A casino is a gambling establishment, a place where patrons can gamble and play games of chance. Most casinos offer table games like baccarat, blackjack and roulette, as well as slot machines. Most of these games have mathematically determined odds that ensure the house always has a slight advantage over players (also known as expected value). Casinos also make money by charging fees for non-gambling activities such as drinks, food and hotel rooms. They can also be found on American Indian reservations, which are often exempt from state anti-gambling laws.
In modern times, casinos have become a major tourist attraction and are frequently built around themes such as sports, history and culture. Many have hotels, restaurants, non-gambling entertainment areas and other facilities such as bars, swimming pools and spas. Casinos can be very large, with spectacular decor and a huge selection of gaming tables and slot machines. They may also have a stage for live entertainment. They are usually designed to be exciting and glamorous, with bright, sometimes gaudy colors and no clocks on the walls so as not to distract patrons from their gambling activities.
The typical casino gambler is a forty-six-year-old female with above-average income, according to the National Profile Study by Roper Reports GfK NOP and the U.S. Gaming Panel by TNS. People who spend more time and money at the tables are rewarded with complimentary items or comps, such as food, drink, hotel rooms or even airline tickets. In addition, casino operators may give out cash prizes based on a percentage of total wagers or player-to-player winnings.