Contrary to the current common English usage of the word casino, this has never been a facility for gambling. The Catalina Casino gets its name from the Spanish term casino, meaning a 'gathering place' or establishment used for social interactions and sometimes shows and dances. The large building contains a movie theater, ballroom, and formerly an island art and history museum. It is the largest building on the island and the most visible landmark in Avalon Bay when approaching the island from the mainland. The Catalina Casino is a large gathering facility located in Avalon on Santa Catalina Island, off the coast of Los Angeles in California. Round, cantilevered reinforced concrete column
