A casino is a gambling establishment that offers a variety of games of chance or skill (like poker, roulette, craps and blackjack) and often entertainment shows. The establishments require patrons to be of legal gambling age and follow a strict set of rules and regulations. Customers gamble by exchanging money for chips that can be used to place wagers on the various games. The house usually takes a percentage of the total amount of bets, a practice known as a rake.

The casino industry is regulated in most countries and is a major source of employment. In the United States, the industry is subject to state laws that limit its operation and prevent it from accumulating excessive debts. The industry also generates substantial tax revenue for the government.

Gambling in its various forms is a popular activity and has been a part of human culture throughout history. The precise origin of casinos is unknown, but they are generally regarded to have evolved from saloons and dance halls in the early 19th century. Today’s casinos are generally large, high-end resorts with a variety of gambling opportunities and amenities.

Some casinos, such as the Venetian in Las Vegas, are themed to reflect their surroundings, with gondola rides and hand-painted frescoes. Others are designed to be the largest in their region or the world, with sprawling complexes featuring multiple restaurants and thousands of slot machines. Many modern casinos employ gaming mathematicians to analyze their house edge and variance, so they can maximize profits and minimize losses to big bettors.