What Is a Casino?
A casino is a place where people gamble on games of chance. They can play anything from slots to poker. Often mixed with other entertainment options such as live events and dining, casinos can be fun to visit but must take responsible gaming seriously.
The history of gambling can be traced back to ancient times. Archeologists have found dice and playing cards in China dating back to 2300 BC, while the first game still played today — baccarat — came on the scene in the 1400s. Gambling in its modern form is an important part of many societies. It contributes to the economy and has been shown to enhance mood. But it also can have negative consequences, such as addiction, high crime rates and lower property values in surrounding areas.
In the United States, Las Vegas is the world’s casino capital thanks to its legalized gambling and booming hotel industry. Atlantic City has also seen its share of casino development. And tribal casinos are a growing segment of the market, with locations across the country. Choose from Choice Hotels’ nationally recognized brands to find a casino hotel in a destination near you and experience thrills on the casino floor, relaxing room amenities and award-winning dining choices. Plus, earn Choice Privileges points with every stay.