A casino, also known as a gambling house or a gaming establishment, is an establishment where people can gamble. Casinos feature games of chance and skill, and some even have live entertainment. They may be built on land or on water, or they may be part of a larger resort complex. Casinos may also be found in some American Indian reservations. In many countries, casinos are regulated by state or local government.
A modern casino features a wide variety of gaming machines and tables. Its security is ensured by a physical security force and a specialized department for surveillance. Some casinos have catwalks in the ceiling above the gaming floor, which allow surveillance personnel to look down through one-way glass directly at the players.
Some casinos offer traditional Far Eastern games such as sic bo and fan-tan, while others feature table games such as baccarat, pai gow poker, and roulette. Most casinos also have a selection of video poker machines.
Despite their differences, the majority of casinos make money by charging patrons to play. Successful casinos bring in billions of dollars each year to the companies, investors, and Native American tribes that own or operate them. In addition, casinos provide a significant amount of revenue to the local governments in which they are located. In the United States, the most famous casino is in Las Vegas.