What Is a Casino?

A casino is a facility for certain types of gambling. Casinos are often built near or combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops, and other tourist attractions. In the United States, casinos are licensed and regulated by state and local governments. The games played in a casino are typically based on chance, with some involving skill. Some casinos also offer table games such as blackjack and poker, and some are known for hosting tournaments.

Modern casino security is usually divided between a physical security force and a specialized surveillance department that oversees the closed-circuit television system (known as the eye in the sky). In addition, casinos employ rules of conduct and behavior to deter criminal activity. For example, players at card games must keep their cards visible at all times. In the event of a dispute over a hand, the casino’s security department can review the footage to determine whether or not the player committed a breach.

Casinos are found in cities throughout the world. They are also located in American Indian reservations and on some cruise ships. Most states have laws regulating casino gambling, although legal age and other restrictions vary.