A casino, also known as a gaming house or a gambling establishment, is a place where people can gamble and play games of chance. Many casinos are combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops and other tourist attractions. Some are owned and operated by local governments, while others are private businesses. Casinos may offer a variety of games, including blackjack, roulette, baccarat, poker, and slots. Some casinos also feature live entertainment.

Gambling has been a part of human culture for millennia, with the first documented evidence dating back to 2300 BC in China. Dice and playing cards came into use around 500 BC, and modern casino games such as baccarat and poker were developed in the 1400s.

As the popularity of gambling grew, new casinos emerged throughout Europe and the United States. Some of the world’s largest and most famous are in Las Vegas, Nevada; Atlantic City, New Jersey; and Native American tribal casinos.

Casinos are often a target for crime, with both patrons and staff tempted to cheat or steal. As a result, most casinos have strict security measures to protect their assets. For example, some have catwalks in the ceiling that allow surveillance personnel to look down on activities at tables and slot machines. Others have cameras mounted in the doorways of poker rooms and other high-stakes areas.

Some casinos are even equipped with a full range of support resources for people who are struggling with problem gambling. These can include helplines, self-exclusion programs, and counseling services.