A casino is a building that houses gambling games, particularly those that involve chance. It also consists of a hotel, restaurant, and other entertainment facilities. It is a popular form of recreation and an industry that generates significant revenue worldwide.

Most casinos accept wagers on various forms of chance and often offer incentives to patrons, such as free shows or meals. Some examples of casino games are roulette, craps, and blackjack. Many casinos also have slot machines. Some of these games are played exclusively on casino floors, while others are played in the comfort of players’ homes.

Gambling in some form is prevalent throughout human history, and has become an integral part of the social fabric in countries around the world. While the precise origin of gambling is unknown, it is believed that humans have always sought out ways to indulge their desire for risk and reward.

In the United States, the largest casino is in Las Vegas, followed by Atlantic City and Chicago. The number of casinos in the United States is increasing steadily as more states legalize them.

In the early 20th century, mobster involvement in casinos was common. But as real estate developers and hotel chains became more interested in the profits that could be made from casino development, mob control began to wane. In the 1990s, federal crackdowns and the risk of losing a gaming license at even the slightest hint of mob interference meant that legitimate businesses took over many casinos.