A casino is a place where games of chance are played for money and the majority of the activities in casinos involve gambling. Casinos have added amenities like stage shows and free drinks to help lure visitors, but they would not exist without the billions of dollars that are raked in every year from gambling activities alone. Casinos have a long history in many countries, but the modern version is primarily found in places like Las Vegas and Atlantic City where tourists and high-rollers come to gamble and experience glitz and glamour.

There are also less-opulent casinos in cities and towns across the United States that cater to local residents and offer a more laid-back environment. Casinos are characterized by their elegant design, high-end dining and luxury accommodations that attract visitors and create a unique gaming experience. They are a major source of revenue for some cities and a source of economic development for other states.

In the United States, there are more than 1,000 casinos, and about 51 million people-about a quarter of adults over 21-visited them in 2002. The largest number of casino operators are located in Nevada, followed by New Jersey and Chicago.

The average casino visitor is a forty-six-year-old female from an above-average income household. She is married with children and owns a home. In 2005, she visited a casino at least once. According to the National Profile Study conducted by Roper Reports GfK NOP and the U.S. Gaming Panel by TNS, these data indicate that the typical casino gambler is well-educated. In fact, almost one in three has a bachelor’s or higher degree, compared to only 20% of American adults overall.