Is it worth going to Niagara Falls in November? I know Maid of the Mist is not in operation in November, but are there any other cruise/boat rides that would lend the same experience?

I am going there with my parents who are visiting from the Philippines. We need to stay in the USA because they don't have a Canadian visa.

I wouldn't bother if you can;t go to Canada - where the best views and hotels are. And no, I'm not aware of any other boat rides and I believe some of the other activities are also closed. Never mind the weather: it's can be chilly at the falls even when very warm even a couple of miles away and this can be worse in cold weather.

The view is spectacular from the US side; my family takes lots of guests there for viewing. Hotels have never been necessary, so can't speak to that, but the chain type places are certainly nearby.

Downtown chain hotels are a good choice. Views are marvelous from both sides of the Falls. Walk around Goat Island and along the rapids section of the river if weather permits.

I grew up in that city and to this day need to live near water. I remember always being able to hear the roar of the falls from where we lived and those few times during a very cold winter when the falls froze, the strange hollowness of that silence.

Do go for a short overnight trip, you don't need much more than a day - and enjoy. It is an awesome sight!

we went years ago in November. It was chilly, and yes all the activities were closed. And the water level is a bit lower than in the spring/summer, so when you go out the tunnels for a close view you don't get wet from the mist. So its probably not as great as going in high season, but its still pretty spectacular to see.

Its nice to visit a few wineries in Niagara on the Lake too. They will be open and quiet, and they make some really nice ice wine up there.

oh...oops...Niagara on the Lake is the Canadian side...sorry forgot that caveat...

Any chance of going in October before everything closes? Maid of the Mist is the only boat going to the Falls and as you know it closes in October as does most everything else. You can walk in the State Park on Goat Island and see wonderful views but that is about all you can do. http://www.niagarafallslive.com/goat...s_new_york.htm
We never stay on the US side so I am not familiar with hotels, I just know there are none that have views of the Falls or are within walking side to the Falls.

I always say people should visit both sides of the Falls, b/c each has its own beautiful views and special features.

But if you can only see the NY side and your parents really want to see it, by all means, go!

I love the NY side b/c you can get really close to the Bridal veil falls at the top, and you can walk along the rapids that lead to the Horseshoe Falls, which stretch from NY to Canada.

Just saw cd's post -- yes, Goat Island is what I'm talking about. The crowds on the NY side are smaller as well, altho' in November it's not likely to be crowded.

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You always say this and it is ridiculous. Yes, Canada has more hotels to choose from and you get a straight on view of the Falls from Canada. However, it is still very much worthwhile going even if you are on the NYS side. Like others said, Goat Island provides good views of the Falls and is nice for walking/hiking.

Now whether it is worthwhile to go in November depends entirely on you. I can't answer whether it is worthwhile for you. I would say that November isn't the optimal month to visit. The Maid of the Mist will be closed for the season (although Cave of the Winds will be open). All the leaves will be off the trees but there probably won't be any snow yet so it isn't the prettiest time of the year. That said, it is still impressive.