The modern casino is like an indoor amusement park for adults. Its elaborate themes, musical shows and glitzy shopping centers draw crowds, but the billions of dollars in annual profits come from gambling on games of chance. Slot machines, blackjack, craps, roulette, baccarat and poker provide the thrills that drive patrons to casinos.

Gambling in its many forms has long been a part of human society. It can be a social activity, an entertainment form or even a way to raise money for charity. But the casino industry has a darker side. It has been linked to organized crime and is the subject of a number of lawsuits by gaming victims. And there are concerns about the impact casinos have on local economies. For example, studies show that compulsive gamblers generate a disproportionate share of casino profits and that the revenue they bring in diverts spending from other sources of entertainment, harms local businesses and lowers property values.

The elegant spa town of Baden-Baden became a European playground for royalty and the aristocracy 150 years ago, drawing visitors with its baroque flourishes. Now it’s a top choice for high rollers who want to enjoy the glitz and sophistication of Vegas, but with its own brand of old-world elegance.