The casino (also known as the gambling establishment) is a place where people can gamble on games of chance and in some cases skill. It is a popular form of entertainment for many people and is a very profitable business for the casinos. Casinos are often built in high-profile locations and are accompanied by restaurants, shops, and other attractions. The exact origin of gambling is unknown but it has been a part of human culture for millennia in some form.

Most casino games have mathematically determined odds that ensure the house has at all times an advantage over the players, a difference known as the house edge. The house edge varies by game but is usually higher for slot machines and lower for table games. Exceptions are poker and blackjack, which have relatively low house edges due to the element of skill involved in the game.

In addition to casino games, many casinos feature live entertainment. This can range from concerts by major stars like Celine Dion and Elton John to stage shows by iconic performers such as Frank Sinatra, Rod Stewart, and Mariah Carey. Caesars Palace in Las Vegas is famous for its circus-themed entertainment and hosts residencies for legendary performers such as Cher and Bette Midler.

In some countries, casinos are licensed and regulated by government authorities. In these casinos, patrons must present government-issued identification to gain entry and play at the tables. To protect the integrity of gambling operations, casinos are also required to record all financial transactions.