Casinos are places where people can gamble and play a variety of games of chance. They may also offer a variety of other entertainment options, including stage shows, shopping malls and restaurants.

Gambling is the primary activity in casinos. Some of the most popular casino games include roulette, blackjack and craps. These are all governed by mathematically determined odds that give the house an advantage over the player.

Aside from gambling, a casino may offer guests free drinks, meals and other incentives. There are even casinos that host parties, corporate events and fundraisers. Guests can stay for as long as they want, so there is no limit to the fun they can have at a casino.

To maintain security, a casino will use cameras to keep watch on the games and its patrons. Video feeds are recorded and can be reviewed after the fact. Often, video monitors are set up in the ceiling, so the staff can keep an eye on every doorway and window.

In some cases, players may even have the opportunity to buy the chance to turn $1 into $2 in a matter of seconds. This can be a very exciting experience, as long as the customers are willing to put their own money down.

For a while, the idea of a casino was associated with criminal enterprises, as mob money flowed steadily into Las Vegas and Reno. But federal crackdowns have reduced the risk of mob involvement in casinos.