A casino is a gambling establishment. It offers the opportunity for gambling on various games of chance and is overseen by a regulatory body. A casino also offers other facilities such as dining, entertainment, and hotel accommodation. It is possible to win money at a casino, but this is not guaranteed. The house always has a mathematical edge over the players. Those who have enough skill to overcome this disadvantage are known as advantage players.

A modern casino may feature a wide variety of games, from traditional table games such as blackjack and craps to electronic gaming machines such as slot machines and video poker. It may also offer other types of gambling, such as lottery-type games and racetrack betting. A casino can also have a sportsbook, which allows players to bet on events in real time.

Some casinos, such as the Casino at Monte-Carlo, are famous for their luxurious accommodations and world-class restaurants, making them popular destinations for both casual and high-stakes gamblers. Others, such as the Bellagio in Las Vegas, are known for their glitz and glamour and have been featured in several movies, including Ocean’s 11.

Because large amounts of money are handled within a casino, it is necessary to have security measures in place to prevent cheating or theft by patrons or employees. These measures usually include a physical security force and specialized surveillance departments. The former patrols the casino and responds to calls for assistance or reports of suspicious or definite criminal activity, while the latter operates the casino’s closed circuit television system.