A casino is a place where people gamble on games of chance or skill, such as blackjack and poker. It also features table games like roulette, craps, and baccarat. There are usually also video slots and other electronic gaming machines. Some casinos even host tournaments where players compete against each other for big prizes.

Despite the common perception of casino as a place for people to drink and dance, it is not uncommon for some casinos to have strict dress codes and impose rules on their patrons in order to maintain a high level of decorum and safety. In addition, security staff may monitor patrons and employees for signs of cheating or theft. The large amounts of cash handled within casinos make them susceptible to security threats, and many have taken measures such as installing cameras or catwalks that allow surveillance personnel to look down directly on activities in game areas.

While most people associate casino with gambling, the industry is actually a complex network of businesses. In addition to the games of chance, casinos are also involved in food and beverage services, entertainment, and hotel accommodation. Moreover, most casinos are regulated by state and local laws regarding gambling legality, including the minimum age for participants. They are also subject to taxation. As a result, their profit margins are often very small. Nevertheless, the industry is growing rapidly. In the past, most states had antigambling laws but now many of them have legalized casinos or have changed their gambling laws.