A casino (also known as a gaming hall or a gambling house) is an establishment that allows patrons to play games of chance for real money. These casinos may also contain restaurants, bars, and retail shops. They are often located near or combined with hotels, resorts, and other tourist attractions. In some countries, casinos are licensed and regulated by government authorities.

The glitz and glamour of many of these casinos is enough to draw in even the most resolute non-gambler. From Las Vegas to Macau and beyond, the world’s most exclusive casinos combine high stakes with opulent suites, spas and fine dining.

In the United States, there are currently over 1,000 casinos. Some cities are largely defined by their casinos, such as the Las Vegas Valley, Atlantic City, and Chicago. Others, such as the elegant spa town of Baden-Baden in Germany, were once the playgrounds of European royalty and aristocracy.

Most casinos offer a range of games, from traditional casino favorites like roulette and blackjack to more modern offerings such as video poker and sports betting. Some of these games involve some level of skill, which can lower the house edge and increase players’ chances of winning. Many casinos also offer free spectacular entertainment, reduced-fare transportation and hotel rooms, and other inducements to attract big bettors.

Given the large amounts of money that are handled within a casino, both patrons and staff are sometimes tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion or independently. As a result, most modern casinos have extensive security measures, including physical security and specialized surveillance departments.