A casino is a gambling establishment where people can play a variety of games of chance. These places often include restaurants, free drinks and stage shows. They are also a popular destination for tourists and business people. Casinos have become increasingly popular and are often built near or combined with hotels, resorts, cruise ships and retail shops. Some states have laws that regulate the types of gaming available in casinos.

A number of measures are taken to keep gamblers happy and ensure their safety. The house always has a statistical advantage over the players, but casinos strive to minimize this edge with perks like free drinks and hotel rooms. A casino’s security measures may include cameras and high-tech “eye-in-the-sky” surveillance systems, which can track every table, window and doorway, allowing staff to spot suspicious behavior.

In addition to the glitz and glamour of the Las Vegas Strip, many casino-hotels offer themed experiences that give patrons a taste of another place or time. For example, The Venetian recreates a little Italy where guests can glide along the Grand Canal in a gondola, while Aria’s sleek design creates a stylish and sophisticated experience.

The opulent Monte Carlo casino is famous for being the setting of several novels and films, including Ben Mezrich’s Busting Vegas. Other popular novels featuring casino include The Game by James Patterson, and the acclaimed work The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton.