A casino is a large building or room where gambling games are played. Some casinos are standalone, while others are built into resorts or other entertainment complexes. In the United States, there are more than 1,000 casinos; the largest is WinStar World Casino in Thackerville, Oklahoma. This massive resort has more than 7,000 gaming machines, 100 table games and an 800-capacity bingo hall, as well as 17 restaurants and a spa. It also hosts top entertainers and events in its massive Global Event Center and Roman Colosseum.
While casinos are typically operated by private companies, they may be owned by government-regulated organizations. Most countries have legalized casino gambling. However, many have not, and the industry is still illegal in some places. Casinos are also a frequent target of crime, particularly robbery and money laundering. Because of the large amount of money handled by casino staff and patrons, casinos have extensive security measures. These include cameras and rules requiring players to keep their cards visible at all times.
Some casinos have a reputation for elegance, such as the storied Casino Baden-Baden in Germany’s Black Forest region, which was once the playground of nineteenth century aristocrats. Today, high-flying accountants and lawyers flock here to shed their shorts and play a game of Chemin de Fer or Trente & Quarante. Other casinos focus on luxury, with opulent suites and fine dining serving as a backdrop for roulette wheels and blackjack tables. From Las Vegas to Macau and beyond, our picks for the best casinos in the world offer high stakes and high style.