A casino is a public place where a variety of games of chance are played and gambling is the primary activity. In modern usage, the word has come to include places offering more luxurious amenities than just gambling; for example, many casinos offer top-notch hotels and spas along with restaurants, bars, non-gambling game rooms, and live entertainment. Casinos are found throughout the world and generate billions of dollars in revenue for private corporations, investors, and Native American tribes. They may also generate substantial tax revenues for the state and local governments where they operate.

Because large amounts of money are handled within a casino, patrons and staff members may be tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion or independently. To combat this, the vast majority of casinos have extensive security measures in place. These range from well-trained staff to video surveillance cameras and other sophisticated equipment.

Another way casinos attempt to increase revenue is by rewarding big spenders. These “comps” can include free hotel rooms, meals, tickets to shows, and even limousine service and airline tickets. In addition, some casinos cater to particular groups of people by offering them special games that appeal to their interests.

Although most casinos are located in urban areas, there is growing interest in rural casino gaming. In the United States, tribal gaming has accelerated this trend. However, some rural communities oppose the establishment of casinos because they divert money from other forms of community entertainment. Others argue that the cost of treatment for compulsive gamblers more than offsets any economic benefits a casino might bring to the community.