A casino is an entertainment venue that offers games of chance. It might be large with elaborate decor, a mindblowing number of tables and machines, or it might be smaller and more intimate, offering just poker and other card games. Casinos offer food, drink, music and more to attract customers. They also pay billions of dollars in profits each year to owners, investors and the companies that operate them. Casinos also generate taxes and fees for local governments and other agencies.

While there are many reasons why people go to casinos, gambling is usually the primary attraction. The games of chance, including blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat and video poker, have mathematically determined odds that give the house an advantage over players. That advantage is called the house edge. The houses take a percentage of the money bet by patrons to cover this cost, known as the vig or rake. Casinos also make money from the commissions paid by slot machine operators.

Successful casinos draw in customers from all over the world, and many have become tourist attractions. They offer luxurious rooms, restaurants and bars, shopping centers, spas, and other enticements. But the vast majority of their profits are derived from gambling. Some of the largest casinos are located in Las Vegas, but they also operate worldwide. As disposable income rises, more people are able to travel and gamble.