A casino (also known as a gambling hall or a gaming house) is a place where people can gamble for money or other prizes. The most well-known casino in the world is probably Monte Carlo, which has been a major source of income for the city of Monaco since 1863. Casinos are also popular in the United States, where they make up one of the largest gambling markets in the world.
In addition to a large number of table games and electronic machines, Bellagio offers blackjack, roulette, craps, three card poker, and various video poker games. The casino also features 60 large plasma televisions for sports betting. The Crown has earned a reputation as an entertainment hotspot, hosting a variety of concerts and events, including high-profile acts such as Frank Sinatra and Mariah Carey. Its riverside location along the Yarra River, exquisite dining at award-winning restaurants and luxurious spas are also drawcards.
Many casinos have security measures in place to protect patrons and employees from cheating or stealing. For example, some casinos use technology to track betting chips with built-in microcircuitry, which enables the casino to monitor the amounts wagered minute by minute and quickly detect any anomalies; other casinos have roulette wheels that are electronically monitored for statistical deviations. Additionally, some casinos have catwalks that allow surveillance personnel to look directly down on the tables and machines through one-way glass. These measures are intended to deter both collusion and independent acts of theft.