A casino is a public place where various games of chance are offered and gambling takes place. Often, casinos add restaurants, free drinks and stage shows to appeal to players. Some states regulate the gambling industry, while others do not. A casino may have security measures to prevent cheating and stealing. Casinos also monitor the behavior of patrons to ensure that they follow rules of conduct and do not engage in prohibited activities.

Gambling may have begun long before written history, with primitive protodice (cut knuckle bones) and carved six-sided dice found in archaeological sites [Source: Schwartz]. But the casino as an institution did not develop until the 16th century, during a gambling craze that swept Europe. Aristocrats held private parties at venues known as ridotti, where they could gamble and socialize without fear of persecution by the Italian Inquisition.

The concept of the casino as a place to find many different types of gambling under one roof did not spread to the rest of the United States until Nevada legalized it in 1956. When the state began licensing casinos, operators realized they could capitalize on the tourist market and draw visitors from around the world. This prompted other states to legalize gambling and open their own casinos, which allowed them to compete with Las Vegas as a destination for high rollers.

In modern times, casinos have become more selective in who they welcome and what kinds of gaming they offer. High-stakes gamblers are given a separate room and special treatment. These gamblers are known as “high rollers.” Their large wagers make up a significant portion of the casino’s gross profit. To encourage them to keep spending money, casinos often give these big bettors extravagant inducements in the form of free or reduced-fare transportation and elegant living quarters.

Something about gambling seems to inspire cheating and stealing, whether in collusion with fellow gamblers or by individuals acting independently. Because of the enormous amounts of money involved, casinos spend a lot of time and effort on security. In addition to cameras and other technological measures, they enforce strict rules of conduct and require that gamblers keep their cards visible at all times.

Casinos are also a great place to catch some entertainment, with live music and dancers, stage shows, comedy and other forms of escapist entertainment. Many casinos have restaurants that offer a range of cuisines, and some are famous for their desserts. In addition, casinos use bright and sometimes gaudy colors on their floor and wall coverings to stimulate and cheer gamblers and help them lose track of time. More than 15,000 miles of neon tubing is used to light the casinos along the Strip in Las Vegas. The color red is especially effective in drawing attention and encouraging gambling. The noises of clanging coins dropping into slot machines and the clatter of roulette wheels are also designed to stimulate gambling action. Many gamblers are attracted to the bright lights and loud sounds of a casino, but some are not.