When you think of Florida, images of Disney World, sun-soaked beaches, and endless sunshine probably spring to mind. I’ll admit, those are some of the first things I think about, too. But something else gets me just as excited: the sports betting scene in the Sunshine State.
After all, Florida is home to some of the US’s best sports teams, including the Miami Heat and the Miami Dolphins. Just as visitors flock to meet Mickey Mouse, Floridians go wild betting on Jimmy Butler’s next triple-double or Tua Tagovailoa’s touchdown passes.
So, one day, I had the idea of flying to Florida, hiring a rental car, and visiting the best land-based sportsbooks there (preferably with a tequila in hand). The fact that their sportsbooks are attached to 4-star hotels shaped like guitars was a bit of a bonus.
In this article, I’ll show you what I was up to over the few days I spent exploring Florida. I’ll let you know how I got on at the biggest sportsbooks and how I fared with online sports betting.
What I Did in Florida
Before I visited the sportsbooks, I checked out a few bars and restaurants in North Florida. I tried the famous Conch Fritters, caught a college sports game, and hit the beach.
Then, I visited the two main sportsbooks in this state – the Hard Rock Sportsbook in Tampa and the Hard Rock Sportsbook in Hollywood.
Both are part of the famous Seminole Hard Rock hotel chain and while they share the same brand, the difference in location adds a unique twist to each experience.
While these brick-and-mortar sportsbooks were the highlights of my trip, I also dipped into Florida’s growing online sports betting scene. I tested popular sites like Betwhale and BetUS.
Let’s take a closer look at each sportsbook and see how they stack up.
Online Sportsbooks I Tried in Florida
As fun as it is to visit a brick-and-mortar sportsbook and place sports bets, you can also sign up for online sportsbooks in Florida.
I did exactly this to see how they compared to the ‘real thing,’ and I soon learned that there are plenty of safe, legit, and licensed options for sports betting in Florida. These options let you bet on all your favorite sports and claim great bonuses along the way.
BetWhale
BetWhale offers new players a 125% up to $1,250 welcome bonus, personally the biggest welcome offer I’ve seen.
I deposited $50 straight and could play with some extra bonus funds. This was after it took me less than a minute to sign up, which surprised and pleased me.
I liked the look and layout of this site for sports betting in Florida, which is as fuss-free and easy to use as online sportsbooks. It does not have lots of bells and whistles, but there are still plenty of betting tools that I found useful, including an early cashout tool.
I found this tool useful because it allowed me to close my bets before the game ended – something I couldn’t do at the Hard Rock Sportsbook (but wish I could have!).
You can fund your account using different methods. While the $10 minimum deposit is fair, a steep $150 minimum withdrawal might put a few of my fellow bettors off.
Still, I was able to withdraw my funds the same day and had a great time overall. Thanks to the Warriors, I even ended the day in profit.
BetUS
One of the things I loved about the brick-and-mortar sportsbooks in Florida was the giant LED TV screens that showed live action alongside panel shows, where experts shared their sports betting analysis, tips, and predictions.
BetUS replicates that somewhat with its exclusive feature, BetUS TV. This feature is free to all customers and lets you hear what the experts say about all the major upcoming sports games.
It’s a cool feature that fits with a very forward-thinking online sportsbook. This place is jam-packed with bonuses, including a 100% sportsbook welcome bonus, a 200% reload bonus, and more.
BetUS seems on the level in terms of the betting markets and odds. I checked out the NBA, NFL, and soccer markets, and there’s plenty to choose from, including a few game props and futures bets.
It was also cool that I could make a deposit and process a withdrawal via telephone, which made me feel like I was back in the 1980s. It gave this site for sports betting in Florida a personal touch, similar to what you’ll find at a brick-and-mortar sportsbook.
Bovada
I’d already heard of Bovada before I signed up, so I was expecting to have a good time. I locked in my 75% welcome bonus and picked out a few props using the Props Builder tool, which, I have to say, made props betting much smoother than at the Hard Rock Sportsbook.
