Fanatics Sportsbook has a retail presence at Nationwide Arena, home of the Columbus Blue Jackets. Here's what to expect if you're planning to bet in person at Ohio's only arena-based sportsbook.
📍 Quick Facts
The Fanatics-Blue Jackets Partnership
Fanatics and the Columbus Blue Jackets have an official partnership that puts Fanatics branding throughout Nationwide Arena. The sportsbook presence is part of this broader deal, giving fans betting access within the arena district.
Unlike standalone casino sportsbooks, the Fanatics location is integrated into the arena experience—designed for fans already attending events rather than as a destination in itself.
What's Available
Betting Options
- Self-service kiosks: Quick bet placement for standard wagers
- Mobile betting: Full Fanatics app works throughout the arena
- Pre-game betting: Place bets before the puck drops
- Live betting: In-game wagers via mobile app
The Space
The sportsbook area isn't a massive Vegas-style lounge. It's a more modest footprint appropriate for an arena setting—think kiosks and branded areas rather than a dedicated sportsbook building. Screens show various games, but during Blue Jackets games, the focus is naturally on the ice.
Game Day Experience
The best time to use the Fanatics presence is on Blue Jackets game days:
- Before the game: Place your bets on the Jackets or any other action while getting settled
- Between periods: Adjust live bets or add wagers on other games
- After the game: Wind down with action on West Coast games
Honestly, the mobile app is where most betting happens. The retail presence is convenient for those who prefer physical kiosks, but you can do everything from your phone anywhere in the arena.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Integrated into arena experience
- Easy access before/during events
- Blue Jackets-specific promos
- FanCash rewards program
- No need to leave the arena
❌ Cons
- Limited space vs. casino sportsbooks
- Crowded on game days
- Not a destination in itself
- Hours tied to arena events
- Mobile app does the same thing
Fanatics App Integration
The retail location connects with your Fanatics Sportsbook account. Bets placed at kiosks appear in your app history, and FanCash earned applies to your account. If you're already a Fanatics user, the experience is seamless.
The FanCash program is particularly valuable for Blue Jackets fans—you can redeem rewards for merchandise, including team gear. It's a differentiator from other Ohio sportsbooks.
Comparison to Other Ohio Retail Options
How does Fanatics at Nationwide Arena compare to other Columbus betting options?
- vs. Hollywood Casino Columbus: Hollywood has a larger, dedicated sportsbook with more seating and betting windows. Better for extended betting sessions. Fanatics is better if you're already at the arena.
- vs. Caesars at Scioto Downs: Scioto Downs has a full casino environment with more entertainment options. Fanatics is more convenient for downtown Columbus.
- vs. Mobile apps: For pure betting, the apps do everything. The retail presence is about atmosphere and convenience, not functionality.
Is It Worth the Trip?
If you're going to a Blue Jackets game or concert at Nationwide Arena, the Fanatics presence is a nice convenience. You can place bets without leaving the arena district.
But if you're looking for a dedicated sportsbook experience—comfortable seating, multiple screens, extended hours, full bar service—head to Hollywood Casino Columbus or Scioto Downs instead. Those are proper retail sportsbooks; this is an arena-integrated betting option.
The Bottom Line
The Fanatics Sportsbook at Nationwide Arena serves its purpose: convenient betting for people already at the arena. It's not trying to compete with casino sportsbooks, and that's fine. If you're a Blue Jackets fan who wants to bet on the game you're watching, it's perfect. For anything more, use the mobile app or visit a full retail sportsbook.