A casino is a gambling establishment that offers various games of chance. Some casinos also offer dining and other entertainment. Many of these venues are located in resorts or other tourist destinations, and some are even standalone buildings. Casinos can be very large, with multiple floors and numerous gaming tables and slot machines. They are typically operated by large multinational companies and have high security standards.

There are more than 1,000 casinos worldwide, with the United States boasting the highest concentration. Las Vegas is famous for its casinos, but Atlantic City and Chicago are also significant gambling centers. The term casino can also refer to a specific game, such as blackjack or roulette.

In games like poker where players play against each other, the house has a mathematical advantage, which is known as the “house edge.” The casino may also charge a fee for using its facilities, called a rake.

Casinos have a reputation for being glamorous and exciting, attracting a mix of tourists and locals. However, some critics argue that casinos are detrimental to the economy of the cities in which they are located. They argue that the revenue from casino gambling represents a shift in spending away from other forms of local entertainment, and that the cost of treating problem gamblers offsets any economic benefits. They may also depress housing values in surrounding areas. In addition, studies indicate that compulsive gambling can have serious psychological and physical consequences.