The Akron-Canton metro area doesn't have a major casino within city limits, but MGM Northfield Park is a short drive away. Here's what's available for in-person sports betting in Northeast Ohio's second-largest market.
MGM Northfield Park
🎰 MGM Northfield Park Sportsbook
MGM Northfield Park is a racino (racetrack + casino) with a BetMGM-branded sportsbook. While technically closer to Cleveland, it's the best sportsbook option for Akron-area residents—about 25 minutes from downtown Akron.
What's available: Full sports betting menu with betting windows and self-service kiosks. Watch horse racing live while betting sports. The venue combines harness racing, VLT gaming, and sports betting.
MGM Northfield is smaller than JACK Cleveland's sportsbook but offers a more relaxed atmosphere. The combination of horse racing and sports betting appeals to a certain crowd—if you like both, it's a unique experience.
MGM Northfield uses the M life Rewards program (same as BetMGM online). Link your accounts to earn points on both retail and mobile betting. MGM Rewards members get comps at properties nationwide.
Other Options Near Akron/Canton
JACK Cleveland Casino (35-40 min)
If you want the full casino sportsbook experience, JACK Cleveland is worth the drive. Larger sportsbook, more atmosphere, especially on NFL Sundays. About 35-40 minutes from Akron depending on traffic.
Hollywood Mahoning Valley (45 min from Canton)
Located in Austintown near Youngstown, Hollywood Mahoning Valley is another racino option. For Canton residents, it's competitive with the drive to Cleveland. Features a Penn Entertainment-affiliated sportsbook.
Bar Kiosks in Akron/Canton
UBetOhio operates bar kiosks scattered around the Akron-Canton metro:
- Sports bars in Akron's Merriman Valley area
- Select locations in Canton and North Canton
- Various bars in Cuyahoga Falls and Stow
- Some locations in Massillon and surrounding areas
Bar kiosk availability has decreased since the Intralot pullout. Call ahead to confirm before making a trip.
Pro Football Hall of Fame & Betting
Canton is home to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, which hosts the annual Hall of Fame Game. During enshrinement weekend in August:
- Expect increased kiosk traffic at local sports bars
- No sports betting inside the Hall of Fame itself
- Mobile apps work throughout Canton—geolocation allows betting
- The Hall of Fame Game is bettable, though preseason lines are wider
The Hall of Fame Game kicks off the NFL preseason. Lines are typically 3-point spreads with high juice. Sharp bettors often skip preseason betting entirely—too unpredictable with unknown playing time.
Comparing Your Options
| Location | Drive from Akron | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| MGM Northfield Park | 25 min | Closest option, horse racing combo |
| JACK Cleveland | 35-40 min | Best sportsbook atmosphere |
| Hollywood Mahoning | 45 min (from Canton) | Alternative to Cleveland |
| Bar Kiosks | Local | Quick, casual bets |
| Mobile Apps | N/A | Convenience, best lines |
The Mobile Reality
For Akron-Canton residents, mobile betting is the practical choice for day-to-day wagering. The drive to any sportsbook takes at least 25 minutes, making retail betting more of an occasional experience than a regular activity.
Use retail sportsbooks for:
- Big game experiences (Super Bowl, March Madness)
- Social betting with friends
- When you want the atmosphere
Use mobile apps for:
- Everyday betting
- Line shopping for best odds
- Live betting during games
- Quick deposits and withdrawals
Future Developments
There's been periodic discussion of a casino in the Akron-Canton area, but no concrete plans have materialized. For now, the region remains dependent on Cleveland-area options for major retail sportsbooks.
The University of Akron's football stadium doesn't offer in-stadium betting like NFL venues, and the same applies to smaller college venues in the area.