A casino is a gambling establishment, and a place where people can play many different types of games for money or entertainment. It is often located near or combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops, and cruise ships. It can also host live entertainment, such as stand-up comedy or concerts. The precise origin of casinos is not known, but they have existed in some form throughout history.

Modern casino security is usually divided between a physical security force and a specialized surveillance department. The former patrols the casino floor and responds to calls for assistance or reports of suspicious or definite criminal activity. The latter runs the casino’s closed circuit television system, which is sometimes referred to as “the eye in the sky.” These two departments work closely together to prevent crime.

Caesars Palace is one of the world’s most famous casinos, and was the first to combine hotel and casino into a single building. Its opulent circus-themed interior has since been home to performers like Frank Sinatra, Bette Midler, Celine Dion, Rod Stewart, and Mariah Carey. The Las Vegas property is also renowned for its blackjack and poker tables. The casino features 1,324 slot machines and 185 table games, including everything from craps to Texas Hold’em Bonus Poker. Its poker room has hosted top pros, such as Johnny Chan and Phil Hellmuth.