A casino is an establishment for certain types of gambling. Most casinos offer table games such as blackjack and poker, and some even feature slots machines. They also may host tournaments and other events for gamblers. These venues are commonly located near hotels, restaurants and retail shops. They are also found on cruise ships and in some military installations. In some jurisdictions, casinos are licensed and regulated by state governments.

In addition to gambling, many casinos also contain other entertainment features such as live music and entertainment shows. These features are designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes and budgets. They can also help generate profits for the business by attracting patrons who might otherwise not be interested in the gambling activities.

Because of the large amounts of money handled within a casino, both patrons and employees may be tempted to cheat or steal. To combat this, most casinos have security measures in place. These can include a physical security force and a specialized surveillance department. Some casinos also have catwalks on the ceiling, through which surveillance personnel can look down on gamblers.

The term casino may refer to any of several types of gambling establishments, including those that operate in Atlantic City, New Jersey and on American Indian reservations. However, it is most often used to describe the largest such establishments in the United States. Some are modeled after Las Vegas, while others have a more refined tropical theme.