A casino is a gambling establishment where customers gamble by playing games of chance or skill. The most popular games include blackjack, roulette, baccarat and video poker. Some casinos also offer keno and bingo. The precise origin of gambling is unknown, but it has long been a part of human culture.

Gambling in some form is legal in most countries. Casinos are licensed and regulated by government agencies to ensure fair play and player protection. They are also required to adhere to strict environmental and safety standards.

Given the large amounts of money handled within a casino, both patrons and staff may be tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion or independently. To mitigate this risk, most casinos have a variety of security measures in place. For example, some have catwalks above the gaming floor that allow surveillance personnel to look down on the table and slot machines. Security cameras throughout the property are another common sight.

The most famous casinos are often located in exotic locales, such as Venice or Monaco. Some, like the Bellagio in Las Vegas, have a reputation for luxury hospitality and attract visitors from around the world. Other casinos focus on live entertainment, with performers ranging from Frank Sinatra to Celine Dion and Mariah Carey. Still others are known for their architecture, with the Venetian in particular drawing guests with its canals and elaborate interiors. The Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, for instance, has been host to a wide range of celebrity performers since it opened as the Circus Maximus in 1968.