A casino is a gambling establishment that provides games of chance, in some cases with an element of skill, and also offers various complimentary items or comps to gamblers. Most casinos are operated by private companies and generate revenue from bets and wagers made by patrons. Casinos are often located in or near hotel and resort complexes, where they can offer guests a full range of entertainment options.

In the twenty-first century, a growing number of countries have legalized casinos to augment or replace public gambling houses. In many places, casino gaming is regulated by the state or provincial government. Casinos are also found in riverboats and other recreational facilities, and by some Native American tribes. Most modern casinos have several different types of gaming tables, including baccarat, craps, blackjack, roulette, and poker. Some have video poker machines as well.

Security is a key component of casino operations, with employees carefully watching patrons to spot cheating or collusion. In addition to trained personnel on the floor, casinos use a variety of surveillance technologies. For example, some casinos have a network of cameras that act as an “eye-in-the-sky” system, watching every table and even every window change. Other surveillance methods include cameras that focus on suspicious patrons or a single table, and the use of CCTV in all areas of the casino.

The most famous casino is probably the Bellagio in Las Vegas, but there are dozens more around the world, from Venice to Monaco and beyond. Some casinos are famous for their architecture or location, while others are renowned for the services they offer their customers. In addition to gaming, these destinations offer top-notch hotels, restaurants, spas, and theaters.