A casino is a place where gambling activities take place. Although musical shows, lighted fountains and shopping centers help draw in gamblers, casinos would not exist without games of chance, which generate most of the billions in profits that casinos rake in every year. Casinos typically feature a wide variety of games of chance, including slot machines, blackjack, roulette, craps and video poker.

Licensed casinos operate in almost all countries where gambling is legal. They are sometimes combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops and cruise ships. In the United States, casino gambling is regulated by state laws and is primarily available in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Las Vegas, Nevada, and on American Indian reservations where they are not subject to state antigambling statutes.

The word casino is believed to have originated in Italy, but was later popularized by French writers and then spread throughout Europe. In the latter half of the 20th century, virtually all European countries changed their laws to permit casinos. Casinos are now found worldwide, although some are more famous than others.

In addition to the obvious perks of gambling, many casinos also offer shows and fine dining. This provides a distraction for players and a way to celebrate a win or commiserate after a loss. There is a darker side to the casino industry, however. Something about the presence of large sums of money seems to encourage people to cheat, steal or scam their way into a jackpot. This is why casinos spend a lot of time and effort on security.