A casino is a place where people gamble. There are many different kinds of gambling games, but the most common are card games and dice games. These games usually have a house edge, which is an advantage for the house over the player. Some of these games also have a skill element, and players who can eliminate the house edge are called advantage players. Casinos make money by charging a commission, known as the vigorish or rake, on the winning bets.

The modern casino has evolved into a multifaceted entertainment complex with opulent poker rooms, blackjack tables, and slot machines. Some of the largest casinos in the world are designed like palaces, complete with a large dance floor and concert venue. Other casino amenities include bars, restaurants, swimming pools, clubs, and golf courses. Experts say that the design of a casino influences how much people gamble and the frequency of their visits. If the casino feels welcoming and comfortable, people will be more likely to gamble.

Gambling has been a part of human culture for millennia. Evidence of dice games dates back to 2300 BC, and card games appeared in Europe around 500 AD. In the United States legal casinos were first established in Nevada in 1931, and they continue to be a major source of state tax revenue.