operators in Washington state. The WSGC also has to ensure local, state, tribal, federal, and even international operators follow the gambling laws governing operations in the state.
Although online gambling is illegal in Washington, we expect the regulatory body will be in charge of regulating it should it become approved for operation in the state.
Responsible Gambling in Washington Online Casinos
Responsible gambling is vital for all Washington players, whether you’re playing at a land-based casino or an offshore online gambling site. The Washington State Gambling Commission ensures every gambling facility provides a safe gambling environment for all players.
Players must be very careful when playing at offshore online casinos. We advise you to play at our recommended online casinos for your safety. These casinos also provide safety measures to keep you safe on the gambling platform. You’ll also have access to vital tools to help you manage your gambling activities.
For instance, Wild Casino provides a feature that allows you to set limits on how much you can gamble in a week or month. You can also contact the support team to temporarily close your casino account if you start experiencing gambling addiction. In addition, the casino has a dedicated page that educates players about responsible gaming.
Washington has many initiatives and programs to promote responsible gaming among its residents. Gamblers can participate in the Washington State Problem Gambling Program to learn how to prevent or manage gambling addiction. Individual players can also seek help from organizations such as Gamblers Anonymous and GamAnon.
What Kind of Games Can You Play at Online Washington Casinos?
Top Washington online casinos collaborate with leading casino software developers to provide players with the freshest and best games. As a result, you’ll have a wide range of games to choose from. Here are the top casino games you can play in Washington.
- Slots: Slots are arguably one of the best casino games on online gambling platforms. You’ll find different types of slot games, including three-reel slots, progressive slots, and 3D video slots. Slots usually come with appealing graphics, quality background music, interesting themes, and other exciting features. If you’re playing for the first time, we recommend you try popular slot titles like Tycoons, Thunderstruck II, Legacy of the Tiger, and Age of the Gods.
- Table games: Table games are perfect alternatives when you’re looking to play another casino game variety. You’ll find a plethora of table game variations, such as baccarat, blackjack, and roulette, that you can play for a chance to win real money. There are also other table games available such as craps and other card games.
- Sports betting: You can now place bets on your favorite sports games. The biggest online casinos in Washington offer various betting options. Some casinos also offer live sports betting where you can stake on an ongoing game.
- Progressive jackpots: Participating in a jackpot game is a great way to win big at a Washington online casino. Progressive jackpots have, over the years, produced instant millionaires, with other players enjoying other consolation prizes. In a progressive jackpot game, each player places a stake to add to the already existing jackpot until a lucky player eventually wins.
- Poker games: Poker games are becoming one of the most favored casino games among players. The fact that the game is straightforward makes it more interesting, especially for beginners. Poker varieties such as Texas hold ’em, deuces will, three-card poker, and Caribbean stud are great options to start with.
- Live dealer games: Washington players interested in playing live casino games without leaving their comfort zone can still do this with the live dealer games. You can play games in real time against other casino players. The live dealer ensures you can access all you need for a great online gaming experience.
How to Play Real Money Online Slots in Washington State
Online casino operations are banned in Washington. So, players interested in real-money slot games must visit offshore casinos. We’ve provided easy steps to play real money Washington state online slots. For this guide, we’ll use Wild Casino, one of the most recommended online casinos for Washington residents, as an example.
- Visit the Wild Casino site and click the “Join Now” button
The first step is to visit the Wild online casino site. We recommend this casino platform because it’s licensed, has great slot games, and accepts Washington gamblers. Click on the “join now” button to start the registration process. You’ll find the green button at the top-right corner of the casino site.
- Register with your details
The Wild Casino registration process is free and takes less than five minutes to complete. You must fill in your basic personal details such as email address, full name, phone number, residential address, date of birth, and so on. We advise you to enter accurate details for easy verification of your account.
- Verify your casino account
You’re required to verify your Wild Casino account immediately after creating it. The casino will send a verification link to the email address you used for the registration. Click the link to verify your new account. You’ll need to verify your account before your first withdrawal. Ensure you have your government-approved ID, driving license, or utility bill handy for verification.
- Make your first deposit and claim your welcome bonus
While Wild Casino allows players to test free games in demo mode, you’ll need to fund your account to play for real money. You can use major payment options to deposit funds into your casino account. Don’t forget to claim your welcome bonus immediately after making your initial deposit. The minimum deposit to claim a welcome bonus at Wild Casino is $10.
- Select your favorite slots and start playing
Thanks to its user-friendly interface, the casino lets you choose games easily. You can play your favorite slot games to win real money. We recommend you check other casino games like video poker, table games, or live dealer games for an awesome online gambling experience.
Land-Based Casinos vs. Online Casinos in Washington – Why You Should Consider Online Casinos
Washington State boasts a large collection of amazing land-based casinos. However, there are some benefits you can enjoy by playing at online casinos. Let’s look at why you should consider playing at online casinos in Washington rather than land-based ones.
