A casino (or gaming house) is an establishment for gambling. Most casinos offer a variety of table games, such as blackjack, roulette, and poker. Some even have video poker machines. In addition, casinos often provide a variety of other entertainment offerings, such as concerts and shows. Many casinos are also located near or combined with hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers.
The modern casino industry is largely a result of state laws that changed during the late 20th century to allow for casino gambling. Many American states now have legalized casinos, and more are considering doing so. Casinos are also found on some American Indian reservations, where gambling is permitted.
Casinos are a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. In 2002, about 51 million people — nearly one quarter of all adults over the age of 21 in the United States — visited a casino. Casinos use a variety of tricks to lure gamblers into gambling, including bright lights and the clang of coins dropping. They also play with sound and scent, arranging slot machines and tables in a way that encourages wandering. Some casinos even have waiters circulating to serve drinks and snacks.
Security is a key concern for casinos. Staff watch patrons carefully to spot cheating, and each table is monitored by a manager or pit boss who has a wider view of the action to see whether any bets seem suspicious. In addition to these workers, casinos have a team of investigators who look for hidden cameras and other evidence. They also pay attention to the patterns of play at each table and game, noting whether the players are winning or losing.