Casino

What Are the Best Alternatives to Sweepstakes Casinos in NJ?

By Pete Amato

Published: Jul 9th, 2025 · 11:45 AM EDT

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New Jersey lawmakers just fast-tracked a statewide ban on sweepstakes casinos, passing Bill A5447 with almost no debate as they raced the July 1 budget deadline. The bill targets online platforms using dual-currency systems and hands enforcement to the Division of Gaming Enforcement and Consumer Affairs. Affiliates and influencers promoting these sites could also face penalties. Once Gov. Murphy signs it… which could happen any moment… the ban takes effect immediately. Murphy has up to 45 days to either sign or veto the bill. In the meantime, a few sweepstakes platforms, including Club Casino, Clubs Poker, and LuckySlots.us, have already begun preemptively exiting the NJ market ahead of any official enactment.

Now that sweepstakes casinos like Pulsz, Chumba, and High 5 are banned in New Jersey, a lot of casual players are asking the same question: “So where do I play now?” The good news? There are plenty of legit online casinos in NJ that offer the same kind of low-stakes fun, free spins, and bonus-packed promos — but with way more player protection and actual cash-out reliability.

Let’s break down your best options if you’re missing the sweepstakes vibe but want to stay on the right side of state gaming law.

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1. No Deposit Bonus Casinos – Free Spins Without Paying First

One of the main draws of sweepstakes sites was getting to play for free. That still exists — legally — through NJ online casinos that offer no deposit bonuses. These promos give you bonus money or free spins just for signing up, no payment required.

Some examples?

• $25 free at Borgata
• Free spins at Golden Nugget
• Free play credits at Caesars

It’s not exactly the same as daily sweep coins, but it’s close enough to scratch the itch — and your winnings are real.

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2. Low Minimum Bet Slots – Stretch That Balance

One of the reasons players loved sweepstakes games was the ability to spin for pennies. Good news — you can still do that on real-money apps. Many NJ casino slots let you spin for as little as $0.01 or $0.10 per bet, and they include some big-name titles like:

• 88 Fortunes
• Wheel of Fortune Triple Extreme Spin
• Divine Fortune

Check out the full slots lineup here. These aren’t watered-down demos either — they’re full-featured games with jackpots, bonuses, and real cash wins.

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3. Daily Bonuses and Loyalty Rewards

Sweepstakes platforms kept people logging in with daily bonuses and coin drops. But real-money apps have stepped up their game lately.

Hard Rock, BetMGM, and Resorts all offer:

• Daily spin the wheel promos
• Ongoing loyalty rewards
• Free play incentives tied to activity

If you’re playing regularly, the bonuses rack up fast. Plus, you get access to real casino promotions — not just online-only sweepstakes.

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4. Play in Demo Mode (Just for Fun)

Still not ready to commit real cash? You can play NJ online casino slots in demo mode— no login or deposit needed. It’s a great way to try out a game’s pace and features without risking anything.

Just keep in mind: you won’t win real money in demo mode, but you’ll know if a game’s worth your time once you do decide to jump in.

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5. Try PA Casinos If You’re Nearby

Live near the border? PA online casinos are still offering a wide range of bonuses and low-stakes options — some of which even outdo NJ. Players near Philly, Trenton, or Camden can cross state lines and unlock an entirely different batch of promos and slot options.

Want in? We’ve got a full list of PA bonus codes here.

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You’ve Got Options

Sweepstakes casinos were fun while they lasted, but they were never designed to stick around forever in a regulated market like NJ. If you liked the low-stakes, casual style, it’s still out there — it just looks a little different now.

And frankly? You’re better off playing somewhere that actually protects your balance, lets you cash out without a hassle, and throws real bonuses your way.