What Is a Casino?

A casino is a building or room where people can gamble on games of chance. The precise origin of gambling is unknown, but it is believed that it has existed in many societies throughout history. Modern casinos feature a variety of table and slot games, as well as restaurants and bars. Some are open around the clock, while others are only open during certain hours.

Gambling within a casino is regulated by state law, and the minimum age for casino gambling varies from state to state. In the United States, casinos are most often found in cities with large populations of tourists, such as Las Vegas, or in locations known for their gambling, such as Atlantic City and Chicago. Most casinos are owned and operated by large corporations. Smaller communities may have casinos run by Native American tribes.

There are three general categories of casino games: gaming machines, table games, and random number games. Gaming machines, such as slots and video poker, are played by one or more players, and do not involve a dealer or other casino employees. Table games, such as blackjack and craps, involve a dealer who oversees the game play. Random number games, such as roulette and baccarat, use a croupier to conduct the game and select random numbers.

Due to the large amount of money handled within a casino, security measures are taken to prevent cheating and theft. These measures include a combination of physical security forces and specialized surveillance departments.