Home Betting Kentucky Horse Racing Betting Sites – Compare the Best KY Horse Racing Betting Sites
Jamie Wright

 

There is no state more synonymous with horse racing than Kentucky. Home of the world-famous Kentucky Derby, this state has a huge amount of interested bettors, and on this page we’ll be taking a close look at the best Kentucky horse racing sites around.

However, we won’t just be talking about KY horse racing sites. We’ll also look at everything from the Kentucky horse racing schedule to the legality of betting on horses in the state. Once you’ve finished reading, you’ll know everything you need to know about betting on horses in Kentucky!

$25 Risk-Free Bet + 9% Horse Rebate
Claim Bonus
50% Deposit Bonus up to $250
Claim Bonus
8% Horse Rebate
Claim Bonus
100% Welcome Bonus up to $2,500
Claim Bonus
7% Horse Rebate
Claim Bonus
$150 Racebook Welcome Bonus
Claim Bonus
$25 Horse Free Play + 9% Horse Rebate
Claim Bonus
10% Racebook Cash Bonus up to $1,000
Claim Bonus
6% Horse Rebate
Claim Bonus
100% Deposit Bonus up to $250 (sports only)
Claim Bonus

List of the Best Kentucky Horse Racing Betting Sites

First and foremost, we’re going to list the best Kentucky online horse racing betting sites for you, so you’ll be able to find the best place to bet in no time.

  1. BetOnline – The number 1 Kentucky horse racing betting site
  2. Bovada – Consistently high horse racing odds offered
  3. MyBookie – Best Kentucky racebook for betting on big meetings
  4. BetUS – Great choice for harness racing fans and big bonuses
  5. XBet – Superb coverage of international races with good odds
  6. BUSR – Several horse racing bonuses available in Kentucky
  7. SportsBetting.ag – Fantastic choice for mobile horse racing betting
  8. Jazz – High horse racing betting rebates often offered
  9. Betanysports – Regularly offer enhanced odds for horses
  10. Everygame – Effective customer support available 24/7

Reviews of the Best Kentucky Horse Racing Betting Sites

Now you’ve seen our list of the best Kentucky horse racing betting sites, you might want to learn more about them. If so, check out our reviews of each KY horse racing site below. Since these are provided by offshore operators, you can access them at any time, and from anywhere in the nation.

1. BetOnline – The Number 1 Kentucky Horse Racing Betting Site

BetOnline Horse Racing Betting

Our number one place to bet on horse racing in Kentucky is the BetOnline Racebook. Why? Quite simply, it offers the best all-round horse racing betting experience in Kentucky, combining consistently high odds with exceptional coverage of the sport, both in the US and the rest of the world.

There’s a wide range of betting options available at BetOnline, including standard and exotic bets. Plus, you’ll regularly find fantastic promotions – take a look for any BetOnline promo codes before you make a deposit. BetOnline is also a leading name in the world of cryptocurrency betting, offering you the chance to deposit with more than 15 cryptocurrencies.

Pros:

  • Great promotions often offered
  • Deposit using many cryptocurrencies
  • High odds consistently provided
  • Top coverage of US and worldwide racing
  • Many betting options including exotics

Cons:

  • No live streaming of horse racing
  • Large 9.75% fee for credit/debit card deposits

2. Bovada – Consistently High Horse Racing Odds Offered

Bovada Horse Racing Betting

For most people, the primary reason for betting on horses is to win money, so you need to bet at a site with consistently high odds. When you visit the Bovada Racebook, you’ll find that their odds are nearly always high, both for horse racing betting and also on other sports. However, it’s still always wise to shop around before placing a bet.

Other reasons to head over to Bovada include their fantastic coverage of the sport, backed up by an exceptional virtual racing section, and their intuitive website, which makes betting on horse racing in Kentucky incredibly simple. What’s more, the sportsbook welcome bonus can be used to bet on horses – check out the Bovada promo codes before depositing.

Pros:

  • Consistently offers high odds on all sports
  • Welcome bonus can be used to bet on horses
  • Highly intuitive desktop site for easy betting
  • Futures offered on some major races
  • Great array of sports betting markets

Cons:

  • Fee of up to 15.9% or more  for some credit cards
  • Not many bonuses after welcome bonus

3. MyBookie – Best Kentucky Racebook for Betting on Big Races

MyBookie Horse Racing Betting

Are you the kind of gambler who only really bets on big races, such as the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes? If so, you’ll find that MyBookie covers the big events brilliantly in their dedicated racebook, offering competitive odds and plenty of betting options. It also has decent coverage of other races in the US, Canada, and further afield.

MyBookie is also a really simple site to use, although it’s not the most attractive racebook you’ll find online. The mobile website is also a decent one. The bookmaker also regularly hands out rebates, although there aren’t many other bonuses available for fans of horse racing in Kentucky.

