Whether you’re looking to hit the slots, spin the roulette wheel or throw dice at the craps table, casinos are the best place to satisfy your gambling craving. These luxurious destinations offer everything a high roller could want, from top-notch games and restaurants to spas and hotels. So if you’re ready to test your luck, take a look at the 10 most iconic casinos in the world!
Casino: Meaning, History, and Etymology
The word casino originates from the Italian ‘casino’ meaning small house. The first modern casinos were built in Italy, with the oldest still in operation today located on the Grand Canal of Venice.
Casinos are legal in some states and territories and operate as an integral part of the tourism industry, attracting visitors and providing jobs. Some are owned by large companies, while others are operated by state governments. Many have a strong social responsibility, offering programs for problem gamblers and contributing to the communities they serve.
In the United States, the most prominent casinos are in Las Vegas; they have become a major source of revenue for the city and helped propel it to the global spotlight. However, they are also found in cities such as Atlantic City and Chicago. Most casino gambling is legal in the United States, with the exception of sports betting, which is currently illegal in eight states. The majority of American gamblers are female, over the age of forty and from households with above-average incomes.