A casino is a gambling establishment where patrons can gamble and play games of chance. It is also a facility where spectators can watch or participate in certain sports events, such as horse races and basketball games. In addition to gambling, casinos often have restaurants and bars, as well as other entertainment attractions.

A casino might have an element of skill, such as in the game of blackjack, but most casino games have a house edge that ensures the house’s long-term profitability. This edge is based on mathematically determined odds, which are uniformly negative from the player’s perspective.

Some of the most famous casinos in the world are built on or near rivers, lakes, or other bodies of water. Others are located in cities that are renowned for their gambling industries, such as Las Vegas and Atlantic City. These casinos attract tourists who come to play and enjoy the opulence of the facilities.

Modern casinos usually have a physical security force and a specialized surveillance department. Security is important because of the large amounts of money handled within a casino. Cheating and stealing, either in collusion with staff or by players themselves, are common problems, and security cameras are usually located throughout the casino. Casinos may also have other security measures in place to deter criminal activity. For example, some casinos require players to keep their hands visible at all times. This prevents them from hiding anything from the dealer, such as a hidden chip.