A casino is an establishment for certain types of gambling. It may be combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops, and/or other tourist attractions. Some casinos are famous for their architecture or their games (such as the Monte Carlo Casino), while others may be known for their luxury amenities or live entertainment.

In the United States, the term casino usually refers to a commercial gaming facility licensed by a government agency. Most states have passed laws regulating the operation of casinos, and some allow residents to participate in online gambling. Other states have prohibited casino-style gambling, but have allowed lottery games, racetracks, and other forms of gambling.

Casinos often feature many different games, including a variety of slot machines and table games like blackjack. Some also offer a wide selection of live entertainment, such as musical performances and stand-up comedy. In addition, many casinos are located in exotic destinations, such as Venice, Monaco, and Singapore, making them a popular vacation spot for both tourists and locals alike.

Gambling has been a part of human culture for millennia, with evidence dating back to 2300 BC in China. Dice first appeared in Rome around 500 AD, and playing cards followed shortly thereafter. However, for most of history, gambling was illegal in most places. In the modern era, casino-style gambling first came to the United States with the opening of the Atlantic City resort in 1978, and then spread throughout the country as American Indian reservations opened up and became exempt from state antigambling laws.