A casino is an establishment for certain types of gambling. Most casinos are located in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and other tourist areas. They may also be combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops, and other facilities. Some casinos are known for hosting live entertainment events, such as stand-up comedy, concerts, or sports.

Some casinos use technology to monitor game play and detect cheating, both from outsiders and within the casino itself. For example, “chip tracking” technology allows the casino to know exactly how much is wagered on each table at any given time; and roulette wheels are electronically monitored for any statistical deviation from their expected performance. In games with a skill element, such as blackjack, the house edge can be minimized by learning basic strategy; this is often taught in specialized schools called “casino schools”.

Casinos are popular with gamblers and non-gamblers alike. They have been the setting for many books, films, and television shows. The Monte Carlo Casino in Monaco, which opened in 1863, is one of the most famous and a major source of revenue for the Principality of Monaco. It has also been depicted in several books and films, including the 2001 film Ocean’s Eleven. Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, which opened in 1968, is another well-known casino that has hosted entertainment events such as concerts by artists like Frank Sinatra, Elton John, and Mariah Carey, as well as televised poker tournaments. The MGM Grand on the Las Vegas Strip is a casino that offers both gaming and sports betting.