A casino, also known as a gaming house or gambling house, is an establishment offering various types of gambling. Modern casinos, in addition to providing games of chance, also offer skill-based games and other entertainment. They are often located near or combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops, and other tourist attractions. They may also be found on ships or in remote locations such as Indian reservations.
Successful casinos bring in billions of dollars each year for the corporations, investors, and Native American tribes that operate them. These revenues are augmented by taxes and fees charged to patrons. Most states have legalized some form of casino gambling, and many have built large casinos. In addition, some racetracks have converted their facilities to casinos, and many truck stops and other small businesses sell casino-type game machines.
Casinos are often designed to stimulate gambling through noise, light, and color. In addition to slot machines and table games, they also feature stage shows, cocktail waitresses, and other forms of entertainment. Many of these activities are based on luck, but some are based on strategy. Players who possess sufficient skills can eliminate the inherent long-term disadvantage of casino games, known as the house edge or vigorish, and gain a profit from them. These players are referred to as advantage players.
In the United States, casinos are typically licensed by a state government and operated by private companies. Most states regulate the number of casino licenses and limit the types of games that can be offered. In addition, they require that the house keep a percentage of the money wagered by customers.