Visit Ely

Things To Do In Ely, Minnesota

Ely offers activities and attractions for the whole family. Outdoor activities include canoeing, hiking, biking, dog sledding, fishing, snowshoeing, skiing, birding, ATVing, and camping in the Superior National Forest and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). You can also golf on one of our golf courses, shop in downtown Ely, or enjoy a meal in one of our unique restaurants.

Looking for a little Northwoods culture? Visit the International Wolf Center, North American Bear Center, Ely Folk School, Dorothy Molter Museum, and the Ely-Winton History Museum. Learn about native history and culture at the Bois Forte Heritage Center and Cultural Museum.

Ely is the perfect Northwoods vacation destination all year round! Summer is magical, with thousands of lakes to explore, stunning sunsets, and endless camping options. Autumn features dazzling colors, breathtaking hikes, scenic drives, and ATV rides. Winter in Ely offers unique activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. Spring is bustling with wildlife, open water fishing, and waterfall hikes.

 

Dining

Dining

After you've finished your canoe trip, hike or visited our unique shops and galleries, stop by one of our fine dining establishments and enjoy a sizzling steak, a wild rice dish or walleye fillet cooked to perfection.  Not hungry?... Read More

Steger Mukluks

Shopping

There are a wide variety of stores in Ely, MN to buy something you need or just to commemorate your trip! From homemade goods to bait & tackle shops to hardware stores, Ely business owners are ready to meet your needs. Read More

Arts & Culture

Arts & Culture

The Ely art scene is bursting with talent. Artists in a variety of media make Ely an exciting place to be year ‘round for exhibits and shows. The performing arts and music provide a strong base for entertainment while writers of... Read More

North American Bear Center

North American Bear Center

The North American Bear Center is a nonprofit museum with beautiful indoor and outdoor viewing areas for visitors to watch live black bears. Make no mistake, this is not a zoo. The bears enjoy a 2.5-acre natural, forested habitat complete... Read More

International Wolf Center

International Wolf Center

There are few things more magical and haunting than hearing wolves howl during a dark Ely night. Encountering these incredible animals in the wilderness is a rare and incredibly special experience. But you and your family can see them up... Read More