Texas is widely perceived as the “Wild West,” but its gambling landscape has long been relatively conservative. The state has historically allowed very few casino-style options, aside from a small number of tribal properties whose status is often discussed in legal and regulatory contexts. Horseplayers also generally won’t encounter stand-alone OTB facilities. OTB stands for “off-track betting,” referring to designated venues where people can wager on races taking place at other tracks. While Texas hasn’t traditionally offered these, bettors have found other ways to participate over the years.
Texas Off Track Betting Sites
Since getting to a track or simulcast location isn’t always practical — especially for major events like the Triple Crown series or the Breeders' Cup — many horseplayers prefer using offshore racebooks. These platforms let you wager from virtually anywhere, are designed to be secure and user-friendly, and usually offer full track odds across all major bet types. For many Texans, they serve as a convenient way to stay engaged with racing throughout the year.
Horse racing has often taken a back seat to other major sports in North America, and many offshore sportsbooks have a limited or basic offering for racing fans. This is where offshore racebooks have consistently had an edge. Even a quick look at Bovada's racebook shows why it has become a popular choice for handicappers. Along with signup and cash back bonuses, the platform has features tailored to racing bettors, including future bets, head to heads, and a user-friendly layout built for fast wagering.
Bovada has one of the widest selections of US and international tracks, provides up-to-the-minute race results, and posts weekly handicapping insights for a featured stakes race. For many horseplayers, offshore racebooks like Bovada have offered a level of depth, convenience, and year-round accessibility that traditional online sportsbooks often lack.
Horse racing in Texas: A Brief History
Horse racing in Texas has long existed within a distinctive and carefully regulated framework, shaped by a mix of historical attitudes, local decision-making, and ongoing discussions around gambling in the state. Over the years, Texas has utilized a tiered system of racing licenses for horse and greyhound facilities, with different classes allowing for varying numbers of live racing dates. A handful of major tracks have traditionally anchored the industry, while fairs and regional venues have occasionally participated through limited-day licenses. Greyhound racing has also played a role at different points, with some locations focusing more on simulcast wagering as live racing activity has changed over time.
Because racing opportunities in Texas have tended to vary by region, season, and facility, many bettors have looked beyond in-person wagering to follow major national and international events. Simulcast betting, when available, has offered a way to watch and wager on races happening elsewhere, but access has often depended on the operating schedules and offerings of individual tracks. This has made remote wagering increasingly appealing for horseplayers who want more consistency, broader race coverage, or the ability to bet without traveling.
In this environment, offshore racebooks have become a convenient option for many Texans who want reliable, year-round access to racing. These platforms typically provide wide track menus, parimutuel-style wagering, mobile accessibility, bonuses, and features tailored to handicappers. Regardless of how the state’s gambling discussions evolve, offshore racebooks continue to offer a flexible alternative for those who want to stay engaged with horse racing—from marquee events to everyday cards—no matter where they are in Texas.