A casino is a facility for certain types of gambling. The term is a portmanteau of the Latin cazino, meaning “gambling house.” Casinos are often combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops, and other tourist attractions. In the United States, there are more than 40 casinos, most of which are located in Nevada. Some states have legalized casino gambling, while others have prohibited it.

In a casino, customers gamble by playing games of chance or skill, either at tables or slot machines. Many of these games have a built-in long-term advantage for the house, which can be expressed mathematically as the expected value (or the house edge). In poker and other card games where players play against each other, the casino takes a commission called the rake.

Casinos seek to attract and keep customers by offering a variety of perks and bonuses. For example, they offer complimentary items (comps) to high-volume gamblers. These perks can include meals, drinks, hotel rooms, and free gambling money. The casino industry also provides incentives to employees, such as performance bonuses and cashback offers.

The largest and most famous casino is the Bellagio in Las Vegas, which became internationally renowned for its dancing fountains after being featured in the movie Ocean’s 11. In the twenty-first century, most modern casinos focus on providing a unique atmosphere that appeals to upscale customers. The ambiance includes sophisticated decor and live entertainment. In addition to a large selection of table games and slots, many casinos feature high-end dining options.