Upstate New York is often overshadowed by its biggest city: NYC. The Big Apple is globally renowned, so much so that many people don’t realize that the state of New York stretches all the way North to the Canadian border. Even some New York City natives discount the rest of the state, opting to travel to Atlantic City, New Jersey, for fun and entertainment they can’t find in the city.
The truth is that Upstate New York has a rich history in both sports and entertainment. According to https://thesportsdaily.com/new-york/online-casinos/, there are 22 physically licensed casinos in NY, with a majority of them in the Northern part of the state. But before planning a trip to the overcrowded NYC metropolitan area, consider what else the state may have to offer.
Upstate NY’s Sports Scene: Professional Teams
New York City may have the Giants and the Rangers, but Upstate New York is peppered with their own legends. Names like the Buffalo Bills (NFL) and the Buffalo Sabres (NHL) have showcased performances over the years that have left their mark on the state’s overall sports culture. The Syracuse Crunch of the AHL is also a team that cannot be easily discounted either.
College Sports
In terms of college teams, there’s Syracuse University. At SU, students may hit the books hard, but they hit the basketball court even harder.
A recent article from ESPN put a 2003 performance by former Syracuse player Carmelo Anthony as the best of all time. Fun fact: President Joe Biden is a graduate of Syracuse University.
Sporting Venues
The JMA Wireless Dome (previously known as the Carrier Dome) in Syracuse and KeyBank Center in Buffalo aren’t just architectural marvels. They are venues that have witnessed moments of sheer brilliance in sports, a testament to Upstate New York’s fervent love for games and competition.
Horse Racing
Visiting the Saratoga Race Course is an Upstate tradition. From stylish hats to nail-biting “photo finishes,” the legacy of this sport in the region comes alive. Betting on horses is a huge part of the legacy of going to the races. The track has been open since 1863.
Sports Betting & Casinos: Legalization and its Impact
In New York, casino gambling has long been legalized, with both tribal and commercial casinos operating across the state. Online sports betting has also recently become legal, marking a significant shift in the state’s approach to gambling. The New York State Gaming Commission oversees regulations, ensuring a safe environment for bettors.
Popular Casinos in Upstate NY
Casino gambling, both on tribal lands and commercial establishments, offers table games, slots, and poker. Well-known casinos in Upstate New York include the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino in Niagara Falls, and the Del Lago Resort & Casino in Waterloo. These establishments underscore Upstate’s appeal as a gaming destination.
Casino enthusiasts who are traveling through the countryside and would like to play on the go can visit a multitude of online casinos catered to New Yorkers. While online casinos cannot legally be based in NY, there are many options licensed offshore that are available and legal to play by NY residents.
How to Bet in Upstate NY
Betting in New York has grown more accessible in recent years. For sports wagers, numerous online platforms are now available—partly thanks to the state’s legalization of online sports betting in 2022. To start, users can choose a state-approved betting app, register, and fund their account. Physical sportsbooks, mostly housed in casinos, can provide in-person betting experiences.
Conclusion
Upstate New York is beautiful, especially compared to the overpopulated New York City. But it offers significantly more than serene lakes and adventurous trails. There are renowned sports teams, plenty of physical entertainment options, and even some online betting and gambling options for those who enjoy amusement on the road.
