Area Attractions

Hiking, hunting, fishing, canoeing, cross-country skiing, berry picking, or just observing nature; you can do it all in the BWCAW! If you're planning on canoeing through the BWCAW, you'll need a permit.

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.

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. 

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.

Operates the Ely-Winton Historical Museum, using photographs, maps and artifacts to present the different phases of 12,000 years of local history. 1900 E. Camp St., Ely, MN 55731.

Tuesday nights in Ely in the summer are the time to be out and about downtown. Sponsored by the Ely Chamber of Commerce and launched in 2003, Tuesday Night Live has become a staple of the community's summer calendar. A number of businesses offer extended shopping hours as well as live music.

The Blueberry Art Festival, Ely's signature summer event, features more than 260 artists and crafters, 30 food vendors and local musicians. The Ely Chamber of Commerce sponsors this event, and it draws some 40,000 people over a three day period to enjoy fine art, quality crafts and great ethnic food. Free admission.

Shop a delightful mix of original art and crafts from over 125 local and regional artists and craftsmen. Select from functional and decorative pottery, hand turned wooden bowls, bead work, paintings, leather and lots more! 

https://www.ely.org/events/harvest-moon-festival

The Ely Winter Festival is 10 days in February celebrating winter. Activities include the amazing snow carvings in the Park, along with the Ely ArtWalk and other events.

https://elywinterfestival.com/

There are a number of great hiking trails in the Ely area. Visit the link below for more information.

https://www.ely.org/things-to-do/hiking