Iowa has a long history of gambling during the 1800’s and casino gaming was legalized and regulated in 1989. The law initially introduced gambling only on excursion boats. The first two boats were open for business in 1991. Two more followed in 1994. There are no online casinos available in Iowa. The state is a potential candidate for advocating online casinos due to the progressive laws within Iowa. One attempt has been made but unfortunately it failed.

Available Casino Games in Iowa

The casinos in Iowa offer a large variety of games including: slot machines, blackjack, roulette, mini-baccarat, craps and many variations of poker.

Biggest Iowa Casinos

There are 22 casinos in Iowa. Three are Indian casinos, three are racetrack casinos and the rest are riverboat casinos. One of the most popular is the Ameristar Casino Council Bluffs. With over 1,500 slot machines and dozens of table games, there is plenty of variety for visitors.

History of Casino Gambling in Iowa

Iowa has had a very long history with casino gambling, having many riverboat casinos back in the 1800’s. This continued into the 20^th Century however, prohibition and many other factors outlawed gambling. Casino gaming made a comeback in 1989 when a bill was passed legalizing and allowing for regulation. The first riverboat casinos opened in 1991. There has been a huge success with the casinos and there are now 22 across the state. This is one of the main reasons gambling in Iowa to be flourishing.

Casino Gambling Age in Iowa

The minimum age in Iowa is 21 years old. Minors can enter casinos without taking part in the activities therein, including consuming alcohol. The latter is a crime according to the law and could possibly lead to a hefty fine. What’s more, the law would recognize The casino employee or the minors parents as accomplices and would therefore fine them for disregarding the rules.

• Online Casino Age
  The legal gambling age in Iowa is 21+.
• Alcohol Age
  The legal drinking age in Iowa is 21+.
• Weed Age
  Recreational use of Cannabis is not permitted in Iowa, there is no legal age.

Responsible Gambling and Addiction Prevention

The Iowa gaming commission offers many ways of promoting responsible gambling. In September of 2019, they celebrated the 20th Annual Responsible Gaming Education Week. They offer help and advice for gamblers who feel under pressure. There are treatment programs and self-exclusion from gambling. Self-exclusion can be done at a state-wide level and lasts either five years or a lifetime. Casinos also offer an exclusion program for their own casino. The treatment programs offer counseling, both mental and financial. The aim of the program is to ensure that the general public understands problem gambling and does not become overwhelmed by any issues they face as a result.

Can I Play Without a Deposit?

For the reasons we pointed out earlier, there is no online casino industry in Iowa which means no opportunities to play without a deposit are available. That compelled many sites outside the state to cater to Iowa residents, offering them the chance to play the games on their websites without depositing cash. Offers of this type aim to entice recreational gamblers to get started with the games of chance, given that they will be spending bonus money. Even winnings made on the bonus can be withdrawn after meeting certain requirements. The most important condition is the wagering requirement which denotes how many times the bonus and winnings have to be wagered.

Upcoming Casino Regulation and Expected Changes

Although Iowa had a failed attempt at legalizing online casinos, some believe that it’s the next state in line to roll out licensed casino sites. The state has very progressive laws regarding gambling and it would not be a surprise to see the introduction of online casinos. We will be sure to keep you updated on any changes that are made to the law. In the meantime, we recommend planning a trip east to Atlantic City to explore some of the best NJ online casinos and their land-based partners.

Casino Guides for Nearby States

• Illinois
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• Nebraska