A casino is an establishment for certain types of gambling. Some casinos are combined with hotels, resorts, restaurants, retail shops, and cruise ships or other tourist attractions. Others are independent and stand alone. The casino business is regulated in many jurisdictions by government and/or private organizations. Casinos may also host live entertainment events, such as concerts and comedy shows.

Most casino games are games of chance, with some requiring an element of skill. Most have mathematically determined odds that ensure the house has an edge over the patrons (even in games where there is no actual physical contact between players). Casinos make their profits by taking a small percentage of all bets, or “winnings” as they are sometimes called.

Casinos use a variety of tricks to lure gamblers in and keep them playing. The noise and bright lights are designed to stimulate the senses, and alcoholic drinks are readily available and delivered to patrons at table games or slot machines. Many casinos offer complimentary items, or comps, to large bettors; these may include hotel rooms, free meals and drinks, tickets to shows, and even limo services and airline tickets.

In the United States, the modern casino industry is dominated by Las Vegas. But there are a growing number of other destinations, including Atlantic City and a few on American Indian reservations that are exempt from state antigambling laws. Casinos are generally operated by commercial businesses with deep pockets and a willingness to tolerate a degree of risk. Mob-linked operators once ran many casinos, but federal crackdowns and the potential for losing a license at the slightest hint of mob involvement have discouraged them.