A casino, also known as a gambling house or a gaming establishment, is a place where people can gamble. Casinos are most often built near or combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops and other tourist attractions. In the United States, casinos are usually licensed and regulated by state governments. Many American Indian reservations also operate casinos. Some countries, including Italy and Spain, have national gambling laws.
In modern times, the term casino most commonly refers to a large, fully equipped gambling facility. In addition to traditional table games such as blackjack and roulette, these facilities feature a wide variety of slot machines and video poker machines. Some casinos also offer sports betting and keno. In addition, some casinos host stage shows and other entertainment.
The concept of a casino as a place where a range of gambling activities can be found under one roof did not develop until the 16th century. Before then, gambling took place in private places called ridotti (from the Italian word for “room”), which were frequented by aristocrats who enjoyed a whirlwind of games and socializing.
Mafia-run casinos gained a tainted image in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s, when organized crime figures funded them with money from illegal drug dealing, extortion, prostitution and other rackets. During this time, many legitimate businessmen were reluctant to get involved in the casinos because they carried the stench of vice. However, these establishments proved profitable and eventually attracted a more respectable clientele.