The world’s largest casinos are sprawling complexes that offer next level gaming. They’re more than just gambling destinations, but full-blown entertainment centers with dining, shopping and more.
While Las Vegas is a casino legend, other gambling cities are gaining ground and challenging Sin City’s dominance. Let’s take a look at the top five biggest casinos in the world.
1. Las Vegas
Vegas is a city built for entertainment, carved from the Mojave Desert with escape in mind. Millions of people visit to relax, dine, see performers and have a go at the casinos.
The Strip is the main artery of 娛樂城, with dazzling hotel casinos, world-class restaurants and ornate resorts lining its four miles. Take a night helicopter tour to soak in the lights and glitz of this iconic thoroughfare.
Gambling is a way of life in Las Vegas, where casino-goers can wager on anything from the latest blockbuster movie to the next big sporting event. For some romantic Vegas flair, try your luck at Paris Las Vegas, where you can cuddle up in a faux-Parisian gazebo while trying out the high-limit Champagne slots.
2. Macau
Macau, a special administrative region of China that has its own laws and currency, has evolved into a neon-clad jungle of gargantuan resorts and casinos. Often called the “Vegas of the East,” this enclave still retains traces of its Sino-Portuguese heritage, with age-old temples coexisting among sleek, modern pleasure palaces.
The city is a major hub for commerce, import-export, and tourism. Gambling accounts for some 55 percent of the city government’s revenue, but Macau also has a reputation for money laundering and financial crime.
The biggest casino in Macau is the Venetian, modeled after its US counterpart in Las Vegas and offering 640 gaming tables, 1,760 slot machines, and 3,000 suites. Guests can also indulge in the rooftop lounge bar, world-class restaurants and other amenities.
3. Atlantic City
Located on the pristine beaches of the Atlantic coast, Atlantic City is a casino-filled vacation mecca that attracts millions of visitors each year. In addition to a plethora of gambling tables, the casinos also offer top-notch restaurants, headline entertainment and luxury spas.
Among the largest casinos are Bally’s Atlantic City, Caesars Atlantic City and Resorts Casino Hotel. They’re all found along the Boardwalk. Other major casino-resorts include the Golden Nugget, Harrah’s and Borgata.
The beaches are a sight to see as well, with beige sand and warm ocean waters perfect for swimming. However, you should always swim where lifeguards are present and avoid strong currents. Other attractions include the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk and Steel Pier, a classic amusement park. You can even visit the Atlantic City Odditorium, which features everything from rare animal skeletons and shrunken heads to a tiny motor car and a metal Hulk model.
4. Monte Carlo
The tiny Principality of Monaco’s stunning Casino de Monte Carlo is one of the most famous casinos in the world, with its ornate gambling house appearing in multiple James Bond movies. Located in Monaco-Ville, the grand exterior looks almost subtle when compared to the opulent salons and marble statues inside. Cameras are forbidden inside, but Reuters photographer Eric Gaillard got a rare glimpse of the gilded rooms.
It was built in 1863 to save Monaco’s royal family from bankruptcy. Today, it provides a large part of the principality’s revenue. To keep Monaco’s citizens from frittering away their inheritance, the government maintains a financial interest in the property and prohibits them from entering its gaming rooms. Its opulent Belle Epoque style is instantly recognizable.
5. San Jose
Known for its thriving technology industry, San Jose is also home to a vibrant culture. From its bustling Japantown to its historic California-style downtown district, it features a variety of restaurants and cultural attractions.
The city’s latitude and its location on the west coast of North America give it a mild climate that is characterized by sharply defined wet and dry seasons. Rainfall in the summer usually occurs from late or early season storm fronts, or from southerly surges of subtropical moisture.
The M8trix Casino offers an excellent selection of food and drinks in its restaurant and bar. Choose from a wide variety of American, European and Asian popular dishes. The Zone 8 Sports Bar & Grill also has refreshing drinks on tap, including craft beers, white and red wine and cocktails.