Currently, Kentucky law does not regulate real-money online poker, and there’s no licensing system for operators. This means that you can’t sign up with a major platform like PokerStars or BetMGM.
Still, Kentucky online poker players aren’t without options when it comes to playing this game in their state. You can sign up with a sweepstakes site and bet with virtual currencies, or join an offshore poker platform and bet real money.
Big welcome bonus
33% rakeback
Action packed games
Leading crypto site 
Very soft games
Free SC every day
Legal in the US
Trusted brand 
Super-soft games
5% instant rakeback
Quality web-based software
Great casino offer No matter whether you’re looking for a real-money online poker platform or a sweepstakes one, we’ve got you covered! On this page, we’ll share the best online poker sites in Kentucky and address the current state and future potential of online poker in the Bluegrass State.
Can I Play Online Poker in Kentucky?
Yes, you can play online poker in Kentucky. You can play at one of several trusted sweepstakes platforms, such as ClubWPT Gold and Stake US. If you want to bet for real money, you can do so by signing up with an offshore poker platform like CoinPoker.
Kentucky Online Poker Facts
| Available options | Sweepstakes operators & offshore sites |
| State-regulated poker sites | Not available |
| Age limit for Kentucky online poker | 18+ |
| Best KY poker site | CoinPoker |
Best Online Poker Sites in Kentucky
There are currently no state-licensed poker sites operating in Kentucky. But, we’ve prepared the best real-money/sweepstakes alternatives you can register with to enjoy your favorite variations in Kentucky:
#1. CoinPoker – The Best Pick for Kentucky Players
CoinPoker stands out as a crypto-first real-money poker room built for players comfortable with digital currency. With a hefty 150% welcome bonus of up to $2,000, soft fields, and a steady schedule of daily/weekly tournaments, it offers real value.
The platform’s unique draw is its 33% rakeback offer for players using its native CHP token. On the flip side, only cryptocurrencies are accepted and converting in/out or navigating CHP may present extra complexity for casual players.
The daily and monthly cash games and tournaments also feature leaderboards with $1,000 and $15,000 prizes, respectively. Overall, it’s a strong pick for crypto-savvy grinders.
#2 ClubWPT Gold – 24/7 Tables With Soft Competition
ClubWPT Gold offers Kentucky players a legal, sweepstakes-based online poker experience backed by the trusted World Poker Tour brand. The platform features tables that run 24/7 with extremely soft competition, making it attractive to both casual players and grinders.
The site also offers daily SC freerolls, which you can take advantage of just by logging in and playing every day. Its two main drawbacks include no rakeback or traditional loyalty scheme. Nevertheless, it’s a solid pick for Kentucky players looking for a high-quality sweepstakes site.
#3. Stake US – Low-Stakes Action With 5% Lifetime Rake
Stake US is a very popular online poker and casino site that focuses primarily on cryptocurrencies. This makes it a great alternative to ClubWPT Gold for players who don’t want to use fiat payment methods. The welcome bonus includes up to 55 Stake Cash free, and players receive 5% lifetime rake-back.
The gameplay includes Hold’em and PLO in ring games, sit-n-gos, and tournaments. The games are generally very soft. Its browser-based software is modern and feature-rich, with fun additions like bomb pots, rabbit hunting, and run-it-twice.
Free Poker vs Real-Money Games
The key distinction between sweepstakes online poker and real-money online poker lies in how each model handles wagering and rewards. Real-money poker platforms allow players to deposit funds, place bets, and cash out winnings directly.
This type of activity is only permitted in states with approved online poker legislation. Kentucky, however, has not legalized or licensed real-money poker sites, making such play technically unlawful within the state.
Sweepstakes poker sites provide a fully legal alternative. Instead of direct buy-ins, players use virtual currencies that can be earned or won through promotions. This model allows Kentucky residents to enjoy the same variety of poker formats without violating gambling laws.
Sweepstakes Model Explained
The sweepstakes poker model operates on a dual-currency system: Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins. Gold Coins function as play money for entertainment games, while Sweeps Coins have real-world value and can be redeemed for cash prizes once earned through eligible gameplay or promotional offers.
For example, suppose you buy a $20 Gold Coin package. You might receive 200,000 Gold Coins for casual play and a bonus of 20 Sweeps Coins for sweepstakes-eligible tournaments. Let’s say you enter a tournament using those 5 Sweeps Coins and win 25 Sweeps Coins in return.
Those 25 Sweeps Coins can then be redeemed for $25 in cash prizes. Through this model, sweepstakes poker offers the thrill and rewards of poker gameplay, without requiring direct cash wagering or potentially breaching any state gambling restrictions.
Regulation Landscape in Kentucky
Kentucky has a complex relationship with gambling regulation. While the state is famous for its horse racing heritage and has legalized sports betting as of 2023, online poker remains unregulated.
No laws currently authorize online poker operators to provide real-money games within the state, and traditional poker platforms are not licensed to serve Kentucky players. There have been discussions about potential gambling reform, especially after the success of the new sports betting market, but no formal proposals for online poker have gained traction.