A casino, or gaming house, is an establishment for certain types of gambling. These establishments may also offer other entertainment amenities, such as restaurants and live entertainment. Most casinos are located in cities or areas that attract tourists.

Some casinos specialize in specific games or are known for hosting professional poker tournaments that draw large numbers of participants. In general, however, the main activities of a casino revolve around table games like blackjack and roulette, video poker, and slot machines. A casino might also host special events, such as a recurring show or a celebrity appearance.

Casinos are often regulated by government authorities to ensure fair play and ethical standards. Consequently, many casinos have adopted security measures to prevent cheating and theft by both patrons and employees. For example, patrons’ betting chips are usually tracked by microcircuitry to allow the casino to monitor their movements and identify any unusual activity. Similarly, roulette wheels are electronically monitored for statistical deviations.

The largest casinos in the world often feature a variety of gaming and non-gaming amenities that may appeal to different kinds of visitors. For example, the Bellagio, a landmark in Las Vegas that features a famous fountain seen in movies such as “The Hangover” and “Ocean’s 11,” offers a wide range of gaming options as well as fine dining and luxury shopping. Moreover, its poker room is regularly host to World Poker Tour events, attracting numerous poker professionals and enthusiasts.