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Poker Tournaments in New York in 2024 – NY Poker Tournaments Schedule & Results
Read on and learn about the biggest poker tournaments in the Empire State
Last Updated on October 9, 2024 by 
Fact checked by
New York state allows poker in licensed and regulated tribal and retail casinos and private homes and clubs under certain conditions. However, online poker remains illegal in the Empire State, according to the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006, which prohibits gaming businesses from knowingly accepting online gambling payments.
Although playing online poker from New York may not be legally permitted, there are specific offshore poker platforms that welcome players from the US. However, players must tread carefully when participating in games on such sites.
That’s where we come to help — this article will explore the history, regulations, and top land-based and online poker rooms that offer poker tournaments to players from the Empire State.
Poker Tournaments in New York
In the early 20th century, New York was awash with secret underground card rooms where players would indulge in illegal gambling. However, it wasn’t until 1993 that the tide turned. That year, poker was officially recognized as a legal game in the state, thanks to former Governor Mario M. Cuomo’s signature on a gaming compact with the Oneida Indian Nation of New York following the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988.
With the compact receiving approval from the Interior Department on June 4, 1993, the Oneida Indian Nation seized the opportunity and flung open the doors of their Turning-Stone Casino Resort on July 20, 1993, ushering in a new era of poker in New York.
Fast forward to the present, and the state now has gaming compacts with two more Native American tribes — St. Regis Mohawk Tribe (1993) and the Seneca Nation of Indians (2002). This has enabled them to operate full-scale casinos offering Class III games, including poker.
Two decades later, the state constitution was amended by the Upstate New York Gaming Economic Development Act to allow a maximum of seven casinos not on tribal land — up to two in the Capital, Eastern Southern Tier, and Catskills/Hudson Valley regions. At present, there are five such establishments.
Online Poker Tournaments
In recent years, there have been several unsuccessful attempts to legalize poker in New York. State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. sponsored Senate Bill S8412 in the 2021–2022 Legislative Session, which would have authorized interactive gaming in the state had it been passed.
In January 2023, Assemblyman J. Gary Pretlow introduced the AO1380 bill to redefine poker as a game of skill rather than chance, potentially leading to legalizing poker sites.
However, there was no mention of AO1380 in the budget recommendations for 2023, not even by Pretlow, though it’s worth noting that Addabbo pushed for this bill’s legislation in the Senate (albeit unsuccessfully). Thus it’s safe to say the Empire State won’t see the legalization of online casinos and online poker in 2023.
While waiting for the breakthrough, poker fans from New York can enjoy free social gaming and sweepstakes options or consider joining an offshore-licensed platform. But before jumping in, the question remains: is it legal?
According to the New York Penal Code, gambling involves risking “something of value upon the outcome of a contest of chance” despite contestants’ skill. That said, the Penal Code doesn’t strictly ban offshore poker rooms, so registering with them is not a violation. Nonetheless, consulting a lawyer beforehand is still a wise move.
Land-Based Poker Tournaments
Poker players in New York have many options for indulging in their favorite game, as land-based poker is legal in the state. The Empire State boasts several licensed and regulated casinos spread across the Catskills, the Upstate, and the bustling New York City.
One of the most sought-after poker destinations in the state is the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, owned and operated by Oneida Indian Nation and known for its dedicated poker room with 32 tables. This casino hosted the 2022–23 WSOPC.
For players seeking a more intimate setting, several smaller card rooms and poker clubs are scattered throughout the state, and they are primarily focused on cash games. These establishments take advantage of the social gambling exceptions.
While New York offers a range of games and venues, it’s essential to note that the availability and types of games can vary depending on the location, especially in poker clubs like NYC Poker. Therefore, players should check with individual casinos or card rooms to gather more information and plan their poker adventures accordingly.
How to Register for an Online Poker Tournament
Are you ready to join an online poker tournament in New York? Here’s how to get started:
Choose a site from our list
You’ll want to find a reputable online platform that’s both safe and trusted. Don’t worry; we’ve compiled a list of top contenders to make things easier.
Signup
After you’ve found the perfect site, provide your first and last name, email, phone number, date of birth, and address.
You may not need to verify your identity upon signup, but you’ll need to complete the Know Your Customer process before withdrawing your winnings.
