‘This is where the cultural, creative, and enterprising urban district Sphinx will arise.’ So reads the ambition behind the plans for the development of the Sphinx area. Plans focus on the place where Maastricht’s industrial revolution began. It was here that Petrus Regout built his ‘Sphinx Factory,’ the start of what grew into an enormous industry, producing bathroom fixtures, tiles, and the products that made Maastricht great. The factory operated until 2006, and since then efforts have been under way to redevelop this area as a district that fits in with the city, but as something Maastricht does not already have. That’s why this district is being designed to attract creative types, young residents, national and international students, and expatriates. It will be internationally oriented, with room for flexible space and temporary functions. Where this area is going is becoming clearer and clearer, in things like the arrival of the pop music stage in a former sawmill, and the newly opened Brandweer(kantine), with workspaces and meeting places for creative entrepreneurs. But not everything in this part of the city is new and different. The historic and picturesque river harbour ‘t Bassin, adjacent to the Sphinx area, makes a perfect buffer for the transition from the more familiar and better known Maastricht to this new part of town.

Located on the shoreline of Lake Michigan, one of the U.S.'s five great lakes, Sleeping Bear Dunes is a natural wonder that has been marked for preservation for its awe-inspiring beauty and natural resources. It takes its name from a Native American legend concerning its formation. It consists of Sleeping Bear, Empire and Pyramid Point bluffs that overlook the lake, and Manitou Islands, which are located about 15 miles offshore. There are numerous activities available to visitors of the park that include camping, hiking, kayaking and canoeing, biking, skiing, fishing, or simply exploring the myriad of ecosystems that are home to a diversity of plants and wildlife.

This museum houses some of the world's most remarkable artefacts and some unusual items from Far Eastern cultures. Here you can also view film screenings as well as historical exhibits. Other activities include concerts, sketching, writing workshops and much more.