A casino is a building that houses gambling games. It may also house restaurants, bars, a stage show or other entertainment. Casinos are often operated by large corporations, investment groups or Native American tribes. They generate billions of dollars in profits each year for their owners, investors, and operators, as well as providing jobs and tax revenues for local communities. Casinos are located in many cities, towns, and states, with the majority located in Nevada and New Jersey. Some casinos are built as standalone structures, while others are integrated into hotels, restaurants, or other resorts. Casino-type game machines are also found at racetracks and on boats and barges.

Casinos are designed around noise, light, and excitement. Slot machines are arranged in maze-like patterns to entice patrons to spend more money. Table games are monitored by pit bosses and table managers, who keep an eye on bet patterns to detect cheating. Security cameras are routinely used to monitor patrons and staff for evidence of criminal activity.

Casino patrons are prone to cheating and stealing, whether in collusion with each other or independently. To counter this, casinos invest a great deal of time and money on security measures. They also employ rules of conduct and behavior to discourage cheating and theft. Gambling addiction has also been a problem for casinos, with some studies showing that compulsive gambling cuts into overall profits and can even reduce the economic benefits of casino operations in local communities.