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Flashing lights, endless entertainment and winning big — casinos seem like a place where anything could happen.

Casinos have been drawing crowds for as long as they’ve been around, so they’re full of interesting facts and stories. From early Italian gaming houses to banned bingo sessions, the gambling world is as big as the winnings it offers.

Let’s dive into some casino fun facts to carry you through your moments between visits.

1. Casinos Started in Italy

While it’s easy for Americans to associate casinos with Las Vegas, they actually started in Italy. “Casino” actually means “little house” in Italian. Gambling and its superstitions have existed for as long as people could make up games, but casinos started in public game houses.

Back then, Italy tried to ban and then regulate gambling games. Eventually, the Italian government gave in. They started requiring gambling houses to have licenses so the government could control gambling excesses. The Il Ridotto became a public gambling house in Venice in 1638. Players could try games like Biribi and Bassett while enjoying luxurious accommodations. 

Gambling spots like casinos soon spread to the rest of the world, becoming the entertainment centers we know today. 

2. Blackjack Saved FedEx

This is one of the more unexpected casino facts. Today, FedEx is a leading shipping carrier in the United States. But, if it wasn’t for blackjack, it might have failed. 

In the early 1970s, FedEx was in deep financial trouble. The shipping company had only $5,000 in its bank account — not nearly enough to pay the bills. Founder Fred Smith was desperate to find a solution to the company’s impending collapse. 

So, naturally, he hit the casino. Smith traveled to Las Vegas and reportedly played blackjack with FedEx’s last $5,000. He allegedly won $27,000, giving the company more time to seek funding. These winnings kept FedEx afloat long enough to secure the investments it needed to take off. 

While gambling isn’t always the answer to your financial troubles, Fred Smith won big and secured his company’s success.

3. Nevada Had a Prison Casino

The 1930s was a turbulent time in America — everything was changing. 

With historical events happening constantly, the Nevada State Prison in Carson City wanted to give its inmates an outlet. The prison established a casino in 1932 that the inmates ran. Games were played for cigarettes and other amenities, letting inmates have a good time during empty periods. The casino was never issued an official license, but it was allowed to run for 35 years before closing in 1967. 

4. You Can Ban Yourself From Some Casinos

You don’t have to act rowdy to get banned from a casino — just ask to be kicked out! Some operations have self-ban options if you think you’re spending too much time or money. For example, Ohio has the Time Out Ohio partnership, which lets you ban yourself from gambling and sports gaming for a set period. 

Once you’re banned, you can’t visit that casino or collect winnings. Self-banning is a way to take a break from the excitement of casinos. You’re free to head back in when the ban is up.

5. Macau Is the Gambling Capital of the World

Just like you wouldn’t expect Italy to be where casinos got their start, you might not expect the world’s gambling capital to be in China. Macau used to see 80% of its tax revenue from gaming alone. It easily out-earned Las Vegas, bringing in $36 billion in 2019. High rollers would come from around the globe to play in Macau’s VIP rooms and enjoy the ultimate gambling experience. 

While Macau was a huge force in gambling, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted its earnings. In 2023, initiatives were put in place to diversify the city’s economy to protect it from another crash. While it’s not running at its pre-2020 heights, Macau is still a great place to visit for anyone who loves to gamble. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Casinos

Learn more casino trivia and fun facts below.

How Many Casinos Are in America?

There are over 1,000 casinos in the U.S. Over half of those, 525, are tribal casinos, while the other 486 are commercial businesses. Casinos bring in over $122 billion in economic impact — all generated from people booking hotels, buying food, seeing sights and more while gambling. 

While there are lots of casinos all over the country, you’ll only find them in 46 of the 50 states. Utah and Hawaii have flat casino bans, while Georgia and South Carolina let you gamble on riverboats. 

Changes in gambling attitudes and legislation opened the gates for Native-American casinos across America starting in the 1980s. Ever since, these casinos have been creating jobs and revenue for local communities.

How Many People Gamble?

It’s difficult to know exactly how many people worldwide gamble, but we have a better idea for the U.S. In 2023, 49% of adults in America said they gambled. That percentage only increases if you imagine the number of people who have ever participated. 

Casino gambling, sports betting, and lottery tickets are some of the most popular activities. 

How Much Money Is Spent in Vegas Each Day?

Direct visitor spending hit $51 billion in Las Vegas in 2023 — divide that by 365 days in a year, and you get $139,726,027 spent per day directly. 

Surveys show the average visitor spent $787 on gambling while visiting the city, so it’s safe to say Las Vegas sees a huge amount of money. 

Visitors spend money on gambling, shopping, drinks, luxury experiences, and entertainment, making the most of their vacations. 

Are Drinks Free at Casinos? 

It depends. Some casinos offer free drinks to anyone actively gambling, while others do not charge visitors over 21 for alcohol. While Tachi Palace does not offer free drinks, we provide a wide range of games, events and entertainment for our guests. We pride ourselves on offering all the fun you could need without ever leaving the resort. 

Find Your Perfect Getaway at Tachi Palace Casino Resort

These fun casino facts are exciting, but nothing beats the real thing. Enjoy all the thrill of a luxury resort without the chaos of the Las Vegas Strip. Tachi Palace Casino Resort is your perfect escape. 

We’re located in the heart of Central Valley in Lemoore, CA, near natural treasures like Sequoia National Park, Fresno and Bakersfield. With luxury accommodations, a full-service casino, unique dining options and a soothing spa, we have everything you need for four-star comfort. Play bingo, slot machines and table games at our casino before dining at one of several excellent eating options. 

Skip the extra resort fees and crowded city streets — let Tachi Palace be your favorite California getaway. Visit us to see the difference our experiences can make!