A casino is a gambling establishment that offers games of chance and skill. Customers gamble cash or casino chips on various outcomes, including the result of a roll of a dice, a spin of a wheel, and the outcome of a hand of poker. Some casinos offer a wide variety of games, while others specialize in certain types of gambling. In addition to gambling, a casino may also include dining and entertainment options.

In most countries, casino gaming is legal only in licensed and regulated establishments. These facilities must meet certain minimum standards to operate and are inspected to ensure fairness of play. In the United Kingdom, for example, there are many privately owned and operated casinos that are regulated by the British Gambling Commission. In general, the odds in casino games are always against the players. This is because the house, or the owners of the casino, must make money in order to stay in business. This advantage can be mathematically determined, and is known as the house edge. In games of skill, such as blackjack, the house edge can be reduced by applying a basic strategy.

Casinos are designed to attract and keep customers by using noise, light, and excitement to create an environment that is attractive to gamblers. Large companies spend millions of dollars in determining what colors, sounds, and scents appeal to gamblers. Generally, people who go to casinos are not solely interested in gambling; they are looking for an exciting and fun night out. According to a 2005 poll by the Gallup Organization, approximately 24% of Americans had visited a casino within the previous twelve months. This is up substantially from the 20% reported in 1989.