A casino (also called a gambling house or gaming palace) is a facility for certain types of gambling. These establishments are often combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops, cruise ships, and other tourist attractions. In some countries, casinos are licensed and regulated by the government. Others are unlicensed and operate as private businesses or family-owned establishments. In addition, some casinos are operated by Native American tribes.

Until the 1970s, most states considered casino gambling illegal. But after Atlantic City permitted it, a wave of change spread throughout the country. By the end of that decade, nine states had legalized casino gambling.

Casinos are designed around noise, light, and excitement to attract and keep gamblers. Some casinos feature tables where gamblers can interact with each other, as in craps or poker, while others have slot machines that are controlled by computers. Casinos also employ staff to supervise the games and enforce the rules.

Many casino games require a high degree of math knowledge to play successfully. This skill teaches players to recognize probabilities and odds, which can help them make informed decisions and improve their lives. For example, learning to count cards can help players improve their blackjack strategy and increase their chances of winning. It can also enhance cognitive fitness by increasing focus and concentration.

Some casino games have a social aspect, where gamblers compete against each other in a team or against the casino itself. This competition can increase focus and concentration, as well as improve mental arithmetic skills. In addition, some casino games allow players to win big money, which can lead to a feeling of accomplishment.