Casino

A casino is a facility that houses and offers a variety of gambling activities for customers. In addition to gaming, casinos often provide hospitality and entertainment such as hotels, restaurants, theaters, and convention spaces.

Historically, gambling houses emerged in various forms in Europe and the Middle East, but the modern casino developed as a destination for regulated gambling in the 19th and 20th centuries. The industry expanded dramatically in the mid-20th century with casino resorts in Las Vegas and a strong presence in Monte Carlo and Atlantic City. In recent decades, casino gaming has also spread to Asia, notably Macau, and to other jurisdictions with regulated markets.

Casinos generate revenue primarily through slot machines and electronic gaming devices, table games such as blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and craps, and, in some markets, poker rooms. The odds in each game favor the house, and payout rates are governed by regulatory standards. Many casinos also operate sports books, entertainment venues, and restaurants. Online casinos offer virtual gambling over the internet, using computer systems and software to simulate casino experiences and often pairing with online payment methods and digital currencies.

Regulation and licensing are central to the casino industry. Authorities issue licenses, set operating standards, monitor gaming integrity, and enforce anti-money laundering and consumer protections. Markets vary in legality, with restrictions on age, location, and form of gambling. Economic effects include job creation and tax revenue, alongside concerns about problem gambling and social impacts.