Pros:

  • Great coverage of big US races
  • Frequent betting contests with prizes
  • Intuitive desktop and mobile sites
  • Offers betting on international races
  • 8% horse rebate for existing customers

Cons:

  • Racebook isn’t very aesthetically pleasing
  • Very few horse racing bonuses

4. BetUS – Great Choice for KY Harness Racing Fans

BetUS Horse Racing Betting

Thoroughbred racing dominates the world of horse racing, but many also enjoy betting on harness racing. If you fall into that camp, head over to the BetUS Racebook, where they generally have a great range of odds on harness racing from around the world.

You’ll also find that the BetUS Racebook looks fantastic, which bumps up enjoyment levels significantly. The platform often offers some fantastic bonuses, including BetUS deposit bonus codes and money back bonuses. If you fancy betting on something other than horses occasionally, you’ll find a great selection of sports in the BetUS sportsbook, which is one of our top offshore sportsbooks.

Pros:

  • Great coverage of harness racing
  • Thoroughbred racing also covered well
  • Several great bonuses and promotions
  • BetUS Racebook looks great on mobile
  • Many other sports offered on the site

Cons:

  • No live streaming of horse racing
  • Small range of depositing options

5. XBet – Superb Coverage of International Races for Kentucky Bettors

XBet Horse Racing Betting

Horse racing is big business around the world, and you’ll be able to find a superb selection of international horse racing betting options at XBet. They’ve got races from Canada, Europe, Australia, and more, meaning you should always find something interesting to bet on in the XBet Racebook.

The platform allows betting on a range of other sports as well, plus odds are generally more than fair. The site isn’t a particularly attractive one, but it’s easy to use, as is the mobile racebook website. Rebate on horse racing betting losses is usually offered, but there aren’t many, or often any, other bonuses for horse racing fans. Most XBet promo codes are for the other sections on the site, like casino gaming.

Pros:

  • Great worldwide coverage of horse racing
  • Intuitive website makes betting simple
  • Fair betting odds nearly always offered
  • Nice mobile racebook for iOS and Android
  • Many other betting options in the sportsbook

Cons:

  • Desktop website isn’t very attractive
  • Lack of many horse racing bonuses and promotions

6. BUSR – Several Horse Racing Bonuses Available in Kentucky

BUSR Horse Racing Betting

You’ll usually find a few great betting bonuses when you head over to the BUSR Racebook, which can include a welcome bonus, reload bonus, and rebates. Loads of bonuses are also offered for the sportsbook and casino, if you’re also interested in using them. What’s more, horse racing bonuses generally have wagering requirements of around 5x, which is more than fair.

Other reasons to consider using the BUSR Racebook while in Kentucky include the strong array of races available from all over the world. You’ll also find that the uncluttered and simplified interface looks superb, which boosts the overall horse racing betting experience.

Pros:

  • Several horse racing bonuses usually offered
  • Fair wagering requirements attached to bonuses
  • Bet on horse races from around the world
  • Really attractive desktop and mobile racebook
  • Payouts are generally fast, done in 1-2 days

Cons:

  • Small range of depositing options
  • Fees of $5+ attached to some withdrawals

7. SportsBetting.ag – Fantastic Choice for Mobile Horse Racing Betting

SportsBetting.ag Horse Racing Betting

If you prefer to bet on the go, a great option is SportsBetting.ag. They offer a superb mobile website, designed in a way that makes betting using a smartphone or tablet exceptionally simple. The mobile sportsbook is also fantastic to use, which is great if you also want to bet on other sports.

SportsBetting.ag also has several other impressive features, including the huge array of cryptocurrency depositing options available. However, deposit using anything other than crypto, and you’ll face a high minimum deposit of at least $50. Horse racing betting odds are generally fair, and the range of races covered is impressive.

Pros:

  • Fantastic place to bet on mobile
  • Many cryptocurrencies accepted
  • Horse racing odds are usually fair
  • Large selection of races available
  • Decent promotions often offered

Cons:

  • Non-crypto deposits face high minimums
  • Desktop racebook doesn’t look great

8. Jazz – High Horse Racing Betting Rebates Often Offered in KY

Jazz Horse Racing Betting

Jazz isn’t one of the larger racebooks, but it’s still certainly a place to consider. This is especially true if you want to receive rebates, as the site often offers a 10% rebate on horse racing losses. What’s more, their rebate usually has low 3x wagering requirements. You’ll also regularly find welcome and reload bonuses that can be used in the racebook.

Other reasons to consider Jazz when you’re looking for a Kentucky online horse racing betting site include the great selection of betting options and the attractive layout. However, when it comes to deposits and withdrawals, you won’t find a particularly large range of available methods. Bitcoin is the fastest option, but credit cards can also be solid for adding funds.

