The Casino is a decadent temple of temptation, where gambling becomes an art form. These opulent and dazzling halls are filled with overflowing bars, awe-inducing decor, and an inexhaustible number of games. And what’s more, some casinos also offer hotels, restaurants, non-gambling game rooms, swimming pools, and a host of other features to appeal to all types of travellers and families.

The casino was originally a place for locals to gamble, but as the popularity of gambling rose, businessmen with deep pockets saw an opportunity to capitalize on it. During the 1980s and ’90s, more American states legalized casinos, first on riverboats, then in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and on various Indian reservations, where they weren’t subject to state antigambling laws.

Security is an enormous part of casino operations. On the floor, employees keep a close eye on patrons to catch blatant cheating (palming, marking, or switching cards, dice, or chips). Casinos also use technology to monitor and supervise games. For instance, betting chips have built-in microcircuitry to track the amounts wagered minute by minute, and roulette wheels are electronically monitored to discover any statistical deviation from their expected results.

Aside from ensuring the safety and security of guests, casinos also reward their biggest spenders with comps (complimentary goods or services). These can include free hotel rooms, meals, tickets to shows, and even airline and limo service. The rewards are based on how much you play and the level of the game you’re playing at.