A casino is a facility where certain types of gambling activities take place. Although a number of other elements may be found in a modern casino such as musical shows, lighted fountains and elaborate themes, the vast majority of its entertainment (and profits for its owners) comes from games of chance. Slot machines, blackjack, roulette, craps, keno and baccarat account for the billions in revenue generated by casinos every year.

For the most part, casino gambling is confined to states and territories that have legalized it. In the United States, the largest concentration of casinos is in Nevada and Atlantic City, though casinos can also be found on American Indian reservations that are exempt from state antigambling laws.

Most modern casinos are heavily subsidized by state governments and local business. The resulting revenue allows them to offer expensive amenities such as restaurants, hotels and free drinks to players. They also have the flexibility to adjust the odds on their games to increase winnings and decrease losing ones.

Given the large amounts of money handled within a casino, both patrons and staff may be tempted to cheat or steal. This is why casinos invest a significant amount of time, effort and money into security measures. In addition to cameras, many casinos have rules and regulations governing how patrons are expected to behave while playing. This is particularly true at card tables, where players are required to keep their hands visible at all times.