A casino is an establishment for certain types of gambling. It is also known as a gaming house or a card room. Typically, casinos are combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops and other tourist attractions. In the United States, casinos are regulated by state law and offer table games, slot machines, card games and other entertainment. Some are famous for their spectacular architecture and are located in glamorous settings such as Las Vegas, Macau and Monaco. Others are based in or around major cities and cater to local clientele. Some are even incorporated into cruise ships and luxury resorts.

Regardless of their size, all casinos have one thing in common: They are designed to influence the behavior of casino patrons. Using the principles of psychology, design and game theory, casino architects use color and lighting to create inviting and stimulating spaces that entice people to gamble. For example, red is often used in casino décor because it is thought to stimulate the heart and make people lose track of time. In addition, casinos are often windowless and have low ceilings to block out light, which can be a distraction to gamblers.

In order to discourage people from leaving the casino, traditional designs for casinos feature maze-like layouts that are packed with enticing games. These spaces are also difficult to exit, which can compel gamblers to stay and play longer than they might otherwise. However, studies have shown that the economic benefits of a casino are offset by costs associated with compulsive gambling, including lost productivity and higher health care costs for problem gamblers.