A casino is a building or room used for social amusements, especially gambling. In the United States, casinos are regulated by state and local laws. Most jurisdictions have a minimum age at which adults are permitted to gamble and many have restrictions on who can enter the casino. Some casinos are owned and operated by governments while others are private enterprises. The word casino is derived from the Latin casinum, meaning “little house.” The casino as an entertainment venue has evolved over time and is today often a sophisticated, themed complex of gaming and dining choices.
In the United States, casino gambling has been legalized in Nevada since 1931, and has expanded into a nationwide industry. Las Vegas is the largest casino market, followed by Atlantic City and Chicago. The industry is also boosted by Native American casinos run on reservations. In addition, gambling machines are sometimes placed in racetracks and at truck stops, as well as in bars and restaurants.
Most casino games involve chance, but a few involve skill as well. In table games, the dealer deals cards or other objects to players and takes a commission (the “rake”) from each player. Some casinos also offer poker rooms where customers can play against one another.
The federal government classifies casinos according to their business types. The category for establishments that primarily conduct table games is 713210. In addition, some casinos have a hotel on the premises and are classified as a casino hotel (NAICS code 721120). Some casinos provide food services as well.
