Visit Ely

Your Summer Adventure Basecamp

Ely sits at the edge of the Boundary Waters, over a million acres of wilderness. Get ready for an unforgettable vacation.

Start Planning Your Trip

Lakes for Every Age

Image of kid snorkeling in a Minnesota lake.

Sandy swimming beaches, calm bays for little ones, and resort docks where the biggest decision is canoe or kayak. Water warm enough for kids, clear enough to see the bottom.

Wildlife Up Close

Image of children at the International Wolf center looking at a wolf in its habitat through a window.

The North American Bear Center and International Wolf Center are here with real research facilities where your kids can learn about the animals that live in these woods.

Easy Day Trips 

Image of a family canoeing on a Minnesota lake.

Local outfitters can set your family up for a half-day canoe trip on calm water, no multi-day commitment required. Paddle out, have a shore lunch, paddle back.

Main Street

Image of the State Theater in downtown Ely, Minnesota.

Ely's Sheridan Street has local restaurants, ice cream, outfitter shops, galleries, and a bookstore. Small-town charm with enough to keep everyone happy on a rainy day.

Trip Essentials: Good to know before you go

A few things that'll make planning easier.

Getting here

About 4.5 hours from Minneapolis, 2 hours from Duluth. The drive up Highway 1 through Superior National Forest is half the experience.

Peak Summer

June through August is prime family season. Water's warm, days are long, everything's open. 

Where to Stay

Lakeside cabins, family resorts, campgrounds, and vacation rentals. Browse all lodging →

What to pack

Layers (for cool mornings), swimsuits, bug spray, sunscreen, sturdy shoes for trails. Call your resort for amenities details like lifejackets.

Cell Service

Service can be spotty once you leave town, which is kind of the point. Download maps and playlists ahead of time. Wi-Fi is available at most resorts. Call ahead of time.

Kid Ages

Ely works for all ages. Toddlers love the beaches, grade-schoolers love the animals and canoes, teens love the adventure-focused activities.

 

Visit Ely, MN Guidebook: Sample Itineraries

Ely, MN Guidebook