Pros:

  • Rebates of up to 10% regularly offered
  • Low wagering requirements on rebates
  • Reload bonus offers for the racebook
  • Decent range of horse racing betting options
  • Good-looking racebook and site design

Cons:

  • Not many ways to deposit and withdraw
  • Few sports available in the sportsbook

9. Betanysports – Regularly Offers Enhanced Odds for Kentucky Horse Racing

Betanysports homepage

Betanysports is definitely a place to consider if you like getting decent odds. While the odds don’t always match those found at other racebooks, some are boosted. When this happens, the odds are often industry leading. Boosts of up to 10% are regularly added to winnings. Cashback is also regularly offered at the Betanysports Racebook.

Betanysports offers betting on all major US races, as well as some international races. You’ll be able to place a range of bet types, including both standard and exotic bets, plus you can bet on several other sports when you head to the Betanysports Sportsbook. It takes a while to get used to the interface, which isn’t winning a lot of style points at this time.

Pros:

  • Enhanced odds offered on many races
  • Rebates also regularly offered
  • All major US horse races covered
  • Selection of standard and exotic bets
  • Decent range of other sports on the site

Cons:

  • Site navigation isn’t particularly great
  • Can’t preview racebook before signing up

10. Everygame – Effective Customer Support

Everygame Horse Racing Betting

Everygame is the last name on our list of the best KY horse racing sites. We found that their customer support was fantastic, which is an exceptionally important feature of any online gambling site. They also usually offer decent odds for horse racing, plus the overall look and feel of the site is good.

However, you won’t find a dedicated racebook at Everygame, with horse racing betting instead included within the sportsbook. Also, the range of horse racing betting options is very small compared to the other sites on this list.

Pros:

  • Fantastic customer support
  • Site looks and feels great
  • Decent odds offered on horse racing
  • Well-established betting operator
  • Great mobile sportsbook available

Cons:

  • No dedicated racebook
  • Small selection of horse racing betting options

More on gambling in Kentucky…

Learn about all types of online gambling in KY in our expert guides below:

Frequently Asked Questions About Horse Racing in Kentucky

Is horse racing betting legal in Kentucky?

What are the major horse races in Kentucky?

Can I bet on horses online in Kentucky?

How do I bet on the Kentucky horse races online?

Is Bovada available for horse racing in Kentucky?

Comparing the Best Kentucky Horse Racing Betting Sites

Easily compare the best Kentucky online horse racing betting sites by browsing through the table we’ve created below.

Sportsbook Racing Bonus Rebate Bonus Futures Odds Cash Out Live Streaming
BetOnline
Bovada
MyBookie
BetUS
XBet
BUSR
SportsBetting.ag
Jazz
Betanysports
Everygame

Explore Our Sports Betting Guides

Best NFL Betting Sites
Searching for an NFL betting site? In this guide, we rank the top NFL sportsbooks in the USA to help you find your ideal betting site, and more.
NFL Betting Sites
Trusted UFC Online Sportsbooks
Find top trusted UFC betting sites in America. With our guide, you can explore reviewed UFC sportsbooks, how to bet on the UFC, generous promos & more.
UFC Betting Sites
Best MLB Online Sportsbooks
Looking for the best MLB betting sites? In this guide, we rank the top MLB sportsbooks to help you find your ideal online betting sites.
MLB Betting Sites
Best NBA Betting Sites
Looking for the best NBA sportsbook? Discover the types of bets you can place to whether you can live bet on basketball, the top NBA betting systems & more.
NBA Betting Sites
Horse Racing Betting Guide
We're here to help you find the best horse racing betting site for you, reviewing the best sites that offer large sign-up bonuses, generous rebates, and more.
Horse Betting Guide
College Football Betting Guide
Join us as we cover everything you need to know about college football. Popular types of NCAA football bets to betting systems & tips to boost your profit.
College Football Betting
College Basketball Betting Guide
Learn how to sign up, make a deposit, & place a bet at the best college basketball betting sites in the US. We provide you with the latest tips, bonuses & more.
College Basketball Betting

How to Bet on Horse Racing in Kentucky

As with most other states in the US, betting on horse racing in Kentucky differs from betting on other types of sports. While all sports betting is currently prohibited in Kentucky, pari-mutuel wagering on horses is permitted. We’ll show you how to get around this and bet properly on horses below.

Where Can I Bet on Horse Racing in Kentucky?

There are two options for betting on horses in Kentucky. The first is pari-mutuel wagering, which is offered at racetracks and online by sites like TVG. Pari-mutuel betting entails placing wagers against other players, and not the bookmaker. All wagers are placed into a pool, and the winners share this prize pool between them.

Pari-mutuel betting can be fun, but it’s nowhere near as exciting as fixed odds betting, which sees you given specific odds on a bet before it’s made. In pari-mutuel betting, the odds are only decided once all bets have been made. This means it’s easier to make educated decisions on your bets at fixed odds betting sites.

All the sportsbooks we’ve listed on this page offer fixed odds betting. While it’s not technically legal in Kentucky, there’s nothing lawmakers can do to prevent it, as the sites are based abroad and therefore don’t come under the jurisdiction of the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission or any other official organization.

What Horse Racing Bets Can I Wager on Online?

