A Casino is a gambling establishment with gaming tables and other games where patrons can place bets, win money, and socialize. They are located in a variety of locations including amusement parks, hotels, cruise ships, and other tourist attractions. Many casinos also offer restaurants and live entertainment. In the United States, a casino is a business that must be licensed and regulated by a state government and is usually included in the amusement, gambling, and recreation industries category of NAICS 713. Casinos are governed by state laws that establish a minimum capital requirement, employee wages, and restrictions on advertising. Professional gamblers who make a living from their gambling activities must report their income and losses on a Schedule C with their tax returns.
While musical shows, lighted fountains and luxurious hotels draw visitors to casino resorts, the vast majority of profits are derived from gambling: slot machines, poker, blackjack, craps, baccarat, and other games of chance are what give casinos their reputation for excitement and high returns. These games, however, have a dark side: patrons and employees may be tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion or by accident. That is why casinos invest so much time, effort and money in security measures.
In addition to regular casino security, most modern casinos have a specialized surveillance department that monitors the game rooms by closed circuit television. This system is known as the eye in the sky, and has been very effective at preventing crime and keeping players safe. Casinos also reward their best customers with comps, which can include free hotel rooms and meals, tickets to shows, reduced-fare transportation and airline tickets.