In a casino, customers gamble by playing games of chance, or skill, for real money. Most casino games have a predictable long-term house advantage, though there are exceptions. Players who can overcome the house edge through knowledge or skill are referred to as advantage players.

Most casinos have a variety of gaming options, including casino games such as blackjack, roulette and poker. They also offer a wide range of amenities like top-notch hotels, spas and restaurants. The term casino also refers to a fictional establishment, often used in movies and television.

The word casino is derived from the Italian “casino”, which means little palace. Casinos became popular in the 20th century, when nearly every country changed its laws to permit them.

Casinos are primarily gambling establishments, but they also usually have restaurants and bars, and some even host live entertainment. They are mainly found in cities with the highest incomes, although there are some in rural areas as well. Some are combined with other tourist attractions such as resorts, shopping malls or golf courses. Casinos have become increasingly technologically advanced, utilizing sophisticated security systems and video surveillance. They also use random number generators to ensure the integrity of their games. Moreover, they have a strong emphasis on customer service and are often run by professional organizations with a high level of expertise. They are also heavily regulated by governments. In the United States, there are more than 30 state-regulated casinos.