A casino is a gambling establishment, which includes a place to play games of chance. These include table games such as blackjack and poker, as well as electronic gaming machines like slots, keno, and bingo. Some casinos also offer sports betting. In some countries, such as the United States, casinos are licensed and regulated by government authorities. In other countries, they are unlicensed and run independently from the government.
The term casino is most often used in the sense of an establishment for certain types of gambling, particularly card games. In modern usage, it may also refer to a specific building or room in which these activities take place. Some casinos are built as standalone facilities; others are combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops, and other entertainment venues.
In the United States, the most notable casinos are located in Las Vegas, Nevada; Atlantic City, New Jersey; and Chicago, Illinois. Many of these casinos are recognizable by their architecture or by the name of the person who designed them. They are usually large, and feature a mix of gaming options, such as table games, slot machines, and sports bets.
Most casinos have a security department. This department is typically divided into a physical security force and a specialized surveillance division. The former patrols the casino floor and responds to calls for assistance or reports of suspicious or definite criminal activity. The latter operates the casino’s closed circuit television system, commonly referred to as its eye in the sky.
The large amounts of money handled within a casino can make it tempting for patrons and employees to cheat or steal, either in collusion or individually. For this reason, most casinos have strict security measures in place. These may include cameras, security guards, and other technological devices. Casinos may also have rules and policies regarding behavior that they enforce.
In addition to preventing cheating and theft, the security department is responsible for educating patrons about the risks of gambling and helping them develop control strategies. This education may be given through individual counseling, group sessions, or classes. In some casinos, the management staff is trained to recognize the signs of gambling problems and to assist individuals in seeking treatment for these issues.
Casinos are also a popular tourist attraction, and some have become iconic symbols of their cities or regions. The Bellagio in Las Vegas, for example, is known for its iconic fountain show and luxury amenities. It is also home to multiple fine-dining restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Picasso restaurant.