A casino is a place where people play games of chance for money. The word is often associated with Las Vegas, but there are many casinos around the country and the world. Some are very large, while others are smaller. Some are themed and include shows and other attractions. Some even offer hotel rooms and restaurants.
The Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh is a popular destination for both locals and out-of-town visitors. It is located on the city’s north shore and offers a beautiful view of the river and skyline. The casino has a wide variety of table games and slots. It also has several restaurants, including upscale Andrew’s Steak and Seafood and the more casual Ciao. The casino is within walking distance of hotels and many other Pittsburgh attractions.
In addition to the traditional physical security force, modern casinos have a specialized surveillance department that monitors their guests using cameras placed throughout the building. These cameras are wired to a central computer that can spot suspicious activity, and they can be adjusted to focus on specific patrons by staff in a separate room filled with banks of security monitors. These sophisticated systems have helped casinos prevent crime and catch cheaters.
Some casinos offer free drinks and food to their players, while others charge a fee for the service. This is especially true for games with a skill element, such as blackjack or poker, in which the house earns money by collecting a commission from each player called the rake.