The world’s most decadent casinos elevate gambling to an art form. With opulent furnishings, overflowing bars and an underlying sense of risk that draws in gamblers from across the globe, these temples of temptation are where you can lose your money—and maybe your sanity—in style.

A casino is a place where people gamble by playing games of chance or skill, in which the house has a mathematical advantage. The term is derived from the Latin cazino, meaning “little house.” In modern casinos, computerized systems monitor game play and payouts to discover any statistical deviations that might point to fraud. Casinos also offer players complimentary items or comps, and take a commission on poker and other games where the house competes with players.

Some of the most recognizable casinos are found in exotic locales, such as Venice, Monaco and Singapore. But even in the United States, where casino gaming is legal in 40 of its 50 states, some of the biggest and best are in Las Vegas and other urban centers. The MGM Grand in Las Vegas is a storied gambling den that caters to hardened dollar spinners and curious newcomers. It has the usual range of game tables and slots but is also known for its thriving sports-betting operation. Its state-of-the-art facility features 60 plasma screens and an area where patrons can flick coins on American football, boxing and other events.