The term casino refers to establishments where a variety of games of chance and gambling are played. A casino may be large and elaborate, or it can be small and simple. It may offer many amenities to attract customers, such as restaurants, free drinks, stage shows and dramatic scenery. It may also have other facilities such as swimming pools, shopping centers and bars. Casinos may be located in cities or towns, or they may be built into resorts or cruise ships.
Casinos are a major source of income for the companies, investors and Native American tribes that own them. They also provide billions in tax revenues for state and local governments. In the United States, casinos can be found in cities and towns, on Indian reservations, at racetracks converted to racinos, and in many other places where gambling is legal.
Because casino gaming involves large amounts of money, both patrons and staff may be tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion or independently. This is why casinos spend a lot of time and money on security. Casino security personnel use sophisticated surveillance systems to monitor activity throughout the property. In addition, some casinos have special rooms where high-stakes gamblers can play in privacy.
Unlike the gangsters who once ran casinos, today’s casino owners are often real estate investors or hotel chains with deep pockets. They can afford to build lavish facilities that attract gamblers from around the world. Harrah’s Entertainment reports that the typical casino gambler in 2005 was a forty-six-year-old female from a household with above-average income.