Top reasons to visit Ely
- Outdoor Adventures: Ely is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering skiing, scenic walks, and picturesque lakes for exploration.
- Cultural Festivals: Experience local culture at the Ely Folk Festival and Ely Food Festival, showcasing music and cuisine.
- Historic Attractions: Visit the stunning Ely Cathedral and the intriguing Ely Museum for insights into the area's rich history.
- Charming Downtown: Stroll through Ely’s historic downtown, where friendly locals create a welcoming atmosphere.
- Varied Accommodation: Choose from cosy motels to pet-friendly hotels, perfectly suited for all types of travellers.
Find great hotels in and around Ely
Discover a range of accommodation options in Ely, Minnesota, from cosy motels to welcoming hotels, perfect for families and adventure seekers alike. Many properties offer pet-friendly services, ensuring your furry companions can join in the fun. Whether you're looking for central Ely hotels or unique stays near the iconic Ely Cathedral, you'll find the ideal base for your exploration of this charming destination.
- Motel Ely: A budget-friendly option, Motel Ely offers a comfortable stay with a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This motel is ideal for travellers seeking simple yet inviting accommodation in Ely. Guests can unwind while enjoying entertainment features such as a flatscreen TV and cable television, making it a convenient choice for those who appreciate a home-like atmosphere. Its central location allows easy access to local attractions, ensuring that you can explore Ely at your leisure.
- Adventure Inn: Adventure Inn is a pet-friendly haven, also boasting a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This budget-friendly hotel caters to travellers wishing to share their holiday experience with their furry companions. With a dedicated pet policy that includes provisions for service animals and a welcoming atmosphere for dogs, Adventure Inn makes for a delightful choice for pet owners. The property's commitment to ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests, including pets, creates a warm and inclusive environment for your Ely adventure.
- Junction Inn Suites & Conference Center: Rated 9.4 out of 10, Junction Inn Suites & Conference Center stands out with its beach and golf themes, making it an excellent choice for those seeking leisure and recreation. Located 23km from Ely, guests can enjoy direct beach access and partake in golfing activities right at the property. The hotel’s facilities are tailored for both relaxation and sport, offering a unique blend of experiences that cater to those looking to unwind by the water or on the greens, ensuring a memorable getaway.
Where to stay in and around Ely
Ely, Minnesota, is a charming destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantic getaways. Explore the historic charm of Ely’s downtown, where friendly locals create a welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy scenic walks around the picturesque landscapes, or retreat to a cozy cabin for a tranquil escape. With its blend of adventure and seclusion, Ely offers an ideal setting for a memorable vacation, whether you're seeking family-friendly activities or intimate moments in nature.
- Tower: Located approximately 32km from Ely, Tower is a charming city famed for its stunning outdoor scenery and romantic ambience. The traveller experience here is moderately seasonal, with peak visits occurring in January and from June to July. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy, including a variety of recreational areas and golf courses. The nearby landmarks, such as beautiful lakes and national parks, offer numerous opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, Tower has something for everyone.
- Burntside Lake: Nestled in the vicinity of Ely, Burntside Lake is a picturesque destination that attracts visitors with its natural beauty and outdoor experiences. Seasonal travel peaks from May to July, drawing those seeking a romantic getaway or wildlife encounters. The area is abundant with recreational spaces, making it perfect for hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the stunning lakeside views. With its proximity to national parks, visitors can immerse themselves in the area's rich flora and fauna, making Burntside Lake a must-visit for nature lovers.
- Aurora: Situated around 50km from Ely, Aurora is a vibrant city that offers a mix of sports and outdoor activities all year round. While visitor numbers peak in June to July and September, Aurora maintains a steady flow of travellers throughout the year. Skiing enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the nearby ski fields, while golf lovers can enjoy the local courses. The stunning landscape, featuring lakes and mountains, provides a breathtaking backdrop for all outdoor pursuits, making Aurora a thrilling destination for adventure seekers.
Things to do in Ely
Shopping
In Ely, visit the quaint local shops along Sheridan Street, where you can find unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, the Virginia Mall, about 32km away, offers a wider selection of stores, including popular brands and local boutiques.
Recreation
The Ely Wellness Centre offers a tranquil environment with yoga classes and holistic therapies designed to rejuvenate the mind and body. Nearby, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area provides opportunities for canoeing, hiking, and birdwatching amidst stunning natural landscapes, ensuring a refreshing outdoor experience.
Adventure
In Ely, immerse yourself in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, where you can paddle through tranquil lakes and explore scenic trails. Experience the thrill of dog sledding in winter or embark on a guided fishing trip during warmer months, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Nightlife
Explore the Ely Steakhouse for hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere. For a lively evening, visit the Boathouse Brewpub on Lake Vermilion, where you can enjoy a selection of craft beers and occasional live music, creating a vibrant local vibe.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ely
Ely, Minnesota, offers several ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free attractions such as White Iron Lake and take advantage of the area's free public access. For transport, consider renting a bicycle or using the bus. The best times to visit for lower rates are March to April and November, with Wednesday being the cheapest day for accommodation; avoid Fridays. Book your hotel about a month in advance or explore last-minute deals on Expedia. Additionally, consider package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for further savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Ely are March to April and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Ely about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Ely is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Ely is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will present you with sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most economical prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservations in Ely with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Ely
Ely, Minnesota, is an idyllic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike, boasting stunning scenery and a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore picturesque lakes, natural features, and environmental centres. Key highlights include the beautiful Ely Cathedral and the fascinating Ely Museum, both of which offer insights into the area's history and charm. Whether you seek a day at the beach or an immersive outdoor experience, Ely has something for everyone.
- Eagles Nest Lake Number Three: A serene natural feature nestled in Ely, Eagles Nest Lake Number Three offers stunning views and opportunities for peaceful reflection amidst nature. This picturesque lake is surrounded by lush forests, making it ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and simply soaking in the tranquillity of the wilderness.
- International Wolf Center: This environmental centre in Ely provides an insightful look into the life of wolves through educational exhibits and live wolf viewing. It fosters an appreciation for these majestic creatures and promotes conservation efforts, all while maintaining an eco-friendly atmosphere.
- White Iron Lake: Known for its enchanting scenery, White Iron Lake is a beautiful spot for outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and picnicking on the beach. Its romantic surroundings make it a lovely destination for couples seeking a scenic retreat.
Best time to go to Ely
The best time to visit Ely can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Ely falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Ely falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is very cloudy with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Ely
Flying into Ely, Minnesota, is convenient with three major airports nearby. Duluth International Airport (DLH) is located 121km away, with excellent hotel options such as Fitger's Inn, offering free airport transport and shuttle services on request. International Falls Airport (INL) is 135km away, with nearby accommodations like the Cantilever Hotel, which provides 24-hour shuttle service. Hibbing Airport (HIB) is situated 92km from Ely, with hotels like Chisholm Inn & Suites, accessible from the airport. All these airports offer a range of transportation services, ensuring a smooth journey to your destination in Ely.