A casino is an establishment where people can wager money on games of chance. These venues are often combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops, and other entertainment facilities. They may also be located on cruise ships or in tourist destinations. The precise origin of gambling is not known, but it has been a part of human culture for millennia.

There are three general categories of casino games: gaming machines, table games, and random number games. Gaming machines (such as slot machines) allow patrons to play against each other without the involvement of casino employees. Table games (such as blackjack and craps) involve interaction between players and the casino staff, who are referred to as dealers or croupiers. Random number games, such as roulette and video poker, are based on the selection of random numbers, either by computer or by an independent source. Casinos monitor their patrons’ activities closely to identify and deter cheating, and they typically employ specialized security personnel in addition to their physical security force.

While many people associate casinos with glitz and glamour, they can be found in a wide variety of settings. For example, the elegant spa town of Baden-Baden was once a playground for Europe’s royalty and aristocracy, but these days its visitors are more likely to be businessmen and middle-class families. Despite their modest appearance, these venues are usually quite large and offer a full range of casino games, from the traditional to the less common.