A casino is a gambling establishment where patrons may gamble on various games of chance, with the money being derived from casino chips. It is usually a large facility that includes a full range of table games, slot machines, and other electronic gaming devices. In addition, casinos often have restaurants and bars where gamblers can eat and drink. Casino gambling is usually confined to legalized states, but some Native American reservations also have casinos.
A modern casino is usually staffed by security personnel that patrol the premises and respond to calls for assistance or reports of suspicious or criminal activity. In addition, a specialized security department monitors the facility’s closed circuit television system.
To attract and retain customers, a casino’s environment is designed around noise, light, and excitement. For example, the bright lights of slot machines are arranged in a way that entices passersby to investigate. The sounds of clanging coins and clacking bells are used to rouse the interest of potential gamblers. In 2005, Harrah’s Entertainment reported that the typical casino patron was a forty-six-year-old female from a household with an above average income.
Casinos are often located in areas known for tourism and recreation, such as Las Vegas or Atlantic City. However, some are in less desirable locations, such as Chicago, where they tend to hurt property values. Casinos also often compete with other gambling establishments, such as horse racing tracks or pari-mutuel betting facilities. Gambling is legal in most states, but the age limit varies by state. In the United States, the legal age to gamble at a casino is 21.