A casino, or gaming establishment, is a place where people can gamble. These places offer a wide range of games, from slots to table games like poker and blackjack. Often they are mixed with other entertainment options, such as live events, restaurants, and retail shops. They can also be found in hotels, resorts, cruise ships, and other tourist destinations. Casinos may be regulated by the government to ensure fair play and compliance with gambling laws. They also provide security measures to prevent cheating and theft. In the United States, many states have legalized casinos.
Some cities are defined by their casinos, such as Las Vegas, which has more than 100. Other large cities have a smaller number of casinos, such as Atlantic City in New Jersey and Chicago. In addition to attracting tourists, casinos are important sources of revenue for the local economy.
There are many types of casino, from small, family-run operations to sprawling, luxury complexes. Some are devoted exclusively to gambling, while others feature multiple types of entertainment. While some casinos are located in towns, cities, and countries with legalized gambling, most are operated by private companies.
The most famous casinos are in cities that attract visitors from all over the world. Some of these are architectural masterpieces, while others are renowned for their service and amenities. Some even have celebrity owners and host high-profile events. For example, rapper 50 Cent hosted a concert at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.