A casino is a place where people can gamble and play games of chance. It also provides other forms of entertainment such as music and shows. Although casinos provide a wide range of amenities, such as restaurants, free drinks and stage shows, they would not exist without the billions of dollars in profits generated by gambling. The most famous of these establishments are located in Nevada, especially Las Vegas and Atlantic City, but they can also be found across the United States.

Casinos have a long history and are often associated with organized crime. During the prohibition era, organized criminal groups provided funds for casino operations. In Reno, the mobster Frank Costello financed the operation of the first casino, and other crime bosses followed suit. In the twentieth century, casinos have become more selective about their customer base, focusing on high rollers who spend large amounts of money. In addition to offering expensive suites and meals, these casinos provide comps, or complimentary items, to high rollers.

Because large sums of money are handled within a casino, it is common for patrons and staff to cheat or steal, either in collusion or independently. To combat these issues, casinos employ a variety of security measures. For example, cameras mounted throughout the building keep an eye on every table and window. In addition, these cameras can be adjusted to focus on suspicious patrons. The patterns and routines of casino games also make it easier for security personnel to spot unusual behavior.