A casino is a gambling establishment where patrons place bets with cash or casino chips. A wide variety of games are offered, including card games, dice games, roulette, baccarat, and slot machines. Most casino games have mathematically determined odds that provide the house with a long-term advantage over the players, which is called the house edge. However, some casino games have a skill element, and players who possess sufficient skills can reduce the house edge to zero or less. Casinos often have entertainment offerings such as shows and fine dining to attract and retain customers.

Gambling at casinos generates billions of dollars in revenues for the companies, investors, and Native American tribes that operate them. In addition, they boost regional economies by attracting visitors and generating tourism spending. In the twenty-first century, some casinos are focusing their investments on attracting high rollers who gamble in special rooms with limits of up to tens of thousands of dollars. In return for their large bets, these gamblers receive perks such as free hotel suites and lavish personal attention.

While most people think of Las Vegas when they hear the term casino, these establishments are found in all sizes and shapes. Some are massive resorts, and others are small businesses defined more by the types of gambling they offer than by glitz and glamour. All casinos are regulated by state and local laws, and the legal age for gambling varies by jurisdiction.