Traditionally, the casino is associated with gambling. While casinos can be found in a number of cities around the world, they are best known for their appearance in Las Vegas and Atlantic City in Nevada, as well as on American Indian reservations in states that do not have antigambling statutes. In addition to the obvious attractions of their games, casinos often have hotels, restaurants, non-gambling game rooms, spas, and other amenities that draw a broader clientele than just gamblers.

Gambling is socially important because it provides individuals with a recreational activity that can be shared with others. It also stimulates the brain, as it requires the use of complicated strategies. Furthermore, many casinos have a high class feel to them, which makes the experience more luxurious and enjoyable for those who are willing to spend the money.

Casinos are not without risks, however. As a result, most have security measures in place to prevent cheating and theft. A physical security force patrols the casino, while a specialized surveillance department monitors the casino via closed circuit television (CCTV).

The average casino gambler is an older person with above-average income. This group is often a parent, and they are more likely to have vacation time and disposable income. Because of this, it is important for casinos to focus on these groups when planning their marketing and promotional campaigns. This can help increase revenue and attract new customers. It is also important for casinos to know their clientele, so they can target certain groups of people more effectively.