A casino (or gambling house) is an establishment that houses and accommodates certain types of gambling activities. Casinos are most commonly built near or combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops, cruise ships, and other tourist attractions. In some countries, casinos are legalized and regulated by government authorities. Casinos are also known for hosting live entertainment events such as concerts and stand-up comedy acts.

Most casinos require customers to be at least 21 years of age to gamble on games like slot machines and card games, but the age requirement varies by country. Some casinos are run by government-owned enterprises, while others are operated by private corporations. The large amounts of money handled in casinos make them a target for criminals, who may attempt to steal or cheat from patrons. To combat this threat, most casinos have a security force and specialized surveillance departments.

In addition to offering a variety of gambling options, most casinos have restaurants, bars, and lounges where guests can enjoy sophisticated cocktails, the latest hits, and live entertainment. Some casinos have a full-service spa and offer accommodations that range from luxury suites to budget rooms.

Whether you’re a fan of slots, a table game enthusiast, or a poker ace, Maryland casinos have something for everyone. Many of the state’s casinos are located right on the shoreline, so you can combine your gambling adventure with a relaxing beach getaway. Some casinos also host a variety of other live events in their state-of-the-art performance venues.