Deposit & Play
Payment options on offshore poker sites go from regular credit/debit cards to altcoins. However, some American banks will refuse to issue payments to offshore websites, so you should have another banking option just in case. Consider PayPal or other e-wallets.
Many poker sites offer welcome bonuses for new players. Still, before agreeing to anything, you must read the terms and conditions to understand how the bonus works, its playthrough requirements, and time limits.
Navigate to the tournament lobby to find the event that tickles your fancy.
And finally, it’s time to have some fun! Immerse yourself in the game and enjoy the thrill of poker — you might even come out on top and win a big chunk of the pot!
New York Land-Based Casinos With Poker Tournaments
The Empire State is home to six tribal and five commercial casinos that offer an exciting gambling experience for locals and tourists alike. However, not every location boasts a dedicated poker room. Below is a list of those that do:
| Name | Address | No. Poker Tables | Cash Games | Tournaments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turning Stone Resort & Casino | 5218 Patrick Road, Verona, NY 13478 | 32 | Yes | Yes |
| Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady | 1 Rush Street, Schenectady, NY 12305 | 16 | Yes | Yes |
| Resorts World Catskills | 888 Resorts World Drive, Monticello, NY 1270 | 19 | Yes | No |
| del Lago Resort & Casino | 1133 Route 414, Waterloo, NY 13165 | 14 | Yes | No |
| Tioga Downs Casino | 2384 W. River Road, Nichols, NY 13812 | 6 | Yes | No |
New York Poker Tournament Schedule
Aside from the traditional land-based tournaments, poker enthusiasts living in the state of New York can also partake in thrilling online events hosted on offshore platforms. So, take a gander at the schedule below, pick what suits you the best, and ante up for the ultimate poker showdown!
Best Poker Rooms To Play Online Tournaments In New York
My list of the best poker sites which I consider to be the best rooms to play in 2024:
- 100% Legal & Licensed
- Verified Bonus
- Mobile Friendly
- Advertiser Disclosure
Kindly be aware that some links on Top 10 Poker Sites are affiliate links, for which we may earn a commission. Find out more on our terms & conditions
- Must be 18+ to participate.
# 1 Poker Site
Regulated by 
- 100% First deposit bonus
- Top 3 in US player traffic
- Great selection of games
- Banking through cryptocurrencies
Payout speed 1-3 days
Deposit options
+10
+10
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100% up to $1000
18+. T&Cs Apply
# 2
Regulated by 
- Increased Poker Crypto Bonus $1500
- Exclusively for US players
- Many Payment Options
- Rich Player Traffic
Payout speed 1-3 days
Deposit options
+4
+4
Exclusive bonus
100% upto $3000
18+. T&Cs Apply
# 3
Regulated by
- Recreational Player Traffic
- Get a 200% Match on Your Initial Deposit
- Wide Tournament Selection
- High-Quality Games
Payout speed 1 - 5 days
Deposit options
+9
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Exclusive bonus
200% upto $1000
18+. T&Cs Apply
Displayed 3 of 8 rooms
All of the New York State online poker site bonuses mentioned on this page are subject to change at any time, should any of them be of interest to you please visit the respective Poker sites website for full terms and conditions of any bonus listed.
Other Resources
Conclusion
New York state provides a range of options for poker players seeking to flex their skills in tournament play. The state has both legal tribal and commercial casinos, which offer a wide range of land-based poker tournaments. In addition, offshore poker rooms that operate in the gray area of the law present potential opportunities for online poker competitions, as well.
While the legal status of offshore poker rooms may be ambiguous, many New Yorkers continue participating in these events, attracted by the possibility of high-stakes action, better bonus deals, and significant payouts. Whether you are playing in a land-based or offshore tournament, it is vital to approach all gaming activities responsibly and with a keen understanding of the legal and regulatory framework surrounding them.
FAQs
What is the legal status of online poker in New York?
Online poker is not explicitly allowed in New York, but players can take advantage of the legal ambiguity of offshore poker rooms and safely play there.
What are the deposit and withdrawal options for online poker players in New York?
The deposit and withdrawal options for online poker players in New York include bank transfers, credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrency.
Can I play in poker tournaments if I am not a resident of New York?
Yes, you can play in poker tournaments in New York even if you are not a state resident. However, you must still meet the tournament’s age requirements and other eligibility criteria.