A casino is a place where people can play gambling games. It also includes card rooms, and in some cases, restaurants and other entertainment venues. Often, casinos will have multiple variations of popular gambling games, such as blackjack and roulette. Some countries have legalized these casinos, while others have banned them. Many of these places are built in extravagant resorts, while others are located on land or on waterways. Casinos make billions of dollars each year for investors, corporations, and Native American tribes, as well as local governments and state agencies.

Gambling has long been a part of human culture. But until the 19th century, it was usually illegal in most places. Even after it became legal in Nevada, it took years for other states to follow suit. As the industry grew, legitimate businessmen were reluctant to get involved, fearing that they would be tarnished by association with mobster-controlled gambling operations. This left the door open for organized crime figures, who had plenty of money to spend and did not mind taking a risk on a potentially lucrative new venture.

While a casino may include many luxury amenities such as restaurants, stage shows, shopping centers and elaborate decorations, the bulk of its profits come from gambling. Tables, keno, craps, roulette and blackjack generate the most income, although some have other games like baccarat or trente et quarante. Security is an important part of a casino, and it starts with the dealers on the floor. Their eyes are on every move, and they can quickly spot a player cheating by palming cards or marking dice.