A casino is an establishment for gambling. Casinos offer games of chance and often feature entertainment such as live music and shows. They may also offer food and drink. Casinos are located in cities and tourist destinations, as well as in airports and hotels. Some casinos are owned by private corporations, while others are operated by state-licensed or tribal organizations.

Gambling in some form has been popular throughout much of human history, and casinos have played a significant role in shaping the modern world. The precise origins of casinos are unclear, but they date back at least as far as Ancient Mesopotamia. From there, the game spread to Greece, Rome, and Elizabethan England. Today, gambling is one of the most popular forms of entertainment in the world.

While some casinos specialize in certain games, most offer a wide variety of options. They include table games such as blackjack, roulette, and craps, as well as card and video poker. The majority of these games have mathematically determined odds, meaning the house always has an advantage over the players. This advantage is commonly called the house edge.

Casinos have a wide range of security measures in place to protect patrons and staff from cheating and stealing. This includes cameras in most areas, as well as rules for player behavior and conduct. In addition to the many electronic security measures, some casinos employ people who watch the floor for any suspicious activity.