A casino is a popular establishment that offers gambling-related entertainment to its clients. Its services may include a wide variety of gaming options, live entertainment, top-notch hotels, spas, restaurants and more.

Although casinos are known for offering a variety of games and amenities to attract customers, they would not exist without games of chance. Slot machines, black jack, roulette, craps and keno are among the many games that help make up the billions of dollars in profits raked in by casinos each year. While casino patrons may be tempted to cheat and steal (both in collusion with staff members and independently), security measures are in place to deter these activities.

The origin of casinos is obscure, but it is believed that they evolved from the ancient practice of gambling. While primitive protodice and carved six-sided dice found in archaeological sites suggest that people have been gambling since the beginning of recorded history, modern casinos did not develop until the 16th century, when a gambling craze swept Europe. These small clubs for wealthy Italians, called ridotti, offered a variety of games and were rarely bothered by authorities [Source: Schwartz].

Casinos today are usually large, lavish facilities with thousands of slot machines and table games. Some casinos also offer private rooms for high rollers where they can gamble in peace with a limited number of other players. In addition, they often offer free drinks, hotel rooms and shows to entice regular visitors.