A casino is a gambling establishment that offers a variety of games of chance. Most casinos also offer a range of other entertainment activities. These include live music and entertainment shows, and some have restaurants and shops. Some casinos are built on riverboats, while others are located in cities. In addition to slot machines and table games, some casinos offer sports betting and poker rooms.

The majority of casino games have a statistical advantage for the house, which is known as the house edge or vigorish. This edge can be as low as two percent, depending on the game rules and how the game is played. The casino earns money by taking this edge from players, either through a commission on bets (known as the rake) or by charging for the use of certain facilities, such as tables.

The casino industry is a large and profitable business. Gambling is popular throughout the world, and many countries have legalized casinos. However, the economic impact of casinos has been debated, with critics arguing that they divert money from other forms of entertainment and that the cost of treating problem gamblers negates any economic benefits they may bring. In addition, some economists have argued that the casino industry is a drain on local economies, and that the revenue generated by casinos does not offset the costs of running them. Casinos employ a wide range of security measures to protect their customers and property. These include cameras and surveillance systems, and employees patrol the casino floor to watch for suspicious behavior, such as cheating or stealing.