A casino is a facility where gambling activities such as card games, table games and slot machines take place. It is usually found in tourist destinations or near hotels. Some casinos also offer entertainment, dining and shopping options. The name of this facility is derived from the Latin word casa, which means “house” or “mansion.”

A player’s winnings are paid in casino chips. These are small, round plastic discs that represent the value of a player’s wagers. The tokens have different denominations, and each denomination has a color associated with it. The most common colors are green and red, although other colors such as white, yellow, black, and blue may also be used.

In addition to the chips, casino patrons use electronic devices such as computers and video cameras to make bets. This technology allows the casino to monitor all bets minute-by-minute and to quickly discover any statistical deviation from expected results. In some cases, the casino hires mathematicians and computer programmers to oversee the casino’s gaming operations.

Besides the traditional casino games, modern casinos also have sports books, race tracks and buffets. In the United States, many casinos are located on Indian reservations and are not subject to state antigambling laws. The first modern casino opened in Atlantic City, New Jersey in 1978. In the 1980s, casinos began appearing worldwide. Some were built on cruise ships. Others were built in cities such as Las Vegas, Nevada. Currently, there are more than 3,000 legal casinos around the world.