Casino is a gambling establishment that offers various types of gambling games under one roof. These games include dice, card games such as poker and blackjack, and slot machines. Casinos can also offer food and drink. The casino industry generates billions of dollars each year for the companies, investors, and Native American tribes that run them. In addition, casinos benefit local economies through taxes and other fees.

Casinos can be found in large resorts and vacation destinations, such as Las Vegas, as well as in smaller cities and towns. They can also be found on cruise ships, in racetracks that feature a casino game called racino, and in bars and restaurants. Some states have legalized casino gaming, while others prohibit it or limit it to specific geographic areas.

Because of the large sums of money handled within a casino, both patrons and staff may be tempted to cheat or steal. Several security measures are employed to deter this activity. Cameras throughout the facility and the presence of security personnel are the most obvious safeguards. In addition, many casino games follow certain patterns and routines that make cheating more difficult, whether by a player or a dealer.

Gambling likely existed as early as recorded history, with primitive protodice and carved six-sided dice found at archeological sites. But the casino as a place where people could find a variety of gambling games under one roof did not develop until the 16th century, when a gambling craze swept Europe. Italian aristocrats often held private parties at venues known as ridotti, where they would wager on everything from horse races to political events.