Louisiana Sports Betting: The Top Sportsbooks in the State

The Dawn of Legal Sports Betting in Louisiana

The legalization of sports betting in Louisiana wasn’t a straightforward path. 

It all started gaining real momentum in May 2018 when the United States Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), paving the way for states to legalize sports betting if they chose to do so.

Since then, over 30 states have legalized sports betting in various forms.

Louisiana, like the other states, known for its vibrant culture and love for sports, saw this as an opportunity. 

However, it wasn’t until November 2020 that the state took a significant step forward. In a state-wide referendum, 55 out of 64 parishes in Louisiana voted in favor of sports betting. 

This vote was a clear indication of the residents’ eagerness to embrace sports betting.

Following the referendum, the next significant milestone was the drafting and passing of the necessary legislation to regulate and tax sports betting. This came in the form of several bills, the most notable being Senate Bill 142, which laid out the regulatory framework for sports betting. 

Governor John Bel Edwards signed this bill, among others, in June 2021, thus officially legalizing sports betting in Louisiana.

Where is Sports Betting Prohibited in Louisiana?

Despite passing the bill, eight parishes still prohibit sports betting. These are the same parishes that did not pass the referendum—

• Caldwell
• Catahoula
• Franklin
• LaSalle
• Sabine
• Union
• West Carroll
• Winn

Navigating the Legal Landscape

Understanding the legal nuances of sports betting in Louisiana is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. 

Here are some key legal aspects—

• Age requirements. You must be 21 or older to participate in sports betting in Louisiana.
• Location restrictions. Online betting is restricted to the 55 parishes that voted in favor of sports betting. Geolocation technology is used to enforce this.
• Responsible gambling. Louisiana has put measures in place to promote responsible gambling, including self-exclusion programs and resources for problem gambling.

The Best Online Sportsbooks in Louisiana

Several online sportsbooks have sprung up with legalization, offering varied betting experiences. Here are some of the top contenders with the best welcome bonuses in the industry—

First Bet Offer $1500

Excludes NY, NC, NV and PR | Promo Code: EWBET1

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Choose your Offer: Bet $5 Get $200

or Get a First Bet Safety Net up to $1,000 | Promo Code: 365BV1

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Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly

Win or Lose!

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Bet $5 Get $200 in Bonus Bets

New Users Only

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Bet Up to $1,000 on Caesars

Win or Get a Bet Credit Back | Promo Code: BV1000

View Offer

Retail Sportsbooks: Where the Action Is

For those who prefer the traditional brick-and-mortar experience, Louisiana doesn’t disappoint. We can’t blame you — there’s quite a bit of excitement in a retail sportsbook.

Several retail sportsbooks have opened their doors, providing an immersive betting atmosphere.

This is a comprehensive list of all of the sportsbooks in the state as well as some links to promo codes.

Louisiana Has Lots to Be Excited About

The state’s diverse array of professional and collegiate sports teams fuels enthusiasm among fans, creating a dynamic environment for sports betting.

Professional Sports

• New Orleans Saints (NFL)
• New Orleans Pelicans (NBA)
• New Orleans Breakers (USFL)
• Baton Rouge Rouge (MLR)
• New Orleans Jesters (NPSL)
• Shreveport Rafters FC (NPSL)
• New Orleans Gold (MLR)
• New Orleans Baby Cakes (MiLB)

At the heart of Louisiana’s professional sports scene is the NFL’s New Orleans Saints.

With a history marked by memorable victories, including a triumphant Super Bowl win in 2010, the Saints have cultivated a legion of dedicated fans. This loyalty translates into a significant betting interest, especially during NFL season.

Taking it a step further, even their Superdome was rebranded to Caesars in 2021 — if that’s not enough sports betting for you.

The NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans also contribute to the sports betting landscape. The team’s recent performances, marked by young and dynamic players, have reignited interest among fans. The fast-paced nature of basketball, combined with the team’s potential, makes Pelicans’ games a hotspot for sports bettors.

Collegiate Sports

• LSU Tigers (Louisiana State University)
• Tulane Green Wave (Tulane University)
• Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns (University of Louisiana at Lafayette)
• Louisiana Tech Bulldogs and Lady Techsters (Louisiana Tech University)
• Grambling State Tigers (Grambling State University)
• Southern Jaguars (Southern University)
• McNeese State Cowboys and Cowgirls (McNeese State University)
• Southeastern Louisiana Lions and Lady Lions (Southeastern Louisiana University)

When it comes down to collegiate sports, Louisiana’s enthusiasm is unmatched. Maybe by some adjacent states, but still, LA gives them all a run for their money.

The LSU Tigers, particularly in football, hold a special place in the hearts of Louisianans. Their games, particularly against long-standing rivals such as Alabama and Arkansas, not only draw massive crowds but also see substantial betting action.

The unpredictability of college sports, coupled with the intense loyalty of alumni and fans, makes collegiate games particularly enticing for bets.

Beyond football, other college sports like basketball and baseball also see significant betting interest, though not on the same level as CFB.

This variety ensures that throughout the year, there’s always a local game attracting betting action.

Start Betting in the Bayou State

Since it’s relatively new to the industry, sports betting in Louisiana is a dynamic and evolving landscape, blending the state’s rich cultural tapestry with the thrill of sports fandom. 

That’s all part of the fun, though.

Whether you’re placing a bet online or experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of a retail sportsbook, Louisiana offers a unique and exciting betting experience.

While there are already tons of options, we’re confident more sportsbooks will open their doors in the Bayou State.