I was able to view a wide range of player, team, and game props at a glance for sports like the NBA, the MLB, and the NFL, which is like manna from heaven for a data-driven sports bettor like me who always thinks LeBron will record over 25.5 points.
Bovada is stacked with betting tools, but the neatest feature is the request-a-bet feature. If you’d like to place a bet but can’t see it on the betting site, you can ask Bovada if they’ll give you odds for it.
Speaking of odds, legend has it that Bovada offers reduced juice. Gotta say, I didn’t get any reduced juice myself, but the odds were still excellent.
A lack of a reload bonus was disappointing since I’d come to expect these kinds of things by now, but you get to rack up loyalty points anytime you place a sports bet here. You get more points for parlays, and it doesn’t even matter if your bet loses – you still get the points.
Overall, this site for sports betting in Florida does all it can to tempt bettors away from brick-and-mortar sportsbooks. If you like props betting and don’t mind missing out on a reload bonus, it’s a good choice.
BetOnline
I was stoked to read that BetOnline is over 25 years old, making it even older than the brick-and-mortar sportsbooks in Florida. Does its reputation precede it?
Well, I have to say that I was impressed with the slick and modern interface. It works just as well as the Hard Rock Sportsbook app for mobile sports betting, and signing up is a piece of cake.
There are also more bet types here than at brick-and-mortar sportsbooks. I personally didn’t place if, teasers or round robins, but these are all available if you ever need them.
On the other hand, BetOnline doesn’t offer alternative lines, which was a little disappointing for a tedious bettor like myself.
This Florida sports betting site really stood out compared to a land-based sportsbook because of its same game parlay option. Essentially, you can build a bet around the same game (such as the Lakers vs the Cavaliers). Apparently, this type of thing isn’t widely available even with online sports betting, so it’s pretty rad that BetOnline offers it.
A slight area of concern is that you can’t withdraw via credit and debit card, which took me by surprise. All other withdrawal options—including P2P and cryptocurrencies—are super reliable, though.
Would I recommend BetOnline? For parlays, early lines, and betting contests, I would.
EveryGame
As it turns out, EveryGame is even older than BetOnline. It’s operated for over 30 years and is widely known as one of the world’s oldest Florida sports betting sites – trustworthy and reputable.
It is a good alternative to placing futures bets at a brick-and-mortar sportsbook. You’ve got just as many options and can bet on markets like Conference and Division winners, the World Cup winners, the Super Bowl winners – and many more, many months in advance.
Other than that, EveryGame – like a couple of other Florida betting sites – hosts betting contests, including a $5k Hot Hoops Challenge and a $5k tennis betting contest. You don’t get these kinds of things at a brick-and-mortar sportsbook, and they’re a fun and interactive way to pass the time.
Deposit and bet limits are tight, and you might not be able to place the same big bets that you can at a brick-and-mortar sportsbook (if you’re into that sort of thing). But it is recommended for everyone who’s up for some fun and especially wants to place futures bets.
Land-Based Sportsbooks I Tried in Florida
First Sportsbook I Tested – Hard Rock Sportsbook in Tampa
Florida’s Hard Rock Sportsbook is based in the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel on Orient Road in Tampa’s heart (and heat). The hotel is a luxurious 4-star destination with pools and spas. Its sleek design and vibrant atmosphere make it a standout destination in the area.
I’d never been to Tampa before, but as I arrived under the blazing midday sun, the vibrant energy of the hotel caught my attention immediately. Its polished exterior reflected the sunlight and the bold design had a real presence – classic, powerful, and unmistakably cool. It gave me instant Johnny Cash vibes, and I couldn’t help but think, “Yeah, I could stay here for a while.”
First Impressions
Walking into the sportsbook, I was greeted by a cacophony of sounds – the hum of conversations, the clinking of cocktail glasses, and the unmistakable roar of a crowd reacting to a game on one of the many LED screens.
