Big news out of Ogallala, Nebraska, Lake Mac Casino & Racetrack is officially licensed and ready to launch. The Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission gave the green light just in time for the grand opening, which kicks off today.
The temporary venue, located off I-80, is packed with entertainment: over 300 slot machines, electronic table games, a 5/8-mile Quarter Horse racetrack, an ELITE Sportsbook for retail and kiosk betting, a simulcast area, and the Draft Day Sports Lounge.
Here’s the opening day lineup:
- Gates open at 1 p.m. MDT
- Ribbon cutting at 2 p.m.
- First Quarter Horse race at 3 p.m.
- Casino opens at 4 p.m.
Dan Kehl, CEO of Elite Casino Resorts, called it a significant milestone for Keith County and Ogallala, with Governor Jim Pillen and other local leaders expected to attend. It also marks the return of Quarter Horse racing to Nebraska, a big win for breeders, trainers, and the local ag economy, according to Racing Director Cynthia Smith.
Lake Mac is operated in partnership with Hastings Exposition and Racing, and there are big plans, including a complete resort with expanded gaming, hotel, pool, upscale dining, and RV accommodations.
Nebraska Casinos
The opening of the Lake Mac Casino & Racetrack marks the 5th commercial casino to open its doors since legislation was passed in 2020. There are also four tribal casinos that offer class II gaming (bingo slots). Additionally, residents over the age of 18 can access Nebraska online gambling sites that also offer casino games, sports betting, horse race betting, online poker, and more.
Nebraska voters legalized commercial casinos in November 2020 through a ballot initiative. The measure allowed casino-style gaming at licensed horse racetracks, including slot machines and table games.
Does Nebraska Authorize Online Casinos?
No, the state of Nebraska has not passed legislation to allow commercial or tribal casinos to operate online. While sweepstakes and social casinos are operating in the state, they are not allowed to offer real-money payouts. Additionally, the state has not passed laws to allow online poker and sports betting.
Federal gambling laws do not forbid online gambling in the United States; instead, they give states the option to pass their laws concerning the matter. Today, there are only seven states that have passed online casino gambling, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, West Virginia, Delaware, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.