A casino is a facility for certain types of gambling. It can include facilities for table games like blackjack and roulette, as well as slot machines and video poker. A casino can also host live entertainment such as concerts and stand-up comedy. Casinos are owned and operated by a variety of businesses including hotel chains, investment firms, and individuals. They can be found in many cities around the world and are often combined with other tourist attractions such as shopping, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Casinos generate billions of dollars each year for the companies, investors, and Native American tribes that own them. They are also a major source of revenue for state and local governments.

Modern casinos employ a wide range of security measures to protect patrons and their assets. These include physical security forces that patrol the premises and a specialized surveillance department that uses closed circuit television to monitor activity. Some casinos also hire private security companies to provide additional protection for VIPs and other high-profile guests.

A casino is a gambling establishment that accepts bets on events that are determined by chance. Casinos are characterized by a large number of game choices, flashy lights, and a noisy atmosphere. They are most often located in or near hotels and resorts. They may offer free drinks, stage shows, and other luxuries to attract gamblers. In the past, some casinos were run by organized crime groups. However, federal crackdowns and the possibility of losing a casino license at even the hint of mob involvement have led to a decline in mob control over casinos.