A casino is an establishment for certain types of gambling. These include card games like blackjack and roulette, as well as video poker and slot machines. Some casinos also offer live entertainment and top-notch hotels, spas and restaurants. Some states even have laws regulating the activity, while others ban it altogether.

Modern casino security is usually divided into a physical force and a specialized surveillance department. The former patrols the casino and responds to calls for assistance and reports of suspicious or definite criminal activity. The latter manages the casino’s closed circuit television system, commonly known as the eye in the sky. Together, these departments have proven to be highly effective at deterring crime.

The casino industry is largely dependent on customer loyalty and repeat business, so promotional activities are crucial. They often rely on noise and bright lights to attract customers. More than 15,000 miles (24,100 km) of neon tubing is used to illuminate the casinos on the Las Vegas Strip. Colored light bulbs are also used to set different moods. Red is a popular color because it is associated with excitement and winning. The sound of clanging coins and a clacking billiard ball are other familiar casino sounds. Despite the noise, casinos are not loud enough to cause hearing loss.

Some casinos also use technology to monitor the games themselves. For example, some tables have chips with built-in microcircuitry that enable the casino to oversee exactly how much money is being wagered minute by minute. In addition, video cameras constantly monitor wheel spins for any statistical deviation from their expected value.