A casino is an establishment for certain types of gambling. These facilities are often combined with hotels, resorts, restaurants, retail shops or cruise ships and may offer multiple types of games, including poker, blackjack, and slot machines. Some casinos have a significant amount of space devoted to non-gambling entertainment and events, such as theater shows or stand-up comedy. In some countries, such as the United States, casinos are licensed and regulated by government authorities to ensure honesty and fairness.

Some casinos have a high-skill element, such as card games, where expert players can improve their odds by following basic strategy. However, even the best skillful players can’t beat the house edge, which is a mathematical certainty that is built into the rules of all casino games.

The elegant spa town of Baden-Baden became a playground for nineteenth century European aristocrats, but today its casino attracts a more diverse crowd of visitors. This lavishly outfitted venue in Germany’s Black Forest region oozes luxury, with red-and-gold poker rooms and a plethora of blackjack and roulette tables. In addition to these classic games, it offers a lively area for sports betting on American football, boxing and martial arts.