A casino is a place that offers certain types of gambling activities. It is often combined with hotels, resorts, restaurants and/or retail shopping. Casinos are also known for hosting live entertainment, including stand-up comedy and concerts. The term casino is also used as a synonym for gambling house in some places, especially in the United States, where the name suggests an establishment where people can gamble.

In a modern casino, security is typically divided between a physical security force that patrols the property and a specialized surveillance department. These departments work together closely to investigate reports of suspicious or definite criminal activity. In addition, casinos are frequently monitored by closed circuit television cameras in order to prevent cheating or illegal activity.

Some of the world’s largest casinos are sprawling complexes that can rival a small town in size. From high-end poker rooms to Michelin-starred restaurants and designer stores, these mega-resorts can cater to even the most discerning tastes.

While some of these casinos may be best known for their spectacular decor or lavish amenities, others are better characterized by their high stakes games and exclusive clientele. These opulent establishments have become popular in film and literature, with many of them depicted as glamorous and luxurious places that offer the opportunity to make or lose huge sums of money.