A casino is a large building where people can gamble and play games of chance. Its tables, slot machines and other equipment produce billions of dollars in profits each year for its owners. It is also known for live entertainment and top-notch hotels, spas and restaurants.

In the United States, the most famous casino is in Las Vegas. It is the largest gaming venue in the world. Other major casinos include Atlantic City in New Jersey, and the Chicago area.

Casinos attract millions of customers each year. While musical shows, lighted fountains and shopping centers help draw in the crowds, casinos would not exist without games of chance. Slot machines, blackjack, poker, baccarat and other games of chance are what bring in the revenue.

Something about gambling — perhaps its presence of large sums of money — seems to encourage people to cheat or steal. That is why casino security is so important. Casinos spend a lot of time, effort and money on keeping their guests safe.

Besides general security, casinos employ several technological devices to monitor their games. For example, some betting chips have built-in microcircuitry that enables casinos to oversee exactly how much money is being wagered minute by minute; and roulette wheels are regularly electronically monitored to detect any statistical deviation from expected results. Casinos are also choosy about who they let in. They offer free goods and services to “good” players, such as hotel rooms, meals, tickets to shows and limo service.