The word casino is derived from the Italian “casa dei giocatori”, meaning “house of games.” Originally, these establishments were used to host card and dice games. In the modern sense of the word, a casino is an entertainment venue that offers a variety of gambling options, including slot machines, table games, and poker tournaments. Often, casinos are combined with hotels, resorts, restaurants, and other tourist attractions. Some casinos are even part of cruise ships and other forms of public entertainment.
The elegant spa town of Baden-Baden first became a playground for European royalty and aristocracy 150 years ago, and it continues to attract high rollers today, with one of the most luxuriously outfitted casinos on this list. This sprawling complex is spread across three buildings, two of which were the France and Quebec Pavilions built for Expo 67, plus an annex that was added afterward. It features more than 200 slots, a Salon Prive for high-rollers, and a wide array of table games, including baccarat, blackjack, and poker.
These mega-casinos are more than just a place to gamble; they’re designed to impress with their size, architecture, and sheer scale. With five-star hotel accommodations, Michelin-starred restaurants, designer boutiques, and top-billed entertainment shows ranging from high-flying circus acts to chart-topping musicians, they cater to the wealthy and the discerning. And although they may be big on flash, they don’t skimp on security. These casinos employ a number of different technological and physical measures to keep their patrons safe and secure.