- It’s more convenient to play at online casinos than at land-based casinos. You can play your favorite games from the comfort of your home. You can access these games using your laptop or mobile device.
- It saves cost. You don’t have to spend extra money on transport to the casino venues.
- Playing at online casinos offers you access to a very large selection of enticing games. You can create accounts with several online casinos to see the types of games each online gambling platform provides.
- Playing in the comfort of your home via online gambling platforms is safer. You won’t face the risk of an accident while traveling.
- Online casinos offer more mouthwatering bonuses and promotions. Top online gambling sites that accept Washington players offer you a welcome bonus when you sign up for an account and other enticing bonuses as you remain on the platform.
This is not to say playing at a land-based casino has no benefits. You’ll enjoy the social aspect of playing with other gambling enthusiasts. Some brick-and-mortar casinos organize events where gamblers can enjoy merry moments together.
Top Land-Based Washington Casinos
Washington state has about 29 land-based tribal casinos spread across different parts of the state. We’ve listed the top land-based casinos you can visit for your next gambling trip. Our list comprises casino venues offering entertaining gaming activities, relaxation spots, and luxury hotel rooms.
Legends Casino – Toppenish, WA
Legends casino is one the biggest Washington land-based casinos. The Yakama Nation owns the gambling facility, and it features a hotel with 172 well-furnished guest rooms. You’ll also find a museum, dining halls, an indoor pool, and many other modern facilities to make your stay comfortable. The casino features over 1500 electronic games and other gambling amenities such as a full poker room, sports arena, and a live entertainment venue with concerts. Washington players will have great gambling moments at this casino.
Swinomish Casino and Lodge – Anacortes, WA
The Swinomish Indian Tribal Community operates this casino outlet. The casino has several table game variants, including blackjack, pai gow poker, roulette, and craps. We recommend you play the casino’s progressive titles, which regularly produce seven-figure jackpots. You can also access a fitness center, luxurious hotel rooms, and other amenities to make your stay more memorable. This Washington casino also regularly organizes contests for gamblers to test their skills against other players.
Tulalip Resort Casino
The Tulalip resort casino is ideal for entertainment and an exciting gaming experience for Washington residents and tourists. The resort has modern hotel facilities you can use for relaxation. We recommend the casino for your table games like ultimate Texas hold ‘em, blackjack, and roulette. The resort center also has an indoor pool and spa to cool off. In addition, Washington residents and visitors will enjoy the casino’s electronic games.
Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort – Suquamish, WA
With over 1200 electronic games and multiple table game variations, Suquamish casino is recommended for an awesome gambling experience. The casino features the FanDuel sportsbook, especially for players interested in daily fantasy sports gambling. You’ll also enjoy games such as poker, blackjack, high-card flush, craps, and keno. You can visit the resort area to relax in the luxurious swimming pool when you’re not gambling. Suquamish casino resort also offers nightly entertainment for visitors interested in making their nights worthwhile.
Emerald Downs – Auburn
Emerald Downs is one of the most popular land-based casinos you can visit for entertaining gambling activities in Washington. The casino boasts several slots, table titles, and electronic games. Washington residents can also enjoy participating in live racing gambling activities every spring and summer. Apart from the gambling activities at Emerald Down, you can also enjoy the nightlife the resort offers visitors. There are also luxury hotel rooms for your comfort and relaxation.
Our Guide to Choosing the Best Online Slots in Washington State
Before playing for real money, you should choose online slot games that can increase your winning chances. We’ve provided a list of things to look out for to help you choose the best real-money slot games in Washington State.
- Regularly tested games: Choosing a casino site that offers regularly tested games is essential. This will ensure you only play slot games that meet the latest online gambling standards. You’ll also be certain that such games’ outcomes are random, with an equal chance for all players to win.
- Satisfactory customer support: Problems will likely arise as you play games in online casinos. However, top online slot platforms should have an efficient support system handy to help resolve players’ complaints on time. You should also be able to access these support services across various channels for convenience.
- Quality graphics and sound effects: Online gambling is fun and features such as graphics and background sounds can make playing online slots more interesting. Ensure the casino offers casino games with appealing graphics and high-quality sound effects.
- Fast payouts: While playing real-money online slot games in Washington State, fast and convenient payouts should be a major consideration. Choose gambling platforms that offer fast payouts using top-notch payment gateways. Also, make sure that Washington players are eligible to withdraw from the site.
- Instant-play sites: Top Washington online casinos offer instant-play options for players who wish to enjoy real-money games without creating an account. If you belong to this category, choose no-download casinos to allow you to enjoy instant real-money slot games.
- Mouthwatering bonuses: Bonuses can help to extend your playing time and increase your winning chances. Major online casinos in Washington offer players amazing bonuses and promotions from signup to lure and retain customers. Look for attractive bonuses with easy wagering requirements.