You’ll be able to wager on all major forms of horse racing at the offshore sites we recommend, but the most popular is thoroughbred flat racing. Harness racing is also pretty popular, while the best Kentucky horse racing sites will also offer odds on the biggest jump races from around the world.

The sites we recommend offer a fantastic range of bet types to gamblers. You can simply bet on a horse to win, or you can be more adventurous and place a more exotic bet. Futures betting is also offered, which sees you betting on races to be held in weeks, or even months.

Finally, you won’t just get the opportunity to bet on US horse races at the Kentucky sites we recommend, as you’ll also be able to bet on races from around the world. UK horse racing is very popular with gamblers, as are the big Australian, French, Canadian, and Middle Eastern horse racing meetings.

What are the Benefits of Offshore Horse Racing Betting Sites?

There are several benefits to betting at offshore horse racing betting sites. Take a look at the list below.

  • Fixed odds are available, meaning you know the odds before you place a bet.
  • Offshore horse racing betting sites generally offer better odds than pari-mutuel betting sites.
  • Offshore betting sites accept cryptocurrency deposits for more convenience.
  • You’ll often also find real money online casinos and sportsbooks at offshore sites.
  • There’s generally a large variety of bets available at offshore betting sites.
  • You can bet from almost any state at most sites licensed offshore.
  • The top betting sites often have several bonuses and promotions.

Explore Our Betting Odd Guides

Best Football Odds and Lines
Explaining everything you need to know about NFL odds & betting lines, keeping it simple, covering the details of the different types of bets available, & more.
Best Football Odds
Best Basketball Odds & Lines
If you're on the look-out for the best NBA odds around, then check out our in-depth guide, which will illustrate the odds and markets you can play, and more.
Best Basketball Odds
Best Soccer Lines & Odds
Join us as we look at the best soccer odds, lines, & how to make the most money at top online sportsbooks, allowing you to get the best possible bet & more.
Best Soccer Odds
Best Boxing Odds & Lines
Get to grips with the latest boxing odds and betting odds in boxing. Learn about different bet types, account registration, the top sportsbooks and more.
Best Boxing Odds
Best Horse Racing Odds & Lines
Figure out how to read horse bet odds and how to calculate your potential winnings, while breaking down the most popular bet types & more.
Horse Racing Odds
Best MLB Odds and Lines
Get the latest season odds for every MLB team, compare MLB odds across the top online sportsbooks and see who has the best price, and more.
Best MLB Odds
Best Tennis Odds and Lines
Use our guide to stay up to date with the latest tennis odds from the best sportsbooks in the US, all whilst learning handicap betting, placing parlays & more.
Best Tennis Odds
Best UFC Odds & Lines
Want the latest on MMA and UFC betting odds? Use our guide to learn more about UFC odds, top MMA bets, the best betting lines and much more.
Best UFC Odds
Latest College Football Odds
Providing you with everything from how odds work, what odds are available for college football, to highlighting the best college football odds, and more.
College Football Odds
Latest College Basketball Odds
Explore the latest College Basketball odds for the 2022-23 season. Learn how to break down the different NCAAB betting options, how to read NCAAB lines & more.
College Basketball Odds

How Does Horse Racing Betting Work in Kentucky?

Kentucky horse racing betting works in the same way as it does in all other US states. Unlike at sportsbooks, which use American odds, racebooks tend to use fractional odds. Luckily, they’re exceptionally easy to work out.

Quite simply, the first number shows how much you’ll win when you bet an amount equal to the second number. For example, 10/1 means you’ll win $10 for every $1 you wager. You’ll also win back your initial wager.

If American odds are used, they work like this: when odds are preceded by a minus sign, you’ll be betting on a favorite. The figure is telling you how much you need to bet to win $100. So, if you received odds of -110, you’d win $100 when betting $110, plus you’d also receive your stake back.

However, most horse racing odds begin with a plus sign. When this is the case, the odds are showing how much you’d win when betting $100. So, if you got odds of +350, you’d win $350 from a $100 bet, plus you’d receive your stake back.

Explore Our Sportsbook Reviews

Best Online Sportsbook Reviews
Read honest reviews about the best online betting sites in the US. We have researched top online sportsbooks and offers and ranked them, so you don't have to.
Best Sportsbooks
Best Bitcoin Betting Sportsbooks
Presenting you with the best Bitcoin betting sites in the USA right now, showing you how to use BTC for large bonuses & much more.
Best Bitcoin Sportsbooks
Best Cash Out Sportsbooks
On the lookout for the best cash out sportsbooks in the US? Look no further than our guide. Rating and reviewing top sportsbooks whilst providing top tips.
Cash Out Sportsbooks
Best Offshore Sportsbooks
Find the best offshore sportsbooks in the US with our exclusive round-up list of the best offshore sports betting sites & redeem bonus codes, tips & more.
Offshore Sportsbooks
Best Sportsbooks on Reddit
Find out what sportsbooks are being spoken about on Reddit with our dedicated guide. Exploring the best bonus codes, betting markets and so much more.
Sportsbooks on Reddit

What Horse Racing Markets Can You Bet on in Kentucky?

