A casino is an establishment for certain types of gambling. It is also known as a gaming house and, in some jurisdictions, a gambling club. The term may also refer to an establishment offering entertainment events, such as concerts and stand-up comedy shows. In some countries, casinos are operated by governmental authorities. In other countries, they are operated by private businesses. In both cases, the legality of a casino is dictated by law and gaming commissions.

The precise origin of gambling is unknown, but it has existed in many societies throughout history. In the modern world, casinos are major sources of income for their owners and offer a variety of gambling opportunities, from table games to slot machines. The most famous casinos are in Las Vegas, but there are also others around the world.

Some of these casinos are huge, with some occupying more floor space than some European cities. They have five-star hotel accommodation, Michelin star restaurants, designer shops and a range of entertainment events, from high-flying circus acts to the latest musicians topping the Billboard charts.

The Bellagio, for example, is one of the most recognizable casinos in the world. Featured in Hollywood movies such as Ocean’s 11, the Bellagio is home to top-end poker rooms with sky-high tables and 2000 slot machines paying out jackpots of up to $2 million. Other world-famous casinos include the Wynn, in Las Vegas; and the Venetian in Macau. The latter is the largest single-structure casino in Asia and features a gondola canal, an eight-acre lake, exclusive fashion stores and the famous dancing fountains.