A casino is an establishment that offers various forms of gambling. Some casinos also offer other types of entertainment, such as concerts and sports events. Some casinos are operated by government-licensed organizations, and some are owned by private individuals or corporations. Casinos are most often located near or combined with hotels, resorts, restaurants, retail shops, and other tourist attractions. They may also be found in military bases and on cruise ships. The term is derived from the Latin word for “gambling house.”

Although many people associate casinos with Las Vegas, they can be found throughout the world. Some of the most prestigious casinos are located in exotic destinations such as Venice, Monaco, and Singapore. These casinos offer high-stakes gambling as well as opulent suites and spas.

The ambiance of a casino is a major selling point for many gamblers. The Venetian, the largest casino in Asia, features a canal system with gondolas and bridges as well as a shopping mall, three Michelin-starred restaurants, and a performance arena. Other casinos are built to be as beautiful as they are functional, such as the Belle Epoque-style Casino de Monte Carlo.

Because large sums of money are handled within a casino, security is a top priority. Casinos have a variety of security measures in place, including cameras and trained personnel to monitor the activities of patrons. Some casinos have catwalks that allow surveillance personnel to look directly down on the games without disturbing the players.