Casino (plural: ca*si*nos) is a public place where people gamble on games of chance, or with some element of skill, such as blackjack, roulette, and video poker. In addition to gambling, some casinos also offer restaurants and theaters. Most states have laws against gambling, but a few allow it to take place in dedicated facilities such as those found in Las Vegas and Atlantic City, and on American Indian reservations.
Gambling is the main source of income for most casinos. Casinos make money by charging a percentage of each bet as the house edge, or expected value; this is usually lower than two percent. Some casinos add luxuries to attract visitors, such as free drinks and stage shows.
Security is a key consideration for casinos, especially considering the large amounts of cash handled within them. Both patrons and staff may be tempted to cheat or steal, in collusion or independently; many casinos have security measures in place to prevent this. These range from simple security cameras to elaborate surveillance systems with catwalks that allow security personnel to look down on activities at tables and slot machines through one-way glass.
In addition to these security measures, casino customers are typically required to show identification before they can play. Casinos also prohibit players who are on state or casino self-exclusion lists, or those who have been banned from other casinos. New Yorkers can enjoy gambling entertainment at 12 popular land-based casinos and 15 tribal casinos located within striking distance of the Big Apple.