A casino is a gambling establishment where patrons can play a variety of games of chance for money or other items. A casino may also have restaurants, free drinks and stage shows. It is not uncommon for casinos to be combined with hotels and resorts.
While gambling probably predates recorded history, the modern casino as a place where people can find all types of gambling under one roof was not developed until the 16th century, when a gambling craze swept Europe and aristocrats held private parties in rooms known as ridotti. Those were not technically casinos, but they were places where gamblers could enjoy the thrill of playing against the house without fear of being bothered by the police.
Most casinos offer gambling clubs that give players a chance to earn points for free or discounted food, drinks and show tickets. The club members also receive special treatment from the casinos, referred to as comps. This is an effort to keep the high rollers coming back for more. During the 1970s, Las Vegas casinos were famous for giving away hotel rooms, meals and even limo service and airline tickets to big spenders.
Gambling is a highly addictive activity, and compulsive gamblers generate a significant portion of casino profits. Economic studies have shown that the negative impact of casinos, including a shift in spending from other local entertainment and the cost of treating problem gamblers, outweighs any revenue they bring in.