Gambling in New Mexico
In New Mexico gambling has quite a history, beginning with horse racing, but New Mexico casinos have appeared in the state since the 1990s. If you are looking for a casino city in New Mexico, the major cities of Santa Fe and Albuquerque offer some great options.
Casinos in New Mexico
In Albuquerque you will find the iconic Route 66 Casino Hotel and the Isleta Casino as well as The Downs for a laid-back racing and gaming experience. The Santa Fe casino making a name for itself is the Santa Fe Hilton Buffalo Thunder Resort and Casino.
Given the history of legalized horse race betting there are also five great Racinos, including the first to convert, Sunland Park.
Four major tracks have since converted, all of them doing so after the decline of interest in their primary offering during the 1990s and when the new legislation brought the chance of offering casino games.
Top Gambling Cities in New Mexico
The major cities of Santa Fe and Albuquerque are the centers when it comes to gambling in the Cactus State, but there are a host of other cities which offer great gaming opportunities.
History
As mentioned above, the state has a long history of horse racing, but the move to a casino culture was accelerated by Republican Governor Gary Johnson. As a part of his campaign, he advocated gaming agreements with the Native American tribes in the state and the creation of a state lottery.
Once elected he was as good as his word and also created the atmosphere which opened the door for Racinos and bingo games.
During that decade the first New Mexico Casino opened, owned and operated by the Pueblo de Sandia and named the Sandia Resort and Casino. With Vegas-style casino floor of 140,000 sq ft it remains a must-visit resort, since it also has so much more to offer.
After the Sandia opened in 1994 there was a burst of activity from native tribes taking advantage of the opportunity to open new streams of revenue.
Is Online Gambling Legal In New Mexico?
As is often the case in American states this is a grey area. In theory only gaming legitimized by the state authority is a legal activity, but many states have realized controlling the internet and online gaming is a difficult business.
Furthermore, the Department of Justice still maintains its position that Federal Law prohibits gambling on the internet. As a result of this position the New Mexico Gaming Board makes it clear on its website that online gambling is not allowed under the law.
If you are looking for an online casino New Mexico is not a place to begin your search, although the state legislature may be considering its position on the issue.
New Mexico Online Poker
Whilst most casinos in the state offer poker tables, the online poker area is more complicated. There are no specific laws relating to online gaming in the state. There are plenty of sites which will accept New Mexico residents, but players must realize that the idea of an online poker community within the state is some time away, and they may have to join tables elsewhere.
So whilst the state legislature does not allow operators to open an online poker site, players can still join sites if they wish to. It is unlikely that any legislation is coming soon.
Online Betting In New Mexico
On the question of online gambling New Mexico has put decisions on hold for the time being. Sports betting is available in many a gambling city in New Mexico which hosts tribal casinos. The state has still not produced enabling legislation for online betting, but it is constantly reviewing the position. If you are looking for legal online sports betting New Mexico is still some way behind the curve.
The state does not allow the opening of an online casino New Mexico specifically, choosing not to legislate for such an entity.
Casino Games In New Mexico
With so many casinos in New Mexico with slot machines and table games there are plenty of options when it comes to your choice of game. Of course, all the casinos have their own websites, and we suggest you check there first. As you would expect, many of the tribal venues offer the chance to enjoy sports betting New Mexico continuing to lead the way with great deals for their customers.
As well as some of the best slots and electronic table games, expect to be able to sit down to play craps, roulette and all your favorite table games, including live poker, baccarat, pai gow poker and blackjack.
Tribal Gaming In New Mexico
Native American tribes are the major contributors to the gaming community in New Mexico with 12 tribes entering the arena once the compact laws came into force in the 1990s. The tribal casinos have gone from strength to strength from then, with 23 casinos owned and operated by the tribes now dominating the gaming scene in the state.
Although the state has allowed for other commercial enterprises, there seems little appetite to take on the established operators.
New Mexico Casinos and Gambling FAQs
What is the legal gambling age in New Mexico?
Players of casino games must be 21+, whilst lottery players and gamblers on horse racing must be over 18 years of age.
Is online gambling legal in New Mexico?
No, you will not find a legal real money online casino New Mexico having consistently decided not to produce legislation to authorize such operators in the state.
When did New Mexico legalize gambling?
Betting on horse racing was introduced in 1946, but casino-style gambling did not appear until the 1990s with the gambling compacts and the first casino opening in 1995.
How many casinos are there in New Mexico?
There are 23 tribal casinos and five Racinos in New Mexico. Commercial operators are now allowed to open, and two have appeared so far.
What are the accepted types of gambling in New Mexico?
Players can enjoy slots, plenty of table games such as poker and baccarat as well as bingo and the state lottery. Horse racing and some sports betting are also available.
How much does New Mexico tax gambling winnings?
New Mexico has a flat 9% gambling tax, including winnings on casino and sports betting.