A casino (also known as a gaming house or gambling establishment) is an establishment where people can play certain types of gambling games. These casinos may also offer other services such as restaurants, bars, retail shops, and entertainment venues. Some casinos are standalone, while others are part of larger hotel and resort complexes. In addition to gambling, some casinos are known for hosting live entertainment events such as concerts and stand-up comedy.
When most people think of a casino, they picture one of the megaresorts in Las Vegas—a massive hotel and entertainment complex blazing with neon lights, fun, and games. While this description fits some casinos, many are small businesses defined more by the type of gambling they offer than by glitz and glamour.
The Bellagio in Las Vegas is perhaps the most famous casino in the world and was even featured in the 2001 movie Ocean’s 11. It oozes elegance and sophistication and is home to an extensive selection of both table games and slot machines.
Like any business in a capitalist society, casinos are in business to make money. Successful ones rake in billions each year for the companies, investors, and Native American tribes that own and operate them. In addition, they pay millions in taxes and other fees to state and local governments. To maximize their profits, casinos closely monitor the house edge and variance of each game they offer. These figures are determined by mathematical professionals known as gaming mathematicians and analysts.