You’ll find a great range of betting options at the best Kentucky horse racing sites, giving you the flexibility to bet in the way you want to.

Standard Wagers

Standard wagers are bets made on just one outcome. Correctly predict the outcome and you’ll win a prize, but make an incorrect prediction and you’ll lose your stake.

Win Bet

This is the simplest type of bet. You’re just betting on which horse will win the race.

Example: Horse to win the Kentucky Derby @ +550

Place Bet

This is a bet on a horse to finish in first or second place in a race.

Example: Horse to finish in first or second at the Kentucky Derby @ +200

Show Bet

In this type of bet, you’re wagering on a specific horse to finish in first, second, or third position.

Example: Horse to finish first, second, or third at the Kentucky Derby @ +100

Double Bet

This is simply two different bets bundled together into one bet. Both parts of the bet must be winners for the double bet to be successful.

Example: Horse A to win the Kentucky Oaks and Horse B to win the Kentucky Derby @ +1,100

Exotic

Exotic wagers are a specific group of wagers that involve you betting on more than one outcome. All individual components of your bet must be winners for the bet to be a winning one. They are usually less likely to be winners than standard bets, but have odds that are usually much higher.

Exacta Bet

This type of bet sees you attempting to predict which horses will finish in first and second, in the correct order.

Example: Horse A to win the Kentucky Derby and Horse B to finish second @ +1,100

Quinella Bet

A bet on the horses to finish first and second in a race, in any order.

Example: Horse A and Horse B to finish in the first two positions in any order @ +700

Trifecta Bet

This sees you betting on the horses that will finish first, second, and third, in the correct order.

Example: Horse A to win the Kentucky Derby, Horse B to come second, and Horse C to come third @ +37,000

Superfecta Bet

A bet on which horses will finish in first, second, third, and fourth, in the correct order.

Example: Horse A to win the Kentucky Derby, Horse B to come second, Horse C to come third, and Horse D to come fourth @ +70,000

Super Hi-Five Bet

A bet on the horses that will finish in first, second, third, fourth, and fifth, in the correct order.

Example: Horse A to win the Kentucky Derby, Horse B to come second, Horse C to come third, Horse D to come fourth, and Horse E to come fifth @ +150,000

Multi-Race Bet

This is like a double bet but can feature an unlimited number of selections, all of which must be winners for the overall bet to be a winner.

Example: Horse A to win the Kentucky Oaks, Horse B to win the Kentucky Derby, Horse C to win the Preakness Stakes, Horse D to win the Belmont Stakes, and Horse E to win the Breeders’ Cup Classic @ +200,000

How Does Pool Betting Work in Kentucky?

Pool betting is another name for pari-mutuel betting, the form of horse racing betting that’s legal in Kentucky and offered at racecourses and websites like TVG.

The way in which pool betting works is simple: all money wagered on the result of a specific event is placed into a prize pool fund, from which the betting operator takes a small cut, called the vigorish. This pool is then shared between all those who managed to make a winning bet.

Can I Bet Via TVG/Pools in Kentucky?

Yes, you can bet using these methods in Kentucky. There are a few different operators, including TVG and TwinSpires, which offer pools betting online. You’ll also find that pools betting is the type of betting offered to gamblers at the state’s racetracks.

However, don’t think that pools betting is the only betting type available, as you can also find fixed odds betting at offshore racebooks. These skirt the law by being based overseas and many believe that they offer a far superior betting experience than pool betting sites.

How to Sign Up to an Offshore Horse Racing Betting Site in Kentucky

If you’re looking to start betting at a Kentucky horse racing site, you’ll first need to register an account. This is a really simple process, and we’ve given a step-by-step guide below, using BetOnline as an example.

1. Head Over to BetOnline

Tap the BetOnline URL into your browser and make your way over to our number one Kentucky online horse racing betting site.

BetOnline Homepage

2. Click the Green “Join” Button

Now you’re on the BetOnline home page, the first thing to do will be to click on the green “Join” button, found in the top right corner of the screen.

BetOnline Join Button

3. Input All Required Details

You’ll now see a form. You just need to quickly fill in all details, before then clicking on the “Create Account” button. You’ll then have a BetOnline account.

BetOnline Registration Form

4. Deposit Money

You should now click the green “Deposit” button. You’ll then need to choose the depositing method to use and then complete all details. Don’t forget to enter INSIDERS as the promo code for the first deposit bonus.

BetOnline Depositing Options

5. Start Betting on Horse Racing

It should only take a few minutes for the money to arrive in your account. You’re then ready to start betting on horse racing online.

BetOnline Horse Racing Betting

Bonuses Available at Kentucky Horse Racing Betting Sites

You’ll often find bonuses being offered at racebooks. However, be slightly careful when claiming a bonus – many of the sports bonuses offered at sites don’t apply to horse racing, so check the terms and conditions carefully before claiming one.

