Illinois became the 21st state in the Union on December 3, 1818, and celebrates its 200th anniversary in 2018. Nicknamed the Prairie State, a good part of Illinois is flat. The southernmost area has a gently sloping landscape, and the rolling hills in the northwestern corner include the state's highest point, Charles Mound, at 1,235 feet above sea level. Springfield is the state capital. Tourism is an important part of the Illinois economy. Forest preserves, wildlife areas, museums, historic sites, gardens, architecture tours, professional and amateur sports, theater, and much more await visitors to Illinois. In addition to these attractions, the state is home to a thriving arts-and-crafts community.