A casino, also known as a gambling establishment or simply a casino, is a place where people can gamble. The term may refer to a land-based establishment or an online casino. Many casinos offer a variety of games, including slot machines, table games like blackjack and poker, and more. Some casinos also include entertainment options such as live shows and events.
A number of different states and sovereign Tribal gaming agencies regulate casinos in the United States. These groups often share common goals, including promoting responsible gaming and maintaining high levels of customer service. However, individual laws can vary significantly from one jurisdiction to the next. This patchwork of laws can make it challenging to compare data across jurisdictions.
Due to the large amounts of money handled within a casino, both patrons and staff members may be tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion or independently. To protect against this, casinos utilize a variety of security measures. These may include cameras, heightened surveillance, and strict rules of conduct and behavior.
Casinos are usually open around the clock and are located in areas with high traffic. Some casinos are standalone facilities while others are built into larger hotels or entertainment complexes. Regardless of location, most casinos require players to be at least 21 years old to play slot machines and most card games. Some casinos allow players as young as 18 to participate in sports betting and pull tab games.