- Progressive jackpots: Progressive jackpots make millionaires. It’s advisable to consider playing progressive slot jackpots for a chance of winning big. Choose online slot platforms that offer progressive jackpots when playing games.
- A descriptive guide: Online slot games are unique casino games with distinctive features. You must understand what each feature means and how to use them to increase your winning chances. Select casino games that have descriptive guides for easy understanding.
Our Recommended List of the Best Washington State Online Slots Casinos
Since online casinos are banned in Washington state, playing your favorite slot games at offshore online gambling platforms remains the only alternative. Below is the list of our most recommended Washington state online slot casinos. We’re certain you’ll have a great online gambling experience playing in these online casinos.
Wild Casino
Wild Casino is famous for providing excellent online gambling experiences for Washington players and gamblers around the United States. Signing up for an account lets you enjoy an impressive collection of the best slots, table games, scratch cards, pokers, jackpots, and live dealer games. This casino offers the best welcome bonus and other amazing promotional offers to help you to enjoy gambling.
Security on the platform is top-notch since the operator uses high-tech security plugins, SSL encryption, and great firewalls to protect your details. You get access to safe and fast payment options for deposits and withdrawals. Wild Casino is a unique gambling platform we always recommend to Washington players.
Lucky Block Casino
Washington players have every reason to play their next online slot games at Lucky Block Casino. The gambling site offers the best online slot games you can find on the internet. You can also play other game variants such as poker, crabs, baccarat, progressive jackpots, and blackjack.
The casino has an impressive website display and an easy-to-navigate layout. Players finding it difficult to use the platform can seek help from reliable support agents at any hour of the day. As a Washington resident, you’re also eligible for bonuses and promotions at the casino.
MyBookie Casino
MyBookie Casino is an excellent Washington online casino for players looking for a mobile responsive and easy-to-navigate gambling platform. Registration at the online casino is straightforward and takes less than five minutes. You also have the support of experienced customer representatives whenever you encounter any difficulty.
Casino payments are flexible; you can choose from reliable payment options to make deposits and withdrawals. MyBookie Casino is secure enough to protect your details and banking information against theft and malicious use. Other features you’ll enjoy at the casino include enticing bonuses, quality casino games, and mobile gaming.
Bovada Casino
Bovada Casino is a leading online casino that offers a reliable gambling experience to Washington players, regardless of location. The casino offers a unique experience by offering you the freshest and most high-quality slot games, thanks to the contribution of top software developers in the industry.
Bovada casino makes online gambling easy, with features like smooth gameplay, safe payment options, and a mobile-responsive site. You can win real money by using the bonuses the casino offers new and old players. A reliable and excellent support team is always available whenever you have complaints or inquiries.
BetUS Casino
With a great casino lobby featuring the best slots, table games, and live dealer games, BetUS Casino is a good choice for any Washington player. The casino offers exciting bonuses and promotions to enhance your online gambling experience. You’ll also access top-notch services like quality customer support, excellent security, and reliable online payment methods.
With support from top software providers, you’re guaranteed not to have any dull moments on the platform. The casino also features an appealing website design and a mobile-friendly interface.
Bonuses and Promotional Offers Available for Washington Players
Bonuses and promotions are important aspects when playing online slot games. They help to make online gaming exciting and increase your chance of winning. Below are top bonuses and promotional offers you’ll enjoy as a Washington player.
- Welcome bonus: Washington state players can claim welcome bonuses after initial deposits at top online casinos. These bonuses allow you to play real-money games for free with a chance of winning cash.
- Free spins: Some online casinos offer free spins alongside cash bonuses as welcome bonuses after creating an account and making an initial deposit. You can also enjoy free spins as a regular user. However, these free spins may only allow you to play limited slot games.
- No-deposit bonus: The no-deposit bonus is another bonus you can enjoy immediately after creating a new account. However, you can claim this bonus without making an initial deposit. Most casinos allow you to use the no-deposit bonus to test their games before making deposits.
- VIP program: The VIP program is a reward package given exclusively to important casino players. VIP players are usually high-roller players who have spent money on the platform. You get special perks like expense-paid trips, a dedicated account manager, and other incentives.
- Cashback: To help reduce your weekly loss, online casinos can offer a Washington player a cashback of a certain amount of the total losses incurred in that week.
- Referral program: This is a promotional program by the online casino to reward you for inviting your friends and family to the gambling site. You can get certain incentives when new players use your referral link or code to create an account on the platform.
Safety When Playing at Washington Online Casinos
There’s always a need to practice safe gambling, especially when visiting offshore online casinos. This will help you to avoid scams and reduce your loss rate. Here are some tips to help you remain safe while playing your favorite slot games.
- Avoid unlicensed online casinos: Unlicensed online gambling platforms don’t follow standard online gaming procedures. You may not have access to fair games or get paid after winning. So, you must only register at licensed online casinos to avoid being scammed.
- Stake with money you can afford to lose: Online gambling is fun, and you can easily get caught up with the excitement that comes with it. You won’t experience a major impact when you gamble with the money you can afford to lose.
- Create a budget and stick to it: You can manage how much you spend when you create a budget. However, you must stick to your budget, regardless of each game’s outcome. Top casinos also allow you to set daily or weekly limits on the money you spend at the casino.
- Protect your login details: Unauthorized access to your online casino account can compromise sensitive details such as banking information and personal data. Create a strong password and ensure you don’t reveal it to any third party. We also recommend you change the password intermittently.
- Always contact support: Don’t hesitate to contact support service whenever you face difficulty. Our list of recommended online casinos in Washington offers 24/7 customer support service to attend to customers at any time of the day.
- Read the casino’s terms and conditions: Many gamblers, even experienced ones, make the mistake of not reading the casinos’ terms and conditions. You must know how the gambling platform operates and be certain that they accept players from your region.
- Don’t accept a bonus without understanding the wagering requirements: You may not be able to cash out if you don’t understand the wagering requirements of a bonus. This is because fulfilling the bonus wagering requirements is essential for withdrawing your earnings after winning.
- Beware of fake online reviews: When seeking recommendations for a Washington online casino you enjoy real-money slots, beware of fake review sites. Only use reputable and unbiased review websites to choose online casinos to play games.
Payment Options Available at Washington Casino Sites
You can fund your account or withdraw your winnings using several methods at Washington online casinos. Before choosing a suitable payment option for your online transactions, ensure it’s acceptable in your region. Below are the best payment options available at top Washington online casinos.
Bank transfers
Bank transfers are one of the oldest and most acceptable payment options you can rely on. To fund your account using this payment option, visit your bank to deposit into the casino’s account. With modern technology, you can carry out transactions using your mobile devices. However, this method usually takes up to five days to process withdrawals.
Bank cards
You’ll hardly find any Washington online casino that doesn’t accept credit and debit cards to make payments. MasterCard and Visa are the two most accepted bank cards you can use for payments on any casino site. Players rely on this payment method because it’s swift, reliable, and convenient.
Prepaid payments
Although not common on online gambling sites, the prepaid option of payments can be used to fund your casino account. You need to purchase your prepaid vouchers (usually in the form of unique codes you can use for payments). You can also top up your prepaid cards from reliable online or offline vendors.
Electronic wallets
E-wallets such as PayPal, Skrill EcoPayz, and Neteller are growing in popularity at most Washington online casinos. You visit the e-wallet website to create a secure account to use for payments. Once you’ve added your credit card information, you won’t need to provide such details when paying at a casino. Payments using this option are reliable and fast.
Cryptocurrency
The use of cryptocurrencies for online transactions is becoming more common in Washington casinos. Players can make anonymous payments using crypto without revealing their bank details. Online transactions done using this method are most times free and instant. Acceptable cryptocurrencies at Washington online casinos include Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Dogecoin, Ethereum, Tether, USDT, Litecoin, etc.
Conclusion
Online gambling is yet to become legal in Washington state and may remain illegal for a long time. However, residents can still have access to real-money slots at offshore online casinos. You can choose from many intriguing casino games on these gambling platforms to win real money. However, playing at safe, reliable, and reputable casinos can’t be overemphasized.
We’ve reviewed the top online casinos in Washington you can rely upon for a world-class gaming experience. With our guide, you’re certain to make the right online gambling choices.
FAQ
How do I get started playing at the best Washington online casinos?
Getting started at the best Washington online casinos is easy, especially when you follow our guide. We’ve provided the necessary steps you can follow to create an account, fund it, and start playing your favorite real-money games.
Is gambling legal in Washington?
A few gambling options are legal in Washington State, but they are all offline. The state legislature is yet to do anything regarding making online gambling in Washington legal. However, using our guide, you can still enjoy a great online gambling experience.
Can I play real-money slot games in Washington?
It’s possible to play real-money slot games as a resident of Washington. You must sign up for a licensed and reputable offshore online casino account to get started. Ensure the offshore online casino accepts Washington players so you don’t encounter problems while playing or making payments.
Is playing at an offshore online casino in Washington safe?
While recommending offshore online casinos for Washington players, we consider all the players’ safety and security. However, you must play your part to ensure you don’t fall victim to a scam or any other fraudulent activities. Also, we encourage you to choose from our recommended list when looking for offshore online casinos.
When will the Washington legislature approve online gambling in the state?
This is one of the numerous gambling questions begging for answers. Unfortunately, no one knows whether the Washington legislature will approve online gambling in the state soon. The available gambling option in the state still remains to play at land-based casinos.
