A casino is a place where gambling games are played and is usually run by a professional organization. It may add a host of luxuries to attract patrons, such as restaurants, free drinks, stage shows and dramatic scenery. While the term casino often conjures images of a large, flashy Las Vegas-style facility, there have been less lavish places that housed gambling activities and were still called casinos.
The casino as a gambling establishment probably began in the 16th century, when it became popular for European nobility to hold parties at places called ridotti [Source: Schwartz]. These were basically private clubs where guests could engage in a variety of gambling activities. Although gambling was technically illegal, the clubs were rarely bothered by authorities.
Today, many of the world’s largest casinos are located in Nevada (along with New Jersey and Atlantic City). But casinos are also found in Chicago, Detroit and other cities. In addition, casinos are licensed in some Native American communities.
Gambling is a big business, with billions of dollars being pumped into casinos every year. The modern casino looks more like an indoor amusement park than a traditional gambling joint, with musical shows, lighted fountains, shopping centers and glitzy hotels to draw in the crowds. But the vast majority of a casino’s profits come from gambling. Slot machines, blackjack, roulette, keno and other games provide the entertainment that drives the billions in revenue.
Casinos have security measures in place to prevent theft and cheating by patrons and employees. These include security cameras and strict rules for behavior at each game. In addition, players who spend a lot of time at a particular table or game receive “comps” that can include things such as free hotel rooms, dinners and tickets to shows.