With a swagger, I passed by a few bars and lounges, where people of all backgrounds – lone businessmen, young couples, old friends – were relaxing, drinking cocktails, having a beer, and having a good time.
One guy even tipped his glass my way as though he was sure I was gonna win my bets.
I rubbed my hands together and knew today was gonna be a good day. What can I say? The place was very me. “Let’s have some fun,” I thought with a confident grin.
Betting Options and Features
The sportsbook can initially overwhelm you with its myriad LED TV screens showing all the live action. When I got there, the Celtics were playing an NBA game while the Raiders were involved in some NFL action.
Everyone seemed hypnotized by it all – pretty cool. I began to wonder how much money was riding on these games. Who would go home a winner, and who would go home a loser?
I was also happy that there didn’t seem to be any dress code. Casual dress was the order of the day, and many people were milling about in t-shirts and shorts. Plenty of folks proudly repped their favorite NBA teams with jerseys on display.
There were plenty of tables with four chairs each, and while many were already occupied, there were still many places where I could sit down, think over my bets, or watch the live games.
I could also order a drink and some food here and suffer through my shrimp as the Heat played with my heart and wallet. Damn you, Jimmy Butler.
There was a real buzz in the air – a real tingling of excitement shared by me and my fellow Florida sports bettors. Many were glued to the screens or their phones, no doubt analyzing their next moves. Others stood in pairs, chatting animatedly and debating their wagers.
After a while, I realized I wasn’t sure where to place my bets. I asked someone nearby, and he pointed toward a large table in the middle of the room. “That’s where the kiosks are,” he said.
Sure enough – 34 self-service kiosks lined up and ready for action. Whether you find this setup convenient or impersonal probably depends on your style. I prefer a bit of human interaction, so I was also happy to see eight betting windows. These aren’t open around the clock, though, which might explain why I’d missed them initially.
Alternatively, you can download the mobile sports betting app and bet there instead (but you can’t use the app to place a bet inside the sportsbook).
What Can You Bet On?
In terms of what you can bet on here, there’s no shortage of options. As you’d expect, you can bet on all the major American sports, including the NFL, the NBA, the MLB, and NASCAR. College sports betting is also available.
You can bet in-play on games that have already started, and I appreciated how quick the tellers at the betting window were at placing my live bets. They knew that every second counted, though each time I went up, they reminded me that I could always use the self-service kiosks if I wanted.
You can choose from a wide variety of betting markets, including the moneyline, the point spread, and the totals, as well as place parlays and futures bets. However, I was slightly disappointed that college props weren’t available. It was a letdown, especially since I had a bet in mind – and wouldn’t you know it, that bet ended up winning. Doh!
Overall Impressions
When I walked out into the cool night air in Tampa after my session, there was a gentle breeze. The vibrant lights of the hotel illuminated the area and created an inviting nighttime ambiance.
More people were entering the building than leaving, and I wondered if I should walk back in and place more bets! That’s how excited I was.
Alas, I headed to my room, knowing I’d had a good time but that it was time to call it a night. I’d placed a few in-play bets, given myself some hope with a few futures bets that wouldn’t be settled for another week, and left with $50 profit while waiting on the outcome of an evening NBA game.
Parking was a breeze, and leaving the next day to rejoin Tampa’s busy streets was just as easy. After enjoying a meal at one of the Hard Rock’s restaurants, I was ready to head to my next destination. Ultimately, I’d recommend Florida’s Hard Rock Sportsbook to anyone who enjoys a classic bookie’s lively, hustle-and-bustle vibe but prefers it with the added luxury of 4-star amenities.
Second Sportsbook I Tested – Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood
The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood is nestled in South Florida, roughly a two-hour drive from Orlando. It’s conveniently located near downtown Miami and just minutes from the beach.
As I approached the iconic guitar-shaped building, I couldn’t help but take a moment to appreciate its size and shine. It rose high against the skyline, its sleek facade catching the sunlight and giving off a warm, golden glow. It wasn’t just a building – it felt like a symbol of excitement and indulgence, setting the tone for what I hoped would be a memorable experience.
