A casino, also known as a gaming house or a gambling establishment, is a place where people can gamble on various games of chance. These establishments may be combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops or cruise ships. In addition to gambling, casinos may also host live entertainment events such as stand-up comedy or concerts. Casinos are most commonly found in the United States, but they can also be operated on boats or barges on waterways, and in some states in racetracks, which are called racinos.

A successful casino can make billions of dollars each year in profits for the owners, investors, and Native American tribes. In addition, they can bring in revenue for the state and local governments in the form of taxes and fees. Casinos often employ security measures to prevent unauthorized persons from entering the premises, such as using cameras and other surveillance equipment.

Casinos are a major tourist attraction and economic engine in many cities, especially those that specialize in gambling like Las Vegas. Some are flamboyantly decorated and designed, such as the Bellagio’s botanical gardens or Sam’s Town’s volcano, while others maintain a more refined atmosphere. For example, the Four-Diamond Talking Stick Resort and Casino in Scottsdale is a sight to behold with its glittering rainbow high-rise tower and more than 50 table games.