A casino is a place where a variety of games of chance can be played and gambling is the primary activity. The word is derived from the Latin cardenal, meaning “card house”. The modern casino offers a wide range of gambling activities and has become a major source of revenue for local, state, and national governments. The casino industry is also a significant source of employment.

A variety of games may be found in a casino, including slot machines, table games such as blackjack and poker, and bingo and keno. The majority of casinos also offer a live entertainment program that features a variety of musical and comedic acts. Casinos are most often built near or combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shopping, cruise ships, and other tourist attractions.

Successful casinos bring in billions of dollars each year for the companies, corporations, investors, and Native American tribes that own them. They also generate substantial tax revenues for state and local governments. Some casinos are located on Indian reservations and are exempt from state anti-gambling laws. In addition, a few states allow casinos on riverboats and in racetracks, which are called racinos.

The 21st-century casino is more selective in its patrons, focusing on high rollers who spend large amounts of money. These individuals gamble in special rooms away from the main floor, where the stakes are usually tens of thousands of dollars. In return for their large spending, these patrons are offered free spectacular entertainment, transportation and elegant living quarters.