When I stepped out of the car, the salty breeze from the ocean mixed with the faint smell of coffee and sunscreen. There was a buzz in the air, and seeing the guitar-shaped hotel up close made the moment feel a little surreal. The design was striking but inviting, and I couldn’t wait to see what the inside had in store.
Surfing could wait – there were bets to place first.
First Impressions
Make no mistake, the Hard Rock Hotel is a stunning site, and its iconic guitar shape infused the entire experience with a unique energy. I could feel the vibes as I made my way inside, passing by people who were clearly here for a good time.
I knew there was a casino alongside the sportsbook, so I couldn’t resist popping my head in to look. As expected, rows upon rows of slot machines stretched across the floor, their colorful lights and jingling sounds creating a lively atmosphere. Players sat intently in front of the screens, each one chasing the dream of hitting it big.
Before long, I found myself in the sportsbook, which felt like stepping into Times Square. LED TVs covered nearly every surface, and the crowd was just as bustling. Some screens broadcast live games, others feature pre- and post-game interviews with players and coaches, and a few display expert analysis to help Florida sports bettors strategize their next moves.
Live scores were everywhere to keep you up-to-date with all the action, too, while the latest bonuses were plastered on the walls. Would you be able to ignore that $100 ‘no regret first bet’ deal? I couldn’t.
No Live Betting Windows
I decided this time to give the self-service kiosks a whirl, mainly because this Hard Rock sportsbook doesn’t have betting windows. The minimum bet when using one of these is $20, which for some might be a tad high.
The kiosks were a bit tricky to figure out at first, and I’ll admit there was some sweating involved as seasoned bettors rushed past me with practiced ease. Unfortunately, by the time I got the hang of it, I’d already missed a betting opportunity – the market had closed.
It wasn’t a big deal in the end. Once I got the hang of it, I was caught up in the excitement around me. The buzz of the sportsbook took over, and I started placing my bets with the kind of confidence that comes from just enjoying the moment.
What Can You Bet On?
At the Hard Rock Sportsbook, you’ll find a wide range of betting options to keep you entertained. Pre-game betting covers all the major sports, including the NFL, NBA, soccer, tennis, and more.
If horse racing or greyhound racing is more your speed, you’ll be glad to know those are available too.
College sports betting is available but it’s the same deal as it was in Tampa – you can’t place props bets.
Overall Impressions
I have plenty of praise for the Hard Rock Sportsbook in Hollywood, which shares much of the same appeal as its Tampa counterpart. The buzzing atmosphere of the 24/7 sports lounge was infectious, making it the kind of place where time seems to fly by.
What really stood out to me, though, was the iconic guitar-shaped building. As I stepped outside in the evening, the neon lights illuminated the structure, creating a striking silhouette against the night sky. The vibrant glow felt like a celebration of the energy and fun that defined my time there – a sight I won’t forget anytime soon.
The location is another strong point. Situated just outside Miami, it’s incredibly easy to find and makes for a convenient stop during any South Florida trip. That said, the popularity of the place was clear, as the parking lot was noticeably packed. While I didn’t have trouble finding a spot this time, I could see how it might be a challenge during peak hours.
As I drove off the next morning, with the city slowly waking up around me, I totaled my bets. I was $100 down overall – not bad for the experience and excitement the day brought. Plus, I had a little extra to look forward to with a futures bet riding on next week’s Knicks game. Here’s hoping Brunson doesn’t let me down!
Things I Learned on My Trip
I’ve had a lot of fun betting on sports in Florida and writing this article, even if, at times, things weren’t so smooth sailing.
But you know what? That’s all part of the experience. We live, we learn – and we share our wisdom.
So here are my general tips for if you decide to start betting on sports in Florida:
Set a Bankroll
This is a must. If you don’t set a bankroll, sports betting could quickly get out of control, and you might find yourself making multiple deposits before realizing you’ve overspent.
Setting a bankroll also helped me determine a staking strategy so that I didn’t go crazy and put all I had on the Bulls to win the fourth quarter.
