Sports and Casinos: A Game-Changing Partnership for U.S. Cities

At CasinoDaddy, we’re always tracking the latest trends in gaming and entertainment, and the growing integration of casinos with sports venues is one of the most exciting developments in the industry. Across the U.S., cities are transforming into year-round entertainment hubs, blending live sports, casino gaming, and fan engagement in ways that benefit both industries and boost local economies.

The Growing Synergy Between Sports and Casinos

The trend of sports venues partnering with casinos is gaining momentum, with cities like Washington, D.C., and Phoenix leading the charge. Now, Dallas is poised to follow suit, with major figures like Miriam Adelson and Mark Cuban pushing for a convergence of sports, entertainment, and gaming.

At the ICE Conference panel on January 20, industry experts Adam Sachs (Dentons) and Brendan Bussmann (B Global Advisors) discussed how these partnerships are reshaping fan experiences. Sachs emphasized that physical experiences matter, noting that fans get more excitement from attending live sports and casino venues rather than engaging only through digital platforms.

“Concerts, professional games, and in-person casino experiences matter,” Sachs explained. “Being in a casino is completely different from playing on your phone.” This immersive atmosphere not only enhances fan engagement but also stimulates local economies, creating entertainment districts that thrive beyond game days.

Regulatory Shifts Paving the Way

Since the repeal of PASPA in 2018, sports betting has expanded rapidly, creating new revenue opportunities for casinos and sports teams alike. Many states now require sportsbooks to be tied to professional venues, ensuring synergy rather than competition. At least seven states allow sportsbooks inside or near stadiums, with Missouri recently joining the trend.

Sachs highlighted how these integrated entertainment districts also contribute to public safety and economic vibrancy. “The more people in an area, the safer it becomes,” he noted, reinforcing how these partnerships benefit entire communities.

Cities Leading the Way

Washington, D.C., set the standard in 2020, becoming the first U.S. city to open a sportsbook inside a professional venue with William Hill at Capital One Arena. Since then, major operators like Caesars Sportsbook and FanDuel have expanded into Chase Field (Phoenix) and United Center (Chicago).

Las Vegas, already the gaming capital of the U.S., is also evolving. The T-Mobile Arena (Golden Knights) and Allegiant Stadium (Raiders) have strengthened the Strip’s appeal, drawing both locals and tourists into integrated entertainment zones. Looking ahead, the Oakland Athletics’ upcoming $1.75 billion ballpark in Vegas (opening 2028) will take this concept even further, merging sports, gaming, and hospitality into a seamless experience.

The Future of Sports & Casino Partnerships

The success of these integrated sports-casino hubs proves that this model isn’t just a passing trend—it’s the future of entertainment in U.S. cities. Sports franchises already enjoy strong public goodwill, while casinos often face regulatory scrutiny. By collaborating, both industries can enhance their reputations and create a mutually beneficial ecosystem that drives revenue and engagement.

For cities like Dallas, still in the early stages of exploring this model, the blueprint set by Washington, D.C., Las Vegas, and Phoenix provides a clear path forward. As states continue expanding gaming regulations, expect to see more stadiums partnering with casinos to create thriving entertainment districts.

The bottom line? Casinos and sports venues are a winning combination, and this partnership is set to reshape the landscape of gaming, sports, and entertainment for years to come.