New England & Eastern Canada, By Heather Davis

New England beckons visitors back again and again to experience its charming patriotic towns, history, and spectacular seaside landscapes. And with the fiery blaze of fall foliage just around the corner, it is the perfect time to start planning an autumn excursion. Here is what is new throughout the region, as well as some of the best historic sites that celebrate African-American Heritage. Connecticut Mystic maritime museum, Mystic Seaport, has a variety of great upcoming events. On Sept 26, By Land and By Sea: Antique Vehicles ends the day with a parade. A Columbus Day weekend favorite, Chowderfest runs Oct 9-11 and serves up splendid fall colors, waterfront views, and fresh, hot chowda. Holiday visitors enjoy sleigh rides, caroling, and a 19th-century style tavern during Lantern Light Tours, Dec 2-19. 888-9SEAPORT Launched in New Haven in 2000, the Freedom Schooner Amistad carries the story of the Amistad Incident of 1839 to harbors across America. Through late summer and fall, the schooner will make appearances throughout the state. Visitors are invited to tour the vessel and set sail with the crew. 203-495-1839, www.amistadamerica.org Center Church, founded in 1639, played an important role in gathering support for the captives of the Amistad Incident. Now recognized as a National Historic Landmark, the grounds feature stunning architecture and a 17th century cemetery. 203-735-1908. The Amistad Memorial stands before New Havens City Hall, on the former jail site where the captives were held. The 14 foot bronze statue honors Sengbe Pieh, leader of the Amistad revolt. 203-387-0370. A journey along the Connecticut Freedom Trail reveals historic sites associated with the fight for African American freedom. Along the way, visitors encounter key gravesites, monuments, homes, and Underground Railroad stations Maine Celebrating Maine Native American heritage and culture, the Abbe Museum now has an additional facility in downtown Bar Harbor. The new museum boasts spacious galleries, a hands on learning lab, live demonstrations, and interactive workshops. New exhibits include The Frank T. Siebert Native American Collection and My Grandmothers Baskets. 207-288-3519 The Downeast Heritage Center in Calais opened in May and highlights over 12,000 years of regional culture and natural history. In addition to interactive exhibits, cultural presentations take place regularly in the theater. 877-454-2500, www.downeastheritage.org The National Park Service opened an interpretive trail at the International Historic Site at St. Croix Island last October. Bronze sculptures of 17th-century French and Passamaquoddy historical figures carry out the theme Meeting of Two Worlds. 207-288-3338. The 14th Annual Great Falls Balloon Festival in Lewiston Auburn will have visitors flying high Aug 20-22, when hot air creations of all colors, shapes, and sizes take to the sky. The festival features live entertainment, a carnival, food, crafts, games and activities, and a fireworks show. 207-782-2637 This article is sponsored by: www.grouptravelblog.com