A casino, also known as a gaming house or gambling hall, is an establishment for certain types of gambling. Modern casinos are often combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops, and entertainment venues. There are over 1,000 casinos in the United States and many more around the world. Casinos are most often seen in Las Vegas, though they can be found in cities throughout the United States and the rest of the world.
The precise origin of gambling is unknown, but it has been popular throughout history in nearly all cultures and societies. Casinos are places where people can try their luck at games of chance or skill, such as roulette, blackjack, craps, and poker. Most casino games have a mathematical advantage for the house, which is called the house edge. This advantage can be calculated by using math and probability theory. Casinos may offer complimentary items or comps to players, and they may charge a minimum bet or a maximum bet.
Security is a major concern for casino owners, who invest significant amounts of money and effort to prevent cheating and other crimes. Casinos use cameras and other technological measures to ensure fair play, and they have rules of conduct that dictate how patrons should behave. Dealers at table games are trained to spot blatant cheating, such as palming or marking cards. Pit bosses and other higher-ups watch over the tables with a broader view, ensuring that patrons are not stealing from one another or betting in patterns that indicate collusion.