A casino is a gambling establishment that offers various games of chance and often provides entertainment and leisure activities for its patrons. It also serves as a gathering place for friends and family.

There are many types of casinos in existence. Some are devoted exclusively to one type of game, such as poker or blackjack, while others feature several games. Some are located in major cities, while others are found in suburban or rural areas. Casinos also are available on American Indian reservations, where they are not subject to state antigambling laws.

Gambling is the primary source of revenue for casinos. Each casino game has a built-in mathematical advantage for the house, and over time this advantage generates substantial profits. These profits are used to attract customers and create an atmosphere of excitement and glamour, which is why casinos display fountains, towers, replicas of famous landmarks, and other elaborate features.

Casinos employ a number of security measures to protect their patrons and property. These measures include a physical security force and specialized surveillance departments. Security staff patrol the casino and respond to calls for assistance or reports of suspicious or definite criminal activity. The surveillance department operates a closed circuit television system known as the “eye in the sky” to monitor and record all activities within the casino.

A casino’s security measures also extend to its table games. Casinos use technology to supervise all betting, including the use of chips with microcircuitry that interact with electronic systems at tables to oversee exact amounts wagered minute-by-minute and to detect any abnormalities; some casinos even have automated roulette wheels and dice games where no dealer is needed.