Unlike other states, many of which surround the Tarheel State, there are no independent off-track betting facilities in North Carolina. There is, however, off-track betting offered at the state’s three Tribal Casinos located throughout North Carolina.
Also known as pari-mutuel wagering, off-track betting allows bettors to wager on horse races happening throughout the country. Once you place your bet (more on that, below), you can then watch the race on a closed-circuit television known as the OTB’s simulcast. Despite there being no active horse race tracks in the state, off-track betting in North Carolina is a popular form of gambling that rivals only casinos in the state.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about off-track betting in North Carolina, including where and how you can get involved.
Off-track betting locations in North Carolina
There are three off-track betting locations in North Carolina where residents (and visitors) can participate in NC horse betting throughout the year. Below is where you can find each of them.
What is off-track betting and how does it work?
Known as pari-mutuel wagering, off-track betting is a facility in which bettors can place wagers on horse races happening throughout the country. In some states, off-track betting facilities are independent locations, often at bars or restaurants, or are located at active horse race tracks. Off-track betting facilities in North Carolina, however, are exclusively located at one of the state’s three Tribal Casinos.
Once you place your bet at the OTB, you can then watch the races unfold on one of the dozens of closed-circuit televisions in the facility known as the simulcast section. Off-track betting facilities make their money by taking a small commission, known as the takeout, from each wager placed. In addition to paying for the administration of the OTB, including the staff needed to operate them, the OTB also uses these commissions to make a small profit.
How could I place a wager at OTB locations in North Carolina?
For residents (and visitors), placing a wager at OTB locations in North Carolina might seem like a complicated task. It is not, however, as we here at Betting NC have you covered on how you could place a wager at an OTB location in North Carolina today. Using the increasingly popular self-serving kiosks, let’s dive into what to expect in placing your first OTB wager today.
Expert tips when off-track betting in North Carolina
If it’s your first time visiting an off-track betting location in North Carolina, you might be wondering what else to think about. Based on nearly two decades of OTB experience, below are some expert tips when off-track betting in North Carolina.