A casino, also known as a gaming house, is an establishment that allows patrons to play games of chance for money. The establishments are owned by private individuals or public corporations and are legally operated under the supervision of a government agency. Casinos are usually built near or combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops, and other tourist attractions. In the United States, casinos are mostly located in Las Vegas, Nevada; Reno, Nevada; Atlantic City, New Jersey; Biloxi, Mississippi; and Puerto Rico.
The primary source of income for a casino is from gambling. Some casinos make significant revenue from other sources, such as beverage sales, hotel rooms, and events such as concerts and sports. Most casino games provide a predictable long-term edge to the house, but some have a skill element, and players possessing sufficient skills can eliminate this advantage, sometimes referred to as the vigorish or rake.
Gambling is widely believed to have originated in ancient Mesopotamia, Greece, and Rome, but the precise origin is unknown. In modern times, casinos have become entertainment centers for the wealthy and are an important economic driver in many cities.
Casinos are regulated by state laws regarding age, credit cards, and other issues. In some jurisdictions, the minimum legal age to gamble is 21; in others, it is 18 or 19. In most cases, minors are not allowed to enter or play in casinos, but a few allow them inside. In the United States, most casinos are legal to operate, although some states prohibit gambling or have strict rules on it.