There are four main types of bonuses found at Kentucky horse racing sites and we’ve explained them all below.

Match Deposit Bonuses

Match deposit bonuses add a certain percentage to any deposit you make. For example, if you receive a 200% match deposit bonus and deposit $50, you’ll receive an extra $100 to play with. It’s usually credited as bonus funds and will have wagering requirements attached. Bonuses of this type are generally the largest you’ll find at KY horse racing sites. BetUS is known for having large match deposit bonuses.

No Deposit Bonuses

As the name suggests, bonuses of this type don’t require any deposit, meaning they’re completely risk free. They’re quite rare and usually pretty small, plus the wagering requirements can be high. What’s more, there’s often a maximum you can win from them. However, they’re completely free, so if you see one, claim it straight away. BetOnline gives you a $25 no deposit bonus for the racebook.

Rebate Bonuses

Next up, there’s the rebate bonus, which is offered at several of our recommended sites offering Kentucky horse racing in 2022. Quite simply, you’ll be given a percentage of your losses back, up to a certain value. So, for example, let’s say you lose $50 on the horses and there’s a 10% rebate offer. You’d receive $5 back thanks to the bonus. MyBookie has automatic rebate of 8% for horse racing in Kentucky.

Free Bets

Finally, there are free bets. As the name implies, these are bets you can make that don’t cost you any money. They’re sometimes given as a no deposit bonus and other times given when a real money bet you’ve placed loses. For example, you might claim a free bet bonus that gives you a $20 free bet if your real money bet of $20 on horse racing is a losing one. At SportsBetting.ag, your first $25 racebook bet is free.

Payment Methods at Kentucky Horse Racing Betting Sites

Before you can bet on horse racing in Kentucky, you’ll need to deposit some money into your betting account. There are three main types of depositing options, and we’ve outlined all of them below.

Racebook Depositing Options

Crypto Betting Options

Cryptocurrency is often the number one option for horse racing betting fans. Unlike many other options, you won’t be prohibited from using crypto to deposit. Plus, you’ll find that depositing using crypto incurs very low charges. Payments usually take less than 10 minutes to reach your account.

In terms of the available options, the number one cryptocurrency is undoubtedly Bitcoin, which accounts for around 45% of the crypto market. However, you’ll also find other crypto options at Kentucky horse racing sites, like Ethereum, Litecoin, Bitcoin Cash, and Dash.

eWallet Betting Options

eWallets are services such as PayPal, Neteller, and Skrill. You fund the eWallet with some money or connect it straight to your bank account, and then use the eWallet to pay. By doing this, you don’t have to provide any banking details to the Kentucky racebook you’ve chosen.

However, there’s a problem with eWallets – many of them don’t allow transactions with gambling sites. This is because online gambling is not legal and they’re looking to avoid legal problems. You can try depositing using an eWallet, and if it doesn’t work, use the eWallet to buy crypto, and then deposit in that way instead.

Traditional Payment Methods

Finally, there are traditional payments, by which we mean credit and debit cards. Most Kentucky horse racing sites accept deposits from the main credit and debit cards, but like eWallets, not every card provider will allow transactions with gambling sites. If not, as with eWallets, use your card to buy crypto, then deposit on the site.

If you can deposit with a credit or debit card, you’ll find that there are no fees charged by the card company – although many horse racing sites will charge a fee themselves. It’s an incredibly convenient method, as most people already have a card, plus deposits are fast, usually transferring almost instantly.

Our Top 5 Tips for Horse Racing Betting in Kentucky

Are you ready to start betting at a Kentucky horse racing site? If so, check out the 5 tips we’ve come up with to help you get the most from your time betting on horse racing in Kentucky.

1. Study the Form

To start, you’ve got to study the form, meaning that you need to see how the runners have been racing previously. You might spot that one horse is having a great run of results or that a horse is performing badly recently, both of which could influence how you bet.

2. Consider the Track Surface

The condition of the track surface can make a huge difference to the way a horse runs. Some prefer running when the track condition is fast, while others prefer the ground to be slow. You’ll easily be able to find the track condition with a little research.

3. Immerse Yourself in Horse Racing

Great knowledge of horse racing is a potent weapon to have. You should immerse yourself in horse racing, meaning you should read about it every day, start checking out what tipsters have to say, and even do your best to attend the track sometimes.

4. Claim Multiple Bonuses

Bonuses are a great way of boosting your betting bankroll, so use them to their max. Sign-up with several online racebooks and claim the bonuses at each of them. Once you’ve used the welcome bonuses, ensure you get the most from any reload bonuses and rebates that are available. Also, look for the best horse racing odds to maximize your winnings.

5. Bet Sensibly

You should only ever gamble with money you can afford to lose. If you lose that money, walk away until you have some spare cash again. If you find yourself having problems with gambling, you should contact the Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling, or a problem gambling charity.

