A casino, also known as a gambling house or a gaming house, is a place where people play games of chance for money or other prizes. Gambling has long been an important part of human culture, with evidence of games of chance dating back to 2300 BC in China. More recently, modern casinos have become increasingly popular throughout the world, with more than 30 states in the United States now permitting them.

Most casinos are located in areas with high populations of tourists and/or residents, such as Las Vegas, Nevada, or Atlantic City, New Jersey. However, some are situated in smaller towns or cities. In some cases, the gambling establishment is a separate building, but in others, it is incorporated into other entertainment facilities, such as hotels.

The games played in casinos are generally based on chance, although some require skill; examples include poker and blackjack. Casinos typically offer a number of ways for players to bet and win, including progressive jackpots. They also often feature live entertainment and restaurants.

Due to the large amount of currency handled within a casino, security is an important consideration. Several measures are taken to protect patrons and staff from cheating or stealing. These measures vary from casino to casino, but may include a physical security force and specialized surveillance systems. In some cases, casinos employ a team of gaming mathematicians to ensure that their games are fair. These professionals are able to calculate the expected return on each bet, and can spot patterns that indicate a game is rigged.