A casino, or gambling house, is a place where people can gamble on various games of chance and in some cases with an element of skill. Casinos are often combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops, cruise ships and other tourist attractions. In some countries, casinos are regulated and operate under special laws. They are also known for hosting live entertainment such as stage shows and concerts.
Something about the glitz and glamour of gambling seems to encourage some people to cheat, steal or scam their way into winnings. This is why casinos spend a lot of time, effort and money on security.
The security starts on the floor of the casino where employees keep their eyes on patrons and the games to make sure everything goes as it should. Dealers are heavily focused on their game and can easily spot blatant cheating like palming or marking cards. Pit bosses and table managers have a broader view and look for betting patterns that could signal cheating. Each employee has a “higher-up” person who watches them work and keeps track of their performance.
The most recognizable casino in America is probably the Las Vegas Strip, but there are plenty of other options for those who want to gamble away from home. One of our favorites is Ellis Island, an old-school casino with cheap tables that is just a block from the Strip but feels worlds away. There’s always a lively scene at the $5 blackjack tables and the free complimentary drinks aren’t bad either.