Explore Our Betting Picks Guides

Expert Baseball Picks and Predictions
Providing you with daily MLB betting picks, MLB predictions on futures, expert analysis, and everything that you need to feel confident whilst betting.
Best Baseball Picks
Expert Football Picks and Predictions
Discover the best NFL picks for the 2022/23 football season, our guide includes predictions for Super Bowl, NFC & AFC, insider knowledge & much more.
Best Football Picks
Expert Basketball Picks and Predictions
Are you curious about the best NBA picks? Why not read our comprehensive guide to betting on NBA, find huge bonuses, get the latest predictions & more.
Basketball Picks
Expert Boxing Picks & Free Predictions
Don't hesitate & check out the latest boxing picks in our guide that provides you with running predictions & top online sports books for all the biggest fights.
Best Boxing Picks
Expert Horse Racing Picks, Predictions & Advices
No matter what race you're looking to bet on, you'll benefit from our guide. Focusing on horse racing, we provide you with expert tips and picks, and much more.
Horse Racing Picks
Expert Soccer Free Picks & Predictions
Looking to bet on the next soccer game? Make sure you check out our soccer picks and predictions guide to assure you make the best choice, with top tips & more.
Best Soccer Picks
Expert Tennis Picks & Predictions
Figure out how to make accurate tennis predictions with our latest Tennis Picks and Predictions Guide. Covering the best odds, tennis betting tips & more.
Best Tennis Picks
Expert UFC Picks & Predictions
Picking UFC fights shouldn't feel like an ongoing battle, our guide provides you with the information you need to predict UFC events, how to read odds and more.
Best UFC Picks
Expert College Football Free Picks & Predictions
Get a deep analysis on the latest college football picks for this season. Our guide is well researched and provides you with picks from industry experts.
College Football Picks
Expert College Basketball Picks & Predictions
Curious about expert college basketball picks & predictions? Check out the top NCAAB picks on the biggest games of the season, to make sure you don't miss out.
College Basketball Picks

Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby is considered by some to be the most important race in the world. It’s held on the first Saturday in May every year, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, and you’ll be able to bet on the race at all offshore racebooks we recommend on this page.

Billed as the most exciting two minutes in sports, the race is held over one and a quarter miles and is only open to three-year-old thoroughbreds. The prize purse for the race is around $3,000,000, so it’s nowhere near the most valuable race in the world, but it is one of the most prestigious.

The Kentucky Derby is part of the Triple Crown, along with the Preakness Stakes at the Pimlico Race Course, and the Belmont Stakes at Belmont Park. The last horse to win all three in the same year was Justify, which achieved the feat in 2018.

Rich Strike Winning Kentucky Derby

Kentucky Horse Race Tracks

Kentucky has a proud tradition of horse racing and boasts several horse racing tracks. Most are for thoroughbred racing, but two – Oak Grove Racing & Gaming and Red Mile – are for harness racing. You can find out about all tracks offering horse racing in Kentucky below.

Kentucky Racing Track Address Phone Number Notable Races
Churchill Downs 700 Central Ave, Louisville, KY 40208 502-636-4400 Kentucky Oaks, Kentucky Derby, Arlington Stakes
Ellis Park 3300 US Hwy 41 N, Henderson, KY 42420 812-425-1456 Groupie Doll Stakes
Keeneland 4201 Versailles Road, Lexington, KY 40510 859-254-3412 Central Bank Ashland, Toyota Blue Grass Stakes, Claiborne Breeders’ Futurity, Coolmore Turf Mile
Kentucky Downs 5629 Nashville Rd, Franklin, KY 42134 270-586-7778 Calumet Turf Cup, FanDuel Turf Sprint Stakes
Oak Grove Racing & Gaming 777 Winners Way, Oak Grove, KY 42262 270-984-4200
Red Mile 1200 Red Mile Rd, Lexington, KY 40504 859-255-0752 Kentucky Futurity
Turfway Park 7500 Turfway Rd, Florence, KY 41042 859-371-0200 Jeff Ruby Steaks [sic], Bourbonette Oaks Stakes

2022 Kentucky Horse Racing Schedule

The Kentucky horse racing schedule for 2022 is a busy one, dominated by action at two huge venues: Keeneland and Churchill Downs. Look at the Kentucky horse racing schedule below to see some of the higher profile races you can bet on this year.

