A casino is a building or room where gambling activities take place. It is generally distinguished from other types of gaming establishments by its added luxuries like restaurants, free drinks and stage shows. Its core business, however, is the gambling itself.

A casino’s security is a combination of a physical security force and a specialized surveillance department. The security staff patrols the casino floor and watches patrons and employees carefully for evidence of cheating or stealing. They also watch the casino’s closed circuit television system, often referred to as an “eye in the sky.” These cameras can be adjusted to focus on specific tables or patrons, and can be monitored remotely by security personnel.

Modern casinos offer a wide range of games of chance for their patrons, from traditional card and dice games to wheel and other table games. Most of these games involve one or more players competing against the house, rather than against each other. These games are conducted by casino employees called croupiers or dealers. Some casino games, such as blackjack and craps, require a high degree of skill. Players can increase their chances of winning by following a basic strategy.

The most famous casinos in the world are located in cities that have a long history with gambling. These include Monte Carlo, Monaco; Cannes, France; Divonne-les-Bains and Deauville, France; and the elegant spa town of Baden-Baden, Germany. Other casinos are found on American Indian reservations, which are not subject to state antigambling laws.