A public room or building where the playing of gambling games (such as roulette, baccarat, blackjack, poker, and slot machines) is the principal activity. Casinos are often built in exotic locales such as Monte Carlo, Las Vegas, or Singapore, and they are staffed with professional security personnel to deter theft and cheating. Casinos also feature elaborate surveillance systems with cameras that can be aimed at specific tables or areas and are adjusted by security workers who watch the monitors from a separate room.
Because they are designed to attract patrons and keep them gambling, casinos attempt to make their atmospheres exciting and exclusive. They use expensive decor and lighting to create a sense of luxury and mystery. Casinos also provide free spectacular entertainment and other inducements to big bettors such as limousines, luxurious living quarters, hotel rooms, and reduced-fare transportation.
The precise origin of gambling is unknown, but it is believed to have been present in many societies throughout history, including Ancient Mesopotamia, China, the Middle East, and Europe. It became especially popular in the United States during the 1980s, when several states changed their laws to allow casinos.
Most casinos offer a variety of games, from classics such as blackjack and roulette to Asian games such as sic bo and fan-tan. They may also have video poker and other electronic games. Some casinos, such as the Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, combine a gaming floor with other entertainment such as theaters, restaurants, and an outdoor concert venue.
