Casino (plural casinos) is a type of gambling establishment offering games of chance. These games are often combined with entertainment, such as shows and dining. Most casinos are operated by private corporations and are licensed by a government agency to conduct gambling operations. Some casinos are known for their luxury, while others have a more modest atmosphere. Some are themed, while others focus on the latest technology or a particular aspect of gambling.

Gambling in some form has been present in almost every society throughout history. Modern casinos may have elaborate themes, musical shows, lighted fountains, shopping centers and lavish hotels, but they would not exist without the billions in profits generated by their games of chance. Slot machines, blackjack, roulette, craps and baccarat are among the most popular casino games.

Security is a major concern at casinos. The employees keep their eyes on the patrons, making it easy to spot blatant cheating. Many casinos have cameras and are wired to a central security office that can detect statistical deviations from expected behavior.

There are over a thousand casinos in the United States and around forty states have legalized gambling. They are usually located in small cities and towns that draw tourists from across the country, as well as from overseas. Some examples are the Bellagio in Las Vegas, the Casino de Monte-Carlo in Monaco and the Casino Lisboa in Lisbon. Other famous casinos include the elegant spa town of Baden-Baden, Germany and the Casino de Cannes in France.