Date Kentucky Race Kentucky Track
April 2 Jeff Ruby Steaks Turfway Park
April 2 Bourbonette Oaks Stakes Turfway Park
April 8 Central Bank Ashland Keeneland
April 9 Toyota Blue Grass Stakes Keeneland
April 15 Maker’s 46 Mile Keeneland
April 16 Jenny Wiley Keeneland
May 6 Kentucky Oaks Churchill Downs
May 6 Humana Distaff Stakes Churchill Downs
May 7 Turf Classic Stakes Churchill Downs
May 7 Kentucky Derby Churchill Downs
July 1 Stephen Foster Handicap Churchill Downs
August 13 Arlington Stakes Churchill Downs
August 14 Groupie Doll Stakes Ellis Park
September 10 Calumet Turf Cup Kentucky Downs
September 10 FanDuel Turk Sprint Stakes Kentucky Downs
October 7 Darley Alcibiades Keeneland
October 8 First Lady Keeneland
October 8 Claiborne Breeders’ Futurity Keeneland
October 8 Coolmore Turf Mile Keeneland
October 9 Kentucky Futurity Red Mile
October 10 Juddmonte Spinster Keeneland
October 15 Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup Keeneland
November 4 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint Keeneland
November 4 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Filles Turf Keeneland
November 4 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies Keeneland
November 4 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Keeneland
November 4 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf Keeneland
November 5 Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Sprint Keeneland
November 5 Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint Keeneland
November 5 Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile Keeneland
November 5 Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Turf Keeneland
November 5 TwinSpires Breeders’ Cup Sprint Keeneland
November 5 Breeders’ Cup Mile Keeneland
November 5 Breeders’ Cup Distaff Keeneland
November 5 Breeders’ Cup Turf Keeneland
November 5 Breeders’ Cup Classic Keeneland
November 27 Clark Handicap Churchill Downs

Kentucky Horse Racing Betting on Mobile and Apps

Nowadays, it’s possible to bet on horses from anywhere, as all Kentucky horse racing betting sites have mobile websites. They can be accessed from all common smartphones and tablets, including those running on iOS and Android. It’s hugely convenient to bet using a mobile and you’ll find most of the same features as you’d get on desktop sites.

To access a mobile racebook, simply type the URL into your mobile browser. You’ll then be taken to a site that fits perfectly on your screen. You can then navigate the site and place bets using your device’s touchscreen.

It’s also possible to bet on horse racing using mobile betting apps. None of our recommended offshore horse racing sites have apps to download, but you can always add a shortcut of the site to the home screen on your device.

Explore Our Online Betting App Guides

Best Sports Betting Apps

Best Sports Betting Apps
Our guide covers everything you need to know about the world of Sports Betting Apps. From the different types of apps, features, sign-up bonuses, and more.
Best Betting Apps
Best Fantasy Sports Apps
Discover why fantasy sports are growing in popularity, we give you the full insider scoop on the best apps and sites in the US, top-rated bonus codes, and more.
Fantasy Sports Apps
Best Fantasy Cricket Apps
Find the Fantasy Cricket Apps, the best platforms, promotions, payment options and so much more with our exclusive guide.
Fantasy Cricket Apps

Virtual Horse Racing Betting in Kentucky

Sometimes there are no horse races being run, so what do fans of horse racing betting do then? The answer is simple: virtual horse racing betting. Most sportsbooks will have virtual horse races, which are computer-generated races with random outcomes.

Virtual horse races start every few minutes throughout the day and night, so one is always about to begin. As with standard horse racing betting, each of the virtual runners will have a fixed price – the higher the odds, the lower the horse’s chances of winning the race.

Bovada Virtual Horse Race

Kentucky Horse Racing Near Me

There are several horse racing tracks in Kentucky, with the most prestigious located in Louisville and Lexington.

However, unlike in other states, there are no retail sportsbooks anywhere other than at the racetracks. This means that most people in the state won’t have a convenient way to bet on a regular basis, as the racetracks are too far from them.

If you’re unable to make it to the track to place bets, you can instead jump online and head to one of the offshore horse betting sites we recommend. They can be accessed from anywhere in the state, providing you can get online. This means the opportunity to bet on horses in Kentucky is always close to hand.

Betting at the Racetrack vs Online Horse Racing Betting in Kentucky

There are advantages and disadvantages to both betting at a racetrack and betting online at Kentucky horse racing sites. We’ve listed the main pros and cons below.

Betting at the Racetrack Online Horse Racing Betting
✅ Unbeatable atmosphere ✅ No other costs
✅ Regulated by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission ✅ Many bonuses and promotions
✅ No deposit and withdrawal fees ✅ No long journeys required
❌ Traveling and entertainment expenses ✅ Betting on other sports usually available
❌ Not convenient for many ❌ No social aspect

The Best Horse Racing Betting Site in Kentucky

When it comes to Kentucky horse racing in 2024, there are several great places to bet online. However, there’s one site that stands out from the crowd, offering a superb horse racing betting experience: BetOnline. When you head to BetOnline, you’ll find loads of betting opportunities, as well as great odds.

What’s more, it’s a completely safe place to play. You can easily add funds through any of the 15+ accepted payment methods and then withdraw your winnings without hassle. The operator has great bonuses, including a risk-free bet for the racebook and weekly rebate. Why not head over to BetOnline today and sign-up?

Jamie Wright

Jamie Wright

Jamie is a sports fan with a love for the Kansas City Chiefs and Tottenham Hotspur. He's been writing about sports betting for over 10 years, providing betting tips and helping readers find the best sports betting sites around.