A casino is a place where gambling takes center stage. In these temples of decadence decked out with opulent furnishings and overflowing bars, you can wager your fortune on anything from the color of a roulette ball to whether Michael Jackson’s glove will make an appearance during his first televised moonwalk.
Though the precise origins of casinos are unclear, it’s believed that betting on games of chance has been a part of human culture for millennia. Evidence of wooden blocks used in games of chance dates back to 2300 BC, dice made their debut around 500 BC, and playing cards became prevalent in the 1400s.
Today, the most prestigious casinos are often found in exotic locales like Venice, Monaco, and Singapore, pairing gambling with luxurious amenities for a holistic experience. Many of these top-ranked casinos also offer world-class restaurants, shopping, spas, and entertainment to entice patrons who aren’t interested in throwing down their hard-earned cash.
The largest casino in the world is the Venetian Macau, which boasts a sprawling gaming floor with more than 800 tables and 1000 slot machines. But it’s the hotel portion of the casino that steals the show, with its refined tropical theme and an impressive collection of Michael Jackson memorabilia.
Other casino hot spots include the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, which has a lively area dedicated to sports betting. Here you can flick a few coins on American football, boxing, and martial arts while sipping a cocktail and nibbling on chips. Winstar World Casino in Thackerville, Oklahoma offers similar sports betting options, and you can even place a bet on horse racing from anywhere in the country with an online bookmaker such as BetAmerica.