A casino is a gambling establishment that offers a variety of games for the public to play. It may also offer dining and entertainment. Some casinos are standalone while others are part of larger hotels or resorts. Gambling has been a part of human society for millennia, with evidence dating back to 2300 BC in China. The modern casino is a complex facility that typically includes a hotel, restaurant, shopping, convention space, and gaming rooms.

In the United States, there are over 1,000 casinos. Many are in cities known for their gambling, such as Las Vegas and Atlantic City. The American Midwest is also putting a lot of effort into building new casinos and expanding existing ones.

Casinos are often protected by security forces. These may include physical security and a specialized surveillance department. In addition, casinos are monitored through a closed circuit television system. These systems are often referred to as the “eye in the sky.”

Players can gamble by playing games of chance or skill. Most of these games have mathematically determined odds, giving the house an advantage over players. These odds are sometimes referred to as the house edge. Some games require the players to pay a commission, called a rake, to the casino. Players can also win money by participating in tournaments. Many of these tournaments are free to enter, though some may have a fee. This money is usually repaid to the players after the tournament.