Gambling is big business worldwide and casinos have become entertainment centres. Many are sprawling complexes that include hotels, restaurants and shopping malls. Some are designed to be spectacular and take up whole city blocks.

The precise origin of gambling is unknown, but it is thought to be present in most societies throughout history. It was popular with the ancient Mesopotamians, the Greeks, and the Romans. In modern times, it is a major source of revenue for some states, particularly in the United States. Casino is also used as a generic name for any establishment that offers certain types of gambling, such as racetracks and horse racing venues.

There are more than a thousand casinos around the world, but not all of them are created equal. Some are dazzling, architectural wonders that attract tourists by the millions. Others are small, local operations that have gained a reputation for friendly service and fair play.

In the United States, there are more than 40 state-licensed casinos. The largest is in Las Vegas, followed by Atlantic City and Chicago. The number of licensed casinos is growing steadily, with many new states legalizing them in recent years.

The top 10 biggest casinos in the world offer visitors a once-in-a-lifetime experience with their sheer size and extravagance. Some of them are so large that they need to be visited over multiple days in order to see everything they have to offer. They offer more than just black jack and roulette; there are floor shows, free drinks, all-you-can-eat buffets, plush rooms and much more.