Tourist Attractions In and Around Ely MN
Known as God’s Country, Ely MN has a wide variety of things to see and do. Here’s a few of our favorites.
A multi-million dollar complex that examines one of the most elusive and misunderstood animals in the world, center visitors learn about the natural history of wolves by observing the resident wolf pack and touring the “Wolves and Humans” exhibit. Program participants can track wolves by plane, go on evening howling expeditions or put on snowshoes and follow the predator’s winter tracks. Videos, talks, demonstrations, family day programs and other adventures round out a visit to the IWC. 9 am – 5 pm daily, May-Sept. (until 7 pm July and Aug.). Winter Hours: November through April, Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. 218.365.4695
It is the mission of the North American Bear Center to be a leader in providing understanding and appreciation of black bears, their role in the ecosystem and their relationship to humans. This will be accomplished through a facility that promotes and provides educational facilities, exhibits, multi-media presentations, and when prudent, live animals, particularly those needing clinical rehabilitation. 218.365.7879 or 877.365.7879
The Dorothy Molter Museum is a memorial to Dorothy Molter, the legendary last resident of the BWCAW, who died in 1986 after living most of her 79 years on Knife Lake near the U.S.-Canada border. Canoeists often stopped at Molter’s home to enjoy her hospitality and famous homemade root beer (she was often referred to as “the Root Beer Lady”) The museum’s two log cabins were transported out of the BWCAW piece-by-piece and reassembled in Ely. The Winter Cabin is now an interpretive center with pictures and documents. There is also a small gift shop and a video telling the story of her life. Open 10:00 – 5:30 Mon-Sat, and Noon – 5:30 on Sun. Open weekends in May and September. 218.365.4451
Ely has a 9-hole, 3,245 yard, par 36 course that is open to the public. The course is open (weather permitting) from late April until late October. Rental equipment is available. Babbitt, MN, located 15 miles from Ely, also has a 9-hole, 3,316 yard, par 35 course which is also open to the public. Rental equipment is available.
Shopping Ely offers one of the most unique shopping experiences in the northland with several quaint shops located all in the heart of town.
Harvest Moon Festival (September)
This three-day event is held in Ely’s Whiteside Park, featuring ove 100 exhibitors of original art, handcrafts and ethnic foods. There is no admission fee for this three-day event. Each year there is a variety of musical entertainment and a petting zoo and pony rides for the youngsters.
Vermilion Interpretive Center
Located in the Fine Arts Building at Vermilion Community College, the center offers exhibits dating from 12,000 years ago and focusing on the Ojibwe Indians, fur trading, mining, logging, innovations and a North Pole expedition. Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Memorial Day through Labor Day. 218.365.3226
For more information on what to see and do while staying in Ely, please visit the Ely Chamber of Commerce.
Chilly Dogs Dog Sled Trips provide exciting dog sledding adventures to individuals, families, and groups of all kinds. Knowledgeable, seasoned guides, thorough trip preparation, top-notch equipment, comfortable facilities, and convenient proximity to Ely, makes a Chilly Dogs Sled Dog Trip the perfect winter activity