A casino is an establishment for certain types of gambling. The term is derived from the Latin word cazino, meaning “house of games.” The establishments may be called gambling houses or gaming rooms. In some countries, casinos are licensed and regulated by the state government. In addition to traditional table games, modern casinos offer a wide range of electronic machines and video poker. Some of these machines are linked to a progressive jackpot system. In the United States, the casino industry is dominated by the Las Vegas Strip.
Aside from being a major tourist attraction, a casino also serves as a social hub for locals and offers food, drinks, entertainment, and other amenities to its visitors. Some casinos are known for their celebrity residencies where guests can enjoy performances by famous entertainers such as Celine Dion and Elton John.
Some of the largest casinos in the world are located in Asia, Europe, and the United States. The Venetian in Macau, for example, is the largest single-structure hotel and casino on earth. It features a canal with bridges and gondolas, an enormous shopping mall, and Michelin-starred restaurants. The casino itself is 540,000 square feet and features more than 300 tables, a variety of slot machines, and more than 2,000 video poker units. The casino also offers baccarat, blackjack, roulette, and a variety of other popular games. The casino is monitored by surveillance systems and has a team of dedicated staff to ensure the safety of its patrons.