A casino (also known as a gaming house or gambling house) is an establishment for certain types of gambling. Most casinos offer a wide variety of gambling games, including poker, dice, and blackjack. Some casinos also have restaurants, bars, and lounges. Most states have legalized some form of casino gambling, and Nevada is the largest gaming state.

Many casinos employ sophisticated security measures to prevent cheating and stealing by patrons, both in collusion with other players and from random chance events. These measures include cameras, secure betting areas, and specialized staff. Some casinos monitor the behavior of guests to ensure that they are following rules such as not wearing provocative clothing or using foul language. In addition to these technical measures, casinos may employ various behavioral strategies such as requiring players to keep their cards visible at all times.

The modern casino owes its origin to the legalization of gambling in Atlantic City, New Jersey, in 1978 and subsequent expansion throughout the United States. During this time, many American Indian reservations also legalized casinos.

In the elegant spa town of Baden-Baden, Germany, visitors can gamble at one of the world’s most refined casinos. Inspired by the baroque flourishes of the Palace of Versailles, this stunning casino draws royalty and aristocracy to its tables. Its interiors are adorned with beautiful paintings, sculptures and other works of art. In recent years, the casino has expanded its offerings to include live entertainment and luxury dining.