A casino is a facility that houses gambling activities. A casino may have many amenities, including restaurants, buffets and free drinks. A casino also may offer different types of games. These include slot machines, poker, blackjack, roulette and craps. Other games, such as keno and sports/racing betting, are much less popular.
The casino industry generates billions of dollars annually for the companies, corporations, investors and Native American tribes that own and operate casinos. In addition, state and local governments reap casino revenues in the form of taxes and fees. A successful casino provides a lucrative source of revenue for its owners and employees, but there are risks associated with casino gambling. Casino patrons and staff may be tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion or independently. Casinos employ a variety of security measures to deter such activity.
The first modern casinos opened in the United States in the late 1970s, following the legalization of gambling in Nevada. From there, the concept spread. Casinos soon began opening on Indian reservations, which were not subject to state antigambling laws, and then in cities like Atlantic City and Las Vegas. Today, there are more than 3,000 casino resorts worldwide.