A casino is a gambling establishment that offers a wide variety of games of chance and skill. It is a popular form of entertainment and attracts visitors from all over the world. Successful casinos bring in billions of dollars each year for the owners, investors, and Native American tribes. Many state and local governments also benefit from casino profits.
Casinos are designed to stimulate gamblers’ senses of sight, sound, touch and smell. They have brightly colored floor and wall coverings, and music and lights that change throughout the day to create a mood. Some casinos even have waterfalls and artificial palm trees. Many have bars and restaurants that offer food and drinks, although most casinos forbid smoking and alcohol while gambling.
Gambling probably existed as long ago as history itself, with primitive protodice and carved six-sided dice found in archeological sites. However, the concept of a casino as a place where people could find a variety of ways to gamble under one roof did not develop until the 16th century, when a gambling craze swept Europe. In Italy, aristocrats held private parties in houses known as ridotti, where gambling was the primary activity. Although technically illegal, the Italian aristocracy was not bothered by legal authorities, and these small gambling venues flourished [Source: Schwartz].
Modern casinos are large complexes that feature a variety of gambling games and services. They are usually located in areas with high traffic and easy access for customers. They are often heavily guarded and have electronic monitoring systems. Some have outdoor swimming pools, fitness centers, and luxury suites.
The majority of casino patrons are regular gamblers who play for modest amounts. According to a 2005 survey by Harrah’s Entertainment, the typical casino gambler is a forty-six-year-old woman from a household with above-average income. The most popular casino game is slot machines, which attract the largest percentage of regular patrons. Other popular games include poker, blackjack, and roulette.
While the mobsters controlled much of the early casino business, real estate investors and hotel chains soon realized the potential for huge profits from casino gambling. They bought out the mob interests and opened their own gambling palaces. Today, legitimate casinos are regulated and monitored by government agencies. Many also invest in technology and staff to prevent cheating and theft by customers and employees.
Because of the huge sums of money handled in casinos, both patrons and employees may be tempted to steal or cheat. This is why most casinos have strict security measures, including surveillance cameras. In addition to technological measures, the security department employs people who monitor behavior and watch for suspicious activities. The casino may also have special rooms for high-stakes gamblers, where the stakes are in the tens of thousands of dollars. These gamblers are given generous comps, such as free show tickets and discounted travel packages. They are also placed in a separate area from the main gambling floor, so that their behavior does not affect other patrons.