A casino is a building or room where gambling activities take place. It contains a variety of games, such as slot machines and table games like blackjack and roulette. A casino also offers other entertainment options, such as shows and dining. Most casinos have strict rules to prevent cheating and stealing. The security measures may include a network of cameras that can be viewed from a central control room.

Some casinos attract high rollers who gamble large sums. These players are sometimes given free hotel rooms, meals and show tickets. In some cases, a player can even be comped airline tickets and limo service. However, this is usually only for the most loyal and largest customers.

The casino industry has come a long way since miners in the Nevada goldfields took breaks to play cards in local card rooms. Today, there are more than 500 casinos around the world. Many of them are massive resorts in states that have legalized gambling. There are also casinos in some Native American reservations, which are exempt from state antigambling laws.

Because of the large amounts of money involved, casinos are subject to a high level of fraud and theft. Both patrons and employees may attempt to cheat or steal, either in collusion or independently. In addition to security cameras, most casinos have electronic surveillance systems that track every movement within a casino. The complex systems can also be manipulated to focus on specific patrons by security personnel.