Casino is a gambling establishment which offers a variety of games of chance, in some cases with an element of skill. While casinos provide entertainment, and in some cases generate large profits, they are often not a net benefit to the communities which host them. Compulsive gambling can take away from other forms of local entertainment, and the costs of treating problem gamblers often outweigh any profit generated by the casino.

Many casinos offer food and beverage service, and some are open around the clock. A casino environment is designed to be noisy, bright and stimulating. It is common to find music playing, and waiters circulating with drinks and snacks. The color red is often used in casino design, as it is believed to stimulate the brain and increase excitement.

Although gambling probably existed in some form long before recorded history, the modern casino as we know it probably developed during the 16th century, when a gambling craze swept Europe. Italian aristocrats gathered at private parties known as ridotti to enjoy their favorite pastime, and the word casino may have been derived from this practice.

Since casino gaming involves the handling of large amounts of money, both patrons and employees can be tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion or independently. For this reason, most casinos are heavily guarded and have security cameras located throughout the premises. Additionally, transparency about ownership and operational practices is generally considered a good indicator of trustworthiness.