A casino is a public place where a variety of games of chance can be played and gambling is the primary activity engaged in by patrons. The term is commonly used to describe the opulent venues found in Las Vegas and Atlantic City, but there are also less luxurious casinos like the illegal pai gow parlors in New York’s Chinatown, which would technically still be considered a casino.
Aside from their array of table games, slot machines and poker rooms, casinos have come to include a variety of luxury amenities that add value to the experience for their guests. This can range from Michelin-starred restaurants to spectacular stage shows and breath taking art installations. It’s no wonder that the Bellagio in Las Vegas has become a world renowned attraction and was even featured in the movie Ocean’s 11.
In order to attract big bettors, casinos are often willing to offer extravagant inducements like free spectacular entertainment, limousine transportation or hotel suites. In addition to this, many casinos have built in advantages to their games that ensure a certain level of gross profit.
As disposable income grows around the globe and tourism becomes more a part of the culture, casino operators are looking at ways to offer a more rounded experience for their guests. For example, the Rio Casino Resort in South Africa focuses on entertainment more than just gambling. It hosts world-renowned music stars, circus troops and stand up comedians.