A casino is an entertainment establishment where gambling activities take place. The word is derived from the Latin cazino, which means “to toss, throw,” or “to chance.” In modern times, the casino has become an indoor amusement park for adults, complete with musical shows, lighted fountains, and shopping centers. Although these attractions draw crowds, casinos would not exist without games of chance. Slot machines, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and craps provide the billions of dollars in profits that casinos rake in each year.
Some casinos focus on customer service, offering perks such as discounted hotel rooms and free show tickets. These inducements are called comps. Others offer a variety of games to attract gamblers of all skill levels. Some casinos even host tournaments of poker, baccarat, and roulette.
Until recently, casinos were run by the mob, but federal crackdowns on organized crime have allowed legitimate investors to buy out the gangsters and run their own casinos. Some of these investors have deep pockets, and they can afford to lavish their customers with free or greatly reduced-fare travel packages, luxury hotel rooms, and expensive food and drink.
Casinos are typically located in tourist destinations, such as Las Vegas and Atlantic City. However, they also are located in cities such as Monte Carlo, where the casino is a major source of income for the Principality of Monaco. Other casinos are located in Native American tribal lands. Unlike traditional European casinos, which cater to all income levels, the modern casino tends to specialize in high-stakes gambling, catering to wealthy patrons from the United States and Europe.