Whether you’re hitting the slots, laying it all down on the roulette wheel or throwing your money around at the craps table, casinos are the place to satisfy your gambling itch. Almost every city has one, so you’re never too far away from the chance to try your luck at winning big or losing it all. And most have other amenities that help to keep things interesting, such as great food and tasty sips.
In the 19th century, when casinos first emerged, they were run by organized crime gangsters. But as real estate investors and hotel chains grew more powerful, mob control of casinos began to fade. Today, a casino is likely to be owned by a publicly traded company rather than an individual.
Some critics argue that casino revenue shifts local spending away from other forms of entertainment, and that the cost of treating problem gamblers reverses any economic benefits they bring to a community. Others point out that compulsive gambling has been linked to an increase in suicides, domestic violence and job losses.
If you’re planning to play at a casino, be sure to check out its rules and regulations before heading to the tables or slot machines. You’ll also want to learn more about what it means to be a “good” player, which is determined by how much time and money you spend at the casino. Good players are often rewarded with free hotel rooms, meals, show tickets and even limo service.
