A casino is a gambling establishment where patrons can wager money on games of chance. Casinos usually offer a variety of games, including poker, blackjack, craps, roulette, and video poker. They also feature entertainment shows, a variety of dining options, and high-end shops. Most states have legalized casinos.

Historically, the majority of casino games involved dice and cards. Chess, backgammon, and checkers are also popular in many casinos, as are the more recent inventions of poker variants and keno. The latter is a game of numbers, rather than strategy, and it has become increasingly popular as the Internet has facilitated its spread to many homes.

In the United States, Las Vegas has long been a prime location for casinos. However, in recent years the industry has expanded beyond Nevada. More than 40 states now have casinos, and the number continues to grow.

Casinos operate on a business model that assures a profit no matter what the outcome of individual bets. This is because most casino games have mathematically determined odds, and it is rare for a casino to lose money on them, even for just one day. Casinos make their money by charging fees for certain services, or taking a percentage of the total pot in games like poker where patrons play against each other.

Casinos are often associated with glamour and luxury, and have become a fixture in the world’s cities. OLBG takes a look at 10 of the most famous casinos, and their impact on the culture around them.