A casino is an establishment that allows patrons to gamble. It may also include restaurants, hotel accommodations, retail shops, and entertainment venues. Casinos are most often found in tourist destinations such as Las Vegas, but are also found on cruise ships and at ski resorts. Private companies or individuals typically own and operate casinos. Some states regulate the industry, while others do not.

A number of famous casinos exist, such as the Bellagio in Las Vegas and Monte Carlo in Monaco, which has been featured in several films. In addition to offering glamour and history, casinos often provide top-notch service. The casino business has become a major source of employment worldwide.

In general, casino is synonymous with gambling, but it can also refer to a specific game such as blackjack or roulette. The word has been in use since the early 1700s, and OED cites four usages prior to that date.

Historically, casinos were located in a variety of places. Some were owned by individual proprietors, while others were run by state-approved enterprises. Today, most casinos are operated by large, private businesses that pay taxes and share profits with shareholders. Some are owned by Indian tribes and run as part of a larger hotel, restaurant, or other entertainment facility.

Casino is a common term that covers many different types of gaming establishments, from the biggest in America to the smallest in Europe. Most of these facilities are crowded with people and a variety of machines, but they are usually well-organized and safe. The staff is trained to deal with any problems that may arise.