A bankroll should be the precise amount you’ve set aside for sports betting purposes, and it’s important to fix it so that you don’t include cash that’s already been set aside for something else.
Ask for Help
As mentioned, I was overwhelmed when I first entered a Florida sportsbook. If I hadn’t asked for help, I’d probably still be trying to figure out how to use the self-service kiosks.
And if you think that everyone will be too busy focused on their bets to help you out, you’re wrong. Most people in a sportsbook Florida are only too happy to chat with you and lend a hand.
Watch the Live Action
The live action is there to entertain you, bringing you closer to your bets – you can see the action unfold as your bet turns into a winner or a loser.
However, I also recommend watching the live action to assist you with your next bet. After all, seeing what’s happening in a game gives you a better idea of what might happen next. This is essential for live betting.
So take advantage of the live streaming and use it to plot your in-play bets wisely.
Grab the Bonuses Online
The biggest difference between brick-and-mortar sportsbooks and online sports betting sites is that you can claim bonuses online. These include welcome, reload, referral, and cashback bonuses.
A bonus is a way of boosting your bankroll and getting you back in the game, and they can be a godsend if you need some extra funds.
Just make sure to read the terms and conditions first, since all offers come with minimum deposit/bet requirements and wagering requirements.
Takeaway from My Visit to Florida
Personally? I love that Florida’s best sportsbooks are part of luxury hotels. They ooze class at every step. Even if you visit them for the electric atmosphere but get tempted to nibble, you’re still guaranteed a good time.
If I could, I’d do it all again, though this time, I’d probably plan my trip differently and give myself more time (maybe two days for each sportsbook).
I’d also probably time it during the NBA playoffs, which is my favorite time of the year to watch and bet on sports.
But besides that, there’s so much to enjoy in Florida. You’ve got the sun, the setting, and the tremendous sportsbooks. Win or lose, you’ll have a good time.
Florida Sports Betting – FAQ
Is There a Dress Code at Florida Sportsbooks?
Not really. All that’s required is that you turn up reasonably well-dressed. Sportswear is allowed, and you can wear T-shirts, shorts, and flip-flops. If you want to wear your slacks, you could do that, too.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
Because the sportsbooks in Florida are part of a hotel, there doesn’t seem to be a ‘downtime’ in traffic. These places get packed daily, so it’s essential that you’re not afraid of a bit of hustle and bustle.
That said, I’d also say it’s a smart idea to turn up when there is plenty of juicy sporting action on. This will give you something to bet on and something to watch on the TV screens.
Naturally, the weather might play a part, too, and if you’re risk-averse, you might want to avoid visiting during Hurricane Season, which peaks between mid-August and October.
How Much Should I Budget for a Sports Betting Trip to Florida?
Your travel expenses should include your gas (if you’re driving), flight tickets, and hotel accommodation. If you stay in the Hard Rock Hotel, rooms start from around $400, and there’s also a $25 daily resort fee if you’re just looking to visit the sportsbook (without staying in the hotel).
Then, of course, there’s your bankroll, which can be as much as you want (but no more than you can afford to lose).
My trip cost around $4,000, including my bankroll, accommodation, flight tickets, etc. You can also factor in any sightseeing you want to do.
What Sports Can I Bet On in Florida?
There’s no end to the sports you can bet on in Florida, with land-based sportsbooks offering markets for the NFL, the NBA, NASCAR, college sports, soccer, tennis, golf, and more.
You can also bet on horse racing, greyhound racing, motorsports, and combat sports, including boxing and the UFC.
What Bonuses Can I Claim at Online Sportsbooks in Florida?
If you prefer Florida online sports betting, you can claim a range of bonuses. I noticed that all the top-rated FL online sports betting sites offer new players a welcome bonus, which matches your first deposit with bonus funds.
You can also claim reload bonuses at some Florida online sportsbooks (though not all), while offer deals I spotted include cashback, free bets, and referral bonuses.
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