A casino is a gambling establishment that offers various forms of gambling, like slot machines and table games (like poker and blackjack). The establishments typically require patrons to be of legal age and to follow their rules and regulations. To play, patrons exchange money for chips or credits. Those who win may be awarded cash prizes or merchandise. Some casinos also feature entertainment shows.

While the precise origin of gambling is unknown, it has been practiced throughout history in many cultures and societies. Gambling is generally considered to be an acceptable form of entertainment, as long as it is done responsibly.

Casinos can be quite large and palatial, with features that include five-star hotel accommodations, Michelin star restaurants, high-end boutiques and top-billed entertainment shows. Some of the biggest casinos in the world are listed below:

Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut, which is owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, boasts the second largest casino in America with 350,000 square feet of gambling space, including 380 gaming tables and 6300 slots. The casino is surrounded by 38 restaurants, two golf courses, and an enclave of exclusive villas with butler service.

In Macau, the world’s casino capital, mega-hotel-casinos cost billions to build and live up to their glitzy veneers. They feature everything from an exploding water show to a mirrored dome that glows with a dazzling array of colors.

The Wynn and MGM Grand are both towering examples of this Vegas-style decadence, but it’s the City of Dreams that truly takes the cake with its over-the-top splendor.