I worked at a company that was pathologically thirsty and had only hard drinkers above entry-level.

For those people, just drinking was the bonding. It reinforced the tribal affiliation.

Casinos often provide free drinks. QED

This makes sense its the:

> I like to spend the company budget on blow and hookers, therefore it makes sense for me to invite all the employees to a strip club as it is a little more restrained.

Mentality.

I would guess that the casino is a relatively cheap space that can do entertainment and conferences and food, and it's not being chosen for the gambling aspects

I get what they offer, I guess I just don't see that as team building.

I wouldn't call it team building. I just think of it as a reminder that we are all friends that we all have families and struggles. We're all human and doing our best.

It's at a casino because it's near our facility, has conference rooms, event spaces, entertainment, and the weather doesn't matter.

Sometimes some people sit at a table and play while hanging out and that's fine. But it's not really about drinking or gambling. Just having a little fun together and getting to know each other and our +1s on a more personal level.

Having fun with people in general is team building. Amusement park would do the same thing. It doesn't have to be any special format.