A casino is a gambling establishment where customers can wager money on games of chance or skill. The games offered in casinos vary by country, but they typically include gaming machines such as slot machines, table games like blackjack, and random number games such as craps. Casinos also offer a wide variety of other entertainment options such as live sports betting and dining.

In most countries, casinos are licensed and regulated by government bodies to ensure fairness and integrity. They must also pay out winnings promptly. Casinos are also known for offering free drinks and snacks to gamblers, and they may provide other amenities such as hotel rooms and transportation. Some casinos have a reputation for being glamorous or luxurious, and they attract tourists from all over the world.

While musical shows and lighted fountains help draw in the crowds, casinos would not exist without games of chance such as blackjack, roulette, poker and slot machines. These games generate the billions of dollars in profits that casinos bring in every year.

While some casino patrons may be tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion with other players or independently, security measures are usually effective at preventing this. Most casinos use surveillance cameras to monitor the activities of their guests, and pit bosses and table managers maintain a close eye on all wagers. In games that require some skill, such as blackjack, the house has a mathematical advantage over players, which can be reduced by learning basic strategy.