A casino, or gambling house, is an establishment where people can gamble and play games of chance. Some casinos specialize in one game, but most offer a variety of them. In addition to gambling, a casino often offers other entertainment such as concerts and shows. Casinos are usually located in a city centre or tourist area. In the United States, Las Vegas is the largest casino market, followed by Atlantic City and Chicago.

A large percentage of the profits made by casinos come from the gambling games they offer. Slot machines, craps, baccarat, roulette and card games provide the billions of dollars in profit that earn casinos their nicknames “the houses of chance”. Casinos also earn money from the vig, or house advantage, which is taken on each bet by the casino and can vary between games.

Although gambling likely predates recorded history, the modern casino as an all-in-one gambling center did not develop until the 16th century during a gambling craze that swept Europe. Italian aristocrats would hold private parties called ridotti where they could indulge in their passion for gambling and avoid legal persecution.

Gambling in a casino is typically social, with players often interacting with one another and shouting encouragement. Alcohol is served to players by waiters circulating the gaming floor, and nonalcoholic drinks are often free. The noisy, bright and exciting environment is designed to encourage people to gamble. Casinos can be dangerous places; both patrons and staff may be tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion or independently. Security measures